Off-the-beaten-track holidays

Although The Gambia is perhaps best known for its uncrowded stretches of golden sand, there’s plenty to get up to, off the beaten track...

A destination where you’re met with plenty of smiles from all the locals, as soon as you arrive in The Gambia you’ll feel welcome. Many holiday-makers understandably can’t wait to get to their hotels and relax by the refreshing swimming pool, or along the soft golden sands of the beach, but if you want to get more out of your holiday, there’s plenty of opportunity for off-the-beaten-track experiences.

 

Birding and wildlife experiences in The Gambia

If you’re an avid twitcher, you may already be aware of The Gambia’s wonderful world of birds. With over 600 species to discover, and the fact you don’t even necessarily need to leave your hotel grounds to spot some, gives the destination that extra something special. If you really want to get off the beaten track when it comes to wildlife, be sure to include a visit to the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project. Located four hours inland at Kudang, you’ll get the chance to embark on boat trips to observe the chimps, who live peacefully on a series of three islands. We recommend staying two or three nights to really get a feel for the fantastic wildlife and surrounding landscape at this incredible eco camp. Find out more here.

Giant Kingfisher

Chimp Rehab Project

Chimp Rehab Project

It’s also easy to get off the beaten track just for a few hours. Why not hire a Land Rover and private guide to take you to experience what you fancy? Our à la carte excursions offer just that. Perhaps you’d like to go and visit a local school, or head to some of the best wildlife spotting areas of The Gambia – the choice is entirely yours. Plus, your guide will know all the best off-the-beaten-track destinations to visit.

Makasutu Forest 

Juffure

 

Where to stay

There are some wonderful properties in The Gambia that offer a particularly unique experience themselves…

Mandina Lodges | Makasutu Forest

If you can think of nothing better than to be surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African forest, Mandina Lodges is idyllic. Located along a tributary of the River Gambia, you can stay in floating lodges on the river itself, or opt for a beautiful stained-glass jungle lodge. Troops of baboons, monitor lizards and beautiful birds are the most common sights, and taking a trip down the river on a dugout canoe is a wonderful pastime. Find out more about Mandina Lodges here.

 

White Horse Residence | Batokunku  

Superb sea views and an intimate and relaxing experience help to make White Horse Residence feel like a true slice of paradise. This converted home offers guests the ultimate in relaxation, whether that’s by the pool, along the deserted beach or through enjoying a beauty treatment.

 

If you’d like to know more about what you could experience in The Gambia, why not have a browse of our excursions and experiences, all designed to show you the very best bits of the destination.