A passport and visa are required. Overseas inquiries should be made at the nearest Gambian embassy or consulate. The Gambia completed a transition from military to civilian rule with presidential elections in September 1996 and parliamentary elections in January 1997. Travelers should nonetheless avoid political gatherings or demonstrations and not photograph airports or military installations. Be prepared to stop at all roadblocks or road checkpoints.
Medical facilities are limited and some medicines are unavailable.
Doctors and hospitals often expect cash payment for health care services. Travelers should bring their own supplies of prescription drugs and preventive medicines. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid or accepted outside the United States. Travelers have found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage to be useful. Be careful of pickpockets and the crowded market areas and on ferries.