The Gambia Holiday

Winding its way in from the Atlantic like a shining finger, tickling the African west coast, The Gambia is one of the most exciting new holiday destinations for British travellers.

After gaining its independence from the UK in 1965, Gambia briefly formed the federation of Senegambia with Senegal, but split in 1991 after signing a friendship treaty.

Although a tiny country compared to the vastness of Africa, Gambia packs a great deal of delights into its stretched-out land.

The country follows the line of the majestic River Gambia from which the republic takes its name, with the capital city of Banjul situated on the mouth of the estuary's southern side.

Although Banjul itself is of little interest to most tourists, being mostly the commercial and economic base for the country, tourist hotels have begun to spring up around the city and along the untouched golden beaches of the Gambian west coast, which run for 25 miles of sun-drenched bliss.

Inland, and the broad 300-mile long Gambia River dominates the countryside, home not only to Gambians but to a huge range of wildlife.

Birdwatching is a major attraction for tourists all over the world in Gambia, with over 540 species of birds active all year round, and the country hosts some of Africa's most accessible and enjoyable nature reserves.

Man-made attractions include the 1,200-year-old stone circles of Wassu, which were proclaimed a National Monument in 1995. The area contains 11 circles, each though to be a burial ground for ancient tribesmen.

Travellers staying in Gambia will find that, although not the richest nation in the world, Gambia provides one of the safest and most enjoyable environments in Africa.

Restaurants and bars in the towns and cities serve an international menu as well as Gambian food – which include the fabulous local fruit juices such as sorrel juice (known locally as Wonjo) and Julbrew, the local beer.

Shopping in the Gambian markets and villages is an exceptional experience, with everything from music to carvings, colourful African clothing and silver bangles on sale.

At only six hours' flight from the UK and the same time zone (so no jet lag), Gambia is within easy reach of most travellers from Europe.

With its glorious tropical climate and superb beaches, this sliver of a country is catching the eye of many holiday companies, although only a handful currently run trips from the UK.

Although quite a great deal safer than some of its African cousins, independent travellers are still warned to keep an eye on the advice given by the Foreign and Commonwealth Office before travelling to Gambia.