The River Gambia was known to the Carthaginians in the fifth century BC, and subsequently the area became part of several successive African empires. During the colonial period, several European powers contested for ownership of the river and the rich trade which it carried. Britain eventually gained control of the mouth and lower reaches of the river, thereby establishing an enclave in the surrounding French territories of Senegal and a useful base from which to launch attacks on French trading settlements. The Gambia was Britain’s first and last colony, being officially colonised in 1765 (although until 1843 it was united with Sierra Leone) and gaining independence 200 years later in February 1965.

Since it became independent, the country has enjoyed long spells of stability, which unfortunately has not translated into prosperity for its inhabitants. Tourism is an important source of foreign exchange and is considered as a priority sector for investment.

Although The Gambia is Africa’s smallest nation, it offers landscapes and attractions of great diversity, ranging from broad, sandy beaches on the Atlantic to lush tropical forests, swamps, marshes and large areas of wooded savannah. The River Gambia is one of Africa's great waterways and dominates the country. It provides opportunities for fishing, boating and sailing and there are many camps and lodges along its banks.

The Gambia is a thin strip of land of mainly low-lying plateaus that runs inland and is packed with exotic sights and sounds for the visitor. Particularly well worth visiting is the Abuko Nature Reserve, which has crocodiles, monkeys, birds and antelopes, and Makasutu for its incredible wildlife. The Gambia is a birdwatcher's paradise, with over 540 different species of bird. In fact, the country has one of the largest concentrations of bird species per square mile in the world.