General Information on The Gambia

GENERAL INFORMATION ON THE GAMBIA

At only 6 hours flying time from the UK, and with virtually guaranteed sunshine, The Gambia is an ideal all year round holiday destination!

Geography

Situated on the West Coast of Africa at 13 28 N, 16 34 W, The Gambia is one of the smallest countries in Africa with a total land area of just 11,300 sq. km
The Gambia shares its land borders with Senegal, and together the two countries previously made up the Senegambia region
The Gambia is a predominantly flat country, reaching no more than 90m above sea level
The main geographical feature of the country is the River Gambia
The main resort areas of Cape Point, Fajara, Kotu and Kololi can be found along the coast to the north and west of Serekunda

A bit of History

Charles II of England founded the company Royal Adventurers Trading to Africa whose main objective was to purchase slaves for the West Indian and American Plantations
In 1661 the company captured and re-named James Island turning it into the first English settlement on the West African Coast
The Gambia subsequently gained its independence on 18th February 1965

The People & Language

The Gambian people are known for their friendliness and hospitality
The main tribes found in The Gambia are Mandinka, Wolof, Fula and Jola
Although each tribe has its own language, the official language of The Gambia is English