Gambia

The Gambia is situated on the Atlantic on Africa's vibrant West Coast. It's a thin strip of land of mainly low-lying plateau that runs inland and is packed with exotic sights and sounds for the visitor. Mangrove swamps, park-like savannah and unspoiled beaches all feature in The Gambia’s incredible landscape. The capital city of Banjul is the largest town and offers visitors plenty of sightseeing apportunities including the area around MacCarthy Square with its colonial atmosphere and elegant 19th-century architecture. The River Gambia is one of Africa's great waterways and dominates the country. It provides opportunities for fishing, boating and sailing and there are many camps and lodges along its banks. Particularly well worth visiting is the Abuko Nature Reserve, which has crocodiles, monkeys, birds and antelopes, and Makasutu for its incredible wildlife. Recommended dishes include benachin (a mixture of spiced meat and rice with tomato puree and vegetables) and chere (steamed millet flour balls). Nightlife is usually low key but there are nightclubs in Banjul, Farjara, Bakau and Serrekunda. The Roots Homecoming Festival is a fantastic event that takes place annually in June/July. There are also organised performances of Gambian ballet, drumming and fire-eating displays. But what makes a stay in The Gambia particularly special is its warm and welcoming people.