Car Rental in Banjul - Driving Guide & Best Rates

Renting a car in Banjul offers flexibility for exploring The Gambia's countryside and Atlantic coast beaches, though it's generally not necessary within the compact capital itself. The Gambia drives on the right side of the road. Car rental is most practical for travelers planning multi-day trips to upcountry destinations, wildlife reserves, or wanting independence to explore at their own pace without relying on shared taxis or tourist shuttles. Within Banjul proper, renting a car is typically unnecessary – the city is small and navigable by taxi or on foot. However, venturing beyond the capital to places like Janjanbureh, Basse, or the southern coastal areas becomes much easier with your own vehicle. Road conditions vary significantly: main highways are generally reasonable, but secondary roads can be challenging, particularly during the rainy season. Driving can be demanding for tourists unfamiliar with local traffic patterns, informal road rules, and occasional livestock on roads. If you do rent, ensure comprehensive insurance coverage and verify the vehicle's condition thoroughly. For current rental rates and availability, check the booking options below, as prices vary by season and vehicle type.

International Driving Permit

Generally recommended for driving in The Gambia. Verify current requirements with rental agencies as regulations may vary.

Valid Driver's License

A valid driver's license from your home country is typically required. Check with specific rental agencies for acceptance policies.

Minimum Age

Rental agencies typically require drivers to be 21-25 years old, though specific age requirements vary by company. Verify with your chosen provider.

Insurance Coverage

Basic insurance is generally included, but comprehensive coverage is recommended. Check current insurance options and requirements with rental agencies.

Credit Card

A credit card in the driver's name is typically required for security deposits. Verify accepted card types and deposit amounts with rental agencies.

Local Driving Permit

Information not available on specific local permit requirements for Banjul. Contact rental agencies or local authorities for current regulations.

Rent from Banjul International Airport for convenience, where both international agencies and local operators have desks - compare options but verify insurance coverage and vehicle condition thoroughly before leaving the lot.

Before driving off, carefully inspect the vehicle for existing damage, check tire condition and spare, test all lights and wipers, and photograph any issues - road conditions in Gambia can be challenging with potholes and unpaved sections.

GPS coverage may be limited in Gambia, so download offline maps before your trip and consider asking your rental agency for local navigation advice - major routes are generally well-marked but rural areas can be confusing.

Fuel stations are available in Banjul and major towns but can be sparse in rural areas, so fill up when you see stations - for parking, use hotel parking or guarded lots when available, as street parking security varies.

Return the car with the agreed fuel level (typically full tank) and allow extra time for the return inspection - confirm return procedures with your agency, especially if returning outside business hours at the airport.

Road conditions in Banjul can be challenging with potholes, unpaved sections, and poor street lighting at night - drive cautiously and reduce speed on unfamiliar routes, especially during and after the rainy season (June-October).

Traffic congestion is common during morning (7-9 AM) and evening (4-7 PM) rush hours, particularly on main routes and near the ferry terminal - allow extra travel time and expect slower movement through the city center.

Local driving customs differ significantly from Western norms, including frequent lane changes without signaling, pedestrians crossing unexpectedly, and livestock on roads - stay alert and drive defensively at all times.

Police checkpoints are common throughout Banjul and The Gambia - always carry your driver's license, vehicle documents, and passport, and remain courteous during stops as officers may request to see documentation.