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 GETTING THERE
GETTING AROUND
Getting There     Getting Around

Getting There
 

The Gambia's main airport is Banjul International, about 20km (12mi) southwest of the city centre and 15km (9mi) southeast of the Atlantic coast resorts. It's served by scheduled and charter flights to and from Western Europe and other African states, with connections to other parts of the world. An airport tax of US$20 is levied upon leaving Gambia and is payable in any hard currency.

With Senegal surrounding Gambia on all sides save the western coastline, getting in and out of the country by land used to involve a change of vehicle at the border. Thankfully, this is no longer the case. There are bush taxis and buses available to most destinations in Senegal for a reasonable cost. If you're driving between Banjul and Dakar or Ziguinchor, Senegal, the roads are tarred.




Getting Around
 

There are two main routes through the country: the tar road along the southern side of the river and the dirt road along the northern bank. Transport upcountry along the southern side is mainly the business of the Gambia Public Transport Corporation buses, while northern-side travel is mostly by bush taxi.

Local taxis are widely available, with fares depending on the distance and duration of the trip. 'Town taxis' are painted yellow and are used mostly for local trips around Banjul and the Atlantic coast resorts. 'Tourist taxis' are painted green and can go anywhere in the country.

The Gambia River used to be the primary transport route between Banjul and Georgetown, but not any more. There are private charters available for those who wish to follow the ways of old, but currently there are no scheduled commercial boats plying the route.

Car rental agencies are present in the major tourist areas, and, despite the country's British heritage, driving is on the right. For the eco-conscious, hiring a bicycle for a few days or a week is a perfect way to get around this flat, bike-friendly country. Rentals are available in tourist areas, and where no formal facilities exist, locals are sometimes willing to rent theirs out to visitors.


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