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Ecotourism in Gambia

• kerrybutters
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• December 15, 2011

As tourism in Gambia is still a growing industry, efforts have already been made to ensure that the country doesn’t suffer the adverse effects of mass tourism, especially as it’s such a small country, so there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy ecotourism in Gambia.

Responsible travel in Gambia

As Gambia is a third-world country, it’s important to focus on responsible travel in order to help the local population. Ecotourism in Gambia is easy as many of the beachfront hotels, land and accommodations that have been set aside by the government for tourist development build with the environment in mind and also use local artisans, local staff and buy locally grown produce.

Helping the vulnerable

Many organisations exist who have made ecotourism in Gambia a priority, as a developing country it is thought that many of the young unemployed are vulnerable to exploitation and as such, some projects focus on providing work for them. Likewise, women are also at risk and training farms have been set up in order to teach locals how to farm and supply produce to tourist outlets such as hotels – 90% of the people trained on the farms are women.

Ecotourism camps in Gambia

Specialist camps can be found in Gambia which have been specifically targeted to ensure that lifestyle, culture and values of the locals can be maintained. At Tumani Tenda , a Jolla Village with over 300 inhabitants, visitors can stay in the specially-created accommodation and participate fully in village life. Ecotourists can thoroughly immerse themselves in daily village life and visit ongoing projects such as educational and women’s facilities, as well as the 140 hectare farm where villagers produce a range of fruit and vegetables. It’s also possible to buy crafts from local artisans to take home as souvenirs.

Juffure Village

Juffure village (sometimes spelt Juffureh) is one of the more famous destinations for ecotourism in Gambia. The village was featured in the 1976 book Roots by African-American Alex Haley , who was a descendant of the Kunte Kinte tribe. Whilst the village has always been popular, in the past this has led to locals hassling tourists to buy their crafts, however, this has been alleviated by a project which introduced a ticketing scheme . This has put ?22k into the local economy and helped to train guides and provide a children’s centre and equipment, an excursion to the village is therefore a must for those with an interest in ecotourism in Gambia.

There are a wide range of activities to be enjoyed whilst visiting Gambia, not only does the country have a rich cultural history, magnificent wildlife and areas of outstanding beauty, the introduction of ecotourism in Gambia has meant that many locals are benefitting. As well as river tours, beaches, wildlife excursions and birdwatching, responsible visitors can give back to communities in a variety of ways. Brikami Craft Market is always worth a visit to purchase beautiful wooden carvings direct from the artisan and a variety of advice is available to ensure that responsible tourism is promoted.

Photo credit: David Botella

• #Bird watching
• #Expedition

Responsible Tourism

The Gambia is a leader in Sustainable Tourism ventures and can proudly boast of being the second country in the world to develop a Responsible Tourism Policy. Our position as a leader in Responsible Tourism is demonstrated in the number of global awards won by various individuals and organizations. There are shining best practices of Responsible Tourism interventions in The Gambia such as enabling social inclusion, interactive decision, and empowerment of small enterprises in tourism.

Award Winning Eco Lodges & Associations

Makasutu Culture Forest Sunday Times Best Eco Lodge Award 2008

Footsteps Eco Lodge is a small Gambian accommodation situated in Gunjur, in the bush and by the beach, where you will find hundreds of birds and some of the most stunning scenery in Gambia, while providing you with a home away from home experience.

For further details please visit: http://footstepsinthegambia.com/

A match made in heaven, between a British couple (Gamspirit) and the community of Kartong. This is a truly responsible tourism project summarized below:

An MOU has been signed where:

> The Sandele Development are on land owned by the people of kartong

> At the end of 25 year period, the Eco-lodge will revert to the people of kartong

> At least 70% of all Gamspirit employees will be from the community

Finally, a portion of the profits will be donated to the village development projects

We wish there are countless Sandeles in The Gambia! For further details on it′s truly nature looking please visit: www.sandele.com

Responsible Tourism Policy

A Responsible Tourism Policy has been prepared by the Responsible Tourism Partnership and has been produced and agreed through a multi-stakeholder process

Tourism is important in The Gambia. The government’s policy is to promote tourism and its contribution to economic growth. Our objective is to increase the contribution of tourism to our economy and to raise the living standards of Gambians. The government is continuing its efforts to broaden the tourism market, improve quality standards, and ensure rational use of the Tourism Development Area. Read the Policy here

The Gambia Tourism Board is committed to the safety of children and has formulated a Code of Conduct with UNICEF which can be read here .

Sustainable Tourism in Gambia

Sustainable tourism in Gambia and our peace of mind promise means that we ensure YOU get the holiday you deserve while making sure the LOCALS receive what they deserve.

We promise you

Sustainable Gambia tourism at Footsteps. We produce  100% of our energy on-site without noisy generators. Footsteps operate entirely on  solar power . And to that end means that we only use energy-efficient products .

All prices are fair  and reflect sustainable working conditions and fair terms of trade for local farmers and workers. As a result and above all local people get a better deal.

Employment  only from the local village and we  buy local  too. This means we guarantee everyone receives a  fair deal  and that your holiday makes a real difference to the local economy for instance.

Sustainability

Composting toilets  are fitted in each room and are odourless. They eventually go back to the soil along with the organic recycled kitchen resource. All lodge resource is recycled on-site.

Sustainable tourism is not only about solar panels. Each member of staff  receives accredited training, fair pay, and a non-contributory pension. They also receive life cover, sick pay, and up to 21 days’ holiday each year.

Our lodge has  solar water heating  in the guest rooms and kitchen. The water from the showers and washbasins is fed through greywater recycling. Above all, this provides all the water for garden irrigation and great vegetables.

Staff can plan for their futures. For instance, we offer small  saving plans  and a  microloan system  for unexpected emergencies such as roof repair.

The domed roundhouses have fruit trees and bushes planted around them giving shade. This means the bedrooms are  cool by intelligent design. Solar-powered fans are available which means you get a great night’s sleep.

