Among those welcoming the guests were Mrs Ida Jeng Njie, Director General of the Gambia Tourism Board, fellow GTBoard members, representatives of the Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, and other tourism partners. The Discovery Tours team, including General Manager Oumie Sise-Sallah, was also present to receive visitors and support their onward arrangements.

The welcoming entertainment group brought a lively atmosphere to the airport. Guests clearly enjoyed the performance, which offered an immediate introduction to the warmth and energy of The Gambia. After a day of travelling, music and a friendly reception made the arrival feel like part of the holiday itself.

There was also the pleasure of recognising returning visitors. Some have been coming to The Gambia for more than ten years. Their arrival felt less like meeting new guests and more like welcoming familiar friends back.

These longstanding connections are an important part of the country’s tourism story. A holiday can become an annual tradition, bringing visitors back to the people and places they have grown to know.

The Gambia Experience has offered holidays to the destination since 1987. Almost four decades later, its continued commitment deserves recognition. Tourism faces strong competition, changing traveller expectations and disruptions caused by events around the world. Maintaining a relationship with a destination through those changes takes persistence and local partnerships.

The arrival also puts the coming winter programme into motion.

October’s services connect London Gatwick and Banjul every Friday. From 3 November 2026 until 27 April 2027, the charter schedule is set to offer Tuesday and Saturday flights, with extra Monday departures around Christmas and New Year.

That connection serves more than holidaymakers. It also supports people travelling between The Gambia and the UK to visit relatives, see friends or fulfil work commitments. More departure options can make those journeys easier to plan, especially during the festive period.

For visitors considering their next holiday, The Gambia Experience offers both holiday packages and flight-only bookings. Travellers based in The Gambia can also speak with its local team at the sales at Senegambia Hotel.

To all 139 passengers, and to everyone joining us throughout the season, welcome to The Gambia. Whether this is your first visit or a return to a place you already love, we wish you a stay filled with relaxation, discovery and warm encounters.

Practical options for travelling from Banjul

For anyone planning a journey to the UK, the details of the fare can be just as important as the flight itself.

Seats can be selected in advance, while the fare includes a hot meal and 20kg luggage allowance. For those wanting additional comfort, an Economy Plus option includes airport lounge access and more space on board, with three seats between two at the front of the aircraft.

For travellers whose plans may change, flexible tickets are also available. These provide greater flexibility when arranging travel and include an increased luggage allowance.

Families travelling from Banjul can also benefit from discounted fares for children.

Travelling home, visiting family and staying longer

The Christmas and New Year period is particularly significant, with many families planning trips around the festive season. The additional Monday flights provide some extra flexibility for those arranging travel at this time of year.

The longer-stay options are also useful for travellers spending several weeks or more in the UK, whether visiting relatives or combining a trip with work or other commitments.

Explore holiday packages, flight-only options and the latest travel information at www.gambia.co.uk.