Located in Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and Senegal The Gambia is, one of the smallest countries in Africa. Being the shape of a crooked finger, 50 km in width and 320 km deep inland The Gambia is the oldest English speaking West African country and gained Independence from the UK in 1965

The Gambia lies on approximately the same latitude as Barbados, is mostly flat and follows the River Gambia in shape; this river is the main form of transportation in The Gambia and is well worth a visit, being lined with mangrove creeks. The Gambia has plenty to offer the traveller, particularly those looking for an alternative to Europe but at comparable prices. The Gambia is known as the smiling Coast, and it is easy to see why. The people here are so happy and welcoming, simply smiling all the time.

Offering a mixture of nature reserves, beaches, craft markets, culture and tropical gardens as well as lots of sun in the UK winter months Gambia is fast becoming a popular destination.

Banjul the capital lies on an island to the South of the River Gambia estuary, separated by Oyster Creek, although this town is also the commercial capital and a day visit/ tour by visitors to Gambia it is not the main tourist area. Banjul and its sister township of Serekunda are truly African experiences away from the glitz of the more cosmopolitan cities in the world. The bustling Albert market and the everyday life of local people going about their business. Please note that if evenings are to be spent in these towns, visitors should take care, like many large towns/ cities crime is high and ‘rich’ tourists are easy pickings for muggings.

The main tourist hotels are based along the coastline, down the West Side of the country, where deserted palm tree laden beaches lap the North Atlantic Ocean. Akau, Fajara, Kotu and Kololi are the main resorts. Watersports are available from the major hotels, as the sea is safe to swim and play in. In fact the beaches get better the further South you stay.

Nightlife is fairly low key in The Gambia coastal towns; in fact the hotels tend to provide the majority of evening entertainment. Do try to adventure out of the hotel in an evening to some of the fantastic restaurants. Ask your hotel for details of local ones and don’t be put off by the exterior. In general the food is very well cooked, but not A la Carte!

Bumsters are a major part of The Gambia, especially in the tourist areas. They are local people who follow tourists and try to engage you in deep conversation. Don’t be afraid, they are generally harmless. They will be looking for your wallet, perhaps offering you necklaces made of shells (no cost to them!) and to become friends so you will give them money. Don’t let them ruin your holiday.

The Gambia has a subtropical climate, with very distinct hot and cold seasons. The rainy season lasts from June to October. Temperature ranges from 43’C in the summer to 16’C in the winter, the winter season (November to March) is the main tourist season when conditions are dry, relatively cool and the air fresh!

Visit Abuko Nature Reserve to see what the flora and fauna of The Gambia was like before industrialisation. This where the stars of the television programme ‘Jewels in the Sky’ are based, Eddie and his daughter Brewer. Expect to see porcupine, crocodile, snake and bushbaby, as well as hyena, lion and monkey in the reserve’s animal orphanage.

In Banjul visit the Albert Market, West Africa at its best, whilst there look out the War Memorial and Fountain erected to commemorate the coronation of Britain’s King George VI. The Gambia National Museum is also based in Banjul, or when you need a rest from the constant activity of Banjul why not laze down Oyster Creek in a boat.

The botanical Gardens at Bakau, established in colonial times, is a great place to sit in the shade and take in the bird and plant life in The Gambia.

Kiang West National Park is a favourite for safari spotting, animals include baboons, warthog, mongoose, hyena, manatee and leopard to name a few.

RECOMMENDED READING:

Lonely Planet: The Gambia & Senegal – David Else (Paperback 26 February, 1999)

The Gambia – Andy Gravette (Paperback 30 September, 1998)

The Insight Guide to Gambia & Senegal (Paperback July, 1999)

It is possible to stay in The Gambia for as little as £5 per night, if staying inland within Gambian quality lodging such as The Atlantic Guesthouse in Bakau.

Most Europeans however opt for European quality hotels, which may be viewed as below standard even when rated by UK tour operators. Don’t forget this is a developing Country. Expect to pay from £35 a night and upward.

VISAS AND INNOCULATIONS

There are currently no entry requirements for UK citizens staying up to 28 days, but please do check up to date information first.

Hep A, Polio, Typhoid, Meningitis and Malaria are all strongly recommended and Yellow Fever immunisation is essential if travelling directly from an infected country. Please seek professional advice; these are only guidelines. If you have not previously been immunised against diphtheria, polio or tetanus this is an ideal opportunity to have the immunisations carried out.

The usual health advice applies as with most foreign countries. Take care against dehydration and over exposure to the sun, by drinking lots of water and use high factor sun creams. The Gambian locals drink tap water and laugh at Europeans paying for bottled water. The choice is yours, the tap water is safe to drink, clear and tasty.