THE 5 BEST Gambia Oceanfront Hotels
Gambia Beach Resorts
Property types, distance from, traveler rating, hotel class.
- Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
- Traveler Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveler reviews.
- Distance to city center See properties located closest to the center first with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners
1. Sunbeach Hotel & Resort
2. Balafon Beach Resort
3. Coco Ocean Resort and Spa
4. Djembe Beach Resort
5. Golden Beach Hotel
Beach resorts nearby destinations.
Popular destinations for Beach Resorts
Popular Gambia Categories
Sunset Beach Hotel
LABRANDA Coral Beach Resort
Kombo Beach Resort
The Kairaba Beach Hotel
Senegambia Beach Hotel
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My guide to the best hotels and resort areas in The Gambia
by Kathryn Burrington | Africa , Gambia
I’ve been travelling regularly to The Gambia for over eighteen years. During that time I’ve stayed in a range of hotels and visited many more. Here is my guide to the best hotels and resorts in The Gambia. Whether you are looking for a touch of luxury or are on a tighter budget, seeking tranquillity or looking to party, there’s a hotel for you!
Disclaimer: I have visited The Gambia many times both for work, volunteering and on holiday while working for The Gambia Experience. I now work freelance and recently visited on a press trip, funded by The Gambia Experience. Please note, that it may have been some time since I visited or stayed at some of the following hotels but I have updated this article in December 2022 to the best of my knowledge. All the photography is my own and I have only included hotels I have visited myself (unless otherwise clearly stated)
My guide to the best hotels and resorts in The Gambia
Starting with the largest and liveliest coastal resort, Kololi, and ending upcountry by Baboon Island, here is my guide to the hotels and tourist resorts of The Gambia. From luxurious beachside spa hotels such as Coco Ocean to the unique river lodges of Mandina and from the budget-friendly, African Village to the family-friendly, Senegambia, there’s a wide range to choose from. I hope my guide helps you find the one that is right for you. You’ll find a map showing the location of the hotels and resorts at the end of this post.
Table of Contents
Kololi Beach Resort
First, let’s head to the main tourist resorts along the coast, the most established of which is Kololi, also known as The Strip. There are a few large hotels here right by the sea.
The Kairaba and the Senegambia are two of the most popular Gambian hotels in Kololi. They have extensive gardens with spacious lawns leading down to the sea. It’s worth noting that due to erosion, the sandy beach here has had to be protected by large boulders with steps leading down to the sea at low tide. Throughout the gardens at both hotels there are plenty of shade-giving palm trees and you can easily find your own quiet spot, yet step outside of your hotel and you’ll find the liveliest couple of streets in The Gambia, full of restaurants, and bars.
The biggest advantage of staying in Kololi, is the great choice of restaurants, selling every kind of cuisine, including English, Italian, Indian, Mexican, Chinese and African, right on your doorstep. You’ll find shops selling anything you might need on holiday, including a pharmacy, a few exchange bureaux (which will give you a better rate of exchange than your hotel) and a bank with an occasionally working ATM. There are also a couple of nightclubs, a casino and a couple of internet cafes.
Further shops, restaurants and a children’s playground can be found in the Village complex, just a few minutes walk up the road.
Kololi Beach Resort is the liveliest resort in The Gambia, perfect for those who want to soak up the sun during the day and party at night as well as for those looking for a wide choice of restaurants within easy walking distance.
Senegambia Hotel
Official local hotel rating: 3 stars | Transfers 40 minutes | Best for families and couples
Set in spacious tropical gardens, most of the accommodation at the Senegambia Hotel is arranged in small two-storey blocks of apartments. There are two swimming pools one by the beach with an additional children’s pool and a quieter one set back in the grounds. Wildlife including green vervet monkeys and Little Egrets are regular visitors to the hotel gardens. Don’t miss the daily vulture feeding around 11.30 am each day – it’s quite a spectacular sight.
The Senegambia hotel is a lively hotel with plenty of organised activities in the winter months and a myriad of restaurants on your doorstep.
Kotu Beach Resort
Nearby Kotu, is a smaller version of Kololi with some great restaurants but little nightlife and just a couple of shops, a craft market and an exchange bureau but no bank or pharmacy. Essentials including bottled water as well as a range of snacks and alcoholic drinks are available in several mini-markets.
The long sandy beach in Kotu is really lovely with plenty of palm trees for those seeking a little shade. The sunsets are spectacular, perfect for a romantic stroll by the water’s edge. If the local lads bother you take off your shoes and paddle in the water – they won’t follow as they won’t want to get their trainers wet!
Despite the seeming lack of nightlife, I’ve had some great evenings in Kotu, dancing to the beat of the local drummers in the beach bar Dominos, which you’ll find by walking through the craft market and turning left as you face the sea. The larger resort of Kololi is only a short taxi ride away if you fancy a livelier scene. I actually prefer Kotu as it’s a little quieter.
I’ve stayed at the Sunset Beach Hotel and Kombo Beach Hotel in Kotu and would happily recommend either of them.
Kotu Beach Resort in The Gambia has a smaller choice of restaurants and is a little quieter than Kololi. The golden sand palm-fringed beach is particularly beautiful.
Kombo Beach Hotel
Official local hotel rating: 4 stars | Transfers 45 minutes | Best for families, couples or solo travellers
I’ve stayed at Kombo Beach Hotel so many times it almost feels like home! It has a couple of restaurants and plenty going on. There are a few organised activities during the day, and most evenings there is some kind of entertainment – if you’ve not seen an African drumming troupe before be sure not to miss them here. The entertainment staff are excellent with kids – I’ve regularly seen them playing table tennis and organising other activities to keep them entertained. Plus the Kombo Beach Hotel has been awarded the Travelife Gold Award three years in a row for its commitment to sustainable tourism.
The only thing I’m not so keen on at Kombo is the rooms overlooking the pool as the music in the evenings I found very intrusive. All the other rooms, in my experience, however, are lovely and quiet.
There’s a lovely swimming pool (featured image) but one of the best features is the wonderful sandy beach (pictured above).
Above left: Kombo Beach standard room, above right: Kombo Beach pool at dusk, below: A suite at Kombo Beach Hotel
Kombo Beach Hotel is perfect for families, couples and solo travellers with plenty of activities and entertainment and a beautful sandy beach. There’s a small choice of restaurants all within a few mintues walk.
Bakotu Hotel
Official local hotel rating unknown | Transfers 45 minutes | Best for birdwatchers
Set in pretty gardens overlooking Kotu Creek, this is a popular hotel with birdwatchers (including BBC wildlife presenter Chris Packham). There is a great birdwatching platform in the hotel garden. It is one of the few hotels listed here that doesn’t have direct access to the beach, which is a short walk away through the local craft market.
Bakotu is a great choice for birdwatchers being located a short walk from the beach by Kotu Stream.
Bungalow Beach Hotel
Official local hotel rating :3 stars | Transfers 45 minutes | Best for self-catering or solo travellers
Bungalow Beach has self-catering apartments including a few smaller single-occupancy apartments for which you won’t have to pay a single supplement. A welcome pack of milk, fruit juice, tea/coffee, cheese and jam is provided in each apartment plus daily fresh bread. There’s an onsite mini-market. With its own restaurant and a few more just outside the hotel, there are several options for eating out too.
There’s a limited range of activities within the hotel and occasional evening entertainment but, if you are after more things to do, there is plenty going on around the resort of Kotu within a few minutes’ walk.
Bungalow Beach is a great choice for a self-catering holiday
South Kotu Resort
South Kotu resort consists of just a couple of hotels and self catering-apartments and some restaurants all on one street leading down to the beach. There are two restaurants I particularly liked, Shiraz , which will give you delicious home cooking from Lebanon and the Italian restaurant Luigi’s (which serves excellent steak).
There is a relatively new hotel in South Kotu, African Princess Beach Hotel, that looks lovely with swim-up pool rooms but I have never stayed or even visited this hotel so I didn’t feel I could include it in this guide.
In Bijilo there are just a couple of hotels by a long stretch of sandy beach, a few beach bars and little else. Perfect for a quiet, relaxing holiday and again if you fancy a change of pace, the nightlife of Kololi is just a 5-minute taxi ride away. Nearby Bijilio Forest is a popular place for seeing monkeys.
Coco Ocean Resort and Spa
Official local hotel rating 4.5 stars | Transfers 40 minutes | Best for luxury
Coco Ocean Resort and Spa in Bijilo is, without a doubt, the most luxurious hotel in The Gambia. Moroccan-influenced architecture and decor have been used to great effect to create a serene atmosphere in this large, sumptuous hotel. I have never stayed here but I have visited the lovely spa and eaten in the restaurants many times. I’ve also looked around several different room and suite types all of which were fabulous.
I most recently visited in December 2022 and found it just as charming and relaxing as ever.
Find out more about Coco Ocean, the room types I’d recommend and read my review of Coco Ocean’s Spa here.
