Republic of the Gambia,West AfricaCountry, land isSenegalSurrounded, is the smallest country on the African continent. The Gambia River runs through the center of the country and flows to the Atlantic Ocean. Gambia seceded in 1965U.KIndependence. The Gambia is one of the least developed countries in the world.
learn
area
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/ea/Gambia_regions_map.png/550px-Gambia_regions_map.png)
West Gambia Also known as "The Kombos", the Atlantic coast and the estuary area of the Gambia. |
Upper Gambia The upper reaches of the Gambia River have very little pollution and are only visited by explorers. |
city
- Banjul — The capital of Gambia
- Basset Saint-Sou
- Bintang
- Brikama
- Bruft
- Gunjul
- Janjampur
- Zhufulei
- Sarakunda
- Beach base
- Yundum
Other destinations
arrival
aviation
railway
Private car
bus
Passenger ship
Travel around
Language
go sightseeing
Activity
Shopping
Overhead
diet
Nightlife
stay
Learn
Work
Safety
There are many very common scams in Gambia. If someone stops you on the street, they may tell you that they remember the hotel you stayed in and they work there. They may invite you to another hotel, but this may be a scam trying to rob you. In addition, because people are always looking for ways to support themselves, if they provide you with help or guidance, people may understand that they expect some monetary compensation.
Sadly, many Gambian troops have a bad view of the British (and sometimes white people in general), and they may be extremely racists. Especially at border crossings, when you refuse to pay, you are almost always required to pay the stamp duty on your passport and suffer more than a few insults against your country and yourself. As usual, don’t pay bribes, as this will only make the problem worse, not only for tourists, but also for locals who are already fighting rampant corruption. Never mention calling the embassy, because it will only anger them and start another series of abuse, because your embassy has no control and they hate the idea. If you have made friends with Gambians, they may help, but Gambia is regarded as one of the most authoritarian countries in Africa and they may put themselves in danger of punishment, so if you don’t get help, don’t get angry.
There are also fraudulent acts of providing tourists with marijuana or inviting them to smoke at home, and it turns out that the police are waiting for huge bribes. A simple "I'm sorry, I'm in a hurry" is enough to send them away. But don't tell them why you are so anxious, and don't say anything else afterwards, because this may lead to conversations, which may cause unnecessary attention, and may be a scam. Also remember that some homeless people are not unemployed or young people, and never indulge in hardship stories. If you feel that you want to give someone some money out of sympathy or just to get rid of them, this will definitely cause them to ask you for more money later if you meet again. Some people suggest a stern and severe response to this request, but this should be informed by your values and the relationship you have formed with the individual concerned. Remember, you may see this person again, and if you are in trouble or need information, they may be really helpful. Many people in the tourist area are just "friendly facilitators". They may wish to help each other, but it is harmless. Being too cautious may make you refuse to participate in the traditional meals of the local family, or meet in person with an artisan who makes local goods for sale.
Gambia is a great holiday destination, but always be vigilant.
When swimming, be aware that the currents in the Atlantic waters can be very strong. Be sure to pay attention to the flags on tourist beaches, and use red, yellow and green scales to indicate the degree of danger.
Beware of your political views, because such criticism against the government is considered a crime.
In the Gambia, active homosexuals may be in extreme danger and may be arrested or even killed.