The Gambia is host to over 100,000 visitors every year. Here are Five Reasons You Should Visit The Gambia!
Hospitality
The Smiling Coat of Africa is famous for the friendliness of the Gambian people. Although the numerous indigenous people continue to speak their local dialects, English is an official language and most Gambians are fluent, helpful, and welcoming. There are numerous resorts scattered about picturesque beaches, markets filled with local crafts and food, and wildlife tours and excursions.
Local Culture
The Gambia is home to eight indigenous cultures, all living side by while each preserving their own language and cultural traditions. The peace and stability throughout The Gambia make this sunny little country the perfect place to explore African cultures. Whether you want to peruse an art gallery featuring Gambian artists or immerse yourself in one of several venues to learn traditional dance, music, and painting, there is something for everyone. You are sure to experience a wealth of local cuisine, art, and music on any Gambian adventure!
World Heritage
An early trade route into the interior of Africa for the Trans-Atlantic Slave Trade, there several World Heritage Sites along The Gambia River which help to illustrate the story of the slave trade in Africa. There are also cultural sites such as the Wassu Stone Circles, believed to be burial mounds of kings from ancient times – complete with rumors of a curse!
Wildlife
With over 560 different bird species, The Gambia is renowned the world over as a bird watcher’s paradise, but birds are not the only wildlife in The Gambia – this tiny country is home to 194 species of wild animals! Baboons and various species of monkeys abound, bottle nose dolphins can be seen near the river entrance, while crocodile and even hippos can be found in the river. Further inland, The Gambia is home to various species of antelope as well as leopards and hyena. There are numerous tours, land-based as well as river trips, available to explore this rich array. For the especially adventurous, there is Kachikally Crocodile Pool, where the crocodiles are said to be so tame they allow tourists to touch them. Be sure to bring your camera!
Sunny Beaches
This sub-tropical paradise boasts idyllic sandy beaches along the Atlantic coast, strewn with resorts and hotels inspired by local traditions. The Gambian shore has a variety of beaches from picturesque sandy beaches to rocky cliffs or lounge about sandy shores, complete with charming bar huts as respite from the unrelenting noon sun.