Group school trips to The Gambia

Did you know The Gambia offers some fantastic opportunities for school group travel? Let us tell you more...

An introduction to the destination

Known as the Smiling Coast, The Gambia is a small country on the West coast of Africa. A former British colony, the official language of the country is English, making communication nice and easy. The Gambia has had a turbulent history, being at the centre of the slave trade, however, today it’s a friendly, peaceful country with a strong sense of community. Being one of the poorest countries in Africa, the country has been the focus for many charity programmes and sustainable tourism projects, and trials providing some fantastic and unique opportunities for students to visit schools in The Gambia.

 

What will students get out of a trip to The Gambia?

An unforgettable life experience, where they’ll acquire first-hand knowledge of what life is like in a developing country. Students will be able to compare and contrast their life back at home with the day to day life in Gambia schools, discover West Africa’s rich and varied eco-systems and wildlife, and learn about The Gambia’s vibrant and colourful culture.

 

What makes The Gambia a great destination for a school trip?

• It's a gentle introduction to Africa
• English-speaking country
• Only a 6-hour flight and no time difference
• Safe and peaceful country
• Great value for money
• Knowledgeable in-resort team providing 24-hour support

 

Example itinerary

Here’s a non-subject specific school group trip idea to give you more information of what a school trip to The Gambia could look like…

Day 1: Flight, leisure time

Day 2: Six Tours in One - an off-the-beaten-track adventure following the coast and uncovering the Gambian way of life, including a visit to Kachikally Crocodile Pool, a walk around Serrekunda Market, enjoy a delicious lunch at Paradise Beach and a walk around Tanji Fishing Village.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool

Tanji Beach

Day 3: Makasutu Cultural Forest - visit the Makasutu Cultural Forest, situated on a meandering tributary of the River Gambia. Encompassing many different eco-systems, including mangroves, savannah and dense forest, you’ll spend the morning exploring the mangroves in dugout canoes, followed by a nature walk through the forest hoping to catch a glimpse of a few baboons, mongoose, monitor lizards and possibly even monkeys.

Makasutu Forest

Day 4: School visit – spend the day visiting a local Gambian school, meeting the students and taking part in classes.

Day 5: Leisure day

Day 6: Home cooking course - learn how to cook Gambian style, visit local markets, dress up in traditional Gambian dress and prepare a meal using fresh produce in a typical Gambian household.

Day 7: Mural painting - join the renowned Gambian artist, Njogu Touray, to paint a meaningful mural on one of the compound walls at Galloya Village, with the help of the Gambian villagers.

Day 8: At leisure until flight home

 

If you would like to know more about organising a school trip to The Gambia, or read about previous school trips for ideas, visit our Group Travel page. Alternatively, give our experts a call on 01489 866939 to discuss any ideas you have.