8-Day Gambia & Senegal Adventure: Wildlife & Culture
Explore Gambia & Senegal in 8 days! Visit Banjul, see wildlife at Fathala, relax on Sanyang Beach & discover local history. Plan your trip now!
CHEAPA GOOD MIXAFRICA
GAMBIA & SENEGAL
The Smiling Coast
Rated 5 stars by Travelers
★★★★★
About
During this 7-day adventure in The Gambia and Senegal, travelers will explore rich cultural heritage, vibrant wildlife, and serene beaches. The trip begins in Banjul, where markets and colonial history set the tone. Wildlife lovers will enjoy Kachikally Crocodile Pool and Abuko Nature Reserve, while history buffs can explore Kunta Kinteh Island. A safari experience awaits across the border in Senegal at Fathala Wildlife Reserve, followed by a relaxing beach stay in Sanyang. This journey blends authentic local experiences, nature, and history, offering a deep dive into the region’s essence.
Trip Summary
PICKY
DAY 1 - Flight & Arrival
Land in Banjul, explore Albert Market, and relax in Kololi Beach.
DAY 2 - Kachikally & Abuko Reserve
Visit the Crocodile Pool, explore Abuko Nature Reserve, and experience local village life.
DAY 3 - Kunta Kinteh Island
Take a boat to Kunta Kinteh Island, learn about the transatlantic slave trade, and visit Juffureh.
DAY 4 - Fathala Safari (Senegal)
Cross the border into Senegal and enjoy a wildlife safari at Fathala Reserve.
DAY 5 - Tanji Fishing Village & Beach
Explore Tanji’s colorful fishing village, then relax at Sanyang Beach.
DAY 6 - Bird & Beach
Enjoy some bird-watching, and relax in some wild beach in the south
DAY 7 - Return to Banjul
Relax in Banjul, visit the National Museum, and head to the airport.
DAY 8 - Flight
Enjoy (...) your flight back home
$335
$805
More Fancy
Budget Buddies
Price Summary
Per person, based on a 2 persons' trip - flights excluded
Accomodation
Around $20-40 per night
Food
Depending on your stomach
Transfers
Drivers, taxis, buses or car rental
Experiences
Guides, others ...
$90-280
$70-140
$35-105
$140-280
How are prices calculated?
Gallery
When To Go
April to June
Temperatures rise significantly during this period, often exceeding 35°C, especially in inland regions. Coastal areas remain breezy, making them ideal for beach activities. Cultural and historical sites are quieter, allowing for a more peaceful experience. While this can be a great time to visit for those looking to avoid crowds, the extreme heat can make long excursions and trekking quite challenging.
July to October
This is the wettest period, marked by high humidity and frequent but short rain showers. The landscape becomes lush and vibrant, making it a beautiful time for nature lovers. With fewer tourists, prices drop, and the atmosphere is more relaxed. However, some rural roads and hiking trails can become muddy and difficult to navigate. For birdwatchers, this is one of the best times to visit, as migratory species flock to the wetlands.
November to March
This is the dry season, with warm and pleasant temperatures ranging from 25°C to 32°C. It’s the perfect time for wildlife safaris, cultural explorations, and beach relaxation. National parks offer the best game viewing as animals gather around water sources. However, it’s also the peak tourist season, so prices tend to be higher, and accommodations should be booked in advance.
Summary Recommendations:
✅ Best Overall: November – March
The dry, comfortable weather during this period is ideal for safaris, exploring ancient sites, and unwinding on the beach. Wildlife viewing is at its peak, and cultural festivals add to the experience.
🌿 Alternative: April – June
Although temperatures rise, this is a great option for budget travelers and those looking to avoid the tourist crowds. It’s still a good time for beach destinations, and cultural sites remain accessible with fewer visitors.
⚠️ Better to Avoid: July – September
Heavy rains, high humidity, and muddy conditions make it the least favorable time to visit. While it’s great for birdwatching and budget-friendly deals, some national parks and remote areas may be difficult to explore.
Our Proposal
DAY 1
Arrive in Banjul, the capital of The Gambia. Start the day with a visit to Albert Market, a vibrant marketplace filled with colorful fabrics, fresh produce, and local crafts. It’s a perfect place to immerse yourself in the culture and pick up a few souvenirs. In the afternoon, head to Kololi Beach to relax and unwind by the Atlantic Ocean, enjoying the peaceful coastal vibes before a restful evening.
FLIGHT & ARRIVAL
Check out some places to stay
We recommend to stay near the coast, where the atmosphere is more relaxing and accomodations are better maintained
DAY 2
Today, visit the famous Kachikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau, where you can learn about the cultural significance of crocodiles and even take a close look at these fascinating creatures. Afterward, explore Abuko Nature Reserve, a lush forest sanctuary home to a variety of birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Finish the day with a visit to a nearby village, where you’ll get a chance to experience traditional Gambian village life.
KACHIKALLY & ABUKO
DAY 3
Take a boat ride from Banjul to Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that holds a powerful historical significance. The island was once part of the transatlantic slave trade route, and visiting the ruins and memorials provides a sobering look at this part of history. Afterward, head to Juffureh, the village near the island, where you can learn more about the Gambia's slave trade history and the story of Kunta Kinteh.
KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND
DAY 4
Cross the border into Senegal and head to Fathala Wildlife Reserve, a protected area known for its diverse range of wildlife. The reserve is home to animals such as rhinos, giraffes, and antelopes, and offers a unique opportunity for a safari experience. You can also enjoy a guided tour of the park to learn about its conservation efforts and see the animals up close in their natural habitat. Spend the night in a lodge near the reserve, surrounded by the sounds of nature.
FATHALA SAFARI
Check out some places to stay
we suggest to spend the night in a lodge inside the park for a full-experience, or just outside the park to save some money
DAY 5
Return to The Gambia and head to Tanji, a picturesque fishing village where you can witness local fishermen bringing in their catches from the sea. Explore the colorful market and watch the bustling activity along the beach. Later, relax at Sanyang Beach, a quiet stretch of sand perfect for swimming, lounging, or simply enjoying the serene environment.
TANJI & SANYANG
Check out some places to stay
we suggest to spend the night near Sanyang beach, in a beach guesthouse
DAY 6
Begin the day with a guided birdwatching tour in one of The Gambia’s renowned wetland areas, such as the Tanji Bird Reserve or Kartong Wetlands. These locations are home to hundreds of bird species, including vibrant kingfishers, herons, and ospreys. Whether you're an avid birder or a casual nature enthusiast, the peaceful surroundings and diverse wildlife make for a memorable morning.
In the afternoon, head south to explore the untouched beaches near Kartong. These quieter coastal areas, far from the more developed northern beaches, offer a serene escape with golden sands and calm waters. Relax, take a swim, or enjoy a fresh seafood lunch at a beachside eatery. As the sun sets, take a peaceful stroll along the shoreline, soaking in the last moments of tranquility before heading back for the evening.
BIRD & BEACH
DAY 7
On your final day, relax and take in the sights of Banjul. Visit the National Museum to learn more about The Gambia’s history and culture, then spend the rest of the day shopping for souvenirs or strolling along the coast. In the afternoon, head to the airport for your departure, reflecting on the incredible journey through The Gambia and Senegal.
DEPARTURE FROM BANJUL
DAY 8
Based on your schedule, enjoy (...) your flight back