GAMBIA TRAVEL GUIDE
It is said that “big things come in small packages” and Gambia is a perfect example of this as a tourist destination. It is known as the “smiling coast” with miles of unspoilt palm-fringed beaches. The Gambia is a small West African country, bounded by Senegal, with a narrow Atlantic coastline. It's known for its diverse ecosystems around the central Gambia River. Abundant wildlife in its Kiang West National Park and Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve includes monkeys, leopards, hippos, hyenas and rare birds. The capital, Banjul, and nearby Serrekunda offer access to beaches. The Gambians are some of the most friendly and hospitable people on earth, welcoming visitors of diverse customs and origins.
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GAMBIA QUICK FACTS
- Capital: Banjul
- Currency: Dalasi (GMD)
- Area: 11,300km²
- Population: 2,28 million (2018)
- Language: English (official), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, other indigenous vernaculars
- Religion: Muslim 90%, Christian 9%, indigenous beliefs 1%
- Electricity: 230V/50Hz (UK plug)
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GAMBIA PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
- 18 February, Independence Day
- 1 May, May Day
- 25 May, African Liberation Day
- 22 July, Revolution Day
- 15 August, Assumption
Also, Good Friday, Easter Monday, Ashura, Maulid an-Nabi, Laylat al-Qadr, Eid al-Fitr, and Eid al-Adha.
GAMBIA WEATHER SYNOPSIS
The Gambia experiences a Sahelian climate, characterized by a long, dry season (November to May) and a short, wet season (June to October). Average temperatures in Gambia range from 18°C to 30°C during the dry season and 23°C to 33°C during the wet season. In La Niña years, temperatures tend to be cooler than average throughout the year. The long-term mean annual rainfall of 860 mm is largely determined by July, August and September rainfall, where mean monthly rainfall varies between 150 mm (in the northern extremes) and 300 mm (in the southern extremes).
HEALTH RISKS IN GAMBIA
Be aware of possible health risks in
Gambia
Yellow fever - The yellow fever virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medicine to treat or cure an infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.
Malaria - Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented.
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