Gambia: When to Go

The best time to travel in Gambia is from November to February, when conditions are dry and relatively cool. Around this time of year, however, the dry, dusty harmattan winds blow off the Sahara. During the wet season (June to October), popular tourist areas are less crowded and cheaper, though the rains can make some of the smaller dirt roads inaccessible, and diseases, including malaria, are more widespread. The peak tourist season lasts from October to April, which coincides with visiting migratory birds.

Catch the International Roots Festival in late June and/or early July.

Weather

The Gambian climate is characterised by a long dry season (November to May) and a short rainy season (June to October), with August by far the rainiest month. Average high temperatures range from 24°C (75°F) between December and February, to 32°C (89°F) between November and March - this is the least rainy (and the most sunny) time of the year. Temperatures are mildest along the coast, and the amount and duration of rainfall lessens as you head inland. Humidity is only a problem just before the rains begin in June.