Check out a list of Gambian travel agencies that can provide you with professional assistance in planning your trip to this African destination. They can offer things like cheaper flights, better and safer hotels, and other important services.
The Republic of Gambia, often referred to as The Gambia, is a country in the western part of Africa. The Gambia is the smallest country on the continent and is surrounded by Senegal on virtually all sides, except for a small piece of coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. The Gambia is home to some white sand beaches. Major beach resorts include Kololi, Kotu, and Cape Point.
The country is situated along the Gambia River, which flows through the center of the country into the Atlantic Ocean. The Gambia is home to a population of approximately 1.7 million. The Gambia has some noteworthy places and monuments. Perhaps the most famous of these are the Senegambia stone circles, which serve as burial sites, joined together in large numbers and more closely resembling pillars.
Those who visit the capital of the country, the city of Banjul, will surely need to see Arch 22, Fort Bullen and the Banjul State House. This trio creates the set of the most popular monuments in the city. There are also the important historical remains of Fort James on James Island.
The Gambia is a small country, but even in terms of size, Banjul is tiny. However, it comes with certain advantages: the city is nice and clean, friendly and different from the bustling big cities. Banjul is located on the island of St Mary, on the banks of the Gambia River. It is a great place to get acquainted with the culture of the country. The center is known for many old British colonial buildings, colorful street markets and craft stalls. Boat tours to Albreda are offered to familiarize visitors with the slave trade period as one of mankind’s greatest mistakes. The most impressive building in Banjul is the State House, which is the seat of government and the office of the president of the country.
Arch 22 is considered to be the tallest structure in Gambia and dominates the streets of Banjul city. It commemorates the military revolution that brought President Yahya Jammeh to power. The arch itself is made up of three floors, with spiral staircases and elevators. Already from the second floor, you can get a great view of the entire city of Banjul. There is also a small cafe and shop here.
The Senegambia stone circles can be found on the north bank of the Gambia River. Often called the Wassu stone circles, they are considered one of the most important destinations. These are widely believed to be ancient burial sites. The stones are huge and reach almost three meters in height. Visitors can learn more about the Wassu stone circles at a visitor center.
Fort Bullen was intended to fight French slavers along the Gambia River. After being abandoned for some time, the fort was revived again during World War II, when it was used as an observatory and base for British artillery. Today, Fort Bullen is one of the best historical monuments in The Gambia.
Another historic attraction, Fort James, is in ruins. However, it still conveys the sense of the country’s history. Fort James was located where many slaves waited for the ships that would take them to America. At other times, the fort was occupied by the British, French and Dutch authorities. The Gambia is known to have 7 nature reserves and national parks, which occupy 3.6% of the country’s territory. The Abuko Nature Reserve has a wide variety of wildlife, including porcupines, monkeys, and reptiles, such as lizards, geckos, and snakes. It was created in 1968 not far from the country’s capital. Besides Abuko, The Gambia is famous for its protected forests and swamps, special reserves for birds and chimpanzees.