Gambia Travel Guide
The Republic of The Gambia, commonly referred to as The Gambia, or Gambia is a country in West Africa. The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, it has a short North Atlantic Ocean coastline in the west and is surrounded by Senegal so that it is almost an enclave. The country is situated around the Gambia River, the nation's namesake, which flows through the country's centre and empties into the Atlantic Ocean. Its area is almost 10,500 km with an estimated population of 1,700,000.
The Gambia offers glorious low–key beaches, bustling towns that combine colonial architecture and traditional activities and a wealth of wildlife. West African music and rural culture is evident throughout the country, more so when one ventures off the beaten track and up–country to simple, traditional villages where there are always vibrant festivals, events full of traditional drumming and energetic dancing.
On 18 February 1965, The Gambia gained independence from the United Kingdom and joined The Commonwealth. Banjul is The Gambia's capital, but the largest conurbations are Serekunda and Brikama. An agriculturally fertile country, its economy is dominated by farming, fishing, and tourism.
Things to see and do
Abuko Nature Reserve
A Nature Park situated outside the village of Lamin in the Kombo North District, 25 km from Banjul. At 105 hectares it is one of the smallest (if not the smallest) protected areas in Africa, but it still offers a good introduction to the Gambian wildlife there are monkeys, crocodiles and some 300 species of birds.
Four Wheel Drive Adventure
Very popular tours visiting schools, country homes, and distilleries.
James Island (Roots tour)
An excursion inspired by Alex Haley's bestseller and movie Roots. You can go there on cruise up the centre of the wide Gambia River, towards the former French trading post of Albreda and the village of Juffureh. Views of the river bank are distant. Visit the setting of Roots, an old slave trade station. Tourists are overwhelmed by locals who appear only when the boat arrives, and disappear when the boat leaves. Or you go by car, e.g. with the official tourist guides on the small roads on the North Bank and sail in a pirogue from Juffareh.
Kachikally Crocodile Pool
Very popular, many crocodiles (West African Nile Crocs), opportunity to touch/pat West African Nile Crocodiles.
Gambia River National Park
Beautiful National Park below Janjanbureh. They will organise boat tours to see chimpanzees, baboons, monkeys, crocodiles, etc.
Sanyang Beach
One of the most beautiful beaches in Gambia. Rainbow Beach Bar is a great place to spend the day, and also has a few affordable rooms for staying the night. Public transport leaves from Serrakunda and Brikama regularly, and private taxis can also be hired for day trips.
