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Ultimate Serekunda (Gambia) Cheat Sheet 2025: Local Secrets & Essential Tips

Essential Serekunda travel guide for 2025: learn about transportation, accommodation, local cuisine, safety tips, and cultural etiquette from a frequent visitor to The Gambia's largest urban area.

Introduction: Why Serekunda Should Be On Your Radar

When I first landed at Banjul International Airport (BJL) back in 2018, I had no idea how deeply I would fall in love with Serekunda. Seven visits later, this vibrant urban center—The Gambia’s largest—still surprises me with its energy, warm-hearted people, and authentic West African character. During my second trip, I learned this humbling lesson: I had spent three days overpaying for everything until a local fruit seller named Fatou gently pulled me aside and said, “Brother, you need to know the real prices.” That moment changed everything about how I experienced this remarkable place.

Whether you’re planning your first visit or returning, this insider’s guide contains everything I wish someone had told me before my first adventure in Serekunda. From navigating the bustling markets to finding peaceful spots away from the tourist zones, I’ve compiled seven years’ worth of personal experiences, mistakes, and discoveries into this comprehensive 2025 cheat sheet.

Getting to Serekunda: Transportation Options

Most international travelers arrive at Banjul International Airport (BJL), located about 24 kilometers from Serekunda’s center. Here’s what you need to know about getting from the airport to your accommodation:

Airport Transfer Options

  • Airport Taxis: The yellow airport taxis have fixed rates of around 700-900 Dalasi (≈$12-15) to Serekunda in 2025. These are official and safe, but definitely pricier than other options.
  • Pre-arranged Hotel Pickup: Many accommodations offer this service, typically for 600-800 Dalasi (≈$10-13). Worth arranging if it’s your first visit.
  • Local Transport (For the Adventurous): Exit the airport, walk about 400 meters to the main road, and catch a shared van (“gelli gelli”) for just 25 Dalasi (≈$0.40) to Serekunda. Note: This requires basic knowledge of the area and some patience, but it’s how locals travel.

Getting Around Serekunda

Serekunda sprawls across several neighborhoods, but once you understand the transportation system, getting around is surprisingly simple:

  • Shared Vans (Gelli Gelli): My personal favorite for authentic experiences. These run on fixed routes and cost 10-25 Dalasi (≈$0.15-0.40) depending on distance. Listen for conductors shouting destinations.
  • Taxis: Green taxis are shared and follow specific routes (15-30 Dalasi), while yellow taxis are private and negotiable (starting around 100 Dalasi for short trips).
  • Motorcycle Taxis (“Just”): Fast but somewhat risky. I only use these for short distances in non-peak hours. Expect to pay 50-75 Dalasi (≈$0.80-1.25) for nearby destinations.
  • Walking: Perfectly feasible within neighborhoods, but bring water and wear a hat—the sun is intense!

INSIDER TIP: Always negotiate taxi fares BEFORE getting in, and aim for about 60-70% of the initially quoted price. The phrase “N’deka” (I’m reducing it) is useful during negotiations. If a driver won’t budge on price, just smile and say “M’beka” (I’m going) and walk away—they’ll often call you back with a better offer.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Options in Serekunda

Accommodation in Serekunda ranges from simple guesthouses to mid-range hotels. Here’s my breakdown after staying in over a dozen different places:

Neighborhoods to Consider

  • Kololi: The most tourist-friendly area with “The Strip” (Senegambia Road) having restaurants and nightlife. Good for first-timers but more expensive.
  • Kotu: Quieter alternative with beach access and moderate prices. My personal favorite for balance.
  • Bijilo: Emerging area with newer properties and proximity to the monkey park.
  • Central Serekunda: The bustling heart of the urban area. Less touristy, more authentic, but fewer conventional accommodations.

