The Gambia may be a relatively short hop from Europe, making it one of Africa's premier tourist destinations, but it is still a long way from being an easy holiday for disabled travellers. There are no specialised operators and, as far as I am aware, no hotels providing ideal facilities for all levels of disability. Having said that, wheelchair users who are prepared to 'rough it' slightly and people who are at least partially ambulant will find this sliver of west Africa to be perfectly feasible.

Flights
At Banjul airport, do not expect a fast and efficient service if you need help to exit the aircraft. An aisle chair is also not guaranteed, which means that if you cannot walk, then you may have to be manually carried off. Once inside, the Premium Class Lounge is up a flight of stairs with no lift, otherwise the whole building is on the ground floor. When you leave the airport there is a flat pathway leading to coaches and taxis.

Accommodation
On the coast, there are several establishments where reception and restaurants are on the same level, or at least with ramped access. Even when there are no lifts, it is possible to find ground floor rooms with basic conveniences such as bedside telephones. Porters are usually available to help carry luggage and will also happily push wheelchairs, sometimes with too much enthusiasm! Occasionally, showers and toilets are described as 'accessible'. The Sunbeach Hotel* at Cape Point has four 'disabled' rooms, each with grab handles and waterproof seats in the showers, and raised sinks in the bathrooms.
If you want to venture inland, accessible accommodation becomes more difficult to find. You will need to be prepared to be helped in and out of standard bathrooms, or do your ablutions in the bedroom.

Getting around
Unless you use local taxis, vehicles will be higher than normal cars, making transfers more difficult. Most tour companies use 4x4s, minibuses or overland trucks to go on excursions, and although drivers and guides are normally happy to help, they are not trained in this skill. You must thoroughly explain your needs and stay in control of the situation during any transfers.
No tourist highlights can be deemed easy, but none are impossible. You may need to be helped, lifted and carried over obstacle and steps, but there will always be plenty willing hands to do this. The most difficult aspect of these situations is being the centre of attention, and remaining in control of how you are assisted is again important. I always choose two or three of the most able-looking people who offer help, make it clear that I need no assistance or advice from anyone else, then explain to these helpers what has to be done. Always offer a tip, although sometimes this is not accepted.

Seating
Roads are often rough and vehicles can be old, with worn upholstery. Therefore, if you are prone to skin damage, it is wise to place your own pressure-relieving wheelchair cushion on top of (or instead of) the original cushion, and possibly pad around your knees and elbows.

Health
Doctors will know about 'everyday' illnesses, but you must understand and be able to explain your own medical requirements. African hospitals are often basic, so, if possible, take all necessary medication and equipment with you. It is advisable to pack this in your hand luggage during the flight in case your main luggage becomes lost.
The Gambia has a tropical climate. I always use a plant-spray bottle with water to stay cool.

Security
It is worthwhile remembering that as a disabled person, you are more vulnerable. Stay aware of who is around you and where your bags are, especially during car transfers and similar. These activities often draw a crowd, and the confusion creates easy pickings for an opportunist thief.

Further information
The most accurate and up- to-date information is available from tour operators. I found The Gambia Experience (email: holidays(at)gambia.co.uk; www.gambia.co.uk) to be most helpful.

*Sun Beach Hotel, PO Box 2638, Bakau/Cape Point, The Gambia
Tel: 00220 4497190
Fax: 00220 4497193
Email: sunbeach(at)qanet.gm