Cheap flights to the Gambia

Gambia climate

Gambia has near-constant sunshine, thanks to its location between the tropic of cancer and the equator. It’s scorching hot in the day, until short, evening rainstorms cool down the air. The coolest temperatures are usually found along the shore, thanks to sea breezes.

Getting around Gambia

Transport is limited in this small country. There are no domestic Gambia flights or trains. For travelling inland, there are only two main roads, one on each bank of the river. Both are in poor condition, though the North bank is slightly preferable. Bush taxis, or tankatankas, are the cheapest and easiest way of getting around. They have yellow number plates and are mainly used by locals. Don’t expect “unnecessary” luxuries such as upholstery or wing mirrors, and be prepared to hold on tight.

Hiring a car is possible, but the state of the roads is so bad that many people would prefer to leave the driving to those accustomed to it. Many tourists who have hired cars report immediate punctures or other breakdowns due to bad maintenance.

What is good to know if travelling to Gambia?

• The sleepy capital city of Banjul has hardly been altered by tourists and is still a good place to see the “real” West Africa. One of its main draws is the sprawling market, the clientele predominantly locals and not tourists. Vegetables, fruit, meat and fish are all on sale here, along with clothes and household equipment.
• Kololi and Kotu are the two most popular beach resorts. Though the Gambia is not top on a beach-lover’s destination list, the beaches here have everything you could ask for: white sand, hours and hours of sunshine and a cool breeze from the Atlantic. Windsurfing and sailing are both possible.
• The resort of Bakau is on the northern point of the coast. Along with the tourist hotels and beaches, it is still an important fishing town and one of its most interesting spots is the fishing market, where the boats come in to every day.
• It may be pricey, but don’t leave the country without taking a river cruise along the River Gambia. There are a number of operators offering cruises – book before you arrive, or you can find local cruises in Georgetown. You’re guaranteed to see some fascinating wildlife, such as hippos, chimpanzees and birds, as well as the country living along the riverbanks.
• For more wildlife, visit the Abuko Nature Reserve, which is easily reached from the main beach resorts in a day trip. The reserve is home to crocodiles, monkeys and lots of lizards, as well as an animal orphanage with enclosures for hyenas, antelopes and a solitary lion. It’s nothing compared to the nature reserves of East Africa, but a half day guided walk through the forest can be a welcome break from the beaches.
• Three African tribes are predominant in the Gambia: the Wolof, the Mandinka and the Fulua. Because of their prevalence in Banjul (almost 50 per cent of the population), the culture and language of the Wolof is the most widespread.