Accommodation Types and Costs (2025 Prices)

Type Price Range (Dalasi) Price Range (USD) Notes
Budget Guesthouse 600-1,200/night $10-20/night Basic but clean, often fan-only cooling
Mid-range Hotel 1,500-3,000/night $25-50/night Air conditioning, pool access, breakfast
Upscale Hotel 3,500-6,000/night $60-100/night Full amenities, beachfront locations
Apartment/Long-stay 15,000-30,000/month $250-500/month Best value for stays over two weeks

My personal recommendation for first-timers is Kotu Palms Hotel. For around 2,000 Dalasi ($33) per night in 2025, you get a clean room with A/C, breakfast, a nice pool, and staff who genuinely look out for guests. The location sits between tourist areas and local neighborhoods, providing a perfect balance.

MONEY-SAVING TIP: I’ve discovered that many hotels drop their rates by 20-30% for stays of a week or longer if you negotiate in person rather than booking online. Arrive with 2-3 nights booked, then arrange the rest of your stay directly with management.

Serekunda Markets: Shopping Like a Local

The heart and soul of Serekunda is undoubtedly its markets. These bustling commercial centers offer everything from fresh produce to textiles, electronics, and crafts. The sensory experience is overwhelming at first—the colorful fabrics, the calls of vendors, the smell of spices and grilled meat, and the press of people navigating narrow pathways.

Main Markets to Explore

  • Serekunda Main Market: The largest and most chaotic. Located in the heart of town, this is where you’ll find everything from food to fabrics. Best visited in the morning hours (7-10 AM) before it gets too crowded and hot.
  • Albert Market (Banjul): Worth the trip to the capital. More organized than Serekunda market with better craft items.
  • Bakau Fish Market: Visit in the late afternoon (around 4-5 PM) when fishing boats return. You can buy fresh fish and even have it grilled on the spot.
  • Tanji Fish Market: Further afield but an incredible experience. The most authentic fishing village experience where you can witness the entire process from boats arriving to fish processing.

Market Shopping Tips

  1. Dress Modestly: To show respect and avoid unwanted attention.
  2. Bring Small Bills: Vendors often can’t break large notes.
  3. Bargain Respectfully: Start at about 40-50% of the first asking price. The phrase “Jeka turr” (it’s too expensive) is helpful.
  4. Learn Basic Greetings: A simple “Nanga def?” (How are you?) in Wolof goes a long way.
  5. Go With a Local Friend: If possible, having a Gambian companion will transform your experience and pricing.

PERSONAL MISTAKE: On my first visit, I bought souvenirs at the first stall I saw in Serekunda Market, only to find identical items further inside for literally one-third of the price. Now I always walk through an entire market first, noting prices, before making any purchases.

Essential Food Experiences in Serekunda

Gambian cuisine deserves more international recognition. The combination of West African traditions with Atlantic seafood creates unique flavors you won’t find elsewhere. While tourist areas offer familiar international options, the local food scene is where the real magic happens.

Must-Try Gambian Dishes

  • Domoda: Peanut stew with rice and vegetables, sometimes with meat or fish. My personal favorite—especially from street vendors who’ve been making it for decades.
  • Benachin (Jollof Rice): The West African classic. Look for versions with fish or chicken.
  • Superkanja: Okra stew with palm oil, often served with fish and rice.
  • Afra: Grilled meat (usually beef or goat) with spices, available at night from street side grills.
  • Fresh Seafood: Try the grilled ladyfish (called “challo”) or barracuda steaks.

Where to Eat in Serekunda

Local Spots

  • Farokono Restaurant: On Sayerr Jobe Avenue. A simple place where local office workers eat. Their domoda (Mondays and Thursdays) is exceptional for about 150 Dalasi ($2.50).
  • Tanji Village Fish Restaurant: Go in the late afternoon for the freshest catch, point to your fish, and they’ll grill it on the spot. Around 300-400 Dalasi ($5-7) depending on your selection.
  • Night Market Food Stalls: After 7 PM near Serekunda Market, women set up small charcoal stoves selling afra (grilled meat), bean stews, and other street foods for 50-150 Dalasi ($0.80-2.50).

