Gambia isn’t the biggest country, so getting around is relatively straightforward. Whether you’re planning to use public transport, taxis, or driving on your own, there are several options you can choose from to explore the area. Let’s take a look at each option so you can decide what suits you best based on your budget and preferences.
Public Transportation in Gambia
Minibuses and Shared Taxis
The most common way locals travel around Gambia is by minibus or shared taxis. These are cheap, but not always quick or reliable. They tend to make frequent stops to pick up other passengers, so keep that in mind if you’re in a hurry. Minibuses and shared taxis have fixed routes, mainly in the urban areas like Serrekunda and Banjul. They’re easy to spot since they are often crowded and brightly colored.
A ride can cost you around 8-15 Gambian dalasi (GMD), which is under $1, depending on how far you’re traveling. However, comfort isn’t a priority here, and there’s very little privacy. If you’re looking to save money and don’t mind waiting a bit for your ride to fill up with passengers, this is a good option.
Gele-Gele
The “gele-gele” is another shared transportation option. It’s a type of minibus that operates in a similar way but can travel longer distances between towns. These are slightly more expensive than the regular minibuses because they cover more ground. However, like regular minibuses, they are often cramped and not the most comfortable way to travel. Expect to pay anywhere from 20-50 GMD depending on your destination.
Taxis in Gambia
Local Taxis (Yellow Taxis)
Yellow taxis are a popular mode of transport for tourists in Gambia. These taxis are metered, making them a convenient option if you’re not familiar with local prices and don’t want to haggle. However, in reality, many drivers ignore the meter and negotiate a flat fare instead. A short ride within Banjul or Serrekunda will usually cost you between 50 and 100 GMD, depending on the distance.
Make sure you agree on the fare before getting in. It’s also important to note that fares go up at night and after 10 p.m. You might be charged around 150-250 GMD for the same ride that would cost less during the day.
Tourist Taxis (Green Taxis)

Green taxis are specifically for tourists and are normally stationed at hotels and main tourist areas. These taxis are more comfortable but are also pricier than the local taxis. Because they are tailored for visitors, drivers often charge around 150-250 GMD for short trips and up to 50-100 USD (or more) for day trips to other cities or sights.
These taxis are easy to spot and often recommended by hotels and tourist facilities for their reliability and comfort. However, you will pay a premium for this convenience. Make sure to budget extra if you’re planning on using them often.
Ridesharing in Gambia
Unfortunately, ridesharing apps like Uber or Bolt are not available in Gambia as of now. This means you’ll need to rely on taxis or local forms of transportation if you don’t have your own car. Most tourists use green taxis for convenience, especially when moving around the tourist hotspots.
Car Rentals in Gambia
Renting a Car: The Basics
Renting a car is a possible option if you want full independence while traveling, especially when visiting rural areas or beaches along the coast. Most international car rental agencies, like Hertz or Europcar, are not available in Gambia, but there are local companies that provide rental services.
A decent rental car will generally cost you around 2,000-3,500 GMD per day (roughly $40-70 USD), depending on the type of vehicle and duration of the rental. While this is on the pricey side compared to public transportation, it can offer much more freedom for exploring the country on your own schedule.
Driving Conditions
Driving in Gambia requires some caution. Roads in urban areas like Banjul and Serrekunda are generally paved, but rural roads can be in poor condition. Many roads are unpaved, especially once you leave the major towns, so a 4×4 vehicle is recommended for better handling.
Another thing to keep in mind is that Gambians drive on the right-hand side of the road, and traffic laws are not always strictly followed by locals. Be cautious at intersections and roundabouts, since drivers may not always yield or follow traffic signals.

Documents Required for Renting a Car
If you’re planning to rent a car in Gambia, make sure to have your international driving permit (IDP) along with your home country driver’s license. Most rental companies will also require a valid passport and credit card. Some companies might require you to be at least 25 years old to rent a car, so check their policies ahead of time.
Tips for Navigating Gambia
Costs
Transportation in Gambia is relatively affordable compared to other parts of the world. However, costs can add up quickly if you exclusively use green taxis or rent a private car. Minibuses and shared taxis will save you a lot of money but come at the expense of comfort and time.
For tourists, getting around by yellow taxis or green tourist taxis is the most convenient option, but remember that prices can be negotiated. Always agree on a fare before starting the ride, and remember that prices are higher at night.
Reliability
Public transport is not known for being highly reliable. Minibuses and shared taxis can take a while to leave, especially during off-peak hours. Taxis are abundant, but some drivers might charge exaggerated prices if they think you’re inexperienced with local costs.

If you’re short on time or just want to avoid the headache, a private car rental or green taxi is your best bet. These options offer more control over your schedule.
Safety
Taxis and local transport are generally safe, but always take precautions. Avoid getting into taxis that seem poorly maintained, especially if you’re traveling long distances. If you’re alone or traveling late at night, it’s always a better idea to use green tourist taxis or arrange a private driver through your hotel.
Driving yourself can be relatively safe in urban areas, but pay attention on the highways and rural roads. Be sure to drive during daylight whenever possible, as some rural areas have limited street lighting, and road conditions can become even more challenging at night.

Final Thoughts
Gambia offers several transportation options that fit different budgets and travel styles. If you’re looking for the cheapest way to get around, minibuses and shared taxis are available, though they come with some compromises on comfort. Taxis are more expensive but are much easier for tourists to use without getting lost or overwhelmed.
Renting a car can provide great flexibility, especially if you’re planning on exploring further outside of Banjul or using some of the less accessible beaches. Just be aware of the driving conditions and follow the local road rules carefully.
At the end of the day, how you get around Gambia depends on what kind of travel experience you’re looking for. Choose the option that best matches your itinerary, comfort level, and budget to get the most out of your trip!
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