Lastly, all fresh produce is grown at Footsteps or sourced locally  without the use of pesticides . Meats, fish and shellfish used in our restaurant are sourced locally and are of the  very best standard .

Watch Babysteps, a video recorded in 2015 about why Footsteps was created and what we wanted to achieve.

Mission Statement

Footsteps Eco-Lodge is dedicated to improving The Gambia’s trade-in sustainable tourism. And thereby encourage sustainable employment within The Gambia.

We will encourage greater numbers of tourists to visit The Gambia. This will be achieved while encouraging others to improve the ecology of the country.

Our building, employment, and operations will adhere to a policy of being ‘Good, Honest and True.

We will educate other tourist-based businesses on how they can reduce the impact of their trade on the delicate ecosystem of The Gambia. This enables those businesses benefiting from that trade to pass on the message. And the lessons learned. Encouraging others to act in the same responsible manner.

To Sustain the Above Policy

• Our lodge is fitted throughout with composting toilets
• and has a greywater filtration system
• that utilizes solar and wind-generated power and other ecologically sound practices.

We help our guests to enjoy the benefits of an ecologically responsible location by using local Gambian employees. Each employee receives relevant training, fair pay, medical assistance, and the opportunity for advancement.

Sustainable Tourism Industry Involvement

We work closely with The Institute of Travel and Tourism of The Gambia and The Gambia School of Business Management. This means we encourage future generations to embrace and understand the need for sustainable, profitable, and socially responsible tourism.

We support local schools, business initiatives, and educational programs dealing with clean water supplies.

These include

• The Niaforang project
• Gunjur Upper Basic School
• Gunjur Museum
• Abubakar Sidique Foundation for Orphan Welfare.

You can help too! Just ask us about community  activities  during your holiday. Or have a look around online. Several charitable organisations are working in the area.

Our Policy Against Sexual Exploitation of Children.

By The General Manager Policy, no 001 issued and effective 28/03/2014

To fulfil our commitment as a responsible and ethical tourism company, Footsteps Eco-Lodge repudiates the sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism. We have joined  The Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism  to take concrete actions to prevent this crime.

Our actions include:

• the creation of this policy
• elaboration of related procedures
• appropriate training of all staff
• provision of information to travellers
• reporting of possible cases to local authorities/NGOs
• and submission of reports to The Code Organization.

The policy will serve as a guiding document with procedures for staff on how to proceed in the event of a child protection case or emergency. This policy is effective from 28th March 2014 onwards.

Purpose Statement.

Footsteps Eco-Lodge Ltd herein referred to as “Footsteps” acknowledge their responsibility. Footsteps take action in four focus areas that consist of most importantly:

• protecting children and adolescents from sexual exploitation in tourism
• securing fair working conditions
• ensuring good water supplies and
• mitigating the consequences of climate change.

To reach its goals, Footsteps cooperates closely with its employees, customers, partners such as NGOs, locals at destinations and suppliers. Footsteps seeks to ensure that its hotel partners, excursion providers, and any other suppliers herein referred to as ‘Suppliers’ or collectively as ‘Suppliers’ take part in this action towards more sustainable tourism.

This Supplier Code of Conduct

forms an integral part of Footsteps contracts with its Suppliers:

• Compliance with Applicable Law in General: Footsteps expects its Suppliers to comply with all applicable international and national and local laws and regulations. Industry minimum standards and any other relevant statutory requirements, whichever requirements are more stringent.
• Sexual Exploitation of Children and Adolescents: The Supplier allows or tolerates no child prostitution at the Supplier’s premises and facilities.
• Any suspicious behaviour from guests, employees, the staff of the Supplier’s suppliers or any other person on the Suppliers premises or during excursions. All must be reported to the local authorities by the Supplier.
• For the purpose of this section: A “child” is defined as a person younger than 18 years of age according to the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
• This Supplier Code of Conduct includes engaging our direct and indirect suppliers. Vendors and contractors collectively, our “Suppliers”. In our pursuit of ethical business performance, environmental quality and social responsibility in our own company as well as in our value chains. We expect our suppliers and their affiliates to acknowledge and comply with this Supplier Code of Conduct.

The following document outlines the behaviours, processes and procedures that we observe.

This means for example as the minimum standards for conducting business in a safe, professional, legal, and ethical manner. And in a way that demonstrates corporate social and environmental responsibility.

Staff Policy Implementation Guide.

All staff is required to learn more about the sexual exploitation of children in travel and tourism. Related to this, all staff must acknowledge that they understand this policy.

If staff have concerns related to the sexual exploitation of children. They should report to the General Manager Dodou Touray.

If a member of staff witnesses firsthand a guest committing a child-related crime, they should report to Dodou Touray.

The Manager will make an executive decision based on the information available. For example whether to report to local authorities and/or send information to The Code.

Conservation close up: visiting The Gambia's Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Centre

Oct 15, 2019 • 7 min read

A young chimpazee calls out from the forest within River Gambia National Park © Trevorplatt / Getty Images

In the heart of The Gambia , on a bend in the country’s eponymous river, lies the River Gambia National Park. This vast area of protected forest is home to the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project , a conservation organisation – founded 40 years ago this year – which protects more than 100 chimps living wild on three islands. Follow Joseph Reaney as he visits the project and has unforgettable encounters with our species' closest relative.

Cruising the River Gambia

From chaos into calm. My journey from the capital Banjul has been long, hot and sweaty, from the cramped gelly-gelly minibuses to the overloaded donkey carts. But now, as the motorboat pushes off from the banks of the river in Kuntaur, a sense of tranquility washes over me. For the next 48 hours, I am leaving behind the hustle and bustle of the mainland and venturing into one of West Africa ’s wildest national parks.