Tourist-Friendly Options

  • Ngala Lodge Restaurant: Upscale dining with stunning ocean views. Expensive by Gambian standards (main courses 800-1,200 Dalasi/$13-20) but exceptional quality.
  • Ali Baba’s: On the Senegambia strip, offering Lebanese-Gambian fusion. Good middle-ground option with generous portions for 350-500 Dalasi ($6-8).
  • Sailors Beach Bar & Restaurant: In Kotu Beach. Great for sunset meals with your feet in the sand. Mid-range prices 400-600 Dalasi ($7-10).

INSIDER TIP: For an unforgettable experience, visit the Tanji fishing village in the late afternoon when the colorful boats return with the day’s catch. You can buy fish directly from fishermen for a fraction of restaurant prices and have it cooked at small stalls nearby. I once bought a whole red snapper for 200 Dalasi ($3.30) and paid another 100 Dalasi ($1.65) to have it grilled with local spices—easily the best fish meal I’ve ever had.

Cultural Etiquette and Local Customs

The Gambia is a predominantly Muslim country with strong social traditions. Understanding and respecting these customs will enrich your experience and help you connect with local people on a deeper level.

Religious and Social Etiquette

  • Dress Code: While tourist areas are relaxed, in local neighborhoods and markets, modest dress is appreciated. Men should avoid shorts above the knee in religious areas, and women should cover shoulders and wear skirts/pants below the knee.
  • Ramadan Awareness: If visiting during Ramadan (varies yearly), be discreet about eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.
  • Greetings: Greetings are important in Gambian culture. Take time to say hello properly rather than jumping straight to questions or requests.
  • Photography: Always ask before photographing people, especially in rural areas where beliefs about photography may differ from Western norms.

Key Phrases in Local Languages

While English is the official language, learning a few phrases in Wolof or Mandinka will earn you smiles and often better treatment:

English Wolof Mandinka
Hello Salaam Aleikum Salaam Aleikum
How are you? Nanga def? I be jamu?
I’m fine Mangi fi Mbaring
Thank you Jerejef Abaraka
No, thank you Deedeet, jerejef Hani, abaraka
Too expensive Jeka turr A giring bake

PERSONAL MISTAKE: During my second visit, I unintentionally offended a fruit vendor by taking a photo of his colorful display without asking permission. He explained that in his tradition, capturing someone’s livelihood in an image could bring bad luck. Now I always ask “Mey la foto?” (Can I take a picture?) before photographing people or their goods.

Safety and Health Considerations

Serekunda is generally safe for tourists, especially compared to many major urban centers worldwide. However, as with any travel destination, being informed and taking precautions will ensure a smooth experience.

Safety Tips

  • Valuables: Keep expensive jewelry at home and be discreet with phones and cameras, especially in crowded markets.
  • Night Movement: Use taxis after dark rather than walking, particularly in less touristic areas.
  • Beach Safety: Beware of strong currents, especially during rainy season (June-October). Swim where locals swim.
  • Avoiding Scams: Be wary of overly friendly “guides” who approach you uninvited. Legitimate guides usually have ID cards.
  • Money Management: Split your cash and cards between different secure locations (hotel safe, money belt, regular wallet).

Health Precautions

Before Travel

  • Vaccinations: Ensure your routine vaccinations are up to date, plus Yellow Fever (required for entry), Hepatitis A, and Typhoid.
  • Malaria Prevention: Consult your doctor about antimalarial medications before travel. The Gambia is a high-risk malaria zone year-round.
  • Travel Insurance: Essential. Choose a policy that covers medical evacuation.

During Your Stay

  • Hydration: Drink only bottled or purified water. I bring a water purifier bottle to reduce plastic waste.
  • Food Safety: For street food, choose busy stalls where the food is cooked fresh in front of you.
  • Sun Protection: The Gambian sun is intense. Wear high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, and light, loose-fitting clothing.
  • Mosquito Prevention: Use repellent containing DEET or Picaridin, especially during early morning and evening hours.

Medical Facilities

Healthcare in The Gambia is limited compared to Western standards:

  • MRC Clinic: Near Fajara. The best medical facility for tourists with international standards. Keep their number: +220 4495442.
  • Afrimed Clinic: In Bakau. Good for less serious concerns. +220 4496453.
  • Pharmacies: Well-stocked in Serekunda and tourist areas, but bring any essential medications from home.

