A beautiful little country with a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife is a perfect winter escape for British travellers.

The Gambia, often referred to as “The Smiling Coast of Africa,” is a small West African country bordered by Senegal on three sides and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. 

It is the smallest country on mainland Africa, with a narrow, elongated shape that follows the Gambia River, which flows through the center of the country into the Atlantic.

Despite its small size, The Gambia has a rich history, vibrant culture, and diverse wildlife, but what appeals to the tourists is its moderate weather.

The country experiences around 32C in November, making it a perfect destination for tourists who want to escape the cold weather conditions. 

It has become a popular tourist destination, particularly for European travellers over the years. Its coastline along the Atlantic Ocean offers pristine beaches, resorts, and opportunities for activities such as fishing, birdwatching and river cruises.

In addition to natural attractions, historical sites such as Kunta Kinteh Island and Albreda Village offer insight into the country’s colonial and slave trade history. 

The cultural richness, welcoming people, and affordability make The Gambia an appealing destination for those looking to experience West African culture

However, the country has an interesting history too. It has a long history influenced by various empires, trade, and colonisation. It was part of the ancient Mali Empire and later became an important region for trans-Saharan trade. In the 15th century, Portuguese explorers arrived, followed by the British, who established The Gambia as a British colony in the 18th century. The Gambia gained independence from Britain in 1965 and became a republic in 1970.

One of the darker chapters in its history is its role in the transatlantic slave trade. The Gambia River was used as a major route for transporting enslaved Africans to the Americas. 

Many sites related to this history, such as James Island (now Kunta Kinteh Island), are now UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Gambian food is flavorful and influenced by West African cuisine. Some local dishes to try include Domoda which is a rich peanut stew, often served with meat or fish. One can also try Benachin, a one-pot dish similar to Jollof rice, made with tomatoes, vegetables, and fish or meat.

Tourists can also visit Serekunda Market which is a vibrant, bustling market that offers a look into local life with colourful stalls selling everything from textiles and food to handcrafted goods.

Travelling to this pristine country from the UK is not difficult. The average flight time between the UK and Banjul (Gambia’s capital), is 6 hours and 20 minutes.

The best time to visit The Gambia is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this period, the weather is warm and sunny, ideal for beach holidays and outdoor activities.

The rainy season, from June to October, sees higher humidity and occasional downpours, but the landscape becomes lush and green.

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter The Gambia. Many tourists can get a visa on arrival, but it’s best to check specific requirements before traveling.