to do in the Gambia

Sanyang Beach – A Hidden Gem in The Gambia

Sanyang Beach is one of The Gambia’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches. Located just north of the villa, it offers wide stretches of golden sand, rolling waves, and a relaxed, authentic atmosphere.

A popular spot along the beach is Rainbow Beach Resort, well known for its welcoming vibe, good food, and comfortable beach setting. It is a great place to spend a full day by the ocean — swimming, relaxing under the palm trees, or enjoying fresh seafood and cold drinks while listening to the sound of the waves.

Sanyang Beach is loved by both locals and visitors because it feels peaceful and natural, without the crowds. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike appreciate the open space and laid-back energy. It is also a wonderful place to watch the sunset, which is often spectacular.

Whether you want a quiet walk along the shore, a refreshing swim, or a relaxed lunch at Rainbow Beach Resort, Sanyang Beach offers an authentic and memorable beach experience in The Gambia.

Doudou’s Restaurant – Kartong (Near the Senegal Border)

Doudou’s Restaurant in Kartong is a unique and much-loved spot, beautifully located near the river at the southern border of The Gambia, close to Senegal. It is especially famous for its freshly caught prawns, which many guests consider some of the best in the country.

The setting is relaxed and natural, with views over the water and surrounding greenery. It’s a wonderful place to enjoy a long, easy meal while watching local life along the river. The prawns are prepared fresh, simply and full of flavor, often grilled or cooked in a traditional style.

One of the special aspects of Doudou’s is its location near the crossing point to Senegal. From here, visitors can arrange a small boat crossing for a short and memorable trip across the border, making it a popular stop for adventurous travelers and day-trippers.

The Snake Farm – A Fascinating Visit Near Kartong

The Snake Farm, located along the South Bank Road on the way to Kartong, is one of The Gambia’s most interesting and educational attractions. It is a popular stop for visitors who want to learn more about the country’s wildlife in a safe and controlled environment.

Visitors have the opportunity to observe the animals up close and, if they wish, even carefully hold a snake under the supervision of the staff. The experience is both exciting and informative, even for those who are not usually comfortable around snakes.

The Snake Farm focuses on education and conservation and helps visitors better understand the role reptiles play in The Gambia’s ecosystem. It is a great activity for families, couples, and curious travelers looking for something different during their stay.

Monkey Park Kololi – A Must-See Experience in The Gambia

A visit to Monkey Park in Kololi is a truly memorable experience for all ages. As you walk through the park, you’ll encounter friendly monkeys roaming freely among the trees. You can even feed the monkeys, which makes the visit extra special and great for photos.

If you like, a local guide can join you and share interesting stories about the monkeys, the park, and the surrounding nature. The guides are knowledgeable, relaxed, and make the walk even more enjoyable.

Monkey Park is a fun, lighthearted outing and a great way to experience The Gambia’s wildlife up close — definitely worth a visit during your stay.

Lamin Lodge – Food, Nature & Relaxation in The Gambia

Lamin Lodge is a beautiful and peaceful spot in The Gambia, perfect for a relaxed day out. Set on wooden decks above the mangroves, it’s a wonderful place to enjoy a delicious meal while surrounded by nature. The food is excellent, fresh, and full of local flavor — many guests say it’s one of the best places to eat in the area.

For something extra special, you can take a scenic boat trip through the mangroves. Gliding quietly through the waterways, you’ll experience the calm, natural beauty of the region and may even spot birds and wildlife along the way.

Whether you come for the food, the views, or a gentle boat ride, Lamin Lodge offers an unforgettable and authentic Gambian experience.

Makasutu Cultural Forest – A Full Day in Nature

Makasutu Cultural Forest is one of The Gambia’s most beautiful natural treasures and a perfect place to spend an entire day. This peaceful area is filled with lush forest, palm groves, and winding mangrove creeks, offering a true escape into nature.

Visitors can enjoy a relaxing boat trip through the mangroves, explore the forest on foot, and spot birds and wildlife along the way. A delicious lunch is usually included, making it easy to slow down and fully enjoy the surroundings. With plenty of shaded spots to sit and relax, Makasutu invites you to take your time and truly connect with nature.

If you love nature, calm surroundings, and authentic experiences, Makasutu is not to be missed.

