Manchester, Greater Manchester to Yundum (MAN–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 Metrolink tram (Airport line) connects Manchester city centre (Piccadilly) to the airport in about 55 minutes for £4.50–£5.50, running until midnight. The dedicated rail service from Manchester Piccadilly takes only 20 minutes (£4.80 off-peak) and runs frequently from 06:00 to 23:00. Direct trains also serve Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, and other northern cities.National Express coaches connect the airport to London Victoria (3h15, from £10) and many regional cities. Taxis from the city centre cost £25–40 depending on traffic. The airport is well-signed from the M56 motorway with on-site multi-storey parking (Terminal 1/2/3 all have adjacent structures).