The River Gambia National Park is a haven for wildlife, not only chimps but also hundreds of rare, beautiful bird species. As if to prove its credentials, the ornithological encounters start almost the moment I set foot in the boat, from elegant monochrome pied kingfishers to dazzling green bee-eaters, wading pink-backed pelicans to soaring long-crested eagles. With so much to distract me during the 45-minute journey, it hardly registers when a collection of wooden structures slowly emerges at the water’s edge. I’ve arrived at the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project (CRP).

I get out at the jetty of the riverside ‘water house’, the common room where guests come to dine, drink and kick back, then climb the steep forested path up to my safari tent. There are four tents altogether, each built overhanging the cliff edge. The panoramic views are extraordinary, with untouched forest on both sides and the main island – home to two of the larger chimpanzee social groups – perfectly framed in front. As I stand here, it is incredible to think that this whole project is the legacy of just one chimp: Lucy.

The origins of the project

You may not have heard of Lucy, but she was a bit of a celebrity in the 1970s. Raised as if a human child by American psychotherapists, Lucy learnt to dress herself, serve tea and use sign language. She even had a pet cat. But as she reached adulthood and grew in strength, it was no longer safe to keep her among humans, so it was decided to re-wild her in The Gambia – under the care of psychology student Janis Carter.

Forty years on, Janis remains in The Gambia. As for the habitat reserved for Lucy, well, it’s what I’m looking at now. In 1979, Janis moved onto the main island with Lucy, along with a small group of eight other chimps. But, as she recalls, the early years weren’t easy. “Once I took Lucy, I knew I wouldn’t be able to move off the island at all, as I had to be with her constantly. The first year-and-a-half was a big transition. And probably even harder for Lucy than it was for me, as at least I could comprehend what we were doing.”

Despite the difficulties, they both persevered. Janis ultimately devoted six years of her life to living on the island with Lucy and the others. But following an unexpected attack from Dash, one of the younger male chimps, she realised the power dynamics of the group had changed. It was time to leave the island for good.

Scroll forward to 2019 and the project has dramatically evolved. For one, there is no longer any physical contact between humans and chimps. “What we do now is what most conservation organisations would do to protect a wild population of chimps,” explains Janis. “We’ve got an education component, a research component and a development component, with the latter helping villagers living near to the national park. And we have an eco-tourism component, which helps us generate revenue for running the project so it is self-sustainable.”

The chimp-viewing experience

It is this eco-tourism component that allows visitors to stay in the camp and take boat trips out to view the chimps. It’s the reason I am here. So, as I step off the jetty and onto the sturdy aluminium boat, I’m excited.

We head out in the wake of the 'feeding' boat. The chimps here are provided with supplementary food because, as Janis explains, the group has reproduced over the years. “We must protect the island habitats to ensure they can support all the chimps plus other primate and mammal species,” she says. “Feeding also allows us to monitor the chimps’ physical conditions, then use this information in our project management.”

As the chimps make their way down to the water’s edge to consume the fruits and vegetables, we cruise closer to the main island, stopping around 20m from the shore so we don't disturb them. Then we sit and watch. It’s a truly magical experience. And, it occurs to me, a very rare one; how often do you get to see, from such close quarters, wild animals behaving in ways that are natural and uninhibited?

After what seems like no time at all, we sail off along the island to find another chimp group. Then another, and another. Over the course of the next two hours, as we navigate between the three islands that make up the CRP, we see dozens of chimps in various combinations. Each one is fascinating in its own way. There are the bruiser alpha males, confidently chomping on their personal stash of bananas; the fretful mothers, who clasp their young as they scoop water into their mouths; and the hyperactive adolescents, who are simply too busy swinging between the branches to think about dinner. It’s not only chimps either. We are lucky enough to see hippos on sandbanks, baboons lazing on tree branches and colourful birds flying overheard.

When we return to the camp, I also hear stories of crocodile and manatee sightings during previous boat trips. So enamoured with what I have seen – and keen to see more – I sign up to do it all again the next day.

A host of wildlife encounters

Although the chimpanzees are the undoubted stars of the River Gambia National Park, there are also plenty of other wildlife adventures to enjoy. In addition to the boat tours around the island, the CRP also offers several different excursions on the mainland, from early morning nature hikes – where you can spot warthogs, marmosets, antelopes, aardvarks and vultures – to nocturnal bush baby walks. There is also a boat trip to Sama Boi Konko, the high cliff from which it’s said the country’s last elephant fell to its death. At 53m elevation, it is the highest point in The Gambia, and offers spectacular panoramas of the three river islands.

As well as heading out to see wildlife, I soon find that wildlife comes to see me. The forested trails of the CRP’s safari camp are regularly criss-crossed by playful green monkeys and slithering puff adders. And my relaxing afternoons on the veranda are often shared with an inquisitive redshank or a scuttling monitor lizard.

Looking to the future

The future of the CRP is not certain. Tourism in The Gambia has had its ups and downs, with everything from the Ebola crisis (in nearby Guinea, Sierra Leone and Liberia) to political strife affecting visitor numbers, and this makes efforts to be self-sustainable a challenge. But right now, the biggest concern is the collapse of Thomas Cook. “A lot of tourists came into this country through them,” explains Janis. She’s already had cancellations for October and November.

Yet despite the setbacks, Janis continues to look to the future, with ambitious plans to expand the territory of the CRP. “There is a large population of red colobus monkeys in the area in which our camp exists, and this species is actually more endangered than the chimpanzee,” she reveals. “The government has been privatising a lot of forest parks, so I have been working with the wildlife department to get this forest under our control.”

As for the camp, Janis is adamant that it won’t be enlarged. “This is a very fragile ecosystem, and one of The Gambia’s last remaining untouched riverine gallery forests, so I don’t want to expand beyond four tents. We can control the impact this has on the chimps and the ecosystem. In all the years I have been here, the view from the water house veranda has not changed, and a lot of effort goes towards trying to sustain that. The continuity is remarkable. Besides, I think the smaller setup provides a far better experience for our guests.”

As I sit on the veranda of the water house, looking across the river to the lush forested island – the same view Janis first experienced four decades ago – I could not agree more.

