Out & About

THE SMILING COAST of West Africa, as it is known, doesn’t refer to the shape of Gambia or anything overtly philosophical, but simply the friendliness of its people. And this is the main take-home report of anyone to have visited the country’s shores.

Inevitably, a personable nature goes hand-in-hand with the tourism-related areas of business that are thriving in the country at the moment, but it’s when you’re exploring the wilderness on your own and simply taking in the local cultures and atmospheres that you become endeared to the nation and its inhabitants.

And what this achieves more than anything is a calming welcome to a country that would be stunning regardless of people, resorts and tour guides anyway.

Coast side, its sun and surf all the way, but further inland a plethora of natural beauties, rolling mountains, rainforests, wildlife reserves and archaic treasures are there to be found. And given the small scale of Gambia, it’s not as difficult to take in a bit of each dimension as you’d think.

Without too much international influence, the best thing about

Gambia is its indigenousness, whether that’s encouraging local delicacies, demonstrating Gambian history, or preserving native wildlife. And during your time in the country, it’s highly advised you experience all of the above.

Abuko Nature Reserve, Kachikally Crocodile Pool, Sanyang Beach and the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project are just a select few examples to sample on the nature front; the James Island ‘Roots tour’ is a poignant reflection on centuries past; and finally, you can head back to an increasing number of four and five-star hotels and resorts, chief among them being Kololi Beach Resort and Tendaba Safari Camp.