The best things to do in Gambia combine culture, nature, history and the River Gambia. You can explore Banjul, cruise through mangrove-lined waterways, go birdwatching, discover historic sites, visit local communities or travel farther afield into neighbouring Senegal.
The national tourism board itself promotes excursions ranging from Banjul city tours to inland adventures, river experiences, birdwatching and fishing.
Here are ten experiences that fit particularly well with the trips already offered by Janeya Tours.
1. Take a Banjul Tour: One of the Best Things to Do in Gambia
A city tour is one of the easiest introductions to The Gambia.
Janeya’s half-day City Experience combines the capital with Kachikally Crocodile Pool and includes a visit to Arch 22 before returning guests to their accommodation.
It is particularly suitable for travellers who want to see more of the country but do not want to commit an entire day.
2. Spend a Day on the River
The River Gambia is one of the country’s defining natural features.
Janeya’s Lazy Day Cruise starts at Denton Bridge and travels through creek and river environments. Along the way, the itinerary focuses on mangroves, birds, fishing activity and oyster collectors. The cruise also includes a buffet and a stop at Lamin Lodge before returning to Denton Bridge.
3. Go Birdwatching
The Gambia is an established birdwatching destination, with the Gambia Tourism Board reporting more than 550 bird species.
Janeya includes Bird Watching among its dedicated day-trip options.
Even travellers who are not specialist birders can encounter birdlife while exploring the river and wetland areas.
4. Learn About The Gambia’s History
Kunta Kinteh Island and Related Sites tell a difficult but important part of Gambian and global history.
UNESCO describes the sites as evidence of centuries of African-European interaction along the River Gambia, including the history of the slave trade and its abolition.
Janeya lists a Slavery and James Island trip among its day tours.
5. Explore the Mangroves
Mangroves form an important part of the lower River Gambia environment.
The Tanbi Wetlands Complex around Banjul, Kanifing and Brikama is a Ramsar wetland of international importance, covering 6,304 hectares.
Travelling by boat allows visitors to appreciate this environment in a way that is difficult from the road.
6. Take a 4-Wheel-Drive Trip to Makasuto
Janeya includes a 4 wheel drive Makasuto experience in its current selection of one-day tours.
This gives visitors another option when they want to leave the resort area and experience a different landscape.
7. Try Fishing
Fishing is another established Gambian tourism activity.
The Gambia Tourism Board highlights beach, creek and deep-sea fishing as visitor activities, while Janeya also lists fishing among its day-trip options.
Travellers interested in a fishing excursion should check directly with the operator for the current itinerary and arrangements.
8. Watch the River at Sunset
Janeya currently lists a Sunset Rivercruise among its one-day excursions.
It gives travellers another way to experience the waterways without necessarily choosing a full-day river cruise.
9. Take a Day Trip into Senegal
One advantage of staying in The Gambia is the opportunity to combine the holiday with experiences in neighbouring Senegal.
Janeya lists a Senegal Safari at Fathala Park among its excursions.
Because border requirements and operating arrangements can change, travellers should always confirm current documentation and itinerary details before booking.
10. Travel Beyond the Main Tourist Area
The Gambia Tourism Board encourages travellers to discover the country’s cultural, ecological and community experiences rather than remaining entirely within the coastal resorts.
Janeya’s trip list reflects that same approach, combining city experiences, waterways, nature, history, fishing and cross-border excursions.
How Many Days Do You Need for Gambia Excursions?
There is no single correct answer.
A visitor staying for one week might choose two or three excursions and keep the remaining days free for relaxation. Travellers particularly interested in history, wildlife or local culture may prefer more.
Janeya offers everything from a half-day City Experience to full-day and longer trips, which means visitors can build excursions around the rest of their holiday rather than turning every day into a tour.
FAQ
What can tourists do in The Gambia besides going to the beach?
City tours, river cruises, birdwatching, fishing, historical visits, wetland and nature experiences are all available.
Can you visit Senegal from The Gambia?
Cross-border excursions are offered by local operators. Janeya currently lists both a Fathala Park safari and South Senegal/Casamance among its excursions.
Where does Janeya Tours operate from?
Janeya’s website describes its tours as operating from Kololi, with hotel or accommodation pickup included on some individual itineraries.