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COVID-19 has significantly curtailed activity in The Gambia’s large tourism sector. Tourism is a crucial driver of growth, The Gambia Tourism Board stated that the industry has 42,000 people benefitting from direct employment in the tourism industry and the industry contributes to 20 percent of GDP. Travel restrictions put in place by the Gambian government in response to the COVID-19 pandemic has seen decline in tourist arrival. According to figures from the Gambian Tourism Board, the tourism industry has lost $108 million in 2020 and a further $57.9 million of tax revenue due to the closure of vital businesses and hotels.

There was a 41 percent decline in tourist arrival in 2021. The 2019 collapse of Thomas Cook, the renowned British tour operator, which used to bring 40% of tourists to Gambia, led to a considerable decline in tourist arrivals in 2019. Since the fall of 2020, Gambian authorities relaxed travel restrictions and opened borders in preparation for the tourist season.

The number of hotels has increased significantly over the past decades, and there is still considerable room for expansion. There are vast stretches of coastline available for the building of hotels and other tourism facilities in the ‘Tourism Development Area’ designated by the Gambia government. The Government is most interested in the construction of hotels in the 4- and 5- star class ranges. The River Gambia is also open for the development of cruising, sport fishing, and eco-tourism resorts.

The tourism industry primarily relies on the charter market, with most tourists on package tours. Air travel links with the rest of the world are limited but there are direct and multiple flights per week to and from Europe, as well as some flights within the West Africa sub-region. However, international flight options are growing, with Air Senegal, TAP and Turkish Airlines expanding their routes to include The Gambia in the past two years, joining Brussels Airlines and Royal Air Maroc as the major international operators in The Gambia.  With a need to develop cultural tourism and the conference market, future government policies are expected to continue to promote tourism activities and encourage greater private sector investment. Potential government initiatives to support this include the consolidation of the existing Tourism Development Area and the expansion into new sites, where land will be allocated – at no cost and with minimum bureaucracy – to investors engaged in the development of top tier hotels, high class complementary tourist and business facilities, sports and recreational facilities, eco-tourism, river cruising ventures, professional game fishing and water-sport facilities.

The tourism industry is primarily seasonal, and most tourists travel during the Northern Hemisphere winter, while also avoiding The Gambia’s rainy season from June to September.  Average hotel occupancy reaches 90 percent in the winter months, but barely reaches 25 percent during the rest of the year.  Most tourists arrive through tour operators and many stay at hotels through all-inclusive packages.   The country has two main and multiple smaller nature reserves, a small park for crocodiles, and a river island that is home to many chimpanzees, in addition to numerous craft markets. 

Eco-tourism remains a nascent subsector, although there are limited establishments springing up along the River Gambia. There are also some efforts to integrate villagers into the tourism sector by offering their home villages as activity centers for the tourists, a Ministry of Tourism and Culture initiative. 

Leading Sub-Sectors

Eco-Tourism:  This presents an underexplored, highly viable niche market. The River Gambia provides opportunities for commercial hubs along its banks and is highly navigable.  River transport and river activities present major untapped opportunities in tourism.

Birdwatching:  The Gambia is home to more than 600 bird species and is a major hub along the seasonal migratory pathway of birds along the Palearctic region.  Birdwatchers make up a significant number of visitors to The Gambia, and prospects in this sector are largely unexplored. 

•             Eco-tourism and nature activities - river sports and cruising, tour operators

•             Up-country tourism

•             Integrated resorts and family villas

•             4- and 5-star hotel development

Ministry of Tourism& Culture (gov.gm)

Gambia Tourism Board

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• 31 Reasons To Visit The Gambia

You may wish to visit certain destinations based on books you’ve read, movies you’ve watched, stories you’ve heard from your friends or other interests you may have. Some travellers know exactly where they will go next, but for some, choosing the next destination can be difficult. When you stand in front of a map, you are presented with endless exciting possibilities, and it can be hard to choose just one.

To help you ensure The Gambia is the gateway you want it to be, we’ve identified some of the reasons why you should choose The Gambia as your next travel destination. Have a look and happy travels!

The Gambia has unique qualities over many other destinations, and it is becoming one of the most popular and attractive travel destinations in the world. The smallest country in mainland Africa is offering more than you can imagine!

1. THE BEST CHOICE FOR AFRICA’S FIRSTCOMERS

According to the UN World Tourism Organization (UNWTO), Africa has been one of the fastest-growing tourism regions of the last decade! Yet, despite this rapid growth of visitors, Africa is still last on the list of popular destinations for general tourists, and it is still common to hear travellers say that they are nervous about visiting this vast and mysterious continent.

2. COMFORTABLE FLYING DISTANCE FROM EUROPE

The Gambia is located only six hours away from major European destinations and capitals in Europe, making it a popular and financially accessible place for visitors, volunteers and tourists. You can find good flights deals from many European countries all year round. Even during the time of the COVID-19 epidemic, regular flights are available. Direct flights are available from some countries, such as Germany, Belgium, Spain and the UK.

The number of travel agents offering holidays in The Gambia grows every year.

It is now easier to travel to Africa than ever before.

3. DESTINATION FOR EVERYONE

The Gambia is the kind of holiday destination, which is suitable for every type of vacation, whether it is summer vacation for the entire family, an adventurous trip for students and young people, long winter holidays for retirees, a romantic getaway for honeymooners or an educational & volunteering group experience.

It is s suitable for the holidaymaker who loves to spend the holiday in a hotel, resort or lodge using their room service, offered activities, spa & beauty services, massage and the whole range of other hotel services. There is a fantastic selection of accommodation providers in The Gambia to accommodate your style and budget. Whether you’re looking for a stylish boutique hotel, beachfront hotel, luxury hotel and lodge or family-friendly hotel, you will certainly find something to suit your taste.

