Gambia Opens 2026/27 Tourism Season with First Charter Arrival from London
The Gambia's 2026/27 tourism season got under way this week as the first chartered flight of the season, operated by UK-based tour operator The Gambia Experience, touched down at Banjul International Airport carrying 139 visitors from London. The arrival was marked by a reception from Gambia Tourism Board (GT Board) officials, industry stakeholders and cultural performers. Tourism accounts for 18 - 20% of The Gambia's GDP, according to the Gambian Bureau of Statistics, making the seasonal launch a significant economic moment for the country.
The GT Board has forecast a 15% increase in international arrivals for the 2026/27 season, driven by targeted marketing and improved flight connectivity. International arrivals, which exceeded 235,000 in 2019 before falling sharply during the Covid-19 pandemic, have been on a gradual recovery path. However, industry voices - including the Gambia Hotel Association and independent consultants - have cautioned that sustained growth will require coordinated investment in infrastructure, beach erosion management, road conditions and airport facilities to keep the destination competitive within West Africa.
Source: Foroyaa