Holidays to Gambia

Posted on September 22, 2010 by admin

Gambia holidays

The Gambia consists of little more than a narrow strip of territory along the River Gambia, and a short stretch of Atlantic coastline which is where the main resort facilities can be found, it is no larger than Yorkshire in area. Just six hours flying time from the UK makes Gambia holidays all the more attractive to holidaymakers wishing to avoid the jetlag. With a stable and welcoming society and known as “the Smiling Coast”, it is no wonder that many people return to The Gambia for future holidays.

The official language is English due to The Gambia being a former British colony but there are also several tribal languages including Mandinka and Wolof. The pace of life in The Gambia is very relaxed, perfect for a wind-down holiday where things simply won’t move as fast you are used to.

Gambia is a peaceful holiday destination and you won’t find a wild nightlife scene here. Kololi is the liveliest holiday resort in The Gambia with some clubs and bars but many won’t open until after midnight when the locals finish work. The capital Banjul, also has some nightclubs. There are some themed African evenings, events put on for the tourists which feature tribal dancers in colourful dress, parading up and down the main streets. However, on the whole Gambia is a holiday destination where the focus is on relaxation and not partying.

The Gambia enjoys a sunny climate with almost no rainfall between November and June. Between July and October the humidity increases with short but dramatic showers, the heaviest rainfall occurring normally in August and September. For those planning to travel inland, temperatures away from the coastal breezes can reach 42ºC during the summer months. The friendly people, glorious sunshine and beautiful sandy beaches are reasons why many people continue to choose Gambia holidays.

Gambia beach holidays

Although The Gambia only has 70kms of coastline, there is plenty to suit everyone. Uncrowded palm-fringed sandy beaches are ideal for a relaxing holiday in The Gambia and Kotu particularly, is regularly recognised as one of the world’s best beaches. Keep an eye out for the flags to determine whether it is safe to swim, never swim when the red flag is flying.

You can choose from the solitude of empty beaches off the beaten track or busier waterfronts with beach bars and shops where the soft clean sands are just as appealing. If having an evening drink and a dance on the sand under the moonlight appeals, then Kololi is the place to be.

There are opportunities to watch the fishermen bringing their boats in from the sea, but if you are sunbathing and wearing swimwear be sure to find a secluded spot so as not to offend the locals. Note that nude bathing is forbidden in The Gambia.

Gambia cultural holidays

The Gambian culture is very welcoming and friendly and it is common to receive an invitation to visit a Gambian compound. If you decide to accept such an invitation then it is customary to take a small gift such as food or laundry supplies. Here you may be offered some local Gambian dishes, and you will witness the customs and traditions of the tribe and hear their native languages.

Local weddings and naming ceremonies along with religious festivals are very colourful events with much dancing and music. If you see Gambians wearing a small leather pouch around their neck, arm or wrist, then this is called gris-gris and is meant to ward off evil spirits or bring good luck. Much importance is placed on greetings in this friendly culture and The Gambians make a fuss of anyone who has learned a few of the stock greeting phrases in the local lingo.

Ensure you gain permission before taking pictures of Gambian people because sometimes it can be against their beliefs.

Activities during your Gambia holiday

In the Abuko Nature Reserve you will walk through the jungle and see hyenas, crocodiles, monkeys and more. The nature reserve is home to many different birds, there are actually 560 different species of birds living in The Gambia some of which can be found in this reserve and others across the country.

There are many different excursions to choose from while on holiday in Gambia which can involve river cruises, cooking courses, close encounters with wildlife, fishing trips or simply step back in time to encounter an intriguing historical past.

Horse-back riding, cycling, windsurfing and golf are also available in The Gambia. Bikes can be rented cheaply at most resorts and Fajara has an 18-hole golf course with cheap golf club hire.

Food & drink in the Gambia

Gambian cuisine is some of the best in West Africa and excellent value for money. There is plenty of choice, in addition to Gambian you will find Thai, Lebanese, Italian, Mexican, Indian cusines and more.

Examples of Gambian specialities include Domoda (a sauce made from groundnuts and prepared with local meat or fish with lots of vegetables), Pepeh Soup (a thick and spicy stew) and Oyster Stew (prepared with oysters collected from the banks of the River Gambia). Local dishes are based around meat, vegetables or fish, and tend to be served with rice. Gambia’s main export is peanuts and these find their way into many of the local dishes in one form or another. Those with peanut allergies should be vigilant!

Alcohol is easily available but bear in mind much of the country is Islamic and therefore over indulgence is frowned upon.

Find Gambia Holidays

Holiday destination highlights: Year round sunshine, Beaches, Friendly, Unspoilt

Flight time from the UK to Gambia: Approx. 6 hours

Bookmark the permalink.

Comments are closed.