MONEY-SAVING TIP: Instead of buying bottles of water daily, I invested in a LifeStraw purifier bottle on my third trip. It paid for itself within a week and prevented approximately 50 plastic bottles from becoming waste during my stay.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

While many tourists stick to the beach resorts and organized excursions, some of my most memorable experiences have come from venturing into lesser-known areas around Serekunda.

Hidden Gems Near Serekunda

  • Lamin Lodge: A quirky wooden structure built over the mangroves. Take a small boat through the creeks to spot birds and monitor lizards. Visit on weekdays to avoid crowds.
  • Abuko Nature Reserve: Just 15km from Serekunda, this small reserve offers surprising wildlife viewing, including monkeys, crocodiles, and over 300 bird species. Go early morning for best animal activity.
  • Bijilo Forest Park (Monkey Park): Walking distance from Kololi Beach, this small forest reserve has walking trails and troops of monkeys. The 100 Dalasi ($1.65) entrance fee supports conservation.
  • Tanje Village Museum: Beyond the fish market, this small cultural museum offers insight into traditional Gambian life. The knowledgeable curator gives excellent tours for a small donation.

Authentic Local Experiences

  • Wrestling Matches: Gambian wrestling (“Boreh”) is a traditional sport with cultural significance. Matches with drumming and dancing typically happen on weekends in local neighborhoods. Ask your accommodation where to find the next event.
  • Serekunda East Mini Stadium: Catch a local football match for an authentic slice of Gambian passion. Tickets are typically 50 Dalasi ($0.80), and the atmosphere is electric.
  • Dawn Fishing: Arrange through a local contact to join fishermen setting out at 5 AM. For about 300-500 Dalasi ($5-8), you can experience traditional fishing methods and return with the morning catch.
  • Local Family Meal: Some families welcome visitors for home-cooked meals. The tourism information office can connect you with vetted families who offer this experience for around 400 Dalasi ($6.65) per person.

UNEXPECTED DISCOVERY: During my fourth visit, I discovered the joy of dawn birdwatching at Kotu Creek. I’m not even a dedicated birder, but watching the wetlands come alive with herons, kingfishers, and weavers as the sun rose over the mangroves was breathtaking. All it cost was the effort to wake up early and a voluntary 50 Dalasi ($0.80) tip to a local teenager who pointed out species I would have missed.

Managing Money and Expenses in Serekunda

Understanding The Gambia’s financial landscape will help you budget effectively and avoid common money pitfalls that tourists encounter.

Currency and Payment Methods

  • Local Currency: The Gambian Dalasi (GMD) is the official currency, with notes in denominations of D5, D10, D20, D50, D100, and D200.
  • Exchange: As of early 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 60 Dalasi to 1 USD, though this fluctuates.
  • ATMs: Available in Serekunda, Kololi, and Kotu areas. Trust Bank and Ecobank ATMs are most reliable for international cards.
  • Credit Cards: Accepted only at upscale hotels, restaurants, and tour companies. Always have cash as backup.
  • Currency Exchange: Official forex bureaus offer better rates than hotels. Keep exchange receipts for converting unused Dalasi back to foreign currency.

Cost Breakdown (2025 Prices)

Expense Budget Option (Dalasi) Mid-range Option (Dalasi) USD Equivalent (Mid-range)
Accommodation (per night) 600-1,200 1,500-3,000 $25-50
Meal (local restaurant) 100-200 300-500 $5-8
Bottled Water (1.5L) 25-30 35-40 (hotel) $0.60
Local Transport (one way) 10-25 (shared) 100-200 (taxi) $1.65-3.30
Mobile Data (1GB) 100-150 200 (tourist SIM) $3.30
Souvenir (small craft item) 150-300 400-700 $6.65-11.65
Day Trip/Excursion 1,000-1,500 2,000-3,000 $33-50

Money-Saving Strategies

  1. Exchange Money in Larger Amounts: Better rates are given for exchanging $100 or €100 at a time rather than smaller amounts.
  2. Use Local Transport: Gelli gellis (minivans) cost a fraction of taxis for the same routes.
  3. Eat Where Locals Eat: Food prices drop by 50-70% just a block away from tourist areas.
  4. Negotiate Multiple Purchases: When buying souvenirs, always ask for a discount when purchasing several items.
  5. Buy Groceries at Serekunda Market: If your accommodation has kitchen facilities, buying and preparing your own food saves significantly.

