The Gambia Experience Expands UK Flights with New Airline Partner, Boosting Tourism to Gunjur and The Gambia

GUNJUR, THE GAMBIA – In a significant development for the Gambian tourism industry, UK-based tour operator The Gambia Experience has announced a new partnership with Ascend Airways, aimed at increasing flights and tourism arrivals to the country from this October.

The Gambia Experience has been operating in The Gambia for 35 years

Starting from 4th October 2025, the company will operate its direct flights from London Gatwick using Ascend’s modern Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft - bringing with it a 25% boost in seat capacity over the winter season. The announcement includes the introduction of a new Saturday service, alongside more weekly flights and greater travel flexibility.

This move is expected to have positive ripple effects for local tourism hubs such as Gunjur, with increased visitor numbers supporting local businesses, employment, and investment in the community.

Adama Njie, Director of Tourism at the Gambia Tourism Board (GTB), welcomed the development, stating:

“The Gambia Experience’s plan to increase arrivals by 25% is a sign of confidence in our tourism sector. It will help raise the profile of Destination Gambia in the UK, while also creating jobs and supporting the operations of hotels, lodges, and local service providers.”

The increase in flights will coincide with the peak tourism season, providing more availability during the busy Christmas and New Year period. Flights will run on Saturdays from October to April, with additional Tuesday flights starting in November, and Friday flights from December through February.

Speaking on behalf of The Gambia Experience, Managing Director Chris Ayling said:

“This partnership allows us to grow our programme responsibly. The new aircraft is fuel-efficient, more comfortable, and perfectly suited to the route. Our goal is to offer greater flexibility and value for our customers, while maintaining strong ties with local communities in The Gambia.”

The Gunjur Project is "Located in the village of Gunjur Kajabang you will find The Gunjur Project Lodge. The size of this lodge and its family feel is what makes it so unique and stand out from the rest. The Gunjur Project is a model of responsible tourism with a focus on community development."

The partnership and increased flight availability is also good news for eco-tourism and cultural tourism destinations like Gunjur, where travellers seek authentic Gambian experiences from nature reserves and coastal lodges to community-led projects.

The Gambia Experience is known for working closely with local partners and promoting sustainable tourism. Its packages include options for nature reserves, floating lodges, and beachfront hotels that appeal to UK visitors looking for responsible and immersive travel.

Local tourism guide in Gunjur, told Gunjur Online:

“More flights mean more opportunities for Gunjur’s guesthouses, guides, and cultural centres. We look forward to welcoming more visitors who are interested in what our town has to offer beyond the beach.”

Holiday packages with The Gambia Experience start from £749 per person, including flights, hold luggage, airport transfers, and dedicated in-country support.

The Gambia Experience is part of Serenity Holidays, a UK-based, fully bonded tour operator. The company has over 35 years of experience in The Gambia and is a member of ABTA, ATOL, and AITO.