Coco Ocean Resort & Spa is a tranquil, elegant hotel by a lovely beach and boosts a world-class spa
A little further south still you’ll find the village of Brufut, well away from the main tourist areas with little here other than a smattering of local stalls and a few hotels spread out amongst the village.
Leo’s Hotel
Official local hotel rating: 4 stars | Transfers 35 minutes | Best for luxury, couples and sustainability (adults only)
This stylish, contemporary hotel is in a stunning location overlooking a secluded golden sand beach. With just five double rooms, one suite and an adult-only policy, Leo’s Beach Hotel is a tranquil haven.
The Austrian owners, Nina and Alois, left their careers in publishing to build their dream home with a small, family-run hotel attached. I loved the calm atmosphere here and the views out to sea. Nina and Alois are charming and, together with their staff, will work hard to make sure that you have the perfect holiday.
Each of the five double bedrooms is spacious and light. They are simply furnished yet with all the usual modern conveniences you would expect to find. Each room has a balcony looking out across the pool to the gardens and ocean beyond.
The Suite has a large living area and a separate bedroom. However, the balcony does not directly face the sea.
The pool is the focal point of the garden. One of my favourite touches is the Jacuzzi corner in the pool. There’s a tabletop in the middle with two buttons. One turns on the Jacuzzi and the other summons a waiter – my kind of pool!
The restaurant at Leo’s Beach Hotel offers just a small choice of beautifully prepared dishes, made with fresh, local produce. It’s popular with the local ex-pat community.
There’s a spacious garden with sunbeds under shade-giving palm trees. Steps lead down to a short sandy path that will guide you through more palm trees to the beach. It’s a vast expanse of sand with barely a soul in sight and the perfect setting for a romantic walk at sunset.
When designing their dream hotel, sustainability and the impact they might have on the environment and the local community was of utmost importance. Under the guidance of the young Austrian architect Angelika Mitterer, Leo’s Beach Hotel was planned to make the most of natural ventilation and shading. All the energy requirements of the hotel, including the air-conditioning, are met using a photovoltaic solar power system.
Local carpenters, including those from the SOS-Children’s Village training centre, made all the wooden furniture found throughout the hotel.
Leo’s is located in a quiet area of Brufut. The country’s busiest tourist resort, Kololi, however, with its many restaurants, nightlife and shops is just a ten-minute taxi ride away. The nearby fishing village of Tanji is well worth visiting to watch the colourful pirogues returning with their catch. Tanji Bird Reserve, a popular site for birdwatchers, is just a ten-minute drive away.
Heading back north along the coast, past Bijilo, Kololi and Kotu you’ll next reach Fajara. This is a residential area popular with expats as well as Gambians with just a couple of hotels.
Ngala Lodge
Official local hotel rating: 5 stars | Transfer times 55 minutes | Best for couples (adults only hotel)
This quirky, boutique hotel on a cliff-top position is one of the few hotels in The Gambia that can boast a private beach as it is pretty much inaccessible other than through the hotel grounds. It also has two relatively small swimming pools.
I’ve stayed here many times including on my honeymoon and with its excellent restaurant and peaceful gardens, it is another firm favourite of mine. For a choice of further restaurants, however, you’ll need to hop in a taxi.
I’d highly recommend upgrading to a first-floor Atlantic Suite or the Macondo Suites.
The Atlantic Suites are very spacious and each one has a private Jacuzzi on a large terrace, overlooking the garden to the ocean. The newer Macondo Suites are spacious light and modern and all have wonderful sea views. The ground-floor Macondo suites enjoy the added bonus of their own private plunge pools.
I most recently stayed here in December 2022 and found it as wonderful as ever.
Above: Ngala Lodge restaurant, below: Macondo Pool Suite
Ngala Lodge is the perfect choice for a tranquil holiday and fine dining. It has been voted by Trip Advisor users as one of the most romantic hotels in Africa.
Just north of Fajara, you will come to Bakau, a great area to stay in if you want to experience a slightly more authentic Africa. The fish market is a must-see as is the Kachikally Crocodile Pool but you’ll also find a craft market and banks, supermarkets, and plenty of restaurants selling local cuisine as well as international dishes.
African Village
Official local hotel rating 2 stars | Transfer time 55 minutes | Best suited for couples on a budget
I’ve not stayed here but I have visited African Village several times and found it to be a basic but pleasant hotel, with friendly, helpful staff.
While there is no beach here it does overlook the ocean and there is a sand-covered, man-made sunbathing area, with sunloungers and parasols. This is reached via steep steps and offers access to the beach at low tide.
African village is a great budget-friendly choice, popular with educational groups as the location offers the opportunity to discover more about the Gambian way of life.
Cape Point Beach Resort
The resort of Cape Point, on the mouth of the River Gambia, is by one of the largest beaches in the country – a huge expanse of sand, great for watching the sunrise, and at one end you’ll find, Calypso , my favourite bar come restaurant, perfect for a quiet lunch under a thatched cabana, a romantic evening meal or perhaps a cocktail as the sun goes down, in a wonderful setting that feels as if you really are in the middle of nowhere.
There are a few restaurants and crafts stalls in the area, as well as a mini-supermarket and the larger village of Bakau, is only a relatively short walk away.
Cape Point is one of the best beach reosrts in The Gambia. It is similar to Kotu in terms of restaurants but a little more spread out. It has one of the most beautiful beaches in The Gambia from where you can watch the sunrise.
Ocean Bay Hotel
Official local hotel rating 5 stars | Transfer time 60 minutes | Best for families
While I’ve not stayed at Ocean Bay Hotel, it looks lovely and is set in spacious grounds by a beautiful beach. Although personally I usually prefer something smaller, I would be happy to stay here. It is a lively hotel with plenty of organised activities.
Sunbeach Hotel
Official local hotel rating 4 stars | Transfer time 60 minutes | Best for families, all-inclusive only
This all-inclusive hotel is just next door to the Ocean Bay Hotel overlooking the same beach. With two swimming pools and plenty of organised activities, it is well suited to families. When I stayed here I found the staff to be very helpful and friendly. My favourite time of day was early in the morning watching the sun come up across the sea or at sunset as pictured below.
Sunbeach is a good choice for a lively, all-inclusive holday
Banjul & Serrakunda
The capital of The Gambia is Banjul but it has little geared towards tourism. It is one of the smallest capitals in Africa being on an island without room for expansion. Nearby Serrakunda is a far bigger city but again it is not known for its hotels. Banjul’s Albert Market and Serrekunda Market are both very interesting and colourful places to visit.
Makasutu Forest
Mandina lodges.
Official local hotel rating unknown | Transfer time 45 to 60 minutes | Best for birdwatchers and couples
One of my favourite places in the world has to be Mandina Lodges tucked away on a tributary of the River Gambia, in Makasutu Forest. If caring about your carbon footprint is important to you and you are looking for something a little different, well away from the main tourist resorts in The Gambia, surrounded by wildlife, with no WiFi, yet not too far from the airport, Mandina Lodges is the hotel for you.
I’ve been lucky enough to have stayed here three times, including on my honeymoon, and have visited for the day several times more. My first experience of waking up looking out over the river from my four-poster bed on a floating lodge and listening to the forest awake was a magical moment that I will never forget. As was the look of wonder on my husband’s face when I returned with him on honeymoon and the baboons walked straight by him a few feet away, just after we arrived.
Mandaina Lodges is the perfect choice for a relaxing escape in nature, perfect for birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts.
You can find out more in the following articles on ‘Travel with Kat’:
Mandina Lodges, the perfect start to our West African honeymoon A night on the river in Makasutu Forest The Baboons of Makasutu Forest
Upcountry, Baboon Islands
Chimpanzee rehabilitation project’s camp.
Official local hotel rating unknown | Transfer time about 5 hours | Best for wildlife and the adventurous
There are, of course, I’m sure, many other nice places to stay but the ones I have told you about here are the places that I have either stayed in or at least visited myself. There is one, however, that I’ve never stayed in, or even seen as yet that I do just want to tell you about and that is the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project’s camp. It’s a five-hour drive inland from the coastal resorts in the River Gambia National Park where two nights a week visitors are allowed to stay in the camp. I’m told staying here is an unforgettable experience and it’s the perfect place to get to know the real Gambia and its wonderful wildlife including the chimpanzees.
Map of hotels and resorts in The Gambia
My recommendations
There is a wide variety of places to stay in The Gambia. While the elegant tranquillity of Coco Ocean will be loved by many, myself included, others may find it too quiet preferring to stay in the bustling resort of Kololi. For something in between these two extremes, Kotu or Cape Point are slightly quieter resorts. For families, I would suggest Ocean Bay Hotel in Cape Point or Kombo Beach Hotel in Kotu. For wildlife lovers, I’d couldn’t recommend Mandina Lodges more highly. Birdwatchers should also consider Bakotu. For fine dining, Ngala Lodge is a great option, but if you want to have the greatest choice of restaurants and facilities close to hand Senegambia or The Kairaba might suit you better.
