The Gambia

The Gambia may be mainland Africa’s smallest country, but its wildlife diversity is remarkably rich. Stretching along the Gambia River from the Atlantic coast deep into the West African savanna, the country combines mangroves, wetlands, gallery forests, open woodland and floodplains within a very compact area. The river is the ecological backbone of the country, supporting hippos, West African manatees, crocodiles and an exceptional concentration of waterbirds, while forests such as Abuko and Bijilo shelter several primates, including Temminck’s red colobus and green monkeys.

The Gambia is especially renowned as a birdwatching destination, with around 580 bird species recorded despite its tiny size. Colourful rollers, kingfishers, bee-eaters and hornbills are widespread, while wetlands and the upper Gambia River provide opportunities for sought-after species such as Egyptian Plover, African Finfoot and Pel’s Fishing Owl. Its combination of high diversity, relatively easy wildlife viewing and short travelling distances makes The Gambia one of the most accessible wildlife destinations in West Africa.