The Republic of The Gambia is the smallest of the continental African countries and is almost entirely surrounded by neighbouring Senegal. The country is located on the African west coast, however, and the Gambian tourism industry has wasted no time in developing several stunning seaside resorts along the strip that abuts the Atlantic Ocean.

Gambia: More than just a River

Although Gambia basically consists of the Gambia River Basin and the navigable areas of this great river, it is a melting pot of a myriad of African cultures that is guaranteed to fascinate every visitor. Gambia is divided into five separate areas and one city, and this single city is Banjul, the capital, home to the Gambian National Museum and the stately King Fahad Mosque.

As the river is the country's main artery, it is fitting that the country is divided into regions known as the Lower River, the Central River, the North Bank and the Upper River. The last of the five is the Western Region and this area boasts Brikama, one of the country's largest cities, and offers tourists easy access to the beautiful Makasutu Cultural Forest, famous for its eco-tourism attractions, as well as the Abuko Nature Reserve with its bushbucks and exotic chameleons.

The Lower River region lies to the south-west of the great river and is mirrored by the North Bank. Popular excursions include boat trips up and down the river as well as day trips that will take tourists into neighbouring Senegal. The Central River region is home to the enigmatic Wassu stone circles and this historic area, which also features a fascinating museum, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006. The largest village located in the Upper River region is Basse, which is best known for its market.

The Best Seaside Resorts in Gambia

Although Banjul is the Gambian capital, Serekunda is the largest city and gives tourists access to several upmarket beach resorts including Kotu. Kotu Point is Gambia's premier tourist destination and offers visitors a myriad of attractions including beautiful beaches, lazy lagoons and enchanting crafts markets. Further highlights of this extremely tourist-friendly area comprise its world class restaurants and its outdoor activities, which include bird watching and cycling.

Kololi is another of Gambia's first-rate beach resorts and it is not for nothing that this beautiful area is steadily growing in popularity. Visitors staying at the resort can access the stunning Kololi Beach area as well as the vibrant Kololi village and then return to the resort to enjoy magnificent prawn and barracuda dishes followed by fresh fruit Gambian style.

Gambian Wise Buys

Those looking to buy exotic souvenirs in Gambia should look no further than the kora, the traditional musical instrument of the Mandinka tribe, and the distinctive Gambian djembe drums. Carved wooden masks and handmade clothing are also high on the must-buy-in-Gambia list, and the official Gambian currency is the Gambian Dalasi.

Gambia may be the smallest of the African countries but it's well worth a visit.