If you’re dreaming of a sunshine escape with a twist, set your sights on Africa’s west coast.
They call The Gambia the Smiling Coast of Africa, a place of golden beaches and uninterrupted sunshine, wondrous wildlife, and the warmest of welcomes.
Though it’s continental Africa’s smallest country, The Gambia overflows with colour, culture, and landscapes that leave a lasting impression.
You can stretch out on powdery sands one day, then search for crocodiles, hippos, and chimpanzees as you explore mangrove forests along the River Gambia the next or combine both for the ultimate winter sun adventure.
Warmer than the Canaries and closer than the Caribbean, The Gambia is just a six-hour flight from the UK. With no time difference, you can step off the plane and straight into the authentic soul of Africa, jetlag-free.
Seeking a touch of luxury for your African adventure? With over 35 years of expertise, The Gambia Experience has deep firsthand experience of the country’s culture and landscape.
The experts curate intriguing itineraries and offer handpicked hotels, many of which are exclusive to them, from luxury family-friendly delights to spa properties and adult-only retreats.
Imagine staying in a unique floating lodge on the lush banks of the Gambia River, or ‘glamping’ under giant mahogany trees in a magical wildlife reserve.
With package holidays from as little as £649pp, enjoy return flights from London Gatwick, transfers, and access to English-speaking in-resort reps. Enhance your flight experience by upgrading to their Star Class service and begin your Gambian holiday in style with The Gambia Experience’s Star Class.
Star Class service elevates every stage of your journey, from swift, priority check-in and access to exclusive airport lounges to complimentary in-flight drinks and indulgent upgraded menus.
Here are just a few examples of the incredible experiences that await.
A coastal oasis
Perched above a secluded cove overlooking the azure of the Atlantic Ocean, Ngala Lodge is a chic, adults-only hotel that blends contemporary luxury with natural beauty.
A boutique spot, the main house was once a colonial mansion, and the gardens are all rolling lawns dotted with palms and perfect pools.
Choose from an array of spacious suites, some of which come with Jacuzzis and private plunge pools. Opt for the newest Femmy Suite, with a luxury private pool and expansive terrace, ideal for romantic moments.
Outstanding personalised service gives it a sense of home-from-home luxury, while its clifftop spot means you’ll enjoy dreamy Atlantic views and can even spot eagles and vultures flying overhead.
After a day relaxing by the pool or on the vast day beds on the beach deck, head to the upscale restaurant for innovative dishes and an extensive wine selection and enjoy the low-key entertainment.
A nature lodge experience
Nestled in the heart of the Makasutu Forest on a mangrove-lined tributary of the River Gambia, Mandina Lodges offers a masterful blend of comfort, serenity and nature.
Separated by a network of wooden walkways and bridges, the nine mahogany lodges offer rustic luxury living, with high-beamed ceilings, private terraces and four-poster beds.
The complex also boasts a large feature pool, sun terraces with canopy beds and al fresco dining areas.
You’ll be assigned your own personal Mandina guide, who will inspire you with their expert knowledge and accompany you as you explore the forest on foot or the mangroves by canoe, regaling you with insights about the colourful wildlife and birdlife you encounter along the way.
A beachfront haven
Set on the silken sands of the resort of Kotu, the Kombo Beach Hotel offers an enchanting stay for families and couples alike. There’s an array of contemporary rooms to choose from, including brand new swim-up rooms for the 2025/2026 season.
Kombo Beach Hotel is great if you’re looking for a more active escape, offering everything from padel games to circuit training and a wide variety of fitness classes to suit all abilities.
It’s also one of the most popular stays in The Gambia, with an all-inclusive option. Think freeform pools that lead to pale gold sands, backed by palm trees and airy rooms which open out onto sun-dappled balconies and patios.
You’ll dine in style with extensive buffets at beachfront Kadula Restaurant, enjoy à la carte dining at Barracuda, and gourmet snacks served with handcrafted cocktails at the beach bar.
A winter sun holiday to The Gambia offers a uniquely magical experience, one that blends incredible natural landscapes with a splash of luxury. There are few places on Earth quite like the ‘Smiling Coast of Africa’, and only The Gambia Experience will help you curate the perfect sun-soaked adventure.
