Given The Gambia’s small size, there are very few direct flights from Europe and North America to Banjul, particularly during the off-peak season. Airlines that occasionally fly to the country include Brussels Airlines, Vueling Airlines, Turkish Airlines, and other European air carriers.
As such, the easiest way to travel to The Gambia is via a specialist travel company or a chartered flight. Alternatively, travellers can fly to Banjul from Dakar, the capital of neighbouring Senegal, which offers a greater number of flying options. Banjul International Airport (BJL) is located in Yundum, approximately 24km away from the capital and the only airport in the country.
Uniquely, The Gambia has no internal train or flight networks as locals typically travel via bush taxis – seven-seated vehicles or small minibuses that act as a collective taxi service and make numerous stops.
Travellers to The Gambia can also use tourist taxis that are typically painted green and have signs that indicate they are for travellers. Established by the Gambia Tourism Board, the cars are designated entirely for tourists and can be found parked outside hotels, resorts, and key attractions. What sets these taxis apart from other taxi services in the country is the unique number assigned to each vehicle, located on its sign. Travellers are advised to make a note of the number as a precaution in case they forget something.
There are also plenty of car rental companies available for travellers who hold an international driving license, which allows them to drive legally around The Gambia for up to three months.
