The Gambia is a small West African country, renowned for its stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and vibrant culture. It is the smallest country on the continent and is often referred to as the 'Smiling Coast of Africa'. With its rich history, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife, it is a popular tourist destination. Here are the top 20 places to see in The Gambia.
1. Abuko Nature Reserve
The Abuko Nature Reserve is one of the most popular tourist attractions in The Gambia. Located just outside of the capital city of Banjul, the reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including over 250 species of birds. The reserve also offers a variety of activities, such as bird watching, hiking, and nature walks.
2. Tanji Bird Reserve
The Tanji Bird Reserve is a nature reserve located on the Atlantic coast of The Gambia. It is home to a wide variety of birds, including flamingos, pelicans, and other water birds. The reserve also offers a variety of activities, such as bird watching, nature walks, and boat tours.
3. Kachikally Crocodile Pool
The Kachikally Crocodile Pool is a sacred pool located in the heart of Bakau, a small village in The Gambia. The pool is home to over 2,000 crocodiles and is believed to be a source of fertility. It is a popular tourist attraction and visitors can take part in traditional ceremonies and rituals.
4. Bijilo Forest Park
The Bijilo Forest Park is a protected area located near the coast of The Gambia. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds. Visitors can explore the park on foot, take part in bird watching, and enjoy stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. James Island
James Island is a small island located in the Gambia River. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes ruins of a 17th-century fort. Visitors can explore the island on foot, take part in bird watching, and enjoy stunning views of the river.
6. Makasutu Culture Forest
The Makasutu Culture Forest is a nature reserve located near the town of Brikama in The Gambia. The reserve is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds. It is also home to a variety of cultural activities, such as traditional dances, music, and storytelling.
7. Kunta Kinteh Island
Kunta Kinteh Island is a small island located near the town of Juffureh in The Gambia. It is home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which includes ruins of a 17th-century fort. Visitors can explore the island on foot, take part in bird watching, and enjoy stunning views of the river.
8. River Gambia National Park
The River Gambia National Park is a protected area located along the banks of the Gambia River. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds. Visitors can explore the park on foot, take part in bird watching, and enjoy stunning views of the river.
9. Gambia National Museum
The Gambia National Museum is located in the capital city of Banjul. The museum houses a variety of artifacts and exhibits related to the history and culture of The Gambia. Visitors can explore the museum on foot, take part in educational activities, and learn more about the country's past.
10. Banjul Zoo
The Banjul Zoo is located in the capital city of Banjul. The zoo is home to a variety of animals, including lions, elephants, and giraffes. Visitors can explore the zoo on foot, take part in educational activities, and learn more about the animals.
11. Brikama Market
The Brikama Market is a vibrant open-air market located in the town of Brikama in The Gambia. The market is home to a variety of vendors selling everything from fruits and vegetables to crafts and souvenirs. Visitors can explore the market on foot, take part in bargaining, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
12. Tanji Fishing Village
The Tanji Fishing Village is a small fishing village located on the Atlantic coast of The Gambia. The village is home to a variety of fishing boats and traditional fishing methods. Visitors can explore the village on foot, take part in fishing activities, and enjoy stunning views of the ocean.
13. Georgetown
Georgetown is a small town located on the Atlantic coast of The Gambia. The town is home to a variety of colonial-era buildings, including the old British Fort. Visitors can explore the town on foot, take part in cultural activities, and enjoy stunning views of the ocean.
14. Bakau
Bakau is a small town located on the Atlantic coast of The Gambia. The town is home to a variety of colonial-era buildings, including the old British Fort. Visitors can explore the town on foot, take part in cultural activities, and enjoy stunning views of the ocean.
15. Kiang West National Park
The Kiang West National Park is a protected area located in the western region of The Gambia. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds. Visitors can explore the park on foot, take part in bird watching, and enjoy stunning views of the river.
16. Niumi National Park
The Niumi National Park is a protected area located in the northern region of The Gambia. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds. Visitors can explore the park on foot, take part in bird watching, and enjoy stunning views of the river.
17. Soma
Soma is a small town located in the northern region of The Gambia. The town is home to a variety of colonial-era buildings, including the old British Fort. Visitors can explore the town on foot, take part in cultural activities, and enjoy stunning views of the river.
18. Basse Santa Su
Basse Santa Su is a small town located in the eastern region of The Gambia. The town is home to a variety of colonial-era buildings, including the old British Fort. Visitors can explore the town on foot, take part in cultural activities, and enjoy stunning views of the river.
19. Wassu Stone Circles
The Wassu Stone Circles are a series of ancient stone circles located in the western region of The Gambia. The circles are believed to be over 1,000 years old and are a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can explore the circles on foot, take part in educational activities, and learn more about the history of the area.
20. Juffureh
Juffureh is a small town located on the Atlantic coast of The Gambia. The town is home to a variety of colonial-era buildings, including the old British Fort. Visitors can explore the