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The Gambia, officially the Republic of The Gambia, is the smallest country on mainland Africa. It's an agriculturally rich land, with farming, fishing, and tourism the major industries.
The Gambia's history is marked by European cultural diversity. In the 1500's Portuguese traders arrived. They established regional trade but would later sell their rights to the British.
Fort James, established by the British, soon had a rival fort at Albreda, built by the French. During the 17th and 18th centuries, these forts were the scenes of periodic battles between the countries striving for control of regional trade.
Britain gained all rights to trade in 1783, and administered the territory from Sierra Leone until 1888, when The Gambia became a crown colony.
Gambia gained its independence from the UK in 1965. Geographically surrounded by Senegal, it formed the short-lived federation of Senegambia between 1982 and 1989. In 1991, the two nations signed a friendship and cooperation treaty, but tensions have flared up intermittently since then.
Yahya A. J. J. JAMMEH led a military coup in 1994 that overthrew the president and banned political activity. The establishment of a new constitution and the presidential elections in 1996, followed by parliamentary balloting in 1997, completed a nominal return to civilian rule. |
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- Official Name Republic of The Gambia
- Population 1,660,200
- Capital City Banjul
- Currency Dalasi
- Currency Converter
- Languages English (official), and others
- National Day 1 November; Revolution Day
- Religions Muslim, Christian, others
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- Land Area 10,000 sq km (3,861 sq miles)
- Highest Point Unnamed hill, 53 m (174 ft)
- Lowest Point Atlantic Ocean, 0 m (0 ft)
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The Gambia is a very small and narrow country whose borders seem to follow the path of the meandering Gambia River. Less than 30 miles wide at its widest point, nearly 10% of the country'a land area is covered by water.
The Gambia River itself is one of Africa's major rivers. It stretches 1,130 km (700 miles) from northwestern Guinea all the way to the Atlantic Ocean at the city of Banjul. It is navigable for about half of that length. |
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- Latitude/Longitude 15° 28' S 28° 16' E
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Every year, thousands of international visitors travel to The Gambia, mostly because of its idyllic beaches along the Atlantic Ocean, consistent sunshine and wildlfe.
And speaking of wildlife, the Gambia has six national parks and reserves, covering nearly 4% of the national land area, plus several forest parks.
The island city, and capital city of Banjul is a must stop. Albert Market in the city center is a major draw, as there one can purchase local crafts and fabrics, plus enjoy the local food and music.
Travel Recommendations Before finalizing and/or making your travel plans to any worldwide destination, we strongly recommend you authenticate and research all of the important details regarding applicable health, passport and visa requirements.
If you require additional assistance, the experienced professionals at Travel Visa Pro can answer all of your questions!
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The Gambia is generally recognized as having perhaps the most agreeable climate
in West Africa. There is a sub-tropical climate with distinct dry and rainy
seasons. The dry season is from November to May with the Harmattan wind keeping
the humidity low.
The rainy season is from June to October with high humidity
and average temperatures around 26-32 C, 78-80 F. Temperatures are mildest
along the coastline, and the amount and duration of rainfall lessens inland.
Rainfall in most parts of the country does not exceed 40 inches and sunny periods
occur on most days even in the rainy season.
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A fierce river crocodile on the Gambia river...
A Gambian woman posing for a picture...
Kotu beach along the Atlantic Ocean, Gambia...
Gambian children leaving school... |
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