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What to do in Gambia

Wildlife

With over 550 species of birds, The Gambia has become a haven for twitchers and holiday birdwatching – everything from exotic and coastal birds to raptors dominate the skies. Although there is no big game, wildlife in The Gambia is still diverse and thrives in such places as the Abuko Nature Reserve, Bijilo National Park, Kachikally Crocodile Pond, and the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project. Visiting any one of these places will give you an excellent opportunity to spot some quite exotic wildlife.

Beaches

The beach resorts in The Gambia are incredibly laid-back, providing the perfect place for a cheap all-inclusive relaxing holiday where you can laze around in the sun with a good book and drink delicious cocktails from dawn to dusk.

Kotu plays host to small, relatively new and well equipped holiday resorts which offer all the necessary amenities. Wherever you stay in Kotu, the beach is never far away, so you can enjoy the golden sands and sparkling waters without the crowds. Nearby, at the Fajara Golf Club, you can hire clubs and enjoy a round with some friendly competition.

Kololi is a more established resort area in The Gambia with a tourist strip (Senegambia) lined with cheap restaurants, nightclubs, and shops. Kololi is next to the fauna-rich Bijilo National Park where a 4.5km (3 miles) nature trail is well trodden by bird watchers. Beware though, you’re advised not to feed the mischievous monkeys in the park.

The Gambia River

Taking a boat tour along the Gambia River is a very rewarding experience. Near the mouth of the river is the UNESCO Heritage Site Kunta Kinteh Island (formerly James Island) where the ruins of several British administrative buildings still remain. Travelling up-river, you’ll also pass by the Baboon Islands where chimpanzees, Green Vervet monkeys, western baboons, hippopotamus, and even crocodiles thrive. If your all-inclusive holiday package doesn’t include a boat tour, ask your hotel for a recommendation.