Sadly, few hotels in The Gambia are owned by Gambians, however, they do all employ plenty of local staff, often enabling each of them to support a large extended family. Many hotels also shop locally through initiatives such as Gambia is Good , supporting local small-scale farmers.
A note about bumsters
The young men who hang around resort areas hoping to make a little money from the tourists are known as bumsters. They are common in Kololi and to a lesser extent other resort areas too. As a woman, I’ve found walking back to my hotel can be like running the gauntlet, as I ward off one cheesy chat-up line after another, Most of the time I just treat this as all part of the fun but it can get a little wearing at times. Just remember, they mean you no harm and are merely hoping to make a little money by acting as your guide or escort. While travelling on my own, I have always felt safe in The Gambia, however, I much prefer visiting with my husband. The bumsters still come over for a chat but there are fewer misunderstandings.
If you don’t want to talk to someone always be polite but firm. Never say “Maybe later “as they’ll just hear later and not the maybe. Keep an open mind, but don’t automatically believe everything you are told. There’s very little work in The Gambia and sadly, for example, someone with a broken drum can earn more by asking for the money to get it fixed than he can by playing a fixed drum. If however, you want to avoid the bumsters entirely, avoid the beach resorts of Kololi, Kotu and Cape Point and you’ll be just fine. While staying at Ngala Lodge or Mandina Lodges, for example, you could easily spend a few weeks in The Gambia and never encounter a bumster.
When travelling in The Gambia, I take the same precautions as I would anywhere in the world. I have always felt safe in The Gambia, even when travelling on my own.
For more information and to book
For more information on all the above hotels and more please visit The Gambia Experience’s website.
Wherever you decide to stay, we do, of course, all have different preferences – one person’s dream holiday might be another person’s nightmare. It is worth doing your homework to find the best hotel in The Gambia that is right for you.
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16 Comments
Excellent research. I have enjoyed reading your reviews of the hotels you have visited in Gambia. I will be travelling to Gambia in Dec (first time) and staying at the Ocean Bay. It was difficult to make a choice; however, I hope I have made the right choice. Any more tips? Keep up the good work.
Hi Ruby, Sorry for the late reply. Ocean Bay is a great hotel with a really beautiful beach. I’m sure you’ll have a wonderful time. Do check out Calypso Beach Restaurant & Bar while you are there.
To be honest, I pictured Gambia as a very poor place and you really surprised me! Swimming pools and beautiful views – everything looks so posh! 🙂 How about the poverty there?
The tourist are runs along the coastal strip but you don’t have to go very far to find poverty. Other then the tourist industry there are very few jobs. It was particularly tough last year as many tourist stayed away because of ebola even though there wasn’t a single case in The Gambia. I’ve sponsored a girl in a village inland for about 10 years now and I’ve posts about visiting the her, her family, school and village. You can read about her here https://travelwithkat.com/2013/05/10/sponsoring-a-child-in-africa/ It a fabulous country and the people are extremely welcoming. It’s a while since I’ve been but hoping to go back in January.
You have to visit the Seafront Residence in Bijilo next time you are in Gambia. Its my favourite. Its an all-suite luxury 4-star hotel and the gardens are just lush! Excellent site. Fantastic pictures giving a glimpse of the true african experience. Ems
Thanks Ems. Sorry for late reply. Some how missed your comment. I’ve visited Bijilo briefly to take some photos there but have yet to stay there. Would love to one day though.
I never really considered Gambia as a destination but am definitely interested. Thanks.
My pleasure! Great to hear it is on your radar now.
Mandina Lodges looks gorgeous! My mother-in-law is keen to do a trip to Africa for her 70th next year and Gambia looks like it might be a good option.
Mandina is lovely. Just give me a shout if you’d like any more advice 🙂
Such a huge choice but I think it’d have to be Mandina Lodges since your recent post on waking at dawn on the water… just sublime 🙂
There’s certainly something for every budget but I must admit Mandina Lodges was really wonderful, a very special place.
Kat, First I have to say that these pictures are breath taking! When do I pack my bags?! Also, with the cold weather upon us here in the US, when were these pictures taken? If you tell me last week, then I’m on the next plane out of here (LOL)! But really great post, I enjoyed reading it!
Thank you! Some I took last month (Mandina and Leo’s) and the weather should be just as lovely now as it was then, right through until around April, when the evenings start to get a little hotter but I’ve been end of June and still very nice if a little humid (rainy season there after through to October).
Some brilliant reports there, but you only did 2 hotels in Kololi, there are many more there that your readers/followers might like to know about. Also you need to update prices of local taxis, prices now start at D8 due to increase in fuel price. I really enjoyed how much research you have done & looking at the pics of all the places I have visited.
Thanks Gary, I had heard some fares had gone up. The two hotels I mention in Kololi are the only two I’ve stayed in there so I don’t feel qualified to comment on any others. Would love people to add comments here with their recommendations.
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Best Resorts in Gambia, Africa
Gambia resorts, property types, distance from, traveller rating, hotel class.
- Best Value Properties ranked using exclusive Tripadvisor data, including traveller ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity and location, as well as personal user preferences and recently viewed hotels.
- Traveller Ranked Highest rated hotels on Tripadvisor, based on traveller reviews.
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Resorts in the Gambia
Find the resorts that appeal to you the most, booking.com loves the gambia how about you, finding a resort is easy with booking.com. more choice, more destinations., the 10 best resorts in the gambia check out our pick of great resorts in the gambia.
TRANQUIL RESORT HOTEL
9.1 Superb 15 reviews
Set in Brusubi, 1.4 km from Bijilo Beach, TRANQUIL RESORT HOTEL offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool , free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. Boasting room service, this property also provides guests with a terrace. Guests can enjoy African and Catalan dishes at the restaurant or have a cocktail at the bar.
Rainbow beach resort
8.1 Very good 115 reviews
Featuring free WiFi, a barbecue and a terrace, Rainbow beach bar and lodgings offers pet-friendly accommodation in Sanyang. Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant. Free private parking is available on site. This resort has a private beach area and bike hire is available. The nearest airport is Banjul Airport, 15 km from the property.
Kololi Beach Resort
8.0 Very good 345 reviews
Offering an outdoor pool and restaurant, Kololi Beach Resort is located in Kololi. WiFi access is available in the resort . The resort offers free parking, a private beach with on-duty lifeguards (limited hours) and two family swimming pools with sun loungers and umbrellas.
Tamba Kuruba Eco-lodge
8.3 Very good 67 reviews
Located in Folonko, a few steps from Halahin Beach, Tamba Kuruba Eco-lodge provides accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. 1.2 km from Baboi Beach and 1.6 km from Tesito Beach, the property offers a private beach area, as well as a bar. The resort also features free WiFi as well as a paid airport shuttle service.
Nemasu Eco-lodge
8.6 Fabulous 88 reviews
Offering a restaurant, Nemasu Eco-lodge is located in Gunjur. Free WiFi access is available in this resort . The accommodation provides a patio. Sea and garden views are offered. This resort is 26 km from Banjul Airport.
Bamboo Village Resort
7.5 Good 303 reviews
Situated in Kololi, 200 metres from Kololi Beach, Bamboo Village Resort features accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a terrace and a restaurant. Among the various facilities are a bar, water sports facilities, as well as a casino. The accommodation provides room service, a 24-hour front desk and currency exchange for guests.
Balafon Beach Resort
7.7 Good 380 reviews
Situated in Kololi, 1.5 km from Senegambia Beach with its strip of restaurants and bars, Balafon Beach Resort features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a fitness centre and a bar. Among the various facilities of this property are a garden, a private beach area. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, room service and currency exchange for guests.
Harmony Resort Boutique Hotel
in Bathurst
7.8 Good 112 reviews
Set in Banjul, 300 metres from Bijilo Beach, Harmony Resort Boutique Hotel offers accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool , free private parking, a garden and a shared lounge. This 4-star hotel offers a bar. The accommodation provides a 24-hour front desk, airport transfers, room service and free WiFi throughout the property.
Tamala Beach Resort
7.7 Good 524 reviews
Situated in Kotu, a few steps from Kotu Beach, Tamala Beach Resort features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool , free private parking, a fitness centre and a garden. With free WiFi, this 4-star hotel has a shared lounge and a terrace. Guests can enjoy African and American dishes at the restaurant or have a cocktail at the bar.
Sunset Beach Hotel
in Sere Kunda NDing
7.9 Good 469 reviews
Situated in Sere Kunda NDing, less than 1 km from Kotu Beach, Sunset Beach Hotel features accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool , free private parking, a garden and a restaurant. Featuring a bar, the property is located within 1.9 km of Kololi Beach. The accommodation provides room service, a 24-hour front desk and currency exchange for guests.