For adventurous travellers who don’t just want to visit a country but want to experience it. And want to experience everything. The Gambia, people and places offer a unique way of experiencing the country, its nature, animals, villages and the daily life of local people. Spending a vacation with locals is a guarantee of an intensive experience. You will see towns and villages that no travel agency travels to, taste local food and experience local customs, you will save money, experience public transport and much more. Attending local music festivals will make your journey even more magical.

The Gambia is also an appropriate place for a family vacation and experiencing diversity together. The children will enjoy playing on the long sandy beaches, splashing around in the pool and the activities organized for them by the hotels. If you decide to spend your vacation beyond the tourist strip, you have plenty of options for socializing with the locals, making new friends, having fun and learning for the whole family ahead of you. Animals, people, music, cuisine and exploring the culture are the right guarantee for an unforgettable family trip.

You don’t want to spend a lot of money on accommodation, and you are not interested in history and museums, but when it comes to animals and nature, you are so ready for the experience!

The Gambia has fascinating flora and wildlife, vibrant ecosystems, varied landscapes and many different animal species. From savannas to mangroves, beaches to cities, and bushes to villages. There are no “Big 5″ in The Gambia, but there are over 500 bird species and many other animals to be spotted, which makes it a heavenly destination for animal lovers. Animal and birdlife are extremely diverse and exotic. The wildlife of the Gambia is dictated by several habitat zones over its total land area of about 10,000 square kilometres. Birds, monkeys, chimpanzees, baboons, crocodiles, snakes, hippos, tropical fish, antelopes, zebras, rhinos, giraffes, and many more are waiting for you in The Gambia and Senegal wildlife reserves.

You are someone who heads off on holidays to go cycling, sport fishing, hiking, meet other groups to play football, or head off with friends to play golf.

Experiencing the world beyond the borders of holiday resorts and learning about the destination through local places and residents with their stories of life will make your holidays in The Gambia unforgettable. There is no better way to feel the heartbeat of a country than through different activities organized by locals. The Gambia offers a wide range of activities: cycling trips, yoga, dance classes, diving, surfing, fishing,…

You like to travel to gain greater knowledge about culture, history, architecture and local cuisine. Your journey starts before leaving home. You read the books and websites to get background information about your journey. The cultural heritage in the Gambia is very ethnically diverse and offers many unique experiences for visitors. Among the attractions are performances and the arts – dance and music are highly developed and very important. The Gambia does not disappoint with its cuisine having diverse and exciting food. Lastly, Gambia is full of historical buildings, monuments and archaeological sites, most of which were confirmed by UNESCO. Every two years, there is a big international Roots Festival organized in The Gambia, which holds an international reunion. Most of the people attending the festival share something in common; purest love for their motherland, dearest Africa and the heritage which goes back to the days of slavery.

We want young people of the world to think differently! Travelling to Africa can be a significant step and a lifetime experience for them. It is an excellent opportunity to learn about the cultural traditions, cuisine, music, local language, animals and nature. Travelling to Africa can also encourage developing solidarity, mutual understanding and tolerance among young people. We would like to see prejudice gone and to connect people throughout the world because we feel we can overcome cultural and religious differences together.

Sometimes it’s good to go in a group! Individuals with common and divergent interests usually come together in social or thematic groups. Travelling in small groups lets you feel like you are exploring a destination independently, but at the same time, a group creates a good vibe. It is a unique way to build friendship in addition to all other experiences that move the group and each individual.

4. UNIQUE CHARM LIES IN ITS SMALLNESS

The Gambia is the smallest country on the mainland of Africa. It is located in the West African region. It borders the Atlantic Ocean in the west and Senegal from all other sides, but it still retains its own clear identity. On 11,295sq km (4,361sq miles), it has many attractions at a short distance, and therefore you can discover it all without spending a lot of time and money. This is also one of the reasons why it is becoming one of the most famous tourist destinations in the world. It does not fail to compete with others. On the contrary, it has more attractions in one place than many other African countries.

The unique charm lies in its smallness which enables visitors to get a deeper insight into the lives of people, culture, daily life, customs, wildlife and communities.

5. PEACEFUL & GREAT VALUE DESTINATION

The Gambia is a stable and peaceful country. There is no war, and most of the Gambians are friendly and hospitable people. Freedom and peace are also mentioned in their national anthem. It is very important for all the nation. In addition, the country is affordable and was also ranked as one of the best value holidays destinations in 2014 and won the 2019 tourism destination of the year award. It is definitely a destination where you get more for your travel money!

6. MANY OPTIONS TO COMBINE YOUR HOLIDAYS

As one of the smallest countries with a wide range of accommodation options, activities and projects, it is a perfect destination where you can combine adventure, relaxation and exploration. You can make your holiday in Africa unique and magical like nowhere else.

You can relax at the paradise beaches and amazing holidays resorts, self-catering apartments or lodges, whether alone, with family or on your honeymoon. If you want to experience the country beyond the tourist strip, you can visit some animal parks, nearby villages, and local schools and go for a daily river cruise to see mangroves, birds, creeks, etc. There are also many volunteering opportunities for you and your family. If you escape the Atlantic resort area, you will experience another side of the country. When travelling to explore the interior of The Gambia, you will find yourself deep in classic West African landscapes scattered with traditional villages and crisscrossed by red-earth roads, rich in eco-tourism opportunities, wilderness, wildlife and birdwatching. In addition, you will experience West African music and rural culture as there are always vibrant festivals, events full of traditional drumming, energetic dancing as well as customary wrestling matches, going on.

7. ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS

There is a fantastic selection of big and small independent hotels in The Gambia to accommodate your style and budget. Whether travelling for business or leisure, you will find the best hotel room to suit your needs. Most tourist visitors to The Gambia still have hotels pre-booked for their stay as part of a flight-plus-accommodation package. Still, it’s perfectly possible to take an ad-hoc approach to find accommodation, allowing your itinerary to be flexible.

