From Banjul, it takes about an hour to travel to Serrekunda by car because there is always some traffic. On the way, one can visit the Kachikally Crocodile Pool. It’s located in a small town and is the main attraction of Bakau. The water is said to be good for fertility, so some people travel to bathe in the water. Well, not actually in the water with the crocodiles but using buckets to pour the water on themselves. However, we were encouraged to pet the tails of the crocodiles. They seemed pretty chilled out in the sunshine.
Serrekunda is a coastal area with continuous beaches, including Fajara. There are a lot of craft markets and local stalls along the beach. We bought a few things from people, and then were followed around. Many stray dogs were wandering around the beaches, but they didn’t bother anyone. However, when I was by myself I was bothered by male prostitutes so I could only walk around the resort unaccompanied.
Another nearby attraction is Bijilo Forest Park where you can have close encounters with monkeys, hornbills, mongoose and more. And further south is the Tanji local market and fishing area. It was quite an experience to see all of the boats coming in with their catches. However, the smell of fish and some dirty water is very strong, so was a bit overpowering for me.
Serrekunda was a perfect place to end our trip, because the resort felt luxurious and we were right at the beach!
Highlights
- Beautiful beach coastline including Fajara Beach. Also look out for the vultures flying above
- Craft markets and vendors along the beach including Kotu Craftmarket
- Bijilo Forest Park with monkeys, hornbills, mongoose and other wildlife
- Senegambia Craft Market
- Kachikally Crocodile Pool nearby in Bakau
- Tanji Fishing Center to the south for a lively port and fish market (a little smelly)
Before you go
- The official language is English so almost everyone speaks English
- Beware of male prostitutes who follow you along the beach
- Vendors sell fruits, nuts, drinks, sunglasses and more along the beach. You should bargain with them and also at any local markets
- Have small money in dalasi for tips
- Wear sunscreen because the sun is strong
Transport
- Banjul International Airport is located about 45 minutes from the Serrekunda beach resort areas or Banjul without traffic. The only way to get there is by taxi or car. Allow plenty of time to get through security and immigration
- Getting around the Gambia is easiest with an experienced driver, which we had via Trip Tour Senegal. There are some taxis around, but we did not want to have to bargain
- In the nearby area, you can walk around but the roads are very dusty. Also, taxis will pass by and honk because hardly anyone is walking
Accommodation
- We had our last couple of nights in a beautiful beach resort called Sunset Beach. Inside the resort was safe and comfortable, with bungalows, pools, bar, and shops
- Wi-fi was okay but only in the dining area and reception
- Meals are buffet style with lots of choices. Drinks not included
- Each day and evening, there are activities including walking tours and show
- As usual I recommend checking reviews on Booking.com or using AirBnB
Food
While we were staying at the Sunset Beach resort, all of our meals were buffets at the restaurant. They had many choices, although most were unhealthy fried foods. I appreciated the fresh fruits for breakfast. And the fish options were delicious and unique, including ladyfish. There was something for every diet, and plenty of different meats.
The cakes were tasty and available at every meal! And for drinks, the bar had cocktails, beer, wine and juices. We especially enjoyed fresh coconuts, which someone at the hotel delivered to us after climbing a nearby tree!
We had a great last dinner at Yosh on the way to Banjul airport. In addition to the delicious vegetarian food options, the atmosphere was very artsy and cosy. And the owner, Astrid, was so friendly and interesting to chat with. She is also the Swiss consulate.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a tour guide?
A: Yes, it is better to have a tour guide and drive to get around to this area. However, you don’t need a guide for walking around the nearby area
Q: Do people speak English?
A: Yes, most people speak English as that is the official language
Q: Is it a walkable city?
A: No, this is a fairly large are so to go beyond the resort area, you probably need a car
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