Gambia may be a small country, but it is rich in attractions from colonial towns, traditional villages, secluded beaches, wildlife, natural surroundings, and cultural hubs.Considered the most approachable country in West Africa, travelers will feel instantly welcome. For first-time visitors, pre-booking through reputable tour operators is the best way to make the most out of your visit.
Abuko Nature Reserve
A well-managed nature reserve that is easy to reach from major resorts and attractions, it’s possible to explore Abuko on foot to see more than 300 species of birds, reptiles, forest antelopes, monkeys, and crocodiles. From here, head upstream to learn about the colonial history of Gambia in the twin villages of Jufureh and Albreda.
Address: Banjul, Gambia
Phone: +220-778-26-33
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Kiang West National Park
Explore varied terrain consisting of grasslands, dry woodlands, mud flats, and mangrove creeks in Kiang West National Park, the largest of its kind in Gambia and a recommended destination for birdwatchers. It is home to a wide variety of mammals like baboons, warthogs, bushbabies, marsh mongooses, and colobus monkeys. If you’re lucky, you might even see crocodiles, dolphins and hyenas. You can stay near Kiang West National Park in Tendaba Camp, which offers self-catering bungalows and luxury rentals.
Address: Kiang Central, Gambia
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Kotu
This beach is considered the best in the main resort strip of Gambia. Kotu is a suitable holiday destination for everyone who would like to experience a less commercialized white sand beach. It has avoided overdevelopment so it still maintains somewhat of an exotic charm that is rare in tourist areas. The area is a great starting point for discovering the wildlife and bird watching in the wetlands of Kotu Creek, as well as for fishing and snorkeling expeditions.
Address: Kotu, Serrekunda, Gambia
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Makasutu Culture Forest
A well known eco-attraction in Gambia, discover the woodland fauna and learn the basics of medicinal plants on a cultural tour through the forest. Boat trips are also organized via dugout canoes. Camps and lodges can be found within the park if you want to stay overnight.
Address: Serrekunda, Gambia
Phone: n/a
Website: http://www.makasutu.com/
Wassu Stone Circles
These mysterious stone circles are located in Wassu in eastern Gambia and are believed to be ancient burial sites. The Wassu Stone Circles are a man-made wonder that is estimated to be over 1,200 years old. Megalithic in origin, they stand one to two and a half meters tall.
Address: Wassu, eastern Gambia
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Janjanbureh Island
Situated in eastern Gambia, Janjanbureh Island lies in the heart of the river. It boasts unspoiled natural surroundings where visitors can enjoy bird watching and leisurely walking paths. It is home to a small town which is a great stopover before heading to the Wassu Stone Circles.
Address: Janjanbureh, Gambia
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Banjul
The capital of Gambia is home to the National Museum and remnants of the country’s colonial architecture, especially near July 22nd Square. Arch 22 is an inviting climb and a good vantage point for 360-degree views of the city. Go shopping at Albert Market to immerse yourself in daily life in Banjul.
Address: Banjul, Gambia
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Serrekunda and the Atlantic Coast
Gambia’s biggest urban center is a bustling marketplace near the Atlantic coastal resorts like Kololi, Kotu Strand, Fajara, and Bakau. Tourists and beach bums flock to Serrekunda for nightclubs and good restaurants. The area is easy to reach by minibus or bush taxi.
Address: Serrekunda, Gambia
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