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Home » Travel Guides » Gambia » 15 Best Places to Visit in The Gambia
15 Best Places to Visit in The Gambia
What brings most people to The Gambia are the beaches – and there are plenty to choose from.
Luxurious five-star resorts that cater to your every whim co-exist with fun and busy Mediterranean-style zones chock full of restaurants, bars, and nightclubs.
There’s also plenty of room for lazy days and long walks along palm-tree lined pristine coast line. Just take your pick. But there is so much more to Africa’s tiniest county!
Surrounded on all sides by Senegal, The Gambia is home to nature reserves, charming fishing villages, and a number of historic slave trade stations worth exploring.
If you’re a bird lover, it’s unlikely that you haven’t heard of this country as you can spot over 100 bird species on a single river cruise.
One of the best parts about The Gambia are the variety of day excursions that can be organized while you’re visiting.
Let’s explore the best places to visit in The Gambia :
1. Abuko Nature Reserve
Created in the early 20th century to protect a water collection point for nearby communities, Abuko Nature Reserve is The Gambia’s first reserve – officially formed in the 1960’s.
This area is rich in Gambian wildlife and is now the most visited tourist attraction in the country – with over 33,000 visitors each year.
Conservation efforts are on-going in this 260 acre reserve with three primate species here as well as antelope, porcupine, African palm civets, crocodiles, galagos, and almost 300 bird species.
A fun fact about Abuko is that it is the closest tropical forest to Europe.
The capital of The Gambia is Banjul. It’s a port city and is located on Saint Mary’s Island.
Originally called Bathurst after the Secretary of State for the British Colonies, Banjul is the government seat for the country.
For whatever reason, many tourists don’t give Banjul a second glance. But with the busy harbour, rich history, colonial architecture, and urban market, there is plenty to love about the city.
Enjoy the street hawkers from Senegal and Guinea and the shop keepers packed into old colonial trading housing all creating a chaotic vibrancy to the commercial district.
Be on the lookout for the traditional kirinting housing made of bamboo and traditionally owned by the poor farmers of the island.
3. The Albert Market
The activity hub of Banjul is the Albert Market.
It was created in the mid-19th century and named after Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert.
Even back then it was full of bartering, haggling, and chaotic buying.
The market is exciting on its most boring day – which, really, is never!
You’ll find shoes, carved wood masks, houseware, electrical gadgets, shoes, fantastic fabrics, fruit, vegetables, beauty supplies, clothes, you name it.
Plan to spend a few hours to see it all and to really hone your negotiating skills.
If you’re looking for a local food experience, Albert Market has a number of street vendors and drink stalls to choose from.
4. Old Town
Head toward wide and welcoming Ma Cumba Jallow Street just west of the ferry terminal in Banjul and you’ll find an unruly assortment of fading colonial buildings and traditional Krio-style clapboard homes.
This is Old Town, which looks remarkably like Freetown in Sierra Leone because of the many Freetown families who settled here in the early 19th century.
There’s lots of history to admire as you walk through this wonderful section of the city.
5. Bijilo Forest Park
Bijilo Forest Park, or Monkey Park, is located in the coastal zone, just 11km from Banjul.
It’s a small reserve, relatively speaking, and is a point of pride for nearby locals.
The trails here are well maintained and take you through incredibly lush flora, a gallery forest, grass and low bush, on your way to the dunes.
The three primate species are the red colobus, vervet, and patas.
Tourists are encouraged not to feed the monkeys as they can get pretty cheeky!
Bird lovers will love the more than 100 species found in the park including osprey, bee-eaters, and francolin. The reviews seem to be consistent: a charming reserve that everyone falls in love with.
6. Brufut Beach
Sitting between the Kombo South District and the Atlantic Ocean are the Brufut resort and village.
Just 23km from Banjul the beach itself has terrific golden sand and lots of privacy.
To reach the beach you have to climb down the cliffs, using paths that are quiet steep in places.
Once you’ve arrived and staked your spot you’ll notice fishermen and women sparring fish, repairing nets, and waiting for a change in tide to take them back out on the water again.
Because it’s so uncrowded, it’s great for everything – sunbathing, water sports, walks along the sand, and cycling.
Visit nearby Sannah-Mentering, a sacred pilgrimage site for Gambian Muslims hoping for a blessing.
7. Janjangbureh
Also known as Georgetown, Janjangbureh is an old colonial administrative hub located on MacCarthy Island in the Gambia River.
A walk through town will take you to the old Commissioner’s Quarter.
This 200-year-old house was once inhabited by freed slaves.
There is little tourist infrastructure here, which will the town more or less desirable depending on the type of holiday you’re on, but the number one reason that most people come to Janjangbureh is for the bird watching.
Stay at a lodge or resort outside the city centre and spend a few days with the exotic birds of the area.
8. Sanyang Village and Beach
This is a sleepy beach village of about 7,000 people made up mostly of Wolof, Mandinka, Fula, and Jola tribes. Sangyang Beach, which is made up of Paradise, Osprey, and Pelican beaches, is considered by many to be the best beachfront in all of The Gambia.
It was a popular attraction long before the tourist trail made its way there and has a long stretch of remote shore, surrounded by mangroves and lagoons.
Perfect for those who want to get away from the crowds. The main economy is fishing and as such there is a fantastic fish market in the village.
Great for people watching and meeting the locals. As a bonus, the area has many shaded footpaths for nature trekking.
9. National Museum of Gambia
Once the white only Bathurst Club, this historic building now houses the National Museum of Gambia.
You’ll find a wide range of exhibits and displays here, including traditional Gambian life, the colonial history of Bathurst, information on the Senegambia stone circle sites, music, and dance.
Though it is small, the museum is well planned to reveal the rich culture of this wonderful country. You won’t be able to miss the giant Kankurang mask hanging in the main hall.
This powerful ritual mask is used during rites of passage and coming of age.
10. Wassu Stone Circles
Located in the Central River Region, these circles are believed to be the burial sites of ancient kings and chiefs.
Dated to 750-1000 AD, the stones and layouts vary from 4-6 metres in diameter, with anywhere from ten to 20 stones each.
Each stone has an average height of six feet and many tourists and archaeologists have puzzled over their origins and true meaning.
Though the biggest concentration of stone circles is in the Wassu area, there are hundreds of circles throughout the country.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, local legend has it that if anyone disturbs the stones they will be cursed – a good clue as to why they have remained undisturbed for so long.
11. The Kachikally Crocodile Pool
Sitting on nine acres in Bakau Old Town is the Kachikally Crocodile Pool.
Locals believe in the healing powers of the water and it’s a popular place to come for a blessing.
There are about 80 crocodiles that call the pool home and a cool dozen are usually immediately visible when you arrive.
Also on site are an ethnography museum, souvenir shop, café, and nature trail.
12. Makasutu Culture Forest
This is a private woodland reserve dedicated to ecotourism in the Kombo Central District.
With over 1,000 acres, the protected area is a pristine forest of riverine, palm and hardwood trees, mangrove creeks, salt flats, and savanna.
In the 1990’s two Britons stepped in and began conservation efforts on this almost bare forest.
This sacred land is now a popular day excursion that gives visitors a chance to see one of the most beautiful forested areas in The Gambia.
13. The Gambia River
There’s a popular quote that helps to explain the relationship between the country and the river: “The Gambia River is the Gambia and the Gambia is the river Gambia.”
The country exists as two strips of land on either side of the river and it’s definitely the dominate feature of the country.
It’s become a popular tourist destination as it provides access to the interior as well as to Senegal and Guinea.
A river boat cruise will bring you to some interesting wildlife, historic slave trade stations, and beautiful countryside.
14. Serrekunda
The largest town in The Gambia is Serrekunda, a market town with a population of just under half a million people.
This is where you’ll find the Batik Factory, where tie-dyed and batik fabrics are made.
It’s the perfect place for beautiful and personal souvenirs for home.
The national pastime of the Senegambia region is wrestling and in Serrekunda they take it quite seriously.
Each wrestler has a small group of drummers who amp up the crowd with energetic beats before a bout. T
he rules are pretty loose, but if it gets too dirty, someone will step in and stop the bout. Usually!
The Gambian coast is full of fishing villages along the coast. The busiest and most popular is the village of Tanji.
Everything happens right on the beach, which doesn’t make for good swimming, but does make for dramatic people watching.
Enjoy the fish market and the fish-smoking centre right in the heart of it all.
The Tanji Village Museum educates visitors on Gambian traditions and lifestyle.
Bird lovers will enjoy the Tanji River Bird Reserve – six square miles of savannah habitats and marine wetland along the river.
There are over 300 bird species here include 34 raptors. You’re also likely to see bushback, hyena, green monkeys, and the red colobus.
If you’ve got the time, be sure to check out the Bijol Islands, where they have over 20,000 birds and seals and whales have been spotted from time to time.
