True Essence Gambia & Senegal: Banjul, Fathala & Kunta Kinteh

3-Days Tour: Banjul City, Kachikally Crocodile Pool, Safari in Fathala, Sine-Saloum Delta Excursion & Heritage in Kunta Kinteh 

Reference Package: P.03

Day 1 – Banjul, Bakau Market & Kachikally Crocodile Pool 

Unveil the Colors and Culture of Gambia’s Capital

Your adventure begins with a full-day exploration of Banjul, the vibrant capital of The Gambia, where everyday life, history, and tradition come together.

Start your day at Arch 22, the iconic 35-meter-high monument commemorating the 1994 political change. Climb to the top and enjoy panoramic views over Banjul and the River Gambia, gaining insight into the city’s layout and its historical importance.

Continue to the National Museum of The Gambia, where carefully curated exhibitions reveal the country’s pre-colonial and colonial past, ethnic diversity, and cultural evolution.

Afterwards, travel to Bakau, a lively coastal town. Visit the sacred Kachikally Crocodile Pool, a revered spiritual site believed to bring fertility, protection, and healing. Here, crocodiles live peacefully alongside humans, and visitors may even touch one of these gentle creatures.

Time permitting, enjoy the Bakau craft market and the nearby fish market by the sea, where vibrant colors, sounds, and daily local life offer an authentic cultural experience.

Day 2 – Safari in Fathala & Delta of Sine-Saloum

We begin with pick-up from your accommodation and a ferry crossing over the Gambia River to enter Senegal.

Our first stop is the Fathala Wildlife Reserve, a sanctuary of over 2,000 hectares of forest and savannah. Aboard a 4x4 safari vehicle and guided by a local expert, you’ll encounter iconic animals such as giraffes, white rhinos, zebras, buffaloes, and the rare giant eland antelope.

For the adventurous, there is the option to book a safe “Lion Walk” (optional), a unique opportunity to walk alongside these majestic animals.

After the safari, we continue to the peaceful village of Toubakouta, where you’ll discover the essence of rural Senegalese life through its streets, markets, and traditions. This is a chance to connect with the daily rhythm of the community.
We recommend accommodation at La Teranga Toubakouta, a comfortable lodge with pool and fresh local cuisine, though you are free to choose the lodging that best suits your preferences.

In the afternoon, embark on a magical boat tour through the Sine-Saloum Delta, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.

• Visit Shell Island, crowned by an ancient baobab tree, offering panoramic views of mangroves and nearby villages.

• Glide through lush mangrove tunnels, listening to the unique crackling sound of oysters attached to the roots.

• Reach Bird Island, where at sunset hundreds of birds return to their nests — a breathtaking natural spectacle.

As the sun sets, we return to Toubakouta, where you’ll enjoy a serene evening surrounded by nature and local hospitality.

Day 3 – Kunta Kinteh Island, Juffureh & Albreda

After breakfast, we return to The Gambia to dive into its profound history.

Our journey takes us to the historic villages of Albreda and Juffureh, where you will meet descendants of Kunta Kinteh, the character immortalized in Alex Haley’s Roots. Here, you’ll also visit the Juffureh Museum, which preserves the memory of the transatlantic slave trade.

We then cross the river by traditional boat to Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ruins of the old slave fort, a place of reflection and remembrance, where countless stories of resilience are held within its walls.

In the afternoon, we take the ferry back across the Gambia River and transfer you to your hotel, closing a journey that blends wildlife, culture, and history into two unforgettable days.

Throughout both days, you’ll enjoy unique cultural encounters, making this tour a true immersion into the essence of West Africa.

Highlights

• Full-day cultural tour of Banjul & Bakau

• Arch 22 panoramic views & National Museum visit

• Sacred Kachikally Crocodile Pool

• Full-day safari in the Fathala Wildlife Reserve with a local guide

• Viewing of iconic wild animals like giraffes, white rhinos, zebras, buffaloes, and eland antelope

• Cultural experience in the village of Toubakouta

• Boat excursion through the Sine-Saloum Delta, including Shell Island, mangroves, and Bird Island at sunset 

• Visit to the historic villages of Albreda and Juffureh

• Tour of the Juffureh Museum

• Exploration of Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

• Ferry and traditional boat crossings on the Gambia River

• Overnight in  Toubakouta Village. Accommodation recommended at La Teranga Toubakouta with pool and local cuisine (optional)

What You Need to Know

• Duration: 3 full days, including pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation

• Price: €300 per person with a minimum booking of 2 people

• Solo traveller price: €400

• Includes: transportation, border crossing assistance, ferry, guide, activities and entrance fees

• Not included: Accommodation, meals, personal expenses and travel insurance. Airport pick-up and drop-off (available upon request at a cost of €40 per way). 

• Accommodation Assistance: Stays are not included, but we can help arrange reservations at recommended lodges and hotels for clients who wish. 

• Yellow fever vaccination recommended (alternatives available)

• Passport required for international border crossing

• Recommended: Comfortable clothing, sun protection, and camera

Ready to experience the true essence of The Gambia and Senegal in just three unforgettable days?
For more details, availability, group prices, and preparation tips, please contact me directly through the contact form. I’ll personally help you plan your visit to ensure a smooth and unforgettable trip.