The Gambia may be the smallest country on mainland Africa, but don’t let its size fool you. This narrow strip of land hugs the Gambia River from coast to interior and packs in a surprising amount of charm, color, and culture. Think vibrant markets, mangrove-lined creeks, golden beaches, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet.

Whether you're birdwatching in a lush nature reserve, sipping green tea with locals in a dusty village, or catching the breeze off the Atlantic in a beachside hammock, The Gambia invites you to slow down and take it all in—one welcoming smile at a time.

Why Go to The Gambia?

Because it’s Africa on a smaller, more personal scale. The Gambia is often called “The Smiling Coast of Africa”—and that’s not just a slogan. People here are genuinely warm, curious, and proud to share their stories.

You’ll find a blend of West African tradition and relaxed coastal rhythm, making it ideal for travelers looking for real cultural experiences without the intensity of big, chaotic cities. English is the official language, which makes things even easier for first-time visitors to Africa.

Even the country’s name stands apart—it’s officially “The Gambia,” one of the only nations in the world to include “The” as part of its official name, distinguishing it from the Gambia River that flows through its heart.

And despite its modest size, the country offers diverse landscapes—from bustling Serekunda markets to remote riverside lodges in the inland forests. It’s also one of the best places in the world for birdwatching, with over 500 recorded species.

Must-See Attractions in The Gambia

Kunta Kinteh Island (formerly James Island)

A UNESCO World Heritage Site in the Gambia River. Learn about the transatlantic slave trade and the legacy of resistance.

Serekunda Market

The largest and most energetic market in the country. It’s colorful, noisy, and full of local fabrics, crafts, and spices.

Abuko Nature Reserve

A small but lush forest park just outside the capital. Great for spotting monkeys, crocodiles, and birds in a natural setting.

Bijilo Forest Park (Monkey Park)

Walk among green monkeys and red colobus monkeys near the beach. Peaceful trails just south of the main tourist area.

Tanji Fishing Village

Watch fishermen bring in their catch at sunset, then visit the lively smokehouses and bustling fish market. Raw and real.

River Gambia National Park

Explore deeper inland for hippo sightings, boat trips, and riverside eco-lodges surrounded by untouched nature.

Banjul City Highlights

The Gambia’s capital is small but full of character. Climb to the top of Arch 22 for sweeping views over the city and river, then explore the National Museum to learn about Gambian history, culture, and music. Don’t miss Albert Market—a real local experience packed with vibrant textiles, spices, and city buzz.

What to Eat in The Gambia

Domoda

A rich peanut stew made with beef or chicken, served over rice. Thick, tangy, and soul-warming—one of The Gambia’s national dishes.

Benachin

Sometimes called “one-pot,” it’s a spicy rice dish cooked with vegetables, tomato paste, and either fish or meat. Think Gambian jambalaya.

Yassa Chicken

Grilled chicken marinated in a zingy blend of onions, mustard, lemon, and garlic, then simmered until tender. Served with rice—it’s bold and comforting.

Pepper Soup

A fiery broth made with fish or goat meat, spiced with hot peppers, garlic, and herbs. Popular at night or during celebrations—expect heat!

Wonjo Juice

Made from dried hibiscus petals, this sweet-and-sour red drink is served chilled and often spiced with mint or ginger. Refreshing and very local.

Essential Travel Tips for The Gambia

Best Time to Visit

November to May is dry season—ideal for beach time, safaris, and birdwatching.

June to October is wet season—lush landscapes, fewer tourists, but occasional heavy rain.

 

Money & Payments

Currency: Gambian Dalasi (GMD)

Cards: Not widely accepted—cash is king.

ATMs: Available in main towns, but not always reliable.

Tipping: Common in tourist areas (around 10% or small change is fine).

 

Getting Around

Local taxis and shared minibuses (called gele-gele) are cheap but can be chaotic.

Hiring a driver for day trips is common and affordable.

Walking is safe in most areas, especially in beach towns.

 

Staying Safe

The Gambia is peaceful and traveler-friendly.

Common sense goes far: avoid walking alone at night in isolated areas, and keep valuables secure.

Respect local customs—especially around modesty and photography in villages.

 

Staying Connected in The Gambia

Wi-Fi is available in hotels and some cafés in tourist areas, but it can be slow and spotty—especially inland. Mobile networks are improving but still unreliable in remote regions.

Buying a local SIM means finding a vendor, showing ID, and manually loading data. You may also face signal drops as you travel upriver.

JetSet eSIM keeps you connected the easy way.

Activate The Gambia JetSet eSIM before your trip, and the moment you land, , and go—no paper forms, no searching for SIM stalls. Whether you're navigating to a birding lodge, sharing photos from Kunta Kinteh Island, or checking ferry schedules, you’ll have reliable data at your fingertips across major towns and river routes.

Stay online, even off the beaten track.