Choosing a lodge as an accommodation type is perfect for birdwatchers, fishing enthusiasts and anyone keen to spend time in nature and with locals. The Gambia offers a wide range of lodges to visitors. Choosing a self-catering holiday cottage or vacation home is the best way to benefit from the freedom to come and go as you please, meet friendly Gambian people, and embrace the real Gambia.

For low budget travellers, backpackers or independent travellers, there are a variety of tourist guest houses available offering basic accommodation and a very local environment. There is enough choice that will fit any budget and any style.

8. RESTAURANTS & BARS

As tourism in northern Kombo has expanded in recent years, so has the choice of restaurants & bars, with a huge range of styles on offer, from modern European to Lebanese, from simple barbecues to elaborate Asian banquets.

Most tourist places have a terrace so you can dine in the sun by day or under the stars by night. Local places may just be a few wooden benches and oilcloth-topped tables.

The bar and club scene is similarly divided into two camps – tourist places and local places – although there’s often a healthy overlap of clientele between the two. Many tourists get their taste of the resort nightlife on a “Gambia by Night” tour organized by their hotel reps – a coach-driven bar crawl for a flat fee of around 25€/15£, where you are driven from bar to bar, sampling a complimentary glass of something at each, and dancing to whatever sounds they’ve slapped on to celebrate your arrival.

For live music, local radio, guides and taxi drivers can be a good source of information about forthcoming events – many of which aren’t widely advertised. If you plan a full-on night out, remember that nothing really gets going before midnight here.

The Gambia is known for the most favourable climate in West Africa. The weather is tropical with dry and rainy seasons. Coastal areas are dry from mid-October to mid-June, while the rainy season lasts from June to October. Inland, the cold period is shorter, and from May to June, the daytime temperatures are very high.

Most days are sunny, even during the rainy season. Many tour operators invite visitors only during months from November until January or February when the rains are over, humidity has dropped, the roads are passable, and the bush is still green and busy with birdlife.

We believe you can travel to West Africa any time of the year because every time of the year is something special. Temperatures in the resort areas beside the Atlantic vary little throughout the year, while humidity levels fluctuate. Rainy days are few in the rainy season. It is usually raining at night. Sometimes it can be sunny in the morning, heavily raining at noon, and again sunny in the afternoon. However, birds, flowers and fresh vegetation are all abundant at this time, mangoes are in season, the resorts are uncrowded, the sea is at its warmest, and, between the spectacular thunderstorms, the days are bright and clear. There are also some local beach festivals happening in the summertime.

10. THE BEACHES

80km of coastline, Gambia boasts magnificent golden beaches backed by swaying palms and sprinkled with scenic lagoons. However, the seas have undercurrents and high waves, so although paddling in the shallows is okay, better to keep swimming in the hotel pool. Almost all the beaches around the major hotels have lifeguards on duty during the day, and there is a flag system where the red flag means that sea conditions are not suitable for swimming.

If you like buzzing beaches, head to Senegambia, Kololi or Paradise Beach, where you can ride horses, play the drums with the locals and even get involved in boxing lessons. If you’re more into peace and seclusion, then Fajara, Brufut or Sanyang are ideal for relaxing on a sunbed while sipping a cocktail.

Most of the time, just a simple walk down the beach of the Atlantic Ocean can bring unexpected and pleasant experiences. The long, sandy beach is a place for many people who enjoy walking, jogging and exercising at the beach. As wrestling is a popular sport here, you might see a group of men training for the wrestling competition. There are also many fruit and juice sellers that offer delicious, fresh, tropical fruits juices! You should try it when visiting The Gambia.

11. WILDLIFE

A journey to Africa must include observing animal life. Although there are no “Big 5” in The Gambia, many other animals can be spotted. In addition to over 500 bird species, you can see hippos, monkeys and baboons, small antelopes, other mammals, crocodiles, snakes, dolphins and more. This makes it a heavenly destination for animal lovers as well. Animal and birdlife are extremely diverse and exotic. The wildlife of The Gambia is dictated by several habitat zones over its total land area of about 10,000 square kilometres. 

12. CHIMPANZEES & HIPPOS IN THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

In addition to all other experiences, The Gambia can give you a magnificent view of chimpanzees and giant hippos in their natural environment. Did you know that there are only a few countries in the world where you can see chimps in their natural habitat and how fantastic it is that The Gambia is one of them! There are over 120 chimpanzees on islands; two families live on Baboon Island. There is a rehabilitation project running to save these amazing creatures.

Really magical and magnificent!

13. MIGHTY RIVER GAMBIA

The River Gambia is one of Africa’s great waterways. Raising some 1,130km (702 miles) inland in what is now the Republic of Guinea, the water journeys relentlessly westwards, crossing the border into The Gambia 480km (298 miles) from its mouth.

The River Gambia has been and continues to be the main source of irrigation for communities in rural areas, allowing for enhanced food production. Typically, the river becomes inundated with seawater at certain times of the year, especially in parts of the Central and Upper River Regions. During this period, farmers use the river water by embarking on mass irrigation farming. It is also synonymous with fishing, and a good number of the population living close to the river make maximum use of it directly or indirectly.

14. HISTORICAL SPOTS

If you are interested in history, you should investigate historical spots in The Gambia. For visitors to the city of Banjul, the capital of The Gambia, the Arch 22, National Museum, King Fahad Mosque, St. Mary Cathedral, Monument to the Unknown soldier and the Banjul State House are popular sights to see. In Tanji, you will find the Tanji Village Museum; in Bakau, there is Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool and Village museum in Gunjur. An important historical attraction can also be found in Barra, the Fort Bullen. Slavery museum in Juffureh/Albreda and Kunta Kinteh island. Stone circles can be found in remarkably large numbers in Wassu. Kankurang museum, Freedom tree, Methodist Church, and Colonial cemetery can be visited in Janjanbureh. These are just a few of the most visited and known. There is much more to be explored.

