Africa's smallest country: The Gambia

Flag of The Republic of The Gambia

Background.
People of a certain age first heard of The Gambia and the Gambia River when Alex Haley's book "Roots" took the world by storm. There is, however, more to the smallest country on the African Continent than just a book published in the 1970s.

The Gambia gained independence from the UK in 1965, with its constitution being written in 1970. A military coup in 1994 banned all political activity and the constitution was suspended until fresh Presidential elections were held in 1996 and a new constitution was adopted along with parliamentary ballots in 1997.

The Gambia

This tiny (by African standards) country covers the flood plain of the navigable part of the Gambia River which is flanked by low hills. The highest point in The Gambia is just 53 metres above sea level. Apart from its 80 km coastline The Gambia is completely surrounded on  three sides by Senegal. The two countries entered into a very short lived confederation, "Senegambia" between 1982 and 1989.



Things to do and see.
Endless hot sunny days are a big factor, however, there are so many places in the world that can claim the same sort of climate, so what else attracts people to Banjul, the capital of The Gambia? Well, Banjul and the rest of the Gambia really does go to great lengths to attract and please its visitors. The country has very little else that brings any significant revenue to the country. The other revenues are agricultural, peanuts, beeswax and palm oil production being the largest sectors, but the growing tourism sector is a truly treasured source of income.

Gambia Beaches

Beach holidays are the main choice of those that visit The Gambia. The coast around Banjul is a sun worshipper's  paradise, with miles of golden sandy beaches, fringed with palm trees and the warm waters of the Atlantic to cool down in when all that sunbathing gets too much. Boat trips provide the chance to do some sea fishing or visits to the remoter parts of the coastline. Along the coast you will find luxory hotels that will cater for the visitor's every need.

There are also chances to get away from the beach areas as The Gambia does, as I've said before have more going for it than the book "Roots" and its beaches! The abundant wildlife in itself can also offer the more adventurous an alternative holiday, or just a day trip away from the beaches. The Gambia River stretches for about 500km in land, but a boat trip of just a couple of kilometres will reveal one of the world's most varied species of birdlife, the reason for this is that The Gambia's position on the migratory routes that many birds take to avoid the often harsh winters of northern Europe.

Crocodile, Gambia

Apart from the birds, there really is a true abundance of wildlife from crocodiles to antelope and several species of monkeys. You will need your binoculars and an eagle eye to spot the animals but I can assure you that they will be there, probably watching you back!

A trip up the Gambia River offers the chance to see the country "au naturel". Travellers can either visit rural villages and stay in camps or there are a number of hotels and lodges close by.

There are several areas of protected nature reserve in The Gambia, which include Abuko Nature Reserve as well as the Bijilo Forest Park, unofficially known as "Monkey Park" because of its large monkey population. This park is about 16-18 kms west of Banjul, again there are a number of hotels in the surrounding area. If you are a "birder", you'll be happy to learn that there are over 130 species  of bird to be found in the Forest Park. Abuko Forest Reserve is a little further away, about 20 minutes drive from the main hotels. This reserve has been a protected area for just over 100 years and claims to be the nearest rain forest to mainland Europe and is easily the most popular tourist attraction with about 33,000 visitors per year. Apart from the birds and colourful flora, the wildlife here includes: baboon, various exotic lizards, crocodile and lion

Banjul.

Arch 22 Banjul

The capital of The Gambia is well worth a visit, just to experience the sights, the sounds and smells of a bustling, ever busy African city. One of the best places to shop is Albert Market. The market has quite literally everything from colourful fabrics, electrical goodies, fish, meat and touristy arts and crafts.It's wise to give yourself a couple of hours to get round and see everything, and just make sure your haggling skills are honed as with many places in the world, bargaining or haggling is like a national sport.

There are several drinks stalls and chop shops in the market so the weary can take a breather and recharge.

Gambia's main health facility, The Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital, not only provides medical treatment but also conducts daily two hour tours of its late 19th century and modern buildings! Now this can show how utterly dependent The Gambia is on the tourist dollar, or just how clever the health service is to be able to maintain public services! Now, a tour of a hospital is probably not very high up on a "to do" list, but the tour is very interesting, explaining in great detail the international teaching programme as well as research into malaria and hepatitis and other things. The tour is free but donations are welcome and gratefully received.

The Ferry Terminal, Banjul.

Designed by Senegalese Architect Pierre Goudiaby, Arch 22 was built to celebrate the military coup of July 1994. It stands at 35m high and is by far the tallest building in Banjul. The balcony which is open to the public wil give you great view of the city and the coast beyond. There is a cafe, souvenir shop and small museum that covers the coup d'etat.

The Ferry Terminal for the ferry to Barra, with the continuous chatter of waiting passengers, the noise of  cargo handling and never ending motion of embarking and disembarking makes for a good experience for any one. Just be careful as this area is rife with pickpockets.

Word of warning.
As like anywhere else, there are a number of scams, designed to part visitors from their money. From hard luck stories and self declared friendship (having met you in a bar a couple of nights ago is a common one) to unwanted favours, be on your guard. so as not to be taken by these scams always be polite but firm and giving money is never really the wisest thing to do. Don't be overtly rude as this could cause you problems. It is very wise not to have anything to do with buying of drugs like marijuana, the likelihood is it is a scam, and also it is illegal.

Always ask before you take a photo of anyone. Some Gambians have certain beliefs about having their picture taken, especially by strangers.

Where to stay.
There are 40 hotels to stay in, in The Gambia, and not all in Banjul. From 1 star to the luxury 5 star hotel resorts on the Atlantic close. To find reviews, photos and the best tariffs for these hotels, and to securely book on line just click on:

www.globaltraveldeals.biz

Health requirements.
It's strongly recommended that you should have the following vaccinations before you go: Yellow Fever, Meningitis, Typhoid.

The Gambia is a Malaria area so anti-malaria tablets are an absolute must.

Visa requirements.
Citizens of various countries will require visas, while others may be given to stay for a maximum period of 3 months. To check what your visa requirements will be click on:

www.visahq.com


And search for Gambia. Your requirements will be shown.

Getting there.
Banjul has an international airport served by various national airlines including its own. For the best fares please visit:

www.globaltraveldeals.biz

The Ninki Nanka
A Ninki Nanka is a legendary creature in West African folklore. On the whole the creature is described as reptilian and dragon-like.

By all accounts the Ninki Nanka lives in the swamps of Wes Africa, it is very large and very dangerous. It's said that if children disobey their parents and visit the swamps, they will be taken by the Ninki Nanka. The legend has been handed down orally  from generation to generation. In fact the Senegalese group Toure Kunda recorded a song called Ninki Nanka in 1984.

The " J.T. Downes Memorial Gambia Expedition 2006" from the Centre for Fortean Zoology  went to The Gambia to investigate the Ninki Nanka and take eye witness accounts from those who've claimed to have seen it.

To read their blog just visit:

http://2006-gambia.blogspot.com 

And lastly.........

The Gambia is predominantly a Muslim country, so please respect local laws and customs.

Bon voyage!

A Gambia sunset.