Country profile of
 The Gambia
Welcome to the smiling coast!
If you are searching for a holiday destination that offers you value for money, you have come to the right site. If you have already decided to come to The Gambia, Welcome to 'The Smiling Coast' - perhaps the most peaceful and hospitable nation on earth.

The Gambia, West Africa

About the Gambia

As you perhaps know, The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa but it has a rich and diverse culture. The population of over a million come from different ethnic groups who live harmoniously. The country is predominantly Muslim but there is religious tolerance and no fanaticism of any kind.

Situated in the tropics, The Gambia has abundant sunshine and it is only six hours flying time from most European capitals. The country has a stable democratic system of government and a thriving economy.

The Gambia has become one of the most popular holiday destinations for west and north European tourists. The country's clean sandy beaches and warm ocean waters provide an excellent refuge from the harsh European winter.

 
River and Bird life
But The Gambia is not only beaches. There is much more. The splendid River Gambia which runs along the entire length of the country offers many hours of cruising and fishing. The country's abundant bird life have earned it the name Bird-watchers' Paradise. Over 530 species of both resident and migratory birds have been spotted in this small country.

 
Gambian Cultures
The rich history and authentic African culture also provide a worthwhile experience for most tourists The genuine warmth and friendliness of the people have persuaded many tourists to return again and again. The spontaneous smile of Gambians have earned the country the name The Smiling Coast.

 
Roots Homecoming Festival
The Gambia is also 'Roots' country - the ancestral home of black American author Alex Haley who traced his origins to Juffure - a small village on the River Gambia. Every year, hundreds of African-Americans come to The Gambia on a pilgrimage called the Roots Homecoming Festival.

 
Hotels, camps and lodges
The large beach hotels along the Gambian coastline and the small riverside camps and lodges upcountry are all designed to make your holiday as comfortable as possible.

 
At a glance: 10 reasons for a Gambian holiday with Riviera Tours
  1. Peaceful and stable
  2. Close proximity to Europe
  3. Friendly hospitable people
  4. Sub-tropical climate
  5. Rich and diverse African culture
  6. Long navigable river
  7. Abundant exotic bird life
  8. Good hotel accommodation
  9. Exciting excursions
  10. Clean sandy beaches
At Riviera Tours, we have carefully blended the above features in a programme of excursions designed to make your holiday both relaxing and worthwhile.
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Website design and authoring: Luciën van Wouw. Editor: Malick Jeng
This page was last updated on 06-07-2000 at 16:12.