15. THE TRIBES OF THE GAMBIA

Society in The Gambia is made up of several discrete ethnic groups who are found not only here but across a whole swathe of Western Africa. Many Gambians have family ties in neighbouring French-speaking Senegal, Mali and beyond.

16. ART VILLAGES AND PROJECTS

Artwork is all around you in The Gambia. Traditional Gambian society sets great store by the oral arts of singing and storytelling and pays relatively little attention to the visual arts. Following ‘tourist-friendly’ themes, you will now find art villages, galleries and different art workshops /projects in the Kombo area, in addition to all the craft markets where you will see locally produced sculptures, carvings, batiks, pottery, woven objects, etc. If you are an artist by heart, you will enjoy it!

17. MUSIC & DANCE

Music and dance colour every corner of daily life in The Gambia. Live performances, which often continue late into the night, are an unmissable introduction to Gambian social life at its most exuberant. But traditional music is far more than just entertainment; it’s the most valued and celebrated of the arts, used to spread news, tell stories, cement relationships and express religious beliefs. As such, it has a crucial role in cultural rituals. A great way to immerse yourself in The Gambia’s musical traditions and get under the skin of local culture is to sign up for a series of lessons with a professional musician or dancer. Many kora, djembé, sabar and balafon players are happy to offer interested visitors an introduction to the basics of their instrument; the musicians who play at the resort hotels can sometimes make proper introductions or offer themselves as a tutor. A lesson could be a simple jamming session on the beach or a more intense session of detailed technical instruction.

18. WRESTLING

This is the oldest sporting activity in the Senegambian region, dating from before the 13th century and probably originating in Mali. Successful wrestlers were and still are seen as extremely important and able men with great innate spiritual and physical powers. As with all Gambian ceremonial occasions, the events are colourful and noisy affairs, and music is inseparable from traditional Gambian wrestling. The basic instrument is the drum, with each ethnic group having its own traditional wrestling tunes. If you wish to watch a wrestling match, they occur in Serrekunda and a few other places throughout the country. The best way to see a match is to organize a visit through a local guide or a Gambian friend.

19. CEREMONIES

During your stay, you are very likely to hear, before you see, a Gambian ceremonial occasion taking place. Events such as weddings, naming ceremonies, initiation ceremonies and other special Muslim and Christian festivals are celebrated by lavish feasting, drumming, music and dancing. A village will also celebrate the arrival of a special guest, the event being marked by the dancing of a group of women dancers. If you are invited to a celebration, do not miss it out.

20. THE TASTE OF A VILLAGE LIFE

21. BIRDWATCHING

The Gambia provides a first-class destination for any birdwatcher. It is situated close to the northern limit of the tropical rain front, and The Gambia is right in the middle of the narrow transitional zone between semi-desert and tropical rain forest. Consequently, the country’s bird list includes species from both of these areas, with the species to be seen varying with the onset of the rainy and dry seasons. Add to the African endemic species the many European migrants that either pass through The Gambia or spend the winter there, and one can see why the bird list is so extensive. Because of the proximity of the rainforest to the south and the desert to the north, there is always the chance of spotting something unusual that has overshot on migration or a food-finding tour. Therefore, Gambia’s birdlife is astonishingly diverse, and the 560 -plus bird species have relatively few predators. Characteristics sights are pied crows, urbanite magpie-like birds that are common throughout the Sahelian region; electric blue Abyssinian rollers perching conspicuously on telephone wires and bare branches; the marvellous, lurching flight of hornbills swooping across the road in the forest areas; and unmistakable gaggles of noisy, glamorous long-tailed glossy starlings just about everywhere. The Gambia s also a regular haunt of Palearctic migrants – migratory species from Europe and Asia that overwinter in the tropics.

22. FISHING

The growing popularity of recreational fishing since the early 1990s has now made The Gambia one of the most sought-after fishing holidays destinations in the world, offering a wide variety of fish species and fishing activities in different places. Sea and river fishing is good all year round, particularly line-fishing from the beaches along Gambia’s southern seaboard. Deep-sea fishing up to 30km offshore is the best from the middle of May to October. Sportfishing is excellent during the summer from June to December but good all other months. Boat anglers who prefer to avoid rough waters, and saltwater bolongs, are perpetually tranquil and appealing. Wild waterways make an ideal habitat for a range of tropical fish and an ideal marine environment for the light tackle angler. With more than 70 different fish species in many inshore reef sandbars, rocky outcrops and deep channels, as well as the Gambia river, these features provide an ideal marine environment for creek fishing. If you are an adventurous angler, we invite you to the smiling coast of Africa, where you will get the best fishing adventure. Coming alone or with a group of anglers or your family, The Gambia offers activities that fit any travel style.

23. FESTIVALS & NIGHTLIFE

Music and dance colour every corner of daily life in The Gambia. Live performances, which often continue late into the night, are an unmissable introduction to Gambian social life at its most exuberant. But traditional music is far more than just entertainment; it’s the most valued and celebrated of the arts, used to spread news, tell stories, cement relationships and express religious beliefs. As such, it has a crucial role in cultural rituals. There has been a growing movement to revive some traditional festivals and promote cultural heritage in The Gambia. Such events are helping to attract more tourists and as well helping to present Gambian music, art and dance to the world. If you are excited to experience a festival and love different cultures, dance and music, then The Gambia is a perfect destination. Festivals are happening all year round. If you would like to attend any particular festival, then let us know, and we will send you all information.

24. ECO-TOURISM

The Gambia has fascinating flora and wildlife, vibrant ecosystems, varied landscapes and many different animal species. From savannahs to mangroves, beaches to cities, bushes to villages. Gambian nature reserves are very important for the Gambians and also for visitors. This hidden, little treasure of West Africa, The Gambia, favours eco-tourism, reconciling the environment, wildlife and local community.

