Gambia

After a 6 hours flight from the UK, Germany, Holland etc you enter a complete different world. Gambia does not only offer a lot of sun and beautiful beaches, but there is also a lot to discover. Get to know the locals, take a boat trip on the river or explore up country with a jeep. The nature and landscape are many times breath taking, a nice temparature and the sun is shining almost every day.

Culture & Religion

The culture is a mix of different African tribes. The most prevalant tribe is Mandinka followed by Wollof, Jola, Fulla and other ethnic groups. Each has their own traditions and language. The official language in Gambia is English. 87% of Gambians are Muslim the rest are Christian and other religions. Each tribe has their own style of drumming and dance which is very important in The Gambia and you will find it everywhere. If you are lucky you may be invited to a naming ceremony where you will see the men in their traditional costumes and the women in their colourful attire which is breath takingly beautiful. Awesome!

The Gambians love their tea – but not as we know it. The tea making ceremony of atire happens everywhere. Made on a small charcoal burner the tea is brewed and strained, with sugar added and the result is a strong sweet brew served in tiny glasses and shared by all.

Flora & Fauna
Gambia is the smallest country in Africa and it's river is very important as it devides the country from west to east. Up country , where the river is narrow, small villages can be found on the banks and the scenery is full of trees and bushes. The estatuary of the river is very wide and dominated by big mangroves with many creeks. In the west the shore line consists mainly of beaches. The most important cities like the capital Banjul, the biggest city Serrekunda, Bakau and Brikama can be found in the southern part of the country.

Many different varieties of fruit are growing in Gambia like mango, banana, pow pow, pineapple, water melon, oranges and grapefruit. Groundnuts and cashew nuts are also grown in Gambia, although all fruits are seasonal there is always fresh fruit available. Everywhere you will find a big choice in fish and sea food as fishermen are daily active to bring in their catch.

Money
The local currency of Gambia is the Dalasi. In many places you can change your Pounds/Euro's etc into the Dalasi. This also applies to Travellercheques. The use of credit cards is very restricted (also not possible in the lodge) and a service charge is applied. Use of your debit card is not possible at all.