From July, 20 to September 25, 2026, we will organize the 13th consecutive Summer Camp in The Gambia. Since 2014, these summer camps have been held without interruption, bringing together volunteers, local teachers, children, and parents each year to create a warm, heartfelt, and truly unforgettable sense of community.
Who Are the Summer Camps For?
The summer camps are intended for individuals who enjoy working with children and wish to spend their summer holidays in a meaningful, active, and socially responsible way, with deep engagement in local life in The Gambia.
We especially invite:
- students and professionals in education, pedagogy, and related fields;
- professionals working in early childhood education (volunteer work may be recognised as an additional criterion for career advancement);
- individuals who wish to combine volunteer work with other fields, such as medicine, veterinary science, photography, environmental initiatives, or community development.
What to Expect at the Summer Camp?
The programme takes place at our Career and Educational Centre in Brufut Ghana Town and is designed for children aged 4 to 8.
Volunteers are involved in:
- leading sports, creative, and music workshops,
- teaching basic English, numbers, and letters,
- creating and maintaining a safe, supportive, and playful environment.
The children come from underprivileged communities, and for many of them the camp represents their only opportunity for learning, play, and personal development during the school holidays.
Why Is This Summer Camp So Important?
An essential part of the programme is the provision of a daily lunch, which for many children represents their only meal of the day.
Through the support of donations, children are able to spend their days in a safe learning environment while receiving nourishment that fuels both their learning and play.
All volunteers participating in the programme are actively encouraged to support fundraising efforts through individual or group initiatives, with the funds raised contributing to the implementation of summer activities and the further development of the centre.
Traveling to The Gambia
Look for flights arriving at Banjul International Airport (Yundum, BJL). Major airlines serving this route include Brussels Airlines, Turkish Airlines, TAP Portugal, ASKY Airlines, Vueling, Royal Air Maroc, TUI, and others—typically via Europe or West or North Africa.
Use flight comparison websites (e.g., Skyscanner, Expedia, Kiwi) to research options, but book directly with the airline whenever possible. Be sure to check baggage allowances, taxes, and fare rules. If possible, keep your itinerary within one airline or alliance to make rebooking easier in case of delays.
Upon arrival in Banjul, our team will be there to meet you.
From the moment you arrive at the airport in The Gambia, we are here to ensure that your experience is smooth and stress-free, allowing you to focus fully on your volunteer work and on discovering the beauty of the country.
What About Accommodation?
We also assist you with arranging accommodation. You can choose from several available options; however, all volunteers within the same team are required to stay at the same accommodation to ensure the smooth and effective implementation of the programme.
Accommodation costs are paid directly to the provider upon arrival in The Gambia.
Prices range from €15 to €60 per person per night. Most accommodation providers also offer meals, although you may choose to arrange your own food if preferred.
How to Apply and Additional Information
When you are ready for an unforgettable experience that can truly change your life, apply via the application form HERE .
After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation message from us with further information regarding the deposit payment, pre-departure training and preparation, additional details about fundraising, an invitation to join a WhatsApp group with fellow volunteers, and online meetings prior to travelling to The Gambia.
For any additional information or questions, please contact us at info@volunteertrails.com .
We look forward to welcoming you to The Gambia!
It starts with me. It starts with you.
