It's no surprise that The Gambia attracts many winter vacationers. With its warm, friendly atmosphere and tranquil environment, The Gambia is a short flight from Northern Europe, making its coastal resorts near Banjul ideal for a relaxing poolside getaway.
Adventurous travelers can venture inland to experience classic West African scenery. Take a cruise along the River Gambia to observe playful chimpanzees and lounging hippos, or explore the history of the slave trade at James Island.
For bird enthusiasts, the Bao Bolon Wetland Reserve is a paradise, featuring a protected area of salt flats, marshlands, and wetlands that hosts a diverse array of bird species.
When to go
Daytime temperatures average around 30°C year round. The dry season is mid-October to early June; this is also the main tourist season.
Manatees are found in the River Gambia National Park between February and June. They are frequently heard and sometimes seen. The best time for birdwatching is early in the dry season and early in the rainy season, when migrants arrive.
International airports
Banjul (BJL), 24km from the city.
Getting around
The Gambia has no trains and no internal flights. Most local people get around using the bush taxi, which can be a converted minibus, estate car, van or even cart in rural areas.
Hiring a Land Rover or bike is a fine way of getting around in your sweet time and allows you to get off the beaten track.
Accommodation
Most travellers to The Gambia will have pre-arranged hotels booked as part of a package. However, it is possible to travel independently, provided you stay away from the resort hotels used by the tour operators.
There are a growing number of riverside ecolodges up cthe ountry. At the budget end, there are a few tourist guesthouses and homestays. You’ll also find a YMCA hostel in Kanifing, near Serrekunda and an official campsite in Sukuta.