A trip to the Gambia can be slightly different from what you are used to. So here are 8 tips to be well prepared!
Vaccinations Going to The Gambia? Make sure you get the right vaccinations before entering The Gambia. Your doctor will most likely know which ones you will need or can send you to a clinic that can help you. The only vaccination that is mandatory is Yellow-fever and you will need a Cholera stamp, your doctor can advise you about other optional vaccinations as well. It is possible you are insured for these vaccinations, so always check it with your insurance company. Better safe than sorry!
What to pack?
Of course summer clothing, flipflops, suncream etc. But besides that make sure you pack enough dresses or trousers that cover your knees. Most people in The Gambia are Muslim and prefer it when your shoulders and knees (and everything in between) is covered up. A good thing to keep in mind while packing and hey! It also minimizes your chance of getting an ugly sunburn!
Know their culture
In Gambia live different ethnic groups with each different customs. When traveling out of the touristic area you might want to know some of those customs. This way you can show respect for their culture, will the communication be more comfortable and your experience authentic. You could look up information on our website in advance and prepare for your journey.
Bring enough cash money Although the number of ATMs in The Gambia are increasing, it is better to have cash with you while traveling. Not everywhere in The Gambia you will find an ATM and in many places it is only possible to pay with cash.
Try local food A pizza, French fries or a large hamburger, it all sounds very good. But it is probably nothing compared to the real local Gambian cuisine! Expand your culinary experiences by trying Afra, meat that is seasoned and often used as late night snack. Or try Akara, made from black-eyed peas, grounded in flour and deep fried. Often eaten for breakfast. Do you get thirsty from all this talk about food? Don’t worry, Baobab juice is a delicious local drink full of vitamins.
Local transport
A great way to experience the local way of traveling is to use the local transport. Take a local taxi or small buses and step into the Gambian culture. For this experience it might be best to go to a less touristic area where you will also find the real life behind the smiling coast, the real culture of different ethnic groups. While booking your trip it might be handy to already look something up about the local transport options so you will be ready to hit the road!
Bird watching The Gambia is home to around 570 different bird species, are you a bird-lover? Then The Gambia is the place to be. Online there are many locally based bird watching tour guides, an excellent way to experience the excursion in a not so touristic area. It is possible to book tours online and to find more information about the different species before your trip starts.
Lower your Luxury expectations Of course there is luxury in The Gambia, especially on the smiling coast you will find the best resorts. But when you are looking for an authentic experience in the rural part of the country you might need to adjust to different standards. Although the accommodations will probably be less luxurious, the experience will be just as good and who know even better! Experience the local cuisine, join a local cooking course or let yourself be amazed by all the beauty in the fishers villages.
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