These two popular resort areas make perfect holiday destinations in The Gambia, with beautiful beaches and comfortable hotels.
If you are deciding where to stay on your next Gambian getaway our experts have put together a guide for two popular resort areas along the coast, Bakau and Fajara.
Bakau
This bustling town provides tourists with an authentic experience when staying in The Gambia. Sitting in the west coast region, it is the nearest holiday resort area to Banjul, the capital. The area is well know for its beautiful beaches and plenty of things to do to keep those looking for excitement entertained.
Beach at Bakau
The pretty coastline is fringed with palm trees, providing a laid-back and tropical feel, most of the coastline is made up of rocky shores and cliffs, however, Bakau is home to Cape Point, which opens out into a wide beach area. Cape Point is perfect for beach lovers, where you can enjoy a wide expanse of golden sand as well as some great hotels. Our experts suggest:
Part of our classic collection, this relaxed all-inclusive resort is an ideal choice for families and couples alike. The hospitality is second-to-none and the facilities are perfect for a comfortable stay. Enjoy meals at the on-site restaurant and refreshments at the pool bar.
Pool area at Sunbeach Hotel
Another hotel sitting in our classic collection, with a well-established reputation for friendly service and a welcoming atmosphere. The reception area is an amazing feature of the hotel with traditional African décor. There are a range of activities on offer, so if you are looking for something to do without leaving the hotel, perhaps table tennis, water aerobics or even a massage will tempt you. The beachfront location allows you to soak up the winter sun on the golden shores. The pool area is home to a bar serving refreshments and even a pizza oven for a relaxed lunch.
Ocean Bay Hotel
Calypso at the Cape - must try restaurant
This is a renowned restaurant in the area, serving international cuisine, but the real draw here is the location. Overlooking a crocodile pool and plenty of birdlife, this beachside bar and restaurant is a great place for a relaxed lunch or a refreshing drink after a day out. See if you can spot a crocodile whilst you enjoy your meal!
Calypso Bar, Cape Point
Fajara
This popular residential area for Gambians and expatriates, with impressive residential buildings and home to the British Embassy. Fajara is great for couples looking for a romantic getaway, home to Ngala Lodge, this adult-only hotel is renowned for its service and fantastic food at the on-site restaurant. The restaurant is open to the public, and of course, those who stay at Ngala Lodge on a half board basis can enjoy breakfast and dinner every day. The food is delicious, fresh and provides guests the chance to enjoy authentic Gambian dishes.
View across to Ngala Lodge's hotel
Africa Living Art Centre
A great place to visit for art enthusiasts, home to West African art pieces from jewellery, wooden masks, unique clothing, antiques and much more. The gallery imports pieces from the likes of Senegal, Mali, Ghana and Nigeria. The building itself is a work of art, with a concrete and glass exterior, a very impressive one-of-a-kind sight. There is a restaurant on-site, making it perfect for a peaceful afternoon outing. There is the chance to buy some of the artwork, making it ideal for enthusiasts to be able to take home authentic African art.
Birdwatching
The Gambia is a popular birdwatching spot with 650+ species calling the country home. The area near the golf course is perfect for spotting birds. With the Kotu stream that runs next to the course, as well as woodland and coastal scrub area, there are plenty of welcoming habitats for species such as Blue-bellied Roller, Bearded Barbets and Firefinches, plus much more.
Firefinch
Golf
The sports club now known as The Fajara Club, is home to an 18-hole golf course near to the beach. In the dry season don't expect to see lush golf greens that you may have played on previously!
The Fajara Club
Dining out in Fajara
There are a few great restaurants available in Fajara, from Indian, Moroccan, Gambian, and European dishes. These excellent restaurants are great for couples seeking a lovely evening together.
The beach at Ngala Lodge
