Heading east inland from the
palm-backed coast, the Gambia
River meanders through a largely
agrarian society. Farmers grow
peanuts for both export and local
consumption, while women sheaf
fans of dried rice, singing in
unison as they work. Tourism
initiatives such as the Ninki
Nanka Trail, which takes its name
from a mythical river monster,
offer an opportunity for local
people to supplement their
income. The trail aims to engage
those living in rural areas,
especially young people, through
community-based tourism.134 nationalgeographic.co.uk/travel
THE GAMBIA