15 Best Places to Visit in The Gambia:
- Abuko Nature Reserve
- The Albert Market
- Bijilo Forest Park
- Brufut Beach
- Janjangbureh
- Sanyang Village and Beach
- National Museum of Gambia
- Wassu Stone Circles
- The Kachikally Crocodile Pool
- Makasutu Culture Forest
- The Gambia River
©Francisco Goncalves/Getty Images
The Gambia may be the smallest country on the continent, but its captivating array of attractions belies its tiny size. Surrounded by Senegal, The Gambia has a mere 50 miles (80km) of coastline, but what a magnificent stretch it encompasses: golden beaches backed by swaying palms and sprinkled with scenic lagoons, sleepy fishing villages and biologically rich coastal reserves.
Attractions
Must-see attractions.
Abuko Nature Reserve
Abuko is rare among African wildlife reserves: it's tiny, it's easy to reach and you don't need a car to go in. With amazing diversity of vegetation and…
Wide Open Walls
Two huge ibex grazing amid swirling waves, a blue tattooed lion, and a lovestruck blacksmith are just a few of the striking images awaiting visitors who…
Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project
This project forms the beating heart of River Gambia National Park. Comprised of so-called Baboon Island and several smaller islands, this is one of the…
Bijilo Forest Park
Serekunda & Atlantic Coast Resorts
This small 51-hectare reserve makes for a lovely escape. A series of well-maintained walking trails (ranging from 900m to 1400m) takes you through lush…
Kachikally Crocodile Pool
One of The Gambia's most popular tourist attractions is a sacred site for locals. As crocodiles represent the power of fertility in Gambia, women who…
St Joseph's Adult Education & Skills Centre
Tucked away inside an ancient Portuguese building, this centre has provided training to disadvantaged women for the last 20 years. Visitors can take a…
Makasutu Culture Forest
Like a snapshot of The Gambia, Makasutu Culture Forest bundles the country's array of landscapes into a dazzling 1000-hectare package. The setting is…
Wassu Stone Circles
Archaeologists believe the Wassu stone circles are burial sites constructed about 1200 years ago. Each stone weighs several tonnes and is between 1m (3…
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Oct 15, 2019 • 7 min read
Joseph Reaney travels to the heart of The Gambia to visit a pioneering project that protects chimpanzees and provides unique experiences for visitors.
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The Gambia and beyond
- 1.1 Climate
- 1.2 History
- 1.3 National holidays
- 1.5 Tourist information
- 3 Other destinations
- 4.2 By plane
- 4.5 By boat
- 5.2 By taxi
- 5.4 By bike
- 5.5 By thumb
- 5.6 By boat
- 5.7 Guided tours
- 9.3 Souvenirs
- 9.4 Markets
- 14 Stay safe
- 15 Stay healthy
The Gambia is a small, narrow country along the length of the Gambia River in West Africa , almost completely surrounded by Senegal . Besides beaches and wildlife, The Gambia is known for the town of Juffureh , made famous by Alex Haley's Roots . It is known as the Smiling Coast.
Understand [ edit ]
The Gambia essentially consists of the flood plain of the Gambia River flanked by some low hills — the highest point is just 53 m above sea level, and it is less than 50 km across at its widest point.
Climate [ edit ]
Tropical; hot, rainy season (June to November); cooler, dry season (November to May); Natural hazards : drought (rainfall has dropped by 30% in the last 30 years).
History [ edit ]
Before the arrival of the Europeans, oral traditions preserved most of The Gambia's history. The Wassu Stone Circles are thought to be evidence of early settlement, however not much is known about it. The territory of present-day The Gambia became part of the Mali Empire in the 14th century.
Historically, culturally, and linguistically tied to Senegal, The Gambia was split from its neighbor in the 18th century by European powers. Most of the region was taken over by France, but a narrow piece of land around The Gambia River was ceded to Great Britain. This small area eventually became The Gambia.
The Gambia gained its independence from the UK on 18 February 1965. A constitution was written on 24 April 1970, before being suspended in July 1994 and subsequently rewritten and approved by national referendum on 8 August 1996. It was re-established in January 1997.
The Gambia formed a short-lived federation of Senegambia with Senegal between 1982 and 1989. In 1991 the two nations signed a friendship and cooperation treaty. A military coup in 1994 overthrew the president and banned political activity, but a new 1996 constitution and presidential elections, followed by parliamentary balloting in 1997, completed a nominal return to civilian rule. Elections have continued ever since, but with government intimidation and detention of opposition leaders, they aren't completely democratic.
After ruling with an iron fist for over 20 years, during which he withdrew The Gambia from international organisations such as the Commonwealth of Nations and the International Court of Justice (ICJ), Yahya Jammeh eventually lost the election to Adama Barrow in 2016. Although Jammeh initially refused to concede defeat, Barrow escaped to Senegal, and Jammeh was eventually forced to step down and go into exile under the threat of military intervention from The Gambia's neighbours. Since coming to power, Barrow has attempted to roll back some of Jammeh's excesses, with The Gambia having since re-joined the ICJ and the Commonwealth.
National holidays [ edit ]
The Gambia celebrates its independence day on 18 February. This small country gained its independence in 1965. There is also the Muslim festival of Eid which is celebrated by virtually all Gambians and is a 2- to 3-day event during which up to 250,000 animals are slaughtered to provide food for the feast. It is also a time when Gambians, especially women, dress in their finest regalia and buying new dresses at up to D3,000 ( Gambian dalasi ).
People [ edit ]
A variety of ethnic groups live in The Gambia, each preserving its own language and traditions. The Mandinka ethnicity is the largest, followed by the Fula, Wolof, Jola, Serahule, Serers and the Bianunkas. The Krio people, locally known as the Aku , constitute one of the smallest ethnic minorities in The Gambia. They are descendants of the Sierra Leone Creole people and have been traditionally concentrated in the capital.
Tourist information [ edit ]
- Visit the Gambia tourism website
Cities [ edit ]
- 13.453056 -16.5775 1 Banjul — capital
- 13.310262 -14.23 2 Basse Santa Su
- 13.249772 -16.212593 3 Bintang
- 13.266667 -16.65 4 Brikama
- 13.383333 -16.75 5 Brufut
- 13.183333 -16.766667 6 Gunjur
- 13.534131 -14.766153 7 Janjanbureh
- 13.338611 -16.3825 8 Juffureh
- 13.433333 -16.666667 10 Serekunda
- 13.35 -16.783333 11 Tanji
- 13.366667 -16.65 12 Yundum
Other destinations [ edit ]
- 13.395833 -16.645556 1 Abuko Nature Reserve — tiny reserve near the beaches with shady paths to get close to monkeys, bushbucks, chameleons, & crocodiles.
- 13.516667 -15.866667 2 Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve — mixed patched of thick forest and swamp most noteworthy for its migratory birds but also home to dugongs, otters, hogs, antelope, & hippos.
- 13.383333 -15.916667 3 Kiang West National Park – one of the largest and most important wildlife reserves in the country.
- 13.3175 -16.3614 4 Kunta Kinteh Island , a remainder from the slave trade and a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Makasutu Cultural Forest — a large eco-tourism project near the beaches popular as a package day trip with game drive, boat ride, & performances by locals.
The Gambia has two sites on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Get in [ edit ]
The Gambia is becoming a popular vacation destination for Northern Europeans. Therefore, many charter and holiday operators offer reasonable airfare and accommodation if desired.
Visa [ edit ]
Tourists from ECOWAS, Commonwealth countries and other countries not listed below, or tourists from all nations arriving in The Gambia on a charter flight may enter visa-free for up to 90 days. ECOWAS nationals may also enter with passport or Biometric ID card.
Nationals of Egypt , Austria , France , Portugal , Spain , Switzerland , Turkey , United States , Armenia , Azerbaijan , Belarus , Bosnia and Herzegovina , Czech Republic , Estonia , Georgia , Kazakhstan , Kyrgyzstan , Latvia , Lithuania , Moldova , Romania , Russia , Slovenia , Slovakia , Tajikistan , Turkmenistan , Ukraine and Uzbekistan need a visa to enter unless they are travelling as tourists on a charter flight.
Nationals of Kenya , Namibia , Tunisia , Uganda , Zimbabwe , China , Hong Kong , India , Japan , Macau , Myanmar , Mongolia , Thailand , Vietnam , Argentina , Brazil , Chile , Colombia , Costa Rica , El Salvador , Guatemala , Honduras , Mexico , Nicaragua , Panama , Paraguay , Peru and Uruguay may enter The Gambia visa-free for up to 90 days on the condition that they obtain an entry clearance from the Gambian Immigration prior to travel, unless they are travelling as tourists on a charter flight.
