Geography

Tumani Creek, The Gambia

Photo: Courtesy of the Gambia Birding Group

The Gambia is situated in Western Africa bordering Senegal and with a North Atlantic Ocean coastline of just 80 km. The country is divided administratively into 5 Divisions: Western; North Bank; Lower River; Central River; and Upper River. It is the smallest country of mainland Africa with a population of just over 1.5 million and with an area of 11,300 km2 of which 1,300 km2 is water. The climate is tropical with a hot, rainy season from June to November and a cooler, dry season from November to May. The land formation is mostly at or just above sea level in a flood plain of the Gambia River flanked by low hills. English is a common language with Mandinka, Wolof, Fula and other indigenous languages spoken. More details can be found at CIA Factbook.

Safari Queen, The Gambia

Photo: Courtesy of Hidden Gambia

Last page update 24th January 2008