Escape to Gambia this winter

Gambia is known to have some of the best weather in western Africa, and the sub-tropical climate makes it a great place to escape the British winter.

The country's dry season runs from November to May, which means holidaymakers can enjoy the cooling breeze that keeps Gambia's weather pleasantly temperate.

Running the length of the narrow country – which is only 20 miles from north to south, but 300 miles across – is the landmark Gambian river, home to hippos, monkeys, baboons and chimps.

The river and wetlands also attract a wide array of wildlife, which means many holidaymakers in Gambia are serious bird-watchers.

One of the best ways to see the wildlife is to take a river cruise, but there are also good value beach resorts that make Gambia a good place for a family holiday.

One such destination is Kotu, located by the River Gambia's estuary with the Atlantic ocean.

Kotu has a string of coastal resorts, which are typically low-rise and spread out along the length of the area's beaches.

On the beach itself, holidaymakers will find bars and cafes with evening buffets and barbecues, some of which will also have live music.

Kotu's location by the river and ocean makes it a good place to sample fresh seafood, as well as spicy Gambian specialties. But there is also Mexican, Italian and Chinese food available for the less adventurous.

Golfers itching to get a round in can head to the 18 hole Fajara Golf Course in the north of Kotu, and bird-watching enthusiasts can head east to Kotu Creek, which has many exotic birds to spot.

Holidaymakers who want to go exploring for the day can hire cycles from outside most of the resort hotels.

Gambia is around a six-hour flight from the UK, and there is no time difference.


Hidden Gambia, First Choice, Directline Holidays, and Iglu Tropical are among the tour operators with packages to Gambia.

Prices start from £405 per person for seven nights in November via the price comparison site Kelkoo XXX