INSIDER MONEY-SAVING TIP: Rather than paying premium prices for bottled water at your hotel, find a local shop (called a “boutique”) where you can buy a large 10L water container for about 100 Dalasi ($1.65). Use this to refill smaller bottles for day trips. This strategy has saved me over $50 on longer stays.

Sustainable Travel in Serekunda

The Gambia faces significant environmental challenges, from plastic pollution to deforestation. As visitors, we have both the responsibility and opportunity to make choices that benefit rather than harm this beautiful country.

Environmental Considerations

  • Plastic Reduction: Plastic waste is a major issue in The Gambia, with limited recycling infrastructure. Bring a reusable water bottle, shopping bag, and consider a portable water purifier.
  • Water Conservation: The Gambia has limited freshwater resources. Take short showers and reuse towels when possible.
  • Energy Usage: Electricity is expensive and often generated using fossil fuels. Turn off A/C and lights when leaving your room.
  • Wildlife Ethics: Avoid operators who let tourists hold wild animals or disturb natural behaviors for photos.

Supporting Local Communities

Sustainable travel also means ensuring your money benefits local communities:

  • Buy Directly from Artisans: When possible, purchase crafts directly from the makers rather than souvenir shops. The Senegambia Craft Market has many independent artisans.
  • Use Local Guides: Hire guides from the area you’re visiting rather than bringing guides from other regions.
  • Consider Community-Based Tourism: Experiences like homestays and cooking classes put money directly into local hands.
  • Support Ethical Businesses: Some establishments, like Wide African Smiles restaurant in Kololi, use profits to fund community projects.

Sustainable Options that Save Money

  1. Local Markets vs. Supermarkets: Shopping at Serekunda Market not only reduces packaging waste but costs significantly less than imported supermarket goods.
  2. Public Transport: Using shared transportation reduces your carbon footprint while cutting costs by up to 80% compared to private taxis.
  3. Local Food: Eating locally-grown produce and locally-caught seafood minimizes food miles while typically costing less than imported options.
  4. Eco-Friendly Accommodations: Places like Sandele Eco-Retreat in Kartong use solar power and rainwater harvesting, often with competitive pricing compared to conventional hotels.

PERSONAL MISTAKE: During my early visits, I kept buying new plastic water bottles daily, creating significant waste. Now I travel with a purifying water bottle and when needed, buy large containers to refill it. This single change prevents dozens of plastic bottles from entering the waste stream during each visit.

Communication and Connectivity

Staying connected in The Gambia has become much easier in recent years, though service can still be intermittent compared to what you might be used to at home.

Mobile Service and Internet

  • SIM Cards: Easily available at the airport or in Serekunda. The main providers are Africell, Qcell, and Gamcel. I recommend Qcell for the best data coverage in 2025.
  • Registration Requirements: You’ll need your passport to register a SIM card.
  • Data Packages: 1GB of data typically costs 100-200 Dalasi ($1.65-3.30), valid for 30 days.
  • Coverage: Good in Serekunda and tourist areas, spotty in rural regions.
  • Wi-Fi: Available in most hotels and many restaurants, though speed varies significantly.

Language Considerations

English is the official language of The Gambia, but local languages are widely spoken:

  • English: Most people in tourism and business speak English, making communication relatively easy.
  • Wolof: The most widely spoken local language, especially in urban areas.
  • Mandinka: Common in many areas, particularly rural communities.
  • Fula: Spoken by the Fula ethnic group throughout the country.

Learning basic greetings in local languages is both respectful and practical—it often leads to warmer interactions and sometimes better prices in markets.

COMMUNICATION TIP: Instead of buying a tourist SIM at the airport where prices are higher, take a taxi to Serekunda and visit the Qcell office on Kairaba Avenue. They’ll help you choose the most appropriate package for your stay at standard rates, saving you about 40% compared to airport prices.

