Kachikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau: A Visitor's Guide

The Kachikally Crocodile Pool is a sacred site in Bakau where over 80 Nile crocodiles live, regarded by locals as spiritual animals with healing powers, especially for fertility rituals.

Located on Kachikally Street in Bakau, about 30 kilometers west of Banjul, the pool is roughly 15 meters across and surrounded by thick tropical foliage. The site holds deep cultural importance for the local community, who believe the crocodiles possess medicinal qualities. People come here to perform rituals, seeking blessings or cures, especially for fertility issues. The crocodiles themselves are respected and treated carefully, a practice rooted in centuries-old traditions.

Beyond its cultural role, Kachikally functions as a conservation area aimed at protecting the local Nile crocodile population, which numbers around 80 individuals. The site receives near 5,000 visitors per year, including Gambians and international tourists. Conservation efforts include habitat maintenance and guided interaction to ensure the wellbeing of both animals and visitors.

Sources: UNESCO Tentative List, Lonely Planet (last checked April 2026).

Kachikally Crocodile Pool is accessible by taxi or local transport from Banjul, with a 30 to 40-minute journey costing between 50 and 100 Gambian dalasi per person; it is also within walking distance from central Bakau.

From Banjul, take a taxi along the Banjul-Kotu Road (South Bank Road), asking the driver to stop at Kachikally Street in Bakau. Taxi fares should be negotiated before departure to avoid overcharging, with a typical cost of 150–200 GMD round trip. Alternatively, the 'Gelly-Gelly' shared minibus service runs regularly between Banjul and Bakau; fares range from 50 to 100 GMD per passenger depending on the route and time, with multiple stops along the way.

If staying in Bakau, the pool lies about 1.5 kilometers from the town center. Walking along Kachikally Road takes roughly 20 minutes. The route passes small shops and roadside stalls, giving a glimpse of local life and the smell of grilled fish from nearby eateries. The entrance gate is clearly marked with a painted sign and a small ticket booth.

For more on local transport options, see Getting Around The Gambia: Bush Taxis, Ferries & Tips.

Visitors pay a 150 GMD entrance fee and can join 30-60 minute guided tours that explain the pool’s cultural role and conservation, while viewing and sometimes touching the crocodiles under close supervision.

The admission area is a small open-air ticket stand near the entrance gate. The surrounding air carries a mix of damp earth and tropical vegetation, with occasional faint scents of fish from the pond. The pool itself is shaded by tall trees, and the water is murky green.

Guides lead visitors around the pool, pointing out and naming various crocodiles. They explain the rituals connected to the site and answer questions about the animals’ behaviour and conservation status. Visitors often hear the slow splash of crocodiles sliding into the water and the occasional croak of frogs nearby.

During feeding times, guides sometimes allow visitors to touch the crocodiles’ backs, which feel rough and leathery but surprisingly cool. Strict safety rules are enforced: visitors must stay behind barriers except when invited forward, and no sudden movements are allowed. Photography is permitted but flash should be avoided.

A small souvenir stall near the exit sells wood carvings, beaded jewelry, and woven baskets priced from 200 to 1,000 GMD. Basic restrooms are available close by.

For more on local culture and attractions in Bakau, visit Kotu Beach: Swimming, Sunbathing, and Birdwatching.

The dry season, from November to April, is the best time to visit Kachikally Crocodile Pool due to lower humidity and cooler temperatures; mornings and late afternoons provide the most comfortable conditions.

During these months, daytime temperatures average 25–30°C with less chance of afternoon rain. Crocodiles tend to be more visible outside the water, sunbathing along the muddy edges. Visitors should avoid the hottest hours between 12 PM and 3 PM when the sun can be intense.

Weekdays generally see fewer local visitors, so planning your visit from Monday to Thursday helps avoid crowds. The pool is open daily from 9 AM until 6 PM.

Check Gambia Weather Month by Month: When to Visit for detailed climate data.

Visitors must follow guide instructions closely, maintain a safe distance from the crocodiles, and supervise children at all times to ensure safety during interactions at Kachikally Crocodile Pool.

Although the crocodiles are accustomed to human presence, they remain wild animals capable of sudden movements. Guides are trained to control the animals during feeding and interaction periods and will advise visitors on acceptable behaviour. Touching crocodiles is only allowed under strict supervision and never near the head or tail.

The pool area has uneven earthen paths and some slippery spots near the water. Closed-toe shoes with good grip are recommended to prevent falls. Sun protection is essential, as shade is limited in some parts. Drinking water is advised since no bottled water sales occur inside the site.

For general safety and health advice while travelling in The Gambia, see Gambia Travel Tips: Safety, Health, and Practical Advice.

The entrance fee to Kachikally Crocodile Pool is 150 Gambian dalasi (GMD), roughly £2.50, payable in cash; guided tours are usually included in this price.

This fee supports the upkeep of the pool and the conservation of the crocodile population. Tourists are advised to carry small bills as there are no card payment options. Additional costs may include transport fares and souvenirs.

Sources: Government of The Gambia (last checked April 2026).

Visitors should show respect for local beliefs by not making loud noises, asking permission before photographs, and following guide instructions carefully at the sacred crocodile site.

The pool is a place of spiritual significance where fertility and healing rituals occur. Loud talking, running, or disrespectful behaviour is frowned upon. Some crocodiles are considered sacred ancestors, so visitors should avoid touching animals without explicit permission.

It is polite to greet guides and staff and to tip if satisfied with the service. Avoid wearing bright colours or strong perfumes that may disturb the animals. When entering the site, removing hats or sunglasses during rituals is considered courteous.

Bakau has a range of accommodations within 2 kilometers of Kachikally Crocodile Pool, from budget guesthouses starting at 500 GMD per night to mid-range hotels charging around 3,000 GMD.

Many lodgings in Bakau are located along Kachikally Road and nearby streets such as Sanyang Road and Bertil Harding Highway. These areas provide easy access to the pool and local amenities including restaurants and shops. The coastal road runs close by, offering beach access less than 3 km from the pool.

Budget options include family-run guesthouses with simple rooms and shared bathrooms. Mid-range hotels provide air conditioning, private bathrooms, and sometimes swimming pools. For longer stays, some lodges offer homemade Gambian cuisine on-site.

See Where to Stay in The Gambia: Best Areas and Hotels for detailed lodging options.

Nearby Bakau attractions include Cape Point Beach 2 kilometers away, Bijilo Forest Park 5 kilometers south, and Bakau Market along Bertil Harding Highway for local crafts and produce.

Cape Point Beach has calm waters and shaded spots for resting after the crocodile pool visit. Bijilo Forest Park, also known as Monkey Park, has several species of monkeys and birds and is accessible by taxi or bush taxi from Bakau. The Bakau Market on Bertil Harding Highway provides a chance to buy fresh fruit, spices, and handmade souvenirs.

Public transport connects these sites efficiently, with bush taxis running every 15-20 minutes during the day. Walking from Kachikally Pool to Cape Point Beach takes about 25 minutes on paved roads.

For more on local attractions, see Bijilo Forest Park: Monkeys and Birds on Gambia’s Coast and Cape Point Beach in Bakau: Calm Waters and Local Life.

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