Two main routes run through the country: the paved road along the south bank of the river and the dirt road along the north bank. Public transport on the south side is handled by GTSC buses, while the north bank relies mostly on bush taxis -- shared vehicles that leave when full.
Local taxis are widely available. Yellow 'town taxis' handle short trips around Banjul and the coastal resort areas. Green 'tourist taxis' can go anywhere in the country and are the easiest way to arrange day trips. Agree on a fare before getting in -- meters do not exist.
Minibuses (known as gelli-gelli) are the cheapest way to travel between towns. They are crowded, slow, and stop constantly, but they go everywhere. For longer distances, shared sept-places (seven-seat cars) run the main routes.
The Barra-Banjul ferry is essential for crossing the river mouth. The crossing takes about 35 minutes and runs regularly, though delays and long vehicle queues are common. If you are on foot, the wait is shorter.
Despite the country's British colonial heritage, driving is on the right. Car rental is available in the tourist areas, though the roads upcountry are rough and a 4x4 is advisable beyond the south bank highway. Cycling is a fine way to get around -- the country is flat and compact. Rentals are available in tourist areas and locals will sometimes rent out their own bicycles where no formal hire exists.