Nationals of Algeria , Angola , Burundi , Cameroon , Central African Republic , Chad , Comoros , Republic of the Congo , Democratic Republic of the Congo , Djibouti , Equatorial Guinea , Eritrea , Ethiopia , Gabon , Libya , Madagascar , Mozambique , Rwanda , Somalia , South Africa , South Sudan , Sudan , Bahamas , Haiti , Jamaica , Dominican Republic , Afghanistan , Bahrain , Iran , Iraq , Israel , Jordan , Kuwait , Lebanon , Oman , Pakistan , Palestine , Qatar , Saudi Arabia , Syria , Yemen , East Timor , Indonesia , Mauritius , the Philippines , South Korea , Sri Lanka and Seychelles require a visa, and/or an entry clearance from the Gambian Immigration prior to travel.
Visas can be obtained at The Gambian High Commission in Dakar , Senegal . Single entry visas cost USD100, XOF35,000 (about USD69, so a better deal!) and multi-entry visas for a three-month period cost XOF30,000.
As of April 2023 visa for most nationalities can be obtained at Karag, the northern border with Senegal for USD100. It will be valid for three months and multiple entries. They take cash only and there are no ATM's at the border. Travelers will have their fingerprints and photograph taken.
Information about obtaining a visa on arrival is available at the website of The Gambia Immigration Department [dead link] .
A list of countries whose citizens can enter without a visa is available at the website of The Gambia Tourism Board .
By plane [ edit ]
Banjul ( BJL IATA ) is the only international airport in The Gambia. Vueling , a low-cost airline, operates regular flights to/from Barcelona (Spain) with onward connecting flights to many cities in Europe. Royal Air Maroc flies from Casablanca, Brussels Airlines from Brussels, Arik Air from Accra and Lagos, Turkish Airlines from Istanbul and Air Senegal from Dakar with onward flight to Bissau, ASKY connects Banjul with Freetown and Lomé. During the tourist season (October to April), there are regular scheduled flights direct from cities such as London, Birmingham, Manchester, Amsterdam, Frankfurt and Brussels. Charter operators include First Choice Airways, Transavia, and Arkefly.
As of April 2023 a "Development tax" of USD20 was being charged at Banjul's airport before check in.
By car [ edit ]
Sept-places or bush taxis run from Dakar to Gambia's border, Karag. From there you must take another Taxi to Barra and then a 30 minutes Ferry to Banjul.
It is possible use your private car to drive from Senegal to The Gambia via the border town of Amdalli (just north of Barra). The border crossing is pretty straightforward. You will need your V5 logbook. The road approaching the border from Senegal is terrible and its easier to drive next to the road as opposed to on it. Check before you travel if it is ok to bring in a right-hand drive vehicle, as there are conflicting reports on the possibility of this (though it has been done).
By bus [ edit ]
There are direct GPTC buses running from Barra (a ferry ride away from Banjul) to Dakar, but these are not recommended as they are slower than the bush taxis.
By boat [ edit ]
It is possible to charter privately small fishing vessels from Dakar and neighboring areas; though this can be fairly expensive and slow should one not be proficient at bargaining.
Get around [ edit ]
- Gambia Transportation Service Company
By taxi [ edit ]
There are two types of cabs: green ones (tourist cabs) and yellow ones (regular cabs). Green cabs are expensive and the price is regardless of the number of passengers. Although there is no vehicle testing system in The Gambia, these taxis must have basics such as seat belts and working indicators. Yellow taxis are much cheaper and the price depends on the number of persons in the cab. They are used mainly by locals, and in many tourist areas they are prohibited from picking up tourists. Often it is worth it to walk a little to get a yellow taxi.
A 4WD is recommended if you plan to rent a car, since the roads often are in bad condition and only a minority is paved.
By bike [ edit ]
You can rent a bike from pretty much anyone that owns one at a negotiated rate. Cycling on major roads can be risky, as motorist safety is unreliable, some roads are not well-maintained, sand and steep shoulders cause road hazards, and pedestrians may walk or veer onto the open road without warning. In high traffic areas, taxis and vans often cut off cyclists to pick up travellers and the car horn may be used excessively to warn of impending passage.
By thumb [ edit ]
No, don't use your thumb. It is an obscene gesture in The Gambia, instead wave if you want a car to stop. As anywhere, hitching is quite risky business, so be careful with what cars you enter and never hitch at night. Also, Gambian motorists will expect you to pay for the ride, so have some cash ready.
The Gambia River is navigable the entire length of the country.
Guided tours [ edit ]
There are many companies that offer guided tours in The Gambia.
There are also official tourist guides that will arrange transportation and guide you. They offer a good service and you will get to travel in a small group (usually 1 to 6 persons). Beware that there are false official guides, so always meet them at their offices, around tourist resorts.
Talk [ edit ]
Languages spoken in The Gambia are English (the official language), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, Sarrancule and other indigenous languages.
Most of the locals speak Wolof in the major cities, English being widely used at tourist venues.
See [ edit ]
- 13.39 -16.6522 1 Abuko Nature Reserve . open daily 08:00-18.30 . Nature park situated outside the village of Lamin in the Kombo North District, 25 km from Banjul. At 105 hectares it is one of the smallest (if not the smallest) protected areas in Africa, but it still offers a good introduction to the Gambian wildlife. For instance there's monkeys, crocodiles and some 300 species of birds D35 .
- 13.429749 -16.730777 2 Bijilo Forest Park ( at Kololi ). Birds and monkeys. Can bribe the animals with peanuts for better photos. The staff will try to pressure you into paying for a guide guide. D150 . ( updated Nov 2022 )
- 13.641 -14.963 3 Gambia River National Park . Beautiful national park below Janjanbureh. The camp is pricey, but worth the money. They will organize boat tours to see chimpanzees, baboons, monkeys, crocodiles, etc.
- Makasutu Culture Forest , Serekunda ( north of Brikama ). A 1000-ha reserve of mangroves, palm groves and savannahs with baboons, monkeys, birds and monitor lizards. About 45 min from Banjul - a D1300 taxi ride, and the driver will wait for you.
- 13.26235 -16.7895 4 Sanyang Beach . One of the most beautiful beaches in Gambia. Public transport leaves from Serekunda and Brikama regularly, and private taxis can also be hired for day trips.
Do [ edit ]
- 13.476838 -16.674693 5 Kachikally Sacred Crocodile Pool , Bakao ( In Bakau, like 10 or so blocks inland from the Bakau Craft Market ), ☏ +220 7782479 , [email protected] . Opportunity to touch/pet West African Nile Crocodiles. D50 .
- Four Wheel Drive Adventure . Very popular tours visiting schools, country homes, and distilleries.
- "Roots" tour to Kunta Kinteh Island . You can go there on cruise up the centre of the wide Gambia river, towards the former French trading post of Albreda and the village of Juffureh. Views of the river bank are distant. Visit the setting of Roots , an old slave trade station. Tourists are overwhelmed by locals who appear only when the boat arrives, and disappear when the boat leaves. Locals are persistent in begging for money and thrusting craft items under tourists noses. Locals insist on being paid to appear in photos. Or you go by car, e.g. with the official tourist guides on the small roads on the North Bank and sail in a pirogue from Juffareh.
- Christmas . Celebrated mostly by Gambians as a limited holiday. The spirit of Christmas in the Gambia includes holiday seasonal observances at beach resorts and a parade of colourful masquerades.
Buy [ edit ]
Money [ edit ].
The Gambia uses the dalasi as its currency, denoted by the symbol " D " (ISO currency code: GMD ). The dalasi is divided into 100 bututs . Banknotes come in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 25, 50, 100 and 200 dalasis and you may find D0.25, D0.50 and D1 coins in circulation.
It is better you take CFA francs, euro or dollars with you. If you have a Visa credit card and don't use a PIN or you forgot it, then the only bank that can help you out is (the bigger) GT Bank in Banjul, which only requires your card, your passport, and your signature.
ATM's [ edit ]
- MasterCard and Visa can now be used at any GT Bank or EcoBank ATMs to withdraw cash.
- Access Bank takes Visa cards only and can be found in Barra, Senegambia Beach and Banjul.
Souvenirs [ edit ]
- Kora is the main music instrument of the Mandinka tribe, and could be considered the national instrument of The Gambia. It is 21-stringed and built from a large calabash cut in half and covered with cow skin to make a resonator. It sounds like a mixture of harp and flamenco guitar. Real koras can be very expensive but small souvenir versions are also available.
- Tailor made clothes can be bought at cheap prices.
- wood carvings
- wooden masks
- African drums
- hand-woven table runners and place mats.
- Batik and tie-dye fabric.
Markets [ edit ]
- Brikama Market . Big market with some interesting stores, e.g., batik
- Brikama Craft Market ( ca 10 km north of Brikama, i.e., too far to walk from Brikama ). 20-30 small stores with mostly wood carvings. Better selection than the similar stores at tourist attractions and hotels
- Gena Bes Batiks , no 16, Salung St, Bakau ( in Bakau between the old Kachikally Cinema and the Crocodile pool ), ☏ +220 449 5614 . Nice batik designs From D1000 .