Monkey Island (Baboon Island) – A Relaxed Nature Escape

Monkey Island, also known as Baboon Island, is a small and peaceful nature spot that’s nice to visit if you’re looking for a quiet escape. While monkeys are sometimes seen here, they are not always easy to spot — it really depends on the day.

What makes the visit especially enjoyable is the calm atmosphere, the natural surroundings, and the good food served on the island. It’s a lovely place to sit back, have a nice meal, and enjoy being outdoors. A short trip to the island is a pleasant way to spend a few relaxed hours surrounded by nature.

Even if you don’t see many monkeys, Monkey Island is still a nice place to visit and unwind.

Tanji Fishing Village – A True Local Experience

A visit to Tanji Fishing Village is an unforgettable experience and one you will notice even before you arrive — the smell of fresh fish tells you you’re getting close. This lively village is where the fishing boats come in with their daily catch, creating a busy and authentic atmosphere.

You can watch the fishermen at work, see the fish being processed, and explore the local market where fresh fish is sold. It’s a fascinating place to experience everyday life in The Gambia and a great spot if you want to buy truly fresh fish.

Tanji is vibrant, raw, and real — not polished, but absolutely worth seeing at least once.

Fishing at Bansang River Lodge – A Unique Inland Experience

Fishing at Bansang River Lodge, deep inland along the river, is a truly special experience. Far from the busy coastal areas, this peaceful setting offers a completely different side of The Gambia. The calm river, wide landscapes, and quiet surroundings make it a perfect place to slow down and enjoy nature.

Whether you’re an experienced angler or just curious to try, fishing here is about much more than the catch. It’s the journey inland, the river views, and the relaxed atmosphere that make it such a memorable experience. A visit to Bansang River Lodge gives you a real sense of The Gambia’s natural beauty and rhythm of life.

James Island (Kunta Kinteh Island) – A Powerful Historical Site

James Island, now known as Kunta Kinteh Island, is one of the most important and emotional historical sites in The Gambia. Located in the River Gambia, this small island played a major role during the transatlantic slave trade and holds a deeply moving history.

Visitors can explore the remains of old forts and buildings while learning about the painful past of enslaved Africans who were held here before being transported overseas. The island is a place of reflection and remembrance, offering insight into a dark chapter of history that should never be forgotten.

A visit to James Island is not light or entertaining, but it is meaningful, educational, and impactful — an experience that leaves a lasting impression. 

The Stone Circles of The Gambia – A Mysterious Journey Through Time

The stone circles of The Gambia are among the country’s most fascinating and mysterious historical sites. Scattered across the landscape, these ancient circles date back more than a thousand years and are believed to be burial sites connected to early civilizations in the region.

Walking among the stones, you can feel the quiet and timeless atmosphere of these places. Very little is known for certain about who built the circles or exactly how they were used, which adds to their mystery and appeal. They offer a rare glimpse into The Gambia’s deep and ancient history, far beyond the colonial era.

A visit to the stone circles is calm, thought-provoking, and truly unique — a must for anyone interested in history, culture, and the hidden stories of The Gambia.

Calypso, Bakau – Ocean Views and Crocodile Feeding

Calypso in Bakau is a relaxed restaurant where you can enjoy a good meal or a drink while looking out over the ocean. It’s a peaceful spot with a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for taking a break and enjoying the coastal views.

Just a short walk away is the famous crocodile pool, where the crocodiles are fed every day around 3:00 PM. Watching the feeding is a fascinating experience and adds something unique to a visit to Calypso.

Together, this makes Calypso a great place to relax, enjoy good food and drinks, and experience one of Bakau’s most interesting local attractions.

Makati – A Place of History, Slavery and Freedom

Makati, located further inland along the river crossing, is an important historical site in The Gambia. This area is closely connected to the history of slavery and the journey toward freedom. The local museum tells the powerful story of enslaved people, their resistance, and their eventual liberation.

A visit to Makati offers insight into a difficult but essential part of history. Through exhibits and local explanations, you learn about the realities of slavery, the crossing points along the river, and the meaning of freedom for the people who lived here.

Makati is not a light stop, but a meaningful and educational place that adds depth and understanding to any trip inland.