The tiny country of The Gambia is the smallest in Africa, just 30 miles wide. But near-constant sunshine year round, thanks to its location between the Tropic of Cancer and the Equator, is a big draw for UK visitors to take cheap flights to Gambia. It’s also an inexpensive exotic locale. The tourist area hugs the North Atlantic coastline, and white sands, palm trees, blue seas plus the large amounts of sunshine combine for a classic beach holiday but without breaking the bank. The capital, Banjul, is on the Southern side of the river mouth, where all flights to Gambia arrive. Many travellers only use Banjul as a gateway to the rest of the country, but the city is worth visiting in its own right. Accommodation wise there plenty of budget hotels and also a handful of luxury spa hotels where you can indulge in a luxury massage or treatment for a fraction of what you’d pay back home. The Gambia has a subtropical climate with a dry season and a rainy season. Most people like to take flights to Gambia from October to April when there is the least rainfall. Many tour operators only have packages to The Gambia in this time and accommodation prices will be higher but still comparatively cheap. Temperatures can get very warm inland, but remain cooler along the coast.
Off season:
June to October is the rainy season and also the low season for tourism. You’ll still be able to find flights to Gambia from the UK but some accommodation may be closed in the rainy season.
When is the best time to book a flight to Gambia?
The best time of the year to book flights to Gambia is between early November and early April, when the beaches are a lot more pleasant for sunbathing. But if you don’t mind the rain, June through to October is when you’ll score the cheapest flights to Gambia. You can also pick up some great package holiday bargains in June when the main season has ended. No matter what time of year you visit The Gambia expect warm temperatures on average of 32C. The coolest temperatures are usually found along the shore, thanks to sea breezes.
Thomas Cook Airlines, Air France, Royal Air Maroc and Vueling operate flights to Gambia from the UK. Flights are irregular so if flying from a city outside London it may be quicker to fly from one of the airports there.
How to get from the airport to the city centre?
Banjul International Airport (BJL) is located 15 miles from Banjul, capital of The Gambia. Airport taxis are on hand to cater for all scheduled flight arrivals to Banjul International Airport. You’ll easily spot them, they’re yellow with a green stripe down the side. The tourist taxis in town are green and more expensive. It takes around 40 minutes to reach Banjul by airport taxi and the main destinations have a fixed rate price. Check if your hotel provides a shuttle bus as these circulate to coastal area accommodation. A few car rental companies are available at the airport.
Gambia insider information
Good news holiday-makers, get more for less in Gambia when you make it your next holiday destination - enjoy the beautiful culture, white sandy beaches and long hours of sunshine with little guilt.
The annual International Roots Festival are sure to lift your spirits as it exposes you to traditional West African music, dance, art and history!
See the "real" West Africa in the capital city of Banjul and experience the sprawling markets of fish, meat, vegetables, clothes and more.
Don’t leave the country without taking a river cruise along the River Gambia. You’re guaranteed to see some fascinating wildlife!
Most popular destinations in Gambia
(prices quotes are from Lagos)
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