About the Gambia

With a sub-tropical climate and fascinating culture, The Gambia is a truly magnificent country with some of the friendliest people in the world. A former British colony and now a member of the commonwealth, it is the oldest English speaking country in West Africa, as well as one of the smallest. Bewitching with a stunning variety of birds, fish and unspoilt beaches, The Gambia is just 6 hours from London with no time difference.

Gambians are known all over the world for their warm smiles, peace loving nature and hospitality. The importance of the extended family, as well as indigenous forms of dress and celebration, remain fundamental. Though tourism is now offered on an international level, it is still predominantly agricultural, and the majority of Gambians earn their living from the land and sea. Although practically everywhere is now accessible to visitors, it’s still a place where people can go to escape the pressures of modern life, and be surrounded by the country’s original spirit.

The Plantations - Gambia The Gambia is the ideal destination for winter sun. It has almost no rainfall from November to June, and practically non-stop sunshine with daytime temperatures of around 38°C. From July to September the country is transformed to rich luscious greens with short, yet spectacular, rain storms.

A birdwatcher’s paradise, there are over 540 different species of bird, with other varied bird and wildlife sanctuaries close by. There is a large variety of tropical plants as well as extensive wildlife.

100 Monkeys restaurant The unofficial world record fish of 303lbs was landed by a UK angler in 1995. This year's annual competition prize fund is between £40k - £50k.

The Gambia is so much more than just a sunny destination. Spiritually it will enrich you, mentally it will uplift you, and emotionally it will expand you. This small African country will show you how to listen and observe, rather than to just hear and see. In no time at all it will become abundantly clear why people fall for ‘The Smile of West Africa.’

Location:
Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and Senegal

Geographic coordinates:
13 28 N, 16 34 W

Area:
total: 11,300 sq km
land: 10,000 sq km
water: 1,300 sq km

Population:
1,641,564 (July 2006 est.)

Religions:
Muslim 90%, Christian 9%, indigenous beliefs 1%

Languages:
English (official), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, other indigenous
vernaculars

Climate:
Sub-tropical climate. Practically no rainfall from Sept – May with non-stop sunshine. Daytime temperatures of around 34-38°c.

Terrain:
The Gambia is known for its rich luscious greens. River Gambia provides the source of life and the country's appearance of lush green beauty with its many tributaries and variety of wildlife.

Natural resources:
Fish, titanium (rutile and ilmenite), tin, zircon, silica sand, clay & petroleum.

Jet lag:
None. The Gambia is on the same time zone.

Flights:
6 hours or less from Gatwick/Bristol/East Midlands/Manchester.

Legal System:
Gambian Law is based on the English Legal System.

Safety:
Ranked as the 4th Safest Place in the world, surrounded by Senegal - the 3rd Safest Place in the world.

Map of Gambia