The Gambia Tourism Board (GTBoard) is optimistic about the 2026/2027 winter tourism season following the arrival of the first direct charter flight by The Gambia Experience from London, carrying 139 passengers.
The flight landed at Banjul International Airport at about 2:45 pm on Friday, 9 October 2026, officially opening the season in The Smiling Coast.
Tourists were received by GTBoard Director General Ida Jeng-Njie, officials of the Gambia Civil Aviation Authority, Discovery Tours, ground-handling staff and other stakeholders, with cultural performances to welcome them.
Speaking after the arrival, Jeng-Njie said The Gambia anticipates a successful season, boosted by increased air links from the United Kingdom, its largest source market.
She said The Gambia Experience will operate twice weekly, while other operators including TUI will also fly from the UK, potentially resulting in about seven flights per week during the season.
Jeng-Njie said GTBoard spent months preparing the destination with stakeholders, improving visitor experience not only on the coast but also in upcountry destinations.
“We want people to have a real Gambia experience,” she said, urging tourists to explore cultural and natural attractions beyond the beaches to encourage longer stays and repeat visits.
Oumie Sise, General Manager of Discovery Tours, the ground handler for The Gambia Experience, said promoting village visits, cultural tours and rural excursions would enable more communities to benefit while giving visitors a deeper understanding of Gambian heritage.
On safety concerns, Jeng-Njie said GTBoard has engaged security institutions and held meetings on security arrangements for the season.
She also said GTBoard is promoting niche markets like birdwatching, having sponsored Gambian birdwatchers to the UK, and is working with the National Centre for Arts and Culture to showcase Gambian culture.
Through diversified products and stronger community participation, GTBoard aims to increase arrivals and ensure tourism benefits reach all communities.