Culture, Tradition & Nature Highlights 

5 - Day Gambia: Culture, Tradition & Nature Highlights 

Reference Package: P.08

Explore Gambia’s vibrant culture, rich history, and stunning natural beauty in 5 days. From wildlife reserves to traditional villages, this journey offers an authentic and immersive experience in the “Smiling Coast of Africa.” 

Day 1 – Welcome to The Gambia

Upon arrival in Gambia, we will welcome you and transfer you to your accommodation . This will be your first contact with the renowned "Smiling Coast of Africa," a place full of energy and warm smiles that will welcome you to the country. After settling in, you will have time to start soaking up the local atmosphere. If you wish, I will accompany you to exchange money, buy a local SIM card, or even go out for dinner at a nearby restaurant so that your Gambian experience begins in the most comfortable and authentic way possible.

Day 2 – Historic Tour: Kunta Kinteh Island & Bijilo Nature Experience

The day begins at Banjul Port, where we start a scenic river journey about 25 km upstream along the Gambia River. Our first stops are Albreda and Juffureh, villages deeply connected to the transatlantic slave trade. You’ll meet direct descendants of Kunta Kinteh and visit the Juffureh Museum, which preserves powerful stories passed down through generations.

Next, a small boat takes us to Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we explore the ruins of the old fort and holding cells, creating a deep emotional connection with history.

In the afternoon, we return to the coast and visit Bijilo Forest Park, enjoying a relaxing walk among green trails, birds, and friendly monkeys before returning.

Day 3 – Makasutu Cultural Forest & Galloya Art Village Tour

We begin at the Makasutu Cultural Forest, where nature, wildlife, and tradition coexist in harmony. Depending on the tide, we’ll start with a canoe ride through mangroves or a guided forest walk learning about medicinal plants and traditional environmental uses.
You’ll spot playful baboons, exotic birds, and other free animals. We’ll meet a palm climber who shows how to extract juice to produce palm wine, which you can taste fresh as “jungle juice.” A local palm reader may offer a brief future reading — a fun Gambian tradition.
In the afternoon, we continue to the village of Galloya, an open-air gallery with colorful murals telling stories of daily life and local spirituality. You’ll connect with the artists and feel the creative pulse of authentic Gambia.

Day  4– Fathala Wildlife Park Safari 

Today we set off on an exciting cross-border journey into Senegal, combining nature, culture, and adventure in the heart of West Africa.

From Banjul, we take the ferry to Barra, a lively crossing where you can observe daily life at the port — fishermen unloading their catch, vendors selling snacks, and travelers mingling in a colorful atmosphere.

From Barra, we continue by road to the Senegalese border, passing rural villages, majestic baobab trees, and glimpses of everyday life. At the border, you’ll notice the blend of Gambian and Senegalese cultures in the greetings, languages, and vibrant fabrics.

Soon, we arrive at the Fathala Wildlife Reserve for an unforgettable safari. In this semi-wild environment, spot giraffes, antelopes, buffaloes, zebras, rhinoceroses, and more. The golden savannah and open landscapes create perfect photo opportunities.

For the adventurous, there’s the optional “lion walk” — a safe, guided experience to walk alongside these majestic animals while learning about their behavior and conservation.

After the safari, we return to the Gambia, crossing the river on the evening ferry to Banjul, ending a day rich in wildlife, landscapes, and the unique chance to explore two countries in one day.

Day 5 – Colors, Crafts, Crocodiles of Bakau,  Monkey Forest & Departure

Start in Serekunda, the largest and busiest market, full of fruits, aromatic spices, colorful fabrics, and local crafts.
Visit a batik factory where artisans create fabrics using traditional wax and dye techniques.
Head to Bakau, a coastal town. Visit the sacred Kachikally Crocodile Pool, where reptiles peacefully coexist with visitors — pet “Charlie,” the friendliest crocodile, if you dare!
Explore the Bakau craft market and the lively fish market by the sea, full of the day’s fresh catch and vibrant coastal life atmosphere.
End with a walk through Bijilo Forest Park, home to playful green and vervet monkeys. The sound of the ocean adds serenity to this natural setting.

We will pick you up from your accommodation and transfer you to the airport for your departure in the afternoon.

Highlights

• Warm welcome to The Gambia and transfer to your accommodation on the “Smiling Coast of Africa”

• Historic River Journey: visit Albreda, Juffureh, and Kunta Kinteh Island (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

• Meet descendants of Kunta Kinteh and explore the history of the transatlantic slave trade at Juffureh Museum

• Bijilo Forest Park: relaxing walk among green and vervet monkeys

• Makasutu Cultural Forest: guided forest walk, mangrove canoe ride, wildlife spotting, and palm wine tasting

• Galloya Art Village: colorful open-air murals, meet local artists, cultural immersion

• Serekunda Market & Batik Workshop: vibrant fabrics, spices, and artisan crafts

• Bakau: visit the sacred Kachikally Crocodile Pool and explore local craft and fish markets

• Fathala Wildlife Reserve Safari (Senegal): spot giraffes, zebras, rhinos, and more

• Optional adventure: the unforgettable Lion Walk at Fathala

What You Need to Know

• Duration: 5 full days, including airport transfers and all planned activities

• Price: €415 per person with a minimum booking of 2 people

• Solo traveller price: €515

• Includes: Transportation within The Gambia, ferry trips, entrance fees to parks and cultural sites, local guides, selected activities.  Airport pick-up and drop-off included.

• Not included: Accommodation, meals, personal expenses and travel insurance.

• Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccine recommended, along with routine vaccinations

• Passport & Visa: Valid passport required; visa may be required depending on nationality—please check with your local embassy
  
  

Ready to discover the rich culture, stunning nature, and warm hospitality of Gambia in 5 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.