Eat [ edit ]
- Benachin or Jollof rice — a traditional West African rice dish with onions, spices, tomatoes or tomato paste mixed with meat, fish or vegetables.
- Chicken Yassa — chicken boiled with onion, black pepper and lime or lemon.
- Domoda — meat stew with rice and peanut butter sauce.
- Lots and lots of peanuts , the main crop of The Gambia.
- International food . Please don't be put off by what you may hear about Gambian cuisine, everything may come with rice, but the cuisine is international and the fish is great. But if you're after something your stomach is used to, then there is a plethora of international restaurants to choose from where you can have a Chinese or Indian curry, good old fish & chips or Japanese noodles, and there are also Thai, Lebanese, German, Dutch and Mexican even British-run eateries where you can get a full English breakfast.
Drink [ edit ]
- Gambia's own beer, Julbrew [dead link] is worth a try. It's made by Banjul Breweries, who also make soft drinks.
- Palm Wine is juice from palm trees that is collected and fermented. It is used as a kind of wine by the locals, and you may get a chance to try it if you go on a tour to rural The Gambia.
- Baobab juice
- Spirits . You can most of the well known spirits and liqueurs in the tourist areas along the coastal strip
- Spirits, Beers & Cigarettes . Julbrew is a lager beer, it is mainly sold in bottles but you can get in a draught form which is a lot less gassey than the bottled. You can get most of the spirits you would expect to find at home and they are still a lot cheaper than in the Costas, Greece or Turkey. Whisky, rum, gin, vodka, brandy are freely available as are Curacao and Tia Maria. Cigarettes can be bought very cheaply at around GBP2.50, €2.80 per 200 pack from all the main supermarkets or in the tourist areas. ( updated Dec 2022 )
Sleep [ edit ]
There are many luxury 4- and 5-star resorts along the Atlantic coastline. Further in land there are eco camps and lodges which offer basic accommodation usually in natural surroundings.
Work [ edit ]
Stay safe [ edit ].
There are a number of very commonly used scams in The Gambia. If someone stops you on the street, they may tell you that they remember you from the hotel you're staying at and that they work there. They may invite you to another hotel, but this could be a scam to attempt to rob you. Also, because people are constantly looking for ways to support themselves, if they offer you assistance or directions, it may be understood that they expect some monetary compensation.
Sadly, many Gambian military have an unfavorable view of Brits (sometimes white people in general) and can be extremely racist. Expect it especially at border crossings as you will almost always be asked to pay to have your passport stamped and receive more than a few insults aimed at not only your country but also yourself when you refuse to pay. As always, do NOT pay any bribes as you're only making the problem worse, not just for tourists but the locals that are already struggling to fight the rampant corruption. Absolutely do not mention calling an embassy as this will only enrage them and start another string of abuse, as your embassy has no control over them and they hate the thought of it. If you've made friends with a Gambian they might possibly be able to help but as The Gambia is seen as one of the most repressive countries in Africa, they may be putting themselves at risk of punishment - so don't get annoyed if you're not assisted.
Scams also exist in which marijuana is offered to tourists or they are invited to come smoke in a home, only to find police waiting for a hefty bribe. A simple "Sorry, I am in a hurry" could suffice to dismiss them. But don't tell them why you are in a hurry and don't say anything else after that as this may lead to a conversation, and this could lead to unwanted attention and possibly a scam. Also remember that some Bumsters are not unemployed or young, and never fall for hardship stories. Should you feel you want to give a person some money out of sympathy or just to get rid of them it will certainly lead them to ask you for more money at a later date should you meet again. Some recommend a stern and harsh response to such requests, but this should be informed by your values and the relationship formed with the individual in question. Keep in mind that you may see this person again, and they could truly be helpful if you're in a jam or need information. Many people in tourist areas are merely 'friendly facilitators' who may hope for an exchange of favors, but are harmless. Being overly guarded could deny you an offer to join a local family for a traditional meal, or to personally meet one of the craftspeople who make the local goods for sale.
The Gambia is a great holiday destination but just keep your guard up at all times.
When swimming, be aware that the currents in the Atlantic waters can be strong. Always look out for flags on the tourist beaches indicating the level of danger on a red — yellow — green scale.
Be careful about your political opinions, as such critical opinions against the government are considered a crime.
Active homosexuals could be in extreme danger in The Gambia, subject to possible arrest or even killing.
Stay healthy [ edit ]
Yellow fever vaccination is strongly recommended. Meningitis vaccination is recommended. Anti- malaria pills are also necessary. Most cases of malaria in The Gambia are contracted between June and December. Mefloquine, Doxycycline or Malarone are the medicines of choice for The Gambia, and for most of sub-Saharan Africa, because of the increasing chloroquine resistance.
It is a good idea to bring insect repellent , sunscreen and other health items from your home country since these may be hard to find in some areas.
Residents say the tap water is drinkable, but for travelers bottled or boiled water is advised, because you may get sick from the different minerals and microbes in the water.
Respect [ edit ]
Always ask before you take a photo of anyone. Some Gambians have certain beliefs about having their picture taken, in particular by a stranger.
Connect [ edit ]
- Africell is the major 4G operator in the country and sell points can be found nearly everywhere. They will ask for your passport and will sell you an activated SIM card in minutes. The connection is usually good in Banjul and Senegambia beach area. a 1 Gigabyte data card used to cost 450 dalasis as April 2023.
Go next [ edit ]
- Senegal is both north and south of The Gambia. There are excursions to Fathala Reserve just north of the border.
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Make planning your next getaway easy with a Gambia vacation package. Whether it's the food scene, history or something else entirely that brings you to this destination, our packages will help you discover it all. Your trip to Gambia wouldn't be complete without spending some time in some of its most popular cities, such as Serrekunda , Kerr Serign and Kotu . Expedia has everything you need for organizing your Gambia vacation. From accommodations and flights, to car rentals and activities, we know how to curate a travel experience like no other.
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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in gambia, kololi beach.
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Kololi Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Serrekunda. Amble around the area's parks or visit its spas.
Bijilo Beach
If a restful vacation is part of your travel plans, Bijilo Beach might be the perfect place to seek out during your trip to Serrekunda. Amble around the area's parks or visit its spas.
Senegambia Craft Market
You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Senegambia Craft Market during your trip to Kotu. Discover the area's sunsets and bars.
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Your full Wanderlust guide to travel in Gambia
It’s no wonder that The Gambia is so popular with winter holidaymakers. Friendly, tropical and peaceful, The Gambia is a short flight from Northern Europe and its costal resorts around Banjul are perfect for a lazy poolside break.
More intrepid travellers can head inland to find more classic West African landscapes. Cruise along the River Gambia to spot playful chimpanzees or basking hippos and trace the history of the slave trade at James Island.
Birders will be in seventh heaven at the Bao Bolon Wetland Reserve, a protected area of salt flats, marshland and wetland that is home to a huge number of species.
- Capital city: Banjul
- Population: 2.5 million
- Money: Gambian Dalasi
- Int dialing code: + 220
- Languages: Mandingo, Fula & English
- Visas: For visits of less than a month, you don’t need to get a visa before you travel.
- Voltage: 230 V
- Time: GMT + 0
Wanderlust recommends
- Stay at a bush lodge on the edge of the Makasutu Culture Forest
- Say hello to the chimps at the Chimpanzee Reserve
- Enjoy a Robinson Crusoe moment at Jinack Island – an unspoilt beach cut off from the mainland
- Munch on local produce at a lumo (country market)
- Get your money’s worth out of those binoculars at the Abuko Nature Reserve – home to wild birds, reptiles and monkeys
Further Reading
When to go to the gambia.
Daytime temperatures average around 30°C year round. The dry season is mid-October to early June; this is also the main tourist season.
Manatees are found in the River Gambia National Park between February and June. They are frequently heard and sometimes seen. The best time for birdwatching is early in the dry season and early in the rainy season , when migrants arrive.
International airport
Banjul (BJL), 24km from the city
Getting around in The Gambia
The Gambia has no trains and no internal flights. Most local people get around using the bush taxi , which can be a converted minibus, estate car, van or even cart in rural areas.
Hiring a Land Rover or bike is a fine way of getting around in your own sweet time and allows you to get off the beaten track.
The Gambia accommodation
Most travellers to The Gambia will have pre-arranged hotels booked as part of a package. However, it is possible to travel independently , providing you stay away from the resort hotels used by the tour operators.
There are a growing number of riverside ecolodges up country. At the budget end, there are a few tourist guesthouses and homestays. You’ll also find a YMCA hostel in Kanifing, near Serrekunda and an official campsite in Sukuta.
The Gambia food & drink
Tourist restaurants tend to be mediocre. For a more authentic experience, head to ‘chop shops’, street stalls or beach bars for some good honest grub. Look for anywhere busy with locals.