25. MARKETS

The Gambia has several street markets where you can find anything from food to clothes. If you really want to experience daily life, you should visit some. It can, though, be an overwhelming experience, with locals inviting you to take a look at their products and trying to sell everything they possibly can. If the market is crowded at the moment you are there, you would need some patience to get out of there. We recommend taking a local guide along for a more effortless experience. Apart from numerous tiny markets, there is Albert market in Banjul, Serekunda market, fish market at Bakau, Bakau craft market, Senegambia craft market, Cape Point craft market, Fajara craft market, Kotu craft market, Brikama craft market, livestock market in Brikama, Tanji fish market, Barra market, Farafenni Lumo (country market).

26. RESPONSIBLE VOLUNTEERING OPPORTUNITIES

Choosing appropriate volunteer work is very important for The Gambia and its people. Many projects in The Gambia offer volunteering opportunities all year round. Volunteers should not take on jobs meant for locals. The main reason to volunteer should be a knowledge exchange, discussing long term solutions for locals and spending meaningful time in The Gambia.

27. LOCAL TRANSPORT

Getting around The Gambia is quite a challenge and lets you experience the daily life of the locals. Local transport is something you should try when in the Gambia. There are no railway lines in The Gambia. The country has one international airport, Banjul Airport. The most common way to get around is by road or river. There are some options to choose from, but it all depends on what you are interested to see or which side of a country you want to go to. The main roads are generally well maintained with streetlights. You can choose between local taxis, tourist taxis, bush taxis, ferries, local boats, and cycling (cycling in The Gambia can be a bit challenging, with narrow, often pockmarked roads and drivers who pass dangerously close as they sputter past), buses and rent-a-car.

28. COOKING WITH LOCALS, YOGA, DRUMMING OR DANCE CLASSES

And more! You can choose among numerous activities in The Gambia. Many owners of smaller hotels, lodges or guesthouses are deeply involved in communities; therefore, they offer plenty of things to do and experience. Cooking experience, yoga sessions, drumming or dancing classes, batik workshops, sand painting, wood crafting, soap making, etc. If you think there is not much to do, we can assure you that you can have a very busy schedule!

29. RIVER CRUISES OR KAYAKING EXPEDITIONS

For the adventure traveller, there are a few options to choose from. River cruises are one of the most fascinating activities in The Gambia. You will feel like you are part of a documentary film that you have watched recently on a TV Channel. See life unfurl along its banks by hopping on board a traditional-style river pirogue, motoring past oyster creeks and through mangroves. Watch the local fisherman or the oyster ladies in their dugout canoes while pelicans and ospreys fly overhead. Kayaking trips also offer you a truly unique way to see the River Gambia.

30. NATIONAL PARKS & RESERVES IN THE GAMBIA

The Gambia is not a safari destination in the same league as East or southern African countries. It does, however, have large stretches of unspoiled wilderness and several national parks that are worth taking in if you are interested in seeing West African fauna. Abuko Nature Reserve is the first protected area in The Gambia. Bao Bolon Wetland Reserve is The Gambia’s largest protected area and the less-visited. Bijilo Forest Park is a small area where it is easy to spot monkeys. Kiang West National park, woodland habitat commonly explored by vehicle from Tendaba, is home to baboons, bush pigs, various antelope and many bird species.

From all the above mentioned, we believe that kind and friendly PEOPLE of The Gambia will be the most important reason to enjoy your holidays and to return back to The Smiling Coast of Africa.

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World Bank Approves $68 Million to Support Diversification of Tourism in The Gambia

WASHINGTON, June 13 , 2022 –  The World Bank’s Board of Executive Directors approved on June 9, a $68 million grant from the International Development Association (IDA)* to support the diversification and climate resilience of the tourism sector in The Gambia.

The Tourism Diversification and Resilience in The Gambia project aims to assist the country by strengthening the institutional and policy framework, improve capabilities and access to funds for tourism related Micro Small Medium Enterprises (MSME) suppliers, and enhance the attractiveness of selected existing but underdeveloped destinations. The project will also strengthen the sustainability of the coastal areas.

“The Gambia’s tourism sector is a key contributor to GDP and employment generation, but it is prone to both, endogenous and exogenous risks that limit the sector’s potential for inclusive and resilient growth ,” said Feyi Boroffice, World Bank Resident Representative for The Gambia.

The five-year project will take a targeted approach to integrate gender and climate actions across components and leverage significant global knowledge and experience in tourism recovery, particularly related to building back better in post COVID-19 situations.

The project goal would be achieved through the following main interventions:

1.     Policy framework and MSME participation which aims to address selected/identified key bottlenecks in the tourism ecosystem in The Gambia, to ensure the sector realizes its potential as a source of sustainable and inclusive growth. The activities under this will focus on: (a) strengthening capacity for collecting relevant tourism data to inform policy decision-making; (b) enhancing marketing to promote recovery and diversification beyond traditional source markets and segments; and (c) promoting the diversification of the destination and products beyond ‘sun and sea’. (d) promoting tourism MSMEs’ sustainable integration into value chains with established end markets

2.     Infrastructure support for the diversification and resilience of the tourism sector.  This component will focus on strengthening and upgrading infrastructure to better preserve existing assets by being more resilient to the impacts of hazards and climate change as well as enhance the attractiveness of tourism sites and promote economic development.

“ The project takes a holistic approach to tourism development by focusing on tourism infrastructure, enablers, attractors and promoters to support the tourism ecosystem, provide opportunities for women and build climate resilience,” said Rafael Pardo, Financial Sector Specialist and Project Task Team Leader

* The World Bank’s International Development Association (IDA), established in 1960, helps the world’s poorest countries by providing grants and low to zero-interest loans for projects and programs that boost economic growth, reduce poverty, and improve poor people’s lives. IDA is one of the largest sources of assistance for the world’s 74 poorest countries, 39 of which are in Africa. Resources from IDA bring positive change to the 1.3 billion people who live in IDA countries. Since 1960, IDA has provided $458 billion to 114 countries. Annual commitments have averaged about $29 billion over the last three years (FY19-FY21), with about 70 percent going to Africa.

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