Wondering how to pay for metro and bus rides in Gambia - cash only, or do cards work too?
Transport in Gambia is chaotic but fun. I stayed in Serrekunda and used bush taxis almost daily - super cheap, maybe 10 dalasi (less than 20 cents). Always cash, but that’s easy once you get used to it. I even took a GTSC bus to Basse, and paying cash at the station was quick and simple. For tourists, it feels very different from Europe, but also more personal. Just carry enough dalasi coins and you’ll manage fine.
I struggled with Gambian transport at first. Drivers never had change, so when I only had 100 dalasi notes, they refused me. Everything is cash-only, even in Banjul. I was staying near Kotu Beach, and each ride into town meant haggling and exact change. No cards, no apps, not even on the bigger GTSC buses. If you’re planning a trip, withdraw enough dalasi in small notes, or you’ll waste time chasing change.
I spent two weeks in Kololi, and every single ride - whether shared taxi or bush taxi - was cash. Shared taxis are around 7-10 dalasi for short trips, regular green tourist taxis cost more, always in cash. I once asked a driver near Westfield Junction if he took card, and he laughed. Even the Gambia Transport Service buses from Kanifing to Barra wanted coins. Cash dominates here, no exceptions.
Gambia has no metro. Public transport is mainly shared taxis, bush taxis (minivans), and some buses in Banjul/Serrekunda. All are cash-only. I stayed near Senegambia Beach, and rides to Serrekunda were usually 10-15 dalasi, paid directly in coins. No one accepts cards. Even long-distance buses to Brikama or Barra are the same - coins and notes only. ATMs work in tourist zones, but bring small cash for rides.