Gambia -Senegal

This is not a traditional backpacking trip, you will experience Africa in a profound way.

Gambia is the smallest country in Africa and the best choice for travelers who want to immerse themselves in the heart of West Africa. It is a less touristy country with a very friendly and hospitable population.

We will delve into Gambia’s main and most important local markets.

Although it only has 80 km of coastline, they are magnificent: golden beaches protected by palm trees and dotted with spectacular lagoons, peaceful fishing villages, and coastal reserves with rich flora and fauna.

Gambia is home to a diverse fauna, with over 600 bird species, manatees, hippos, crocodiles, and groups of clever colobus monkeys. It also boasts some wonders, from a chimpanzee reserve on an island to the ruins of a 17th-century British fort. But the greatest treasure is its warm population, living up to the nickname of the ‘smiling coast of Africa.’

Mapa de África

We will arrive at the smile of Africa, feeling the warmth, colors, and scents. We will meet with the trip leader and be transferred to the hotel.

Check-in, briefing with the trip leader, presentation of the itinerary, and rest.

Breakfast at the hotel. We continue our journey towards Kartong and head to the southern border crossing between Gambia and the Senegalese region of Casamance. We will take a boat excursion on this river, where we can spot numerous birds. It is also an excellent area for fishing, and we will also see Senegalese villages and their way of life from our boats.

Special lunch.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today we will visit the Musu Kebba Drammeh Batik Factory, where you will find African-themed fabrics and handmade Tie-dye, which is currently on-trend. After this visit, we will head to the village of Galloya, known for its beautiful murals painted on its facades, some even by famous artists. They are called “White Open Walls.” It is an intercultural project aimed at creating awareness about the need for peace, understanding, and respect. It creates a link between international creatives and helps the local community. Lunch at a restaurant in Banjul, visit the Arch 22. Free afternoon and dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast and check-out. We will travel by land in a mini-bus/van exclusively for the group. This journey will leave a lasting impression on you. We will have about 5-6 hours of travel with stops, and we will have lunch in Senegal.

Arrival in Guinea-Bissau. Check-in at the hotel, free afternoon, and special dinner.

Breakfast at the hotel. We head to the Fathala Reserve, located just 10 kilometers from the Gambia border. We will leave early from the hotel and return before sunset. It is a 6,000-hectare area with original and protected forest. Here, you will have the opportunity to experience Africa and feel like a little explorer in their open-top jeeps, getting to know the African wildlife. You will enjoy the natural surroundings while observing why Gambia and Senegal are considered two of the best countries in the world for birdwatching. It will be a full day filled with adventures and experiences.

Dinner at the hotel.

This day is for you, for your relaxation, to enjoy the beach or pool, to run among palm trees and refresh yourself, and to meet the friendliest locals of this country. Take it easy, it’s your moment!

This day is for you, for your relaxation, to enjoy the beach or pool, but it is also the day when the trip leaders will visit the area where they cooperate and deliver materials to schools. It is optional if you want to join; the children will welcome you with their best smiles.

Lunch and dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. We will visit the Katchikally Crocodile Pool, the Museum, traditions, and the Bijilo Forest Park. Within the mammals of Bijilo Forest Park, we find monkeys. In the afternoon, we will stroll through the fish market, appreciating a myriad of colors, sounds, smells, and sensations.

Dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast at the hotel. We will head to Lamin Lodge, a wooden restaurant built over the water where monkeys take center stage. We will ride in a boat and navigate through lush mangroves. Lunch at a restaurant arranged by Tamala Tours. We will visit the Brikama market, an open-air artisan market with several identical workshops around a garden.

Dinner at the hotel.

Early morning departure after breakfast. We will travel by road to Bamba Tenda, passing through Soma and crossing the river by bridge to the northern part of the country, reaching the central region of northern Farafeni. We will make a short stop before continuing our journey to Wassu, where we will visit the stone circles, grouped around burial sites, some dating back to 750 AD. After Wassu, we will head to Kuntaur to take a traditional boat ride and discover this beautiful stretch of the Gambia River. Lunch will be served on board while we navigate. We will catch a glimpse of the protected and wooded Baboon Islands, home to an important chimpanzee rehabilitation project (closed to the public to avoid interference). During the approximately 5-hour journey, we will have the opportunity to see baboons, monkeys, hippos, and a variety of birds (depending on the season). Dinner.

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by relaxation on the beach. Special farewell lunch. In the afternoon, return to Banjul Airport, ending this incredible journey. We are sure that you will leave with more than one friend from this super adventure.

How can I book?

Payment is made in three installments. A 10% deposit to guarantee your spot (refundable up to 30 days before departure in case of cancellation).

A second payment of 60% after establishing the WhatsApp group and video call with the trip coordinators.

The third payment is made by bank transfer up to 60 days before the start of the trip. You can also choose to pay the entire trip in a single payment.

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

  • Accommodation and transportation throughout the trip
  • Airport transfer – hotel – airport
  • Transportation by van or adapted
  • Minibus Land travel to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau
  • River transportation
  • Accommodation in a private room with breakfast and dinner
  • Spanish-speaking guide fluent in the local languages of the 3 countries
  • The driver 
  • All excursions mentioned in the itinerary
  • Activities detailed in the itinerary and visits to organizations and projects
  • Management and design expenses of the route
  • Advice before and during the trip
  • Bottled water
  • It is important to mention that all our hotels offer private rooms, never shared.
  • Boat trips

WHAT'S NOT INCLUDED?

  • Round-trip flights (SPAIN-BANJUL)
  • Unspecified meals and drinks €20 entry and €20 exit fees in Gambia
  • Gambia land tax €60
  • Excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
  • Tips and souvenirs
  • Anything not mentioned in the previous section
  • Travel insurance (mandatory)

Flights will be purchased once the group departure is confirmed (if it reaches the minimum number of trip participants), and you will be notified via WhatsApp or email.

We will give you complete freedom of choice in case you want to stay a few more days. It’s up to you!

AIR ROYAL MARROC / TAP PORTUGAL / VUELING​

  • Passport valid for at least 6 months after the trip’s return.

  • No mandatory vaccinations are required for the countries we will visit.

  • No visa is required to enter Gambia by air, but upon arrival, you must pay €20 in cash, the same amount applies for leaving the country.

Essential requirements (very important to read this section):

  • We apply our values during the trips, which include patience, assertiveness, and empathy.

  • Promote coexistence within the group to create a relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere.

  • Be receptive and have a respectful attitude towards the group/guides, the local population, and the country in general.

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