Cruises, fishing trips, and mangrove creek excursions on the Gambia River.
The Gambia River is more than just a geographical feature—it's a lifeline that welcomes you to experience the country from a distinctive vantage point. With river cruises, fishing expeditions, and mangrove explorations, there's plenty to engage water enthusiasts.
River cruises typically range from half-day to multi-day trips, with popular options departing from Banjul or the coastal town of Lamin.
Half-day cruises often see the tranquil stretches around Oyster Creek and Denton Bridge. For a more immersive experience, opt for a longer trip up to Janjanbureh, where you can spot hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species. Prices start around GMD 1,200 per person for shorter trips.
The Gambia River offers excellent fishing spots around Tendaba and Kuntaur, with options for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
In Tendaba, you can join local guides for a fishing trip targeting catfish and bonga. Kuntaur is known for its peaceful settings and opportunities to catch species like Nile perch. Fishing trips usually cost between GMD 1,500 and GMD 2,500, depending on the duration and equipment provided.
Guided kayaking and canoe tours are the best ways to see the mangrove creeks around Bolong Fenyo and Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve.
These tours generally last 2-3 hours and offer a close-up view of the mangrove ecosystem, home to diverse birdlife and other wildlife. Tours start at around GMD 1,000 per person, and it's advisable to book in advance, especially during the dry season from November to May.
Lamin Lodge, located 20 km south of Banjul, serves traditional Gambian dishes like grilled fish for around GMD 350. Built on stilts over mangroves since 1998, the lodge provides dining amid tidal waters that can rise up to 1.5 meters during the rainy season from June to October.
Makasutu Culture Forest, located 30 km south of Banjul, covers 2,000 hectares of dense tropical woodland. Guided canoe trips along the Gambia River start at GMD 500, while walking tours through the forest’s 5 km trail highlight over 200 bird species native to the area.
The Gambia River stretches over 1,120 kilometers, flowing through Banjul, where daily river cruises cost around 500 GMD ($10). These trips pass dense mangrove forests and allow sightings of up to 150 hippos, while stopping at riverside villages inhabited since the 15th century.
River Gambia National Park, established in 1979, spans 585 hectares along the Gambia River near Banjul and protects over 100 chimpanzees. Entry fees for tourists are 500 GMD, with guided tours to Baboon Islands located 20 km upriver, home to colonies of green monkeys and baboons.
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