Gambia Travel Vaccines — What You Need in 2026
High riskMalaria Risk
widespread
Yellow Fever Certificate
No
Recommended Vaccines
5
Recommended Vaccines
Yellow Fever
Allow 4 weeks before travel
Hepatitis A
Allow 2 weeks before travel
Typhoid
Allow 2 weeks before travel
Meningococcal
Allow 2 weeks before travel
Rabies
Allow 4 weeks before travel
Routine Vaccines to Keep Up to Date
Other Health Risks
- Malaria
- Dengue
Travel Health Summary
The Gambia is a year-round malaria country and that single fact should drive your preparation. Transmission occurs throughout the country including Banjul, Serrekunda and the coastal resort strip at Kololi and Kotu, with a sharp seasonal peak from June to November after the rains, so antimalarial tablets plus repellent and a treated net are recommended for every itinerary, including a week-long winter-sun package. A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for travellers arriving from countries with transmission risk, and vaccination is generally recommended given the surrounding region. Hepatitis A and typhoid are standard, rabies pre-exposure is worth discussing for longer stays or upcountry travel, and meningococcal vaccination is relevant for dry-season travel in the interior. Schistosomiasis is present in the River Gambia, so avoid freshwater swimming and wading. Healthcare is limited: the main referral hospitals in Banjul are basic by European standards, serious cases are evacuated to Dakar or Europe, and up-country clinics have little diagnostic capacity — carry a malaria standby treatment if travelling far from the coast.
This page is for general information only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified travel-health professional before booking vaccines or travelling.
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