10-Day Sightseeing and Exploration at The Gambia and Senegal
Highlights
Dakar, Banjul, Fathala Wildlife Reserve
nature, cultural, Wildlife
Private Tour
10 Days
Easy
English
Description
Embark on this 10-day adventure that unveils the best of The Gambia and Senegal, from bustling markets and historical landmarks to serene natural reserves and cultural villages. Marvel at unique encounters with wildlife, scenic boat trips, immersive village visits, and overnight stays in charming lodges and camps. Each day brings new experiences, combining cultural insight with adventure to capture the vibrant essence of Senegambia.
Itinerary
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Day 1- Arrival in the Gambia
- Airport Pickup: Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Banjul International Airport. Your guide will transfer you to your hotel.
- Check-In: Settle into your accommodation and unwind after your journey.
- Evening: Free time to explore nearby areas or relax in your hotel.
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Day 2- Banjul Orientation Tour
- Morning: Albert Market: Stroll through this lively market where local vendors sell fresh produce, textiles, and crafts. Learn about Gambian trade and daily life from your guide.
- Arch 22: Climb this 35-meter-tall monument to enjoy panoramic views over Banjul. The arch commemorates Gambia’s coup d'état in 1994, and its museum provides historical insights.
- Lunch: Savor a traditional Gambian meal at a local restaurant, perhaps trying dishes like benachin (rice and fish) or domoda (peanut stew).
- Afternoon: Kachikally Crocodile Pool: Visit this sacred site where you can see and touch the docile crocodiles in the pool. Learn about its significance in Gambian culture and the beliefs surrounding fertility blessings.
- Bijilo Monkey Park: Finish the day with a walk through this nature reserve, home to different monkey species and beautiful trails.
- Evening: Return to your hotel for dinner and relaxation.
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Day 3- Kayaking Boat Trip
- Morning: Kayaking in the Mangroves.
- Set off for a peaceful kayaking journey through the mangroves.
- Paddle through the tranquil waterways, where you’ll spot birds and enjoy the serene surroundings.
- Lunch: Picnic-style lunch along the riverbank, with time to relax and take in the natural beauty around you.
- Afternoon: Continue exploring nearby river channels, spotting more local wildlife, or taking a refreshing swim.
- Evening: Return to the hotel for dinner and relaxation.
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Day 4- Makasutu Culture Forest
- Morning: Forest Exploration: Arrive at the eco-lodge and begin with a guided walk through Makasutu Culture Forest.
- Learn about traditional medicine and uses of forest plants, meet local wildlife like baboons, and witness traditional palm wine tapping.
- Canoe Ride: Glide through the forest’s waterways on a canoe, surrounded by mangroves. Your guide will share details about the rich biodiversity here.
- Lunch: Enjoy a traditional Gambian lunch at the eco-lodge.
- Evening: Return to the hotel to relax and prepare for the next day’s adventure.
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Day 5- Fathala Safari, Lion Walk & Roots Tour (Overnight at Roots Camp)
- Early Morning: Drive to Fathala Wildlife Reserve in Senegal, crossing the border and arriving in time for an early safari drive.
- Safari Drive: Spot a range of wildlife such as rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes as you explore this rich savanna ecosystem.
- Late Morning: Lion Walk, Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you walk alongside lions with trained guides, getting close while learning about these majestic animals.
- Lunch: Enjoy lunch at Fathala’s restaurant.
- Afternoon: Roots Tour & Village Museum: Continue to Albreda and Juffureh, where you’ll visit the Village Museum and learn about Gambian culture. Then, embark on a boat ride to Kunta Kinteh Island, the historic UNESCO site and former hub of the transatlantic slave trade.
- Evening: Overnight at Roots Camp with a special cultural dinner experience.
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Day 6- Wassu Stone Circles, River Gambia National Park & JJB Island (Overnight at JJB Camp)
- Early Morning: Drive to the Wassu Stone Circles, where you’ll explore these ancient megalithic sites, believed to mark burial grounds from over a thousand years ago.
- Midday: Travel to Kuntaur, where you’ll board a boat at 2 pm for a guided tour of the River Gambia National Park. Keep an eye out for chimpanzees, hippos, and other unique wildlife.
- Late Afternoon: JJB Island Settlement: Visit the community on this island and gain insights into their traditional way of life.
- Evening: Overnight at JJB Camp with a hearty dinner and stories shared by locals.
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Day 7- Bintang Village & Bolong River Cruise (Overnight at Bintang Lodge)
- Morning: After breakfast, drive to Bintang Village.
- Lunch: Check into Bintang Lodge and enjoy a riverside lunch.
- Afternoon: Bolong River Cruise: Relax on a scenic cruise along Bintang Bolong. Glide through mangroves and possibly spot dolphins, local fish, and birdlife.
- Evening: Overnight at Bintang Lodge, with dinner served at the lodge’s restaurant.
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Day 8- Kafountine Adventure, South Senegal (2 Nights at Esperanto Lodge)
- Drive to Kafountine in Senegal, a picturesque coastal town known for its art and fishing communities.
- Check into Esperanto Lodge.
- Free Day: Relax on the beach, explore the village, or browse the local art markets.
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Day 9- Boat trip to the island
- Animist Island Boat Trip: Head out by boat to an island inhabited by traditional animist communities who continue to practice ancient African spiritual rituals.
- Learn about their customs and enjoy a picnic on the island. Return to Esperanto Lodge in the evening for a farewell dinner.
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Day 10- Departure to the Gambia
- Morning: After breakfast, return to The Gambia for your with an authentic experience.
- Conclude your unforgettable Senegambia adventure.
What's Included
What's Excluded
What To Bring
Cancellation Policy
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For cancellations upto 2 days before the tour -
Refund of 80% of the tour price.
Price
| Adult | |
|---|---|
| 1 to 10 | /person |
| Child | |
| 1 to 5 | /person |
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This is a private tour |
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