Is Gambia beautiful? A few years ago, I read a travel report about The Gambia, “the smiling coast of Africa”, in a Belgian magazine and knew that I absolutely had to visit this place. In November 2018, the time had finally come. Together with a friend, we planned a 10-day holiday in the West African country. And decided to spend half of the trip on the coast and then a few days inland.
The first accommodation I found online was Footsteps Eco Lodge, and the description was pretty much what I had in mind. My friend and I quickly booked a roundhouse and were curious to see what would await us in The Gambia. As I work myself in the tourism industry, travel a lot and am especially involved with sustainability projects in this area, I was particularly interested in learning more about the philosophy and the actual “theory in practice” of this beautiful little eco-lodge.
Fast forward
The expectations were not only met, but they were also greatly exceeded. Their sustainability is not just a slogan, it is actually lived from A to Z. I was thrilled.
David and his team are really committed to avoiding waste. Wherever possible, using ingredients from their own garden and involving the local village community.
It speaks for these efforts that the majority of the staff members have been working here for many years.
This vibe transfers to the guests too – strangers become friends here.
From the first evening, people sit together at the same table, share thoughts and plans, tell each other about their experiences and feel like part of one big family.
Friends for life
Even today, I am still in contact with some of the staff members. I have also met other guests in different countries – just for a beer and to cherish our shared Gambian memories. In November 2018, my friend and I almost regretted spending the second half of our holiday in another part of the country. However, we quickly realised that the Footsteps team would see us again. And so it was in January 2020 and this time we spent a complete week in Gunjur. This trip will certainly not have been the last either.
So, Is Gambia beautiful?
Absolutely it is!
Returning soon!
My personal plan is definitely – if the Corona pandemic allows travelling – to return to The Gambia in general and Footsteps Eco Lodge in particular next winter! For me, this place has really become a haven where I can recharge my batteries. Whether fishing on the beach, taking a trip into the wonderful surrounding countryside or simply reading a good book in a hammock.
The Gambia undoubtedly lives up to its name as “the smiling coast of Africa“. And the Footsteps team make sure that I can’t help but smile when I think back to this paradise!
Written by Katrin Erben
I visited Footsteps with my friend, (amateur) photographer Rob, in November. We arrived around lunchtime, coming from Abca’s Creek Lodge. After a friendly welcome from the staff we were brought to the Kaira Bunga house, which is a two-minute walk from the main area with pool. The chalet was a comfortable house with two bedrooms, one of them an ensuite, and a kitchen with living room. The water didn’t “work” in the ensuite, but it was “switched on” by David immediately. That same afternoon we went out for a walk with birding guide Lamin. We walked to the coast and under way we saw various birds. The next day we left early for Kotu Creek. Coffee was ready before our departure with Lamin. During the walk and boat tour we saw many birds. On our way back we stopped for a walk to the sea and a drink at a beach bar. The diner was at the big table, together with the other guests (from UK). It was nice to discuss ours and their experiences in The Gambia. Next day Lamin took us to the coast again, now near the border with Senegal. We crossed a rice field, and again, we saw various birds, and stopped at a fishing establishment before going on a boat tour. We saw osprey a few times. After arriving at the lodge we sat in front of the chalet where a drinking place for the small birds is made. All birds are new for us 🙂 Next day my friend was not feeling well, so I walked to the sea myself and in the heat (not used to 35 degrees) had an interesting day with nice bird sightings. Late in the afternoon we walked to the hide across the street, where we saw the last series of birds. The pygmy kingfisher and paradise flycatcher were nice! We had a lovely stay, the staff were great and we learned a lot with Lamin guiding us. Thanks David and Linda and staff!