London to Yundum (LGW–BJL) — Airlines, Schedules & Connections

British passport holders enter The Gambia visa-free for up to 28 days. No fee, no advance application. Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the entry date with at least two blank pages. Extensions up to 3 months are available at the Immigration Department in Banjul for GMD 500 (about $7).

You need a return or onward ticket and proof of accommodation. Immigration officers at Banjul International Airport (BJL) occasionally ask for evidence of funds. No formal minimum amount is published. For stays beyond the extension limit, apply for a residence permit. Yellow fever vaccination is required if arriving from an endemic country but not mandatory for direct UK arrivals (though the card may still be checked).

Direct charter flights from London Gatwick and Manchester to Banjul run about 6 hours. TUI and Thomas Cook (successor brands) operate seasonal winter charters. Year-round options go via Casablanca, Dakar, or Brussels with one stop. The Gambian dalasi (GMD) trades at roughly 70 GMD per $1. ATMs exist at the airport and in Serrekunda. Malaria prophylaxis is indicated for all areas. The Gambia is entirely surrounded by Senegal, so day trips across the border require separate Senegalese visa arrangements for UK nationals.

The Gatwick Express runs non-stop from London Victoria to the South Terminal in 30 minutes, with trains every 15 minutes (from £21.50 one-way; advance fares cheaper online). Thameslink trains from London Bridge, Blackfriars, City Thameslink, and Farringdon are slower (35–45 min) but significantly cheaper; often £10–13 on Oyster or contactless. Southern trains also serve the route.National coaches (National Express, Megabus) connect Gatwick to Victoria Coach Station for £6–15. Taxis from central London cost £70–100+ depending on traffic. Driving via M23 and A23 takes 35–60 minutes; multi-storey car parks are directly connected to both terminals by a 2-minute monorail shuttle.