Gambian dishes to try include chicken yassa (chicken marinated with onion, lime, garlic and chilli), M’bahal rice (rice mixed with dried fish, groundnuts and peppers) and pate made from bonga , a local bony fish. Gambians also love afra – a local street-style version of the barbecue where you pick the raw meat and watch it be seasoned and sizzled over a hot grill while you wait.
Strict vegetarians will suffer as often even the rice is cooked in meat stock.
Health & safety in The Gambia
Malaria is prevalent; take prophylaxis, especially if visiting in the summer. Get medical advice on inoculations. You may need a yellow fever certificate – check before you go. Don’t drink the tap water .
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GAMBIA GUIDE
What's the weather like?
It's fair to say that The Gambia enjoys an idyllic climate with temperatures regularly in the low 30s, virtually no rainfall from November to June and a cooling sea breeze.
How much do things cost?
Generally speaking, you'll find your money goes a long way in The Gambia with everyday items like meals, drinks and snacks being very reasonably priced.
How do I get around?
Despite having a fairly rudimentary, if steadily improving, road system and little in the way of public transport, The Gambia is a very easy country to navigate.
In the evenings you might wish to stay in your hotel and enjoy evening entertainment or you could try venturing out to explore the myriad of restaurants and bars.
Food & Restaurants
One of the reasons customers return to The Gambia time and time again is the quality and diversity of the cuisine. You'll certainly not struggle to find new places to eat - and we offer exclusive discount vouchers!
Resort Areas
Kololi and Kotu are the two busiest resort areas in The Gambia - and where a good portion of the hotels we offer are situated - but there are other places to explore.
Shopping in The Gambia
You'll have fun shopping in The Gambia where bargaining and haggling is very much the name of the game - for everything from fruit, to shoes to souvenirs!
Culture, Language & Religion
The Gambia has a fascinating marriage of culture, language, religion and tradition, evident in all aspects of everyday life and in the festivals that take place each year.
Festivals & Music
Music is a part of everyday life in The Gambia and there are a number of festivals that take place each year, most of these are based around annual Islamic festivals.
The banks of the River Gambia have been inhabited for many centuries, but the archaeological evidence is as yet insufficient to throw much light on early Gambia history.
The Gambia Experience with the assistance of our generous customers has long been a supporter of the burgeoning Gambian education system.
Despite the growth of tourism, the economy of The Gambia is still predominantly agricultural, with the majority of Gambians earning their living from the land and sea.
Further areas to explore
There are many resort areas to explore, however, there are few places well off the beaten track that you may wish to explore too.
Fab holiday, all that we wanted. Can’t wait until next year. Makes one appreciate what one has at home.
Mr Davidson – Guest – Palma Rima
African Princess Beach Hotel
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" Loads of sunbeds so no problem. Don't talk to gardeners they loose their jobs . Checkout Beach locals very friendly "
" Book a swim up room, they’re worth it. Look for Abraham (Subaru) in the taxi rank, he’ll walk round the market with you and always haggle!! "
" Just a lovely country to visit , the weather is always great & the people, we have been coming for 35 years ! "
" Book this hotel is one of the Best in Gambia "
" Not suitable for children. Take pounds sterling to change into local currency at the hotel. Many of the bars and restaurants only take cash. "
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AFRICAN PRINCESS BEACH HOTEL - Updated 2024
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These beach resorts in Gambia have a bar or lounge available on the premises: Sunbeach Hotel & Resort - Traveler rating: 4.5/5. Coco Ocean Resort and Spa - Traveler rating: ... Gambia Tourism Gambia Hotels Gambia Bed and Breakfast Gambia Vacation Rentals Flights to Gambia Gambia Restaurants Things to Do in Gambia Gambia Travel Forum Gambia ...
Starting with the largest and liveliest coastal resort, Kololi, and ending upcountry by Baboon Island, here is my guide to the hotels and tourist resorts of The Gambia. From luxurious beachside spa hotels such as Coco Ocean to the unique river lodges of Mandina and from the budget-friendly, African Village to the family-friendly, Senegambia ...
Kololi & Kotu are the two busiest resort areas in The Gambia, Banjul, Serekunda, Bakau and Brikama are also great places to explore whilst on your Gambian ad. 01489 _ 866999 Open Today: 9am - 7pm ... They also provide a Foreign Travel Checklist but be aware that advice can change regularly so please check regularly for updates. The Gambia ...
Sanyang Resorts. Banjul Resorts. Kerr Serign Resorts. Kartong Resorts. Central River Division Resorts. Janjanbureh Resorts. Sukuta Resorts. North Bank Division Resorts. Yundum Resorts.
Gambia Hotels Information. Hotels in Gambia: 382: Hotels Prices From: £16: Hotels Reviews: 22,329: Hotels Photos: 28,159: Popular Places in Gambia. Kotu. ... Gambia Tourism Gambia Hotels Bed and Breakfast Gambia Gambia Holiday Rentals Flights to Gambia Gambia Restaurants Gambia Attractions Gambia Travel Forum Gambia Photos Gambia Map.
Coco Ocean Resort and Spa. Djembe Beach Resort. Golden Beach Hotel. Fajara All Inclusive Resort. Kajamor. Tamala Beach Resort. Senegambia Beach Hotel. Palm Beach Hotel. Best Gambia Resorts on Tripadvisor: Find traveller reviews, candid photos, and prices for 7 resorts in Gambia, Africa.
Balafon Beach Resort. in Kololi. 7.7 Good 377 reviews. Situated in Kololi, 1.5 km from Senegambia Beach with its strip of restaurants and bars, Balafon Beach Resort features accommodation with a restaurant, free private parking, a fitness centre and a bar. Among the various facilities of this property are a garden, a private beach area.
8. Sanyang Village and Beach. Source: flickr. Sanyang Village. This is a sleepy beach village of about 7,000 people made up mostly of Wolof, Mandinka, Fula, and Jola tribes. Sangyang Beach, which is made up of Paradise, Osprey, and Pelican beaches, is considered by many to be the best beachfront in all of The Gambia.
5. Beach Resorts Prices From. £29. Beach Resorts Reviews. 1,743. Beach Resorts Photos. 2,612. Frequently Asked Questions about beach resorts. Do any beach resorts in Gambia have a pool?
The Gambia may be the smallest country on the continent, but its captivating array of attractions belies its tiny size. Surrounded by Senegal, The Gambia has a mere 50 miles (80km) of coastline, but what a magnificent stretch it encompasses: golden beaches backed by swaying palms and sprinkled with scenic lagoons, sleepy fishing villages and biologically rich coastal reserves.
They offer a good service and you will get to travel in a small group (usually 1 to 6 persons). Beware that there are false official guides, so always meet them at their offices, around tourist resorts. Talk [edit] Languages spoken in The Gambia are English (the official language), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, Sarrancule and other indigenous languages.
Bundle your Gambia flight + hotel & save up to 100% off your flight with Expedia. FREE cancellation on select hotels ... Gambia Travel Guide Gambia Hotels Vacation Rentals in Gambia Gambia Flights Car Rentals in Gambia. Gambia Vacations & Trips from $3,538 Book a Hotel + Flight or Car together to unlock savings.
188. PLAN YOUR TRIP. Gambia. This small country in western Africa has become more popular recently as a beach destination for European travelers. It's a relatively short flight, there's no time difference, and lodging is generally very affordable. River Island National Park in Banjul is fantastic for watching wildlife (especially the native ...
The Gambia accommodation. Most travellers to The Gambia will have pre-arranged hotels booked as part of a package. However, it is possible to travel independently, providing you stay away from the resort hotels used by the tour operators. There are a growing number of riverside ecolodges up country. At the budget end, there are a few tourist ...
On Gambia's Tourism. Press Release . 30 August 2017 . Tourism promotion . 30 August 2017 . The Gambia attends UNWTO Global Conference . 30 August 2017 . PRESS RELEASE: UPDATED TRAVEL ADVICE . 30 August 2017 . The World's Ten Best Ethical Destinations 2021: Special COVID-19 Edition ...
Our Gambia travel guide is full of fantastic information to prepare you for your perfect holiday in The Gambia. Check out our Gambia guide now. 01489 _ 866999 ... Kololi and Kotu are the two busiest resort areas in The Gambia - and where a good portion of the hotels we offer are situated - but there are other places to explore.
Now £136 on Tripadvisor: African Princess Beach Hotel, Gambia/Kololi. See 254 traveller reviews, 588 candid photos, and great deals for African Princess Beach Hotel, ranked #1 of 16 hotels in Gambia/Kololi and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor. Prices are calculated as of 21/04/2024 based on a check-in date of 28/04/2024.
An interactive map of the main tourist resort areas in Gambia. Information, photos and accommodation links.
Rainbow Tourism Group (RTG) and Grand Metropolitan Hotels (GMH) are delighted to announce partnership with Schweizerische Hotelfachschule Lucerne, a renowned Swiss hotel school, to launch the Swiss African Academy of Hospitality and Management (SAAHM). The hospitality academy will be a world-class ...