Do you have Questions?
I WANT TO GO BIRDWATCHING AND WILL LIKE TO KNOW HOW I CAN ARRANGE IT SO THAT I WILL MAKE THE MOST OF MY VALUABLE TIME.
The best way to go birdwatching is to hire, an experienced bird guide who knows the best locations for you to see the species you like to see, who speaks excellent English, is honest, friendly, well organized, punctual, and has a good sense of humor. Bakary Bojang A.K.A Charlie is just such a person. If you know where you would like to go and what you wish to see, contact Bakary well in advance of your arrival. By contacting Bakary, you will know how much money you will need for your trips together, with anything else you may need during your stay.
Bakary will be glad to meet you at your hotel if you prefer.
The Gambia is in Sub-Saharan Africa and has a tropical moisture-type climate. Our rainy season starts in June or July and it ends in October to November. You will have increased humidity to take into account which can be very draining. During the rainy season, you may find that your accommodations work out cheaper and you may encounter more mosquitoes.
Yes, if you travel regularly to exotic far away destinations, it is really important to check with your GP at least 4-6 weeks before your intended date of travel to see what is currently recommended as requirements may change, you will need a Yellow Fever Vaccination for which you will receive a certificate. Other vaccinations that you may probably need include; Polio, Tetanus and sometimes cholera vaccination may be recommended.
NOTE that you may refuse admission to the Gambia if you cannot produce these when asked.
Malaria is widely spread throughout the Sub-Saharan Africa. Speak to your GP or Practice Nurse about what they recommended. Malarone tables are very expensive but effective and very well tolerated.
English is the Official Language and all children are taught in English at school. we have different tribal languages among which Mandinka and Wollof are most widely spoken.
The local currency is Dalasi. You cannot get Dalasis in your country make sure you have enough money, Sterling, US Dollars, or Euros to cover your requirements. Currency Exchange rate, check with your high street Bank or go onto the internet to find out what it is at the time you are planning to travel. Credit Cards are accepted in some restaurants. There are ATMs in some of the larger towns but they don’t always work. You can Exchange either currency or traveler’s check which are found in the larger towns like Serre Kunda, Banjul, Bakau, Brikama, and around the Hotel areas. However, all the major hotels change money.
Tourist attacks are very rare. Please remember that The Gambia is among the poorest country in West Africa. Please be sensible with your belongings and don’t leave Cameras, Binoculars, or other valuables, especially if you go to the public areas. Most of the hotels have safety deposit boxes, which you may have for small charges for the duration of your holiday. Keep your passport, traveller’s cheques, and currencies secure. There are no terrorist activities in the Gambia.
The Gambia is called the Smiling Coast of West Africa.