Travel : The Gambia - Places to visit & other details of Africa's smallest nation

 

The Gambia, often referred to as "The Smiling Coast of Africa," is the smallest country on the mainland of Africa. It is located on the western coast of the continent, surrounded by Senegal except for its western coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. The country is known for its diverse ecosystems around the central Gambia River and its vibrant culture, history, and friendly locals.

### Best Spots to Visit

1. **Banjul**: The capital city, rich in colonial history, offers landmarks like Arch 22, which provides panoramic views of the city. The National Museum and Albert Market are also must-visit spots.

   

2. **Kachikally Crocodile Pool**: Located in Bakau, this sacred site is home to hundreds of crocodiles believed to have healing powers. Visitors can interact with these reptiles under the guidance of a tour guide.

3. **Bijilo Forest Park**: This park, also known as Monkey Park, is a haven for birdwatchers and nature lovers. It's home to several species of monkeys, birds, and reptiles.

4. **Abuko Nature Reserve**: As one of the oldest and most famous nature reserves in The Gambia, Abuko is a great spot to see a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and numerous bird species.

5. **Janjanbureh (Georgetown)**: Located on an island in the Gambia River, this historic town offers a glimpse into the country's colonial past and serves as a gateway to exploring the river's rich biodiversity.

6. **Sanyang Beach**: Known for its pristine white sands and crystal-clear waters, Sanyang Beach is perfect for relaxation, water sports, and enjoying the local beach bars and restaurants.

### Best Seasons to Visit

The Gambia has a tropical climate with distinct dry and rainy seasons:

- **Dry Season (November to May)**: This is the best time to visit, as the weather is warm and dry, making it ideal for outdoor activities and wildlife viewing.

  

- **Rainy Season (June to October)**: While the landscape becomes lush and green, heavy rains can make some areas difficult to access. However, this season is great for birdwatching.

### Best Cuisines

The Gambian cuisine is a delightful blend of African, Portuguese, and French influences. Some must-try dishes include:

1. **Domoda**: A peanut butter stew usually made with meat or fish, served with rice.

   

2. **Benachin (Jollof Rice)**: A one-pot rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and various vegetables, often accompanied by meat or fish.

3. **Chicken Yassa**: Chicken marinated in lemon and onions, then grilled or fried and served with a flavorful onion sauce.

4. **Superkanja**: A nutritious stew made with okra, fish, meat, and various vegetables, often served with rice.

5. **Chura-Gerté**: A popular breakfast dish made from millet and groundnut (peanut) paste.

### Airlines Connectivity

The Gambia is well-connected to various international destinations, primarily through Banjul International Airport (BJL). Some of the major airlines operating flights to and from The Gambia include:

1. **Brussels Airlines**: Offers direct flights between Brussels and Banjul.

   

2. **Royal Air Maroc**: Connects Banjul with various destinations via Casablanca.

3. **Turkish Airlines**: Provides connections through Istanbul to various global destinations.

4. **TAP Air Portugal**: Offers flights from Lisbon to Banjul.

5. **Vueling**: Operates seasonal flights from Barcelona to Banjul.

6. **Ethiopian Airlines**: Provides connectivity via Addis Ababa.

Domestic and regional flights are available through local carriers and charter services, facilitating travel within the country and to neighboring regions.