River riding in The Gambia

The roads of The Gambia are not known for being the best in the world, so an easy, adventurous and hassle-free way of seeing the natural delights Africa's smallest country has to offer is on the Gambia River.

A variety of itineraries and chartered trips are available to the holidaymaker, picking out the highlights of The Gambia's natural features.

Launching from Bintang, around two hours from Banjul airport, a boat will take you to Tendaba Camp, and on the way it is worth keeping your eye out for osprey and bottle-nosed dolphins. Once arrived, you can relax by the pool or catch a bit of birdwatching in the surrounding rice fields.

The Gambia is renowned for its rich bird-life, with more than 540 species spread around the country.

After a night's sleep at the camp, a short journey to Kuntaur will see you board a second boat, which will carry you through the fresh waters past the Baboon Islands, Africa's oldest chimp rehab colony, before entering the lush River Gambia National Park.

The park itself is humming with wildlife, and from the comfort of your boat you can expect to see hippos, baboons, Red Colobus and Green Vervet monkeys and crocodiles.

Once you have finished in the park, the boat will take you to your final destination at the Bird Safari Camp on Macarthy Island.

A fine place to stay for a few days, the peaceful island is home to plenty of amenities as well as a thriving avian population, making it ideal for avid birdwatchers.

Among the feathered friends you will be sharing your stay with are the Hadada Ibis, Rose-Ringed Parakeet, Grey-Headed Kingfishers and the African Fish Eagle.

For more information on the above itinerary and others, visit www.hiddengambia.com

For more information on the Bird Safari Camp, visit www.bsc.gm XXX