Open today: 9.00 am - 5.00 pm
The Gambia is mainland Africa’s smallest nation. It is almost entirely surrounded by Senegal and stretches along the length of the River Gambia. However what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in diversity.
The Gambia is mainland Africa’s smallest nation. It is almost
entirely surrounded by Senegal and stretches along the length of the River
Gambia. However what it lacks in size it more than makes up for in diversity.
It is an incredible country made up of stunning sandy
beaches, tropical forests, swamps, marshes and wooded savannah. It has a
population of over 1.5 million with the Mandinka tribe making up the majority.
For holiday makers, The Gambia is still very much a new and
intriguing destination. Its growing popularity is in part due to the best
selling book and TV series “Roots” by Alex Hayley. But of course it may also
have something to do with its incredible 25 mile (40km) sandy coastline and
stunning resorts such as Kololi and Kotu
Beach. This tropical splendour has resulted in it being dubbed the “smiling
coast” enhanced by the friendliness of the locals.
The capital is Banjul which is located
on the side of the river estuary on St Mary’s Island where the River Gambia
meets the Atlantic Ocean. Being the commercial centre of the country it is
often overlooked by tourists and seen merely as a gateway to the hotels and
coastal resorts.
The Gambia isn’t all about sun, sea and sand. It is also a
birdwatchers paradise as it is home to over 540 different species. It also has
2 incredible nature reserves – Kiang West National Park and the River Gambia
National Park.
The currency in The Gambia is the Dalasi (GMD). It is
difficult to get hold of outside of The Gambia. Any currency you take into the
country must be declared on arrival and when you leave, you can only export the
same amount that you imported.
It is advisable to carry traveller’s cheques (U$, sterling or Euro) or cash as very few places take credit cards. Money can be exchanged at banks, the airport and some hotels but commissions can be high. The best rates are given by the street money changers but make sure you know the rate before trading.Some hotels will accept MasterCard and Visa (although you may be charged). ATMs are very limited and normally only accept Visa.
Ali Baba Snack Bar
King of Shawarma Cafe
Heritage Restaurant
Al Basha Restaurant
Braustuble Restaurant
Scala Restaurant
Bakadaji Hotel and Restaurant
African Queen Restaurant
GT's Bar & Restaurant