Seasonal Considerations for Visiting Serekunda

The time of year you visit Serekunda dramatically affects your experience, from weather conditions to costs and cultural events.

Weather Patterns

The Gambia has two distinct seasons:

  • Dry Season (November-May): Sunny days with little to no rainfall. Temperatures range from 22-35°C (72-95°F). December through February offers the most pleasant temperatures.
  • Rainy Season (June-October): Characterized by high humidity and regular, sometimes heavy, rainfall. Temperatures range from 24-32°C (75-90°F). Rainfall typically comes in short, intense bursts rather than all-day downpours.

Best Times to Visit

Period Pros Cons Ideal For
Nov-Dec Perfect weather, green landscapes after rainy season Peak prices, busiest period First-time visitors, beach lovers
Jan-Feb Comfortable temperatures, cultural festivals Still relatively high prices Cultural experiences, outdoor activities
Mar-May Lower prices, fewer tourists Increasingly hot temperatures Budget travelers, returning visitors
Jun-Oct Lowest prices, lush greenery, bird migration Unpredictable rain, higher humidity Birdwatchers, photography, budget long-stays

Seasonal Events Worth Experiencing

  • Independence Day (February 18): Celebrations throughout the country, with the main events in Banjul.
  • Roots International Festival (Late May/early June, biennial): Celebrating Gambian culture and heritage, often attracting international performers.
  • Tobaski (Eid al-Adha, varies yearly): Major Islamic festival with community feasting and celebrations.
  • Ramadan (varies yearly): While this is a period of fasting for Muslims, the evening breaking of fast (Iftar) can be a wonderful cultural experience if you’re invited to participate.

SENSORY EXPERIENCE: During my August visit, I was initially disappointed about traveling in rainy season. Then one evening, I sat on Kotu Beach watching a spectacular lightning storm over the Atlantic while the air filled with the sweet scent of rain-soaked earth. The beach was nearly empty, prices were 40% lower than high season, and I realized the rainy season offers a completely different—but equally valuable—experience of The Gambia.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Serekunda

After seven visits to Serekunda spanning the past seven years, I’ve distilled my experiences into this actionable plan to help you make the most of your time in this vibrant Gambian hub:

Before You Go

  1. Health Preparation: Visit your travel clinic at least 6 weeks before departure for vaccinations (Yellow Fever certificate is mandatory) and malaria prophylaxis. Pack a basic medical kit including diarrhea medication, rehydration salts, and strong insect repellent.
  2. Pack Strategically: Bring light, breathable clothing, a hat, high-SPF sunscreen, a reusable water bottle with purifier if possible, and a small flashlight for power outages. Include gifts for local friends you might make (school supplies are always appreciated) rather than candies.
  3. Download Essentials: Before arriving, download Google Maps offline for Serekunda, a Wolof phrasebook app, and currency conversion tools. Consider apps like Maps.me for offline navigation.
  4. Book Smartly: Reserve airport pickup and your first 2-3 nights accommodation only, allowing flexibility to change locations once you’ve oriented yourself. Consider pre-booking with Gambia Tours for your first excursion to get oriented.
  5. Budget Planning: Prepare a mix of cash (USD or EUR) and cards, with cash in smaller denominations for easier exchange. Budget around 3,000-6,000 Dalasi ($50-100) per day for mid-range travel, less for budget experiences.

Once You’re There

Upon arrival, embrace the relaxed pace of Gambian life. The phrase “N’danka N’danka” (slowly, slowly) reflects the local approach to time and stress. Remember that building relationships is valued over rushing through transactions or experiences. Take time to greet people properly, learn a few words in local languages, and approach each interaction with patience and humor.

Finally, be open to unexpected experiences. Some of my most treasured memories came from accepting spontaneous invitations to local events, changing plans based on local recommendations, and stepping outside my comfort zone. The Gambia has a way of rewarding travelers who arrive with open hearts and flexible itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Serekunda safe for tourists?

