Gambia Holidays



Gambia Holidays

Known fondly as the ‘Smiling coast of Africa’, The Gambia is home to white sandy beaches, fascinating wildlife and the friendliest of people. It may be the smallest country on the African continent but the stunning 80km stretch of coastline has so much to offer both couples and families.

Why Holiday in The Gambia

Due to its surprisingly short flight time and impeccable climate, Gambia has long been popular with British tourists looking to both relax and explore. Gambia holidays offer high temperatures and almost zero rainfall between November and June, making it an ideal destination for a winter getaway. Check out our offers and book today with Sunshine.co.uk.

As well as the sweeping beaches and luxury hotel resorts, the country offers a glorious landscape and adventure, such as boat trips on the River Gambia and overnight stays at forest ecolodges. If you wish to experience West African wildlife then visit Fathala Game Reserve, home to rhinos, giraffes, monkeys and more.

Beach Holidays in The Gambia

The hot sun and cool breeze of Gambia make the beaches perfect for those who wish to rest all day with a cocktail. For a peaceful beach day head to Bijilo, Kololi Beach is more active.

You can also get involved with water sports along the coast such as windsurfing and jet skiing. Deep sea fishing boat trips are a popular experience with tourists with the hope of catching a sailfish or barracuda and can be arranged by many hotels. The Gambia also offers an incredible opportunity to go whale or dolphin spotting.

Food and Drink

If you wish to try local cuisine, national dishes include benachin (rice cooked in tomato, fish and vegetable sauce), grilled barracuda and street food such as niebbe. A Gambian favourite, the restaurant Calypso serves delicious grilled fish, seafood snacks and an African dish of the day, plus a full English breakfast. It also boasts serene views from the upper-level deck and huts are available for a more private experience.

Gambian juices are a local speciality, why not try ataaya a strong green tea to give you a boost or bouyi a creamy drink made from the fruit of the baobab tree.

Nightlife

The Gambia is a Muslim country however alcohol is served at most restaurants and the tourist areas of the coast have a nightlife scene. Many hotels have visiting dance troupes as entertainment in the evenings.

As the sun sets, Kololi is the place to party as the ‘strip’ consists of numerous lively bars and a few nightclubs playing a mix of hip hop, African reggae, salsa and local sound Ndaga. There are a few casinos too if you’re feeling lucky.

Useful Info

Average flight time is around 6 hours to Banjul (or Yundum) International Airport.

English is spoken in The Gambia as well as local languages and dialects such as Wolof.

The currency is the Gambian Dalasi (GMD) which can vary in value significantly and is best exchanged at the airport on arrival, your hotel, bank or bureau de change.

Gambia is the same time zone as GMT/UK.

There is a risk of contracting Malaria when visiting The Gambia, speak to your GP before visiting. Anti-malarial tablets are recommended.
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