We at The Gambia Experience have always had a strong commitment to responsible tourism and supported local communities for many years now.
We decided to set up our own carbon offset scheme - Opt In and Offset. Not only does this reduce carbon emissions but also benefits the local communities.
More information about our Carbon Offset Program »
We mustn't forget that tourism has bought a wealth of benefits to The Gambia and strive to work positively towards protecting the natural beauty, wildlife and culture of The Gambia so that future generations can continue residing in and visiting the country.
We have been awarded 3 star Responsible Tourism status, the highest level possible, by the Association of Independent Tour Operators (AITO).
What You Can Do
- Take the time to read our information on The Gambia prior to your departure.
- Consider following our guidelines whilst you are there.
- Refer to the information in our brochure and our pre-departure information containing comprehensive information on The Gambia.
- If you have any ideas or hear of any other initiatives, please let us know.
Help the Schools
Primary school education is often free but parent have to provide pens, paper, books and even desks and chairs. If you would like to help the following things are always welcome:
- Pens, pencils, chalk.
- Unwanted children's clothes & shoes.
- Children's toys.
- Please remember these items need to fit in your suitcase and be within your luggage allowance.
Our resort staff will advise you on distribution.
Please do not hand out sweets, pens etc to local children as it encourages begging and non-attendance at school and is strongly disapproved of by the children's parents.
Book Bed & Breakfast
The Gambia has an excellent selection of good quality restaurants. By booking your holiday on a bed & breakfast basis and eating in local restaurants you are ensuring your visit to The Gambia benefits the wider community.
Spend Your Money Wisely
Make sure your money benefits the Gambian people by buying local products and services.
Preserve Energy
Save energy and the environment so please turn off lights, air-conditioning and electrical items when not needed.
Preserve Water
Water is extremely precious in developing countries so please help preserve supplies by:
- Only leaving dirty towels and laundry on the floor for washing.
- Turn off dripping taps.
- Using a basin of water with a plug rather than a running tap.
- Having a shower instead of bathing in a full tub.
- Reporting any leaks immediately.
- Dispose of litter carefully.
- Discard of rubbish as wrappers, bottles and plastic bags in the bins provided. Litter not only looks unpleasant but attracts vermin and can potentially be very dangerous to wildlife and people.
Respect Other People
The Gambia is a Muslim country, therefore we ask you to dress modestly when you are away from the resort areas. Please always ask permission when taking photographs. Respect other guests and locals by keeping noise levels to a minimum at night.
Do Not Support Illegal Trading
Shopping in The Gambia is a great experience, however to ensure animals and plants are able to thrive in their natural environment please refrain from buying items made from ivory, reptile skin, fur or tortoise/turtle shell.
We at The Gambia Experience Commit To:
- Employ local staff wherever possible, provide training and give fair terms of employment to ensure their long-term security.
- Encourage clients to spend their money wisely by buying local products and services.
- Provide clients excellent background information on all aspects of The Gambia and for responsible tourism to continue to be a serious consideration in our pre-departure advice.
- Consider responsible tourism in managerial decisions and throughout the business.
- For all staff to be committed to the development of long-term responsible tourism and to be regularly informed on our progress.
- Contribute to the long-term stable development of The Gambia and its economy.
- Work with the Gambian Tourist Authority and UK government and non government organisations to progress responsible tourism initiatives in The Gambia.
- Contribute towards improvements in the Gambian tourist infrastructure.
- Work with local businesses to ensure local communities receive a fair share of the benefits of tourism.
- Work positively towards protecting the natural beauty, wildlife and culture of The Gambia so that future generations can continue to enjoy residing in and visiting the country.
- Contribute financially to charity projects which will have an impact upon The Gambia's long-term development.
- Keep our clients well informed of our commitment to responsible tourism.
- Provide our clients with excellent background information on all aspects of The Gambia and for responsible tourism to continue to be a serious consideration in our pre-departure advice.
- Promote respect and understanding for The Gambia and the Gambian people.
- Encourage our clients to contribute to our charity programme and carbon offset scheme.
- Run our UK and resort offices in the most energy efficient manner as possible.
- Use Fair Trade and environmentally friendly products in our UK and resort offices, wherever possible.
Our office Responsible Tourism Guide is circulated to our staff - Read our guide »