The Gambia
Gambia travel guide for Canadians
Canadians need a visa (e‑visa) for Gambia; apply online before travel and allow 3‑5 days for processing. If you obtain a visa, you can stay up to 90 days, change if you get a longer permit.
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GuideThe Gambia
Key facts
- Visa required
- e‑visa, 3‑5 days processing
- Maximum stay
- 90 days (extendable)
- Currencycheck
- Gambian dalasi (GMD)
- Plug type
- Type G, 230 V 50 Hz
- Tipping norm
- 10 % in restaurants, tip guides/drivers
Entry requirements for Canadians
All Canadian passport holders must obtain a visa before arrival. An electronic visa (e‑visa) can be applied for at the Gambia Immigration website; fee is about US$30 (≈ CAD 40). Processing usually takes 3‑5 business days. No visa‑on‑arrival for Canadians.
Passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. No specific vaccination requirement, but yellow‑fever vaccination is recommended if arriving from a yellow‑fever endemic country.
- Apply online → receive e‑visa PDF
- Print and present on arrival
- Carry proof of onward travel
Canadian embassy and consular help
Canada does not have a resident embassy in Gambia. The nearest Canadian embassy is in Dakar, Senegal.
Embassy of Canada, Dakar: Rue du 14 Juillet, Dakar, Senegal. Phone: +221 33 824 3020. Email: [email protected].
- For lost passport, emergency travel document, or consular assistance, contact the Dakar embassy.
Cost of a trip to Gambia in CAD
A moderate 7‑night stay on the Atlantic coast (Kololi or Kotu) costs roughly CAD 1,800–2,200 per person, including mid‑range hotel, meals, local transport and entry fees.
Breakdown (2026 estimate, check):
- Accommodation: CAD 70 /night
- Meals: CAD 25 /day
- Transport (taxis, ferries): CAD 15 /day
- Visa fee: CAD 40 (one‑time)
- Miscellaneous (tips, souvenirs): CAD 100
| Item | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Visa fee | 40 |
| Accommodation (7 nights) | 490 |
| Meals (7 days) | 175 |
| Transport | 105 |
| Tips & extras | 100 |
Flights from Canada
There are no direct flights from Canada to Banjul International Airport (BJL). Typical routes connect via London, Istanbul or Casablanca.
Total travel time from Toronto to Banjul is about 15–20 hours including layovers. Check the flight‑time planner tool for exact schedules.
Electric plugs and voltage
Gambia uses UK‑type Type G plugs, 230 V, 50 Hz. Bring a compatible adapter; most Canadian devices are dual‑voltage, but verify before use.
Tipping etiquette
Guides and drivers expect a tip of about 10 % of the service cost. In restaurants, a 10 % tip is customary, though some establishments add a service charge.
Emergency contacts
Police: 117
Ambulance: 116
Fire: 118
Canadian Embassy (Dakar) – +221 33 824 3020
- Save these numbers on your phone.
Questions people ask
Do Canadians need a visa for Gambia?
Yes. Canadians must obtain an e‑visa before travel; no visa‑on‑arrival is offered.
How much does a trip to Gambia cost in CAD?
A 7‑night mid‑range trip averages CAD 1,800–2,200, covering visa, accommodation, meals, transport and tips.
Where is the nearest Canada embassy in Gambia?
Canada has no embassy in Gambia; the nearest is in Dakar, Senegal (see embassy contact details).
What plug type does Gambia use?
Type G (UK three‑pin) plugs, 230 V, 50 Hz.
Is tipping expected in Gambia?
Yes. Aim for about 10 % for guides, drivers and restaurant service.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
Ask about The Gambia
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