Yes, Serekunda is generally very safe for tourists compared to many urban destinations worldwide. Violent crime against tourists is rare. The main concerns are petty theft in crowded areas and occasional scams targeting visitors. Use common sense precautions: don’t display expensive items, be cautious in isolated areas after dark, and use reputable transportation. The biggest risks for most visitors are actually health-related (sunburn, dehydration, foodborne illness) rather than security issues.

What’s the best way to get from Banjul International Airport to Serekunda?

For first-time visitors, I recommend arranging a hotel pickup (600-800 Dalasi/$10-13) or taking an official airport taxi (700-900 Dalasi/$12-15). These options provide the smoothest arrival experience. On subsequent visits or for budget travelers, you can walk to the main road and catch a shared gelli gelli for about 25 Dalasi ($0.40), though this requires knowledge of routes and some patience.

Do I need a visa to visit The Gambia?

This depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries including the UK, EU member states, and ECOWAS countries do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days. US citizens and many others need to obtain a visa before arrival or can purchase a visa on arrival at Banjul International Airport for approximately $100 (subject to change). Always check the most current requirements with the Gambian embassy or consulate in your country before traveling.

What is the currency in Serekunda, and should I bring cash or cards?

The currency is the Gambian Dalasi (GMD). I recommend bringing a combination of cash (USD or EUR) for exchange and cards for backup. ATMs are available in tourist areas but can sometimes run out of cash or experience network issues. Most small businesses, markets, and local restaurants accept only cash. High-end hotels and some tour operators accept major credit cards, but often with a 3-5% surcharge.

What’s the best time of year to visit Serekunda?

November to February offers the most pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures (22-30°C/72-86°F) and virtually no rain. This is ideal for first-time visitors but comes with higher prices and more tourists. March to May is increasingly hot but less crowded. The rainy season (June-October) offers the lowest prices and lush landscapes but requires flexibility due to occasional heavy downpours. Bird enthusiasts often prefer October-November or April-May to witness migrations.

Is tap water safe to drink in Serekunda?

No, tap water is not safe for visitors to drink. Stick to bottled water, which is widely available, or bring a water purification system. Ice in established restaurants in tourist areas is generally made from purified water and safe, but use caution with ice from smaller establishments or street vendors.

What should I pack for a trip to Serekunda?

Essential items include lightweight, modest clothing (covering shoulders and knees is appropriate in local areas), a wide-brimmed hat, high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent with DEET or Picaridin, a travel medical kit, a reusable water bottle with purifier if possible, and a power bank for electronics. Don’t bother with formal clothing unless staying at high-end resorts with dress codes. Comfortable sandals and one pair of closed shoes are sufficient footwear for most travelers.

How much should I tip in restaurants and for services?

Tipping is appreciated but not rigidly structured in The Gambia. In restaurants, 5-10% is appropriate if service charge isn’t included. For hotel staff, 50-100 Dalasi ($0.80-1.65) per service or 200-300 Dalasi ($3.30-5) per week for housekeeping is generous. Tour guides typically expect 200-500 Dalasi ($3.30-8.30) per day depending on group size and service quality. Taxi drivers don’t generally expect tips for standard rides, but rounding up the fare is appreciated.

Can I use my mobile phone in Serekunda?

Yes, mobile coverage is good in Serekunda and tourist areas. Purchase a local SIM card from providers like Qcell or Africell upon arrival (you’ll need your passport for registration). Data packages are reasonably priced—about 100-200 Dalasi ($1.65-3.30) for 1GB valid for 30 days. International roaming is available but typically very expensive compared to local options.

What are the must-try local foods in Serekunda?

Don’t miss domoda (peanut stew), benachin (Gambian jollof rice), superkanja (okra stew), fresh grilled fish (especially ladyfish locally called “challo”), and fresh tropical fruits like mango, papaya, and soursop (when in season). For an authentic experience, try afra (spiced grilled meat) from evening street vendors. Vegetarians can find options like plasas (leafy green stew) and various bean dishes. Most local meals cost between 100-300 Dalasi ($1.65-5) when purchased from local establishments.

References

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