Tips on Gambia Warnings and Dangers – Stay Safe!

Gambia Warnings and Dangers

Lying along the Atlantic Coast, Gambia is a travel destination for the truly adventurous.  As with an tourist destination in Africa, the Gambia comes with warnings and dangers that tourists should be aware of before traveling.

Scamming Bumsters and Petty Crime in Gambia

Bumsters are unemployed men who hang outside the hotels and try to scam tourists. They are typically not dangerous and sometimes work in pairs to pull off the scam.  They will pretend to know you, saying they work at your hotel and you have spoken.  Being embarrassed, you accept their guide services or agree to go home and meet their new wife, after which you are expected to give a cash gift to the newlyweds.  Violent crime in Gambia is rare, although petty crimes such as pick pocketing are more common in public areas.  Avoid carrying around a lot of cash and other valuables in public places.

Tropical Diseases in Gambia

To get into the country, you will need certain immunizations, such as Yellow Fever, Tetanus, and Hepatitis A and B, for example.  The Gambia is also a hot spot for malaria so you will want to pack some bug spray and light clothing that covers your skin. Also, sleep with a mosquito net and take your anti-malaria pills which need to be taken weeks before traveling.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about Gambia.