Is Serrekunda Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

While Serrekunda, offers unique cultural experiences, it's crucial to note that caution should be maintained, particularly during nighttime. As a solo female traveler, walking alone at night is not generally recommended. Unlit streets and sporadic law enforcement can pose safety concerns. Locals are generally friendly, however, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and purse snatching can increase after dark. Never leave your drinks unattended in bars or restaurants and always keep your personal belongings secure and close. Consider hiring reputable taxis or arranging transportation services through your hotel for night-time travels.

Public transportation in Serrekunda is fairly standard. However, it can often be crowded, with minibuses generally being the main mode of transport. This might be discomforting for some solo female travelers. You'll need to be vigilant about your belongings as pickpocketing can occur. It's recommended to make travel plans during the day and avoid late-night journeys.

In Serrekunda, as in any other city, there's a moderate amount of street harassment. Unwanted attention from local men, like cat-calling or persistent solicitations can sometimes occur, especially in crowded markets or busy areas. It's recommended to maintain a confident and assertive demeanor. Travelling with others or local trusted guides whenever possible can help deter such behavior.

Serrekunda has a moderate risk of petty crimes. Travelers may encounter instances such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or scams. As a solo female traveler, it's recommended to be vigilant especially in crowded places, monitor personal belongings, and avoid isolated areas particularly at night.

Tap water in Serrekunda is generally not recommended for drinking. Even though it receives some level of treatment, it may not meet the health standards due to potential contamination with pollutants or bacteria. Therefore, bottled water is more advisable for consumption, especially for travelers who may not have built up a tolerance to the local waterborne pathogens.

The United States Government advises you to exercise increased caution when traveling to The Gambia, due to high levels of crime and inadequate health infrastructure. Some areas pose a higher risk than others. Please ensure that you read the entire travel advisory. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in The Gambia overall, due to the threat of violent crime. Check the full travel advisory.