The community project phase not only enables us to assist in a project that directly benefits the host community, but also gives students the opportunity to live with and really get to know what rural Gambian life is like.

Every project is a collaboration, with decisions on which projects to tackle based on what the local community feel is a sustainable resolution to a problem they’ve highlighted.  Our projects benefit not only our host communities, but everyone that takes part. A true collaboration of cultures and global citizenship!

Our expeditions also include local interest visits, providing educational opportunities, as well as an insight into the country’s heritage, history and people.  These visits can include trips to:

• The local turtle conservation group – a chance to find out about the important work being done to conserve sea turtles
• Halahin River boat tour – a sunrise boat ride, providing the opportunity to see crocodiles slumbering in the mangrove swamps, along with sea eagles, osprey, heron and kingfishers stalking and swooping on the river’s fish
• The Reptile Sanctuary – the sanctuary cares for displaced reptiles and educates the local population on their conservation

An important part of Gambian history is the impact of the transatlantic slave trade. An interesting and educational opportunity for teams, is the option to travel up-country and visit James Island, a historically significant site in the slave trade and where it is believed the trade in The Gambia was originally managed from.  This additional, thought provoking, three day activity provides the chance to see a lot more of the country and its rich heritage.