When encountering road checkpoints be sure to stop and follow the instructions of security personnel. Shootings occurred early this year at some checkpoints. Crossing the Gambia River via the Banjul-to-Barra ferry can be dangerous because the boat is often overcrowded, frequently operates with several engines broken and doesn’t have enough life preservers. If you must get to the north bank of the Gambia River, consider using the Yelitenda-to-Bambatenda ferry, 90 miles upriver.