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Frequently asked questions


AND THEIR ANSWERS

Questions and answers

If your questions are not answered below, please do not hesitate to contact us with your query.

HOW DO I GET TO THE HOTEL FROM THE AIRPORT?
We can arrange pickup taxi service for you so a driver will wait for you at the airport when you arrive. This costs €20 for 2 people.

Usually, taxis are also available at the airport.
IS IT SAFE TO TRAVEL IN THE GAMBIA?
The Gambia is the smallest country in continental Africa. The crime rate in the Gambia is the lowest in Africa. It is safe to travel in the Gambia as long as you take the same precautions as you would at home.

Read more about the Gambia >>
WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
The answer obviously depends on what you are planning to do during your Gambian holiday and when you will be travelling. The climate is sub-tropical so remember to pack clothes made of light fabrics and linen. And sun screen – plenty of sun screen!

Although the Gambia is a Muslim country, it is fairly liberal when it comes to dress code. You will therefore also see local men and women walking around in shorts and t-shirts. For trekking and other wildlife excursions, you should bring appropriate, comfortable footwear and long trousers with a bit of thickness in order to protect you against thorny vegetation.

Long sleeves protect you against mosquito bites on your arms, but you should also bring insect repellent and soothing lotions.
DO YOU SPEAK ENGLISH?
Yes, almost everybody in the Gambia speaks English. You will hear local tongues as well, as there are several tribal languages in the small country.

Want to know more about the Gambia? See this page >>
WHERE DO I FIND FELLOW EXPLORERS FOR TRIPS?
In general, you do not have to round up people for the trips. Just talk to our reception staff, and we will find you a competent guide: Be it for birdwatching, city walks, reptiles or regular hikes in nature. Just ask us: We can help you out!
DO I NEED VACCINES?
This depends on various factors such as your general health condition and what you plan to do in the Gambia as well as the length of your stay. Always consult your doctor well in advance of your travels.

The recommended vaccinations/medication often include:
  • Yellow fever
  • Hepatitis A (+ B)
  • Malaria pills
  • Tetanus
  • Meningococcal Meningitis
  • Rabies
  • Typhoid
The list is not exhaustive. Always consult your own doctor for a current and personal preparation well in advance of your holiday.
WHAT DO I DO IF I GET SICK?
Our friendly staff will help you get to a doctor, or perhaps get a doctor to come to the hotel. We use a local clinic with a dutch doctor on staff.

Let us know what you need, and we will do our best to help you.
DOES MY ROOM HAVE AIR CONDITIONING?
Yes, all rooms are fitted with air conditioning. However, the use of the air conditioning is not included in the price of your room. This is a separate charge of €5 per 12 hours (either 8 pm – 8 am or 8 am – 8 pm). Most people do not need the air condition on during the day.

Why is the air conditioning not included, you might then ask. For some, the ceiling fan is enough to keep comfortable. Therefore, we do not think everyone should have to pay for air conditioning. Furthermore, we are striving to run a sustainable business with as little impact on the environment as possible.
DO I NEED TO BRING TRAVEL ADAPTORS?
We have adaptors for all types of plugs.
SHOULD I USE CASH OR CREDIT CARDS?
In most cases, cash is king. And in general, the Gambia is a cheap place to go shopping. At the larger stores and groceries, it is possible to use credit cards. But at the markets and smaller local shops, you should bring cash. The currency is called Gambian Dalasi.

See exchange rates for Gambian Dalasi >>

Extra cast is best brought in EUR or USD due to the stable exchange rates of these currencies.
DO I HAGGLE AT THE MARKET?
You definitely should! The vendors expect you to bid below their suggested price. The 'right' price is usually half of their suggested price. But haggling is a national sport, so be prepared for tough challenge.