Top 5: Natural Attractions in The Gambia

The Gambia is home to some amazing natural attractions. Here are five of the best.

River Gambia
Given the country’s borders follow its course, it would be remiss not to mention the River Gambia here. Take to the waters on a traditional pirogue boat and watch the fishermen, explore the mangroves and go bird spotting.

Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Centre
While it’s not a natural park, this center is home to some true natural attractions: more than 100 chimpanzees. It’s spread out over three islands in the middle of the river, and you can tour them by boat and watch the chimps from the water.

Untouched beaches
The main resorts in The Gambia can be crowded, but head further south to Brufut and Ghana Town and you won’t have to share the sand with anyone. Look out for the monkeys that live in the forests behind the beaches.

Bijilo Forest
Just half an hour by car from Banjul you will find this small nature reserve, home to vervet and red colobus monkeys. It makes for a great daytrip.

Makasutu
Head here to explore the forests and mangrovesS home to mongoose, baboons and many other species. You can also pick up some local souvenirs and try some local delicacies at the market.