On November 1st we are open from 10am to 5pm

Excursion Abuko nature reserve & pirogue creek tour at Banjul

Cruise line: Silversea
Difficulty:

Abuko Nature Reserve

From the port of Banjul, travel by coach to Denton Bridge and then on to the Abuko Nature Reserve. Abuko National Park is a nature reserve in the Gambia lying south of the town of Abuko and was the country's first designated wildlife reserve.

The Abuko Nature Reserve, can trace its protected status back to a time before The Gambia became an independent nation in 1965-a small stream here was first fenced off in 1916. Abuko is modest in size at 105 hectares (0.4 square miles), but is strong on biodiversity.

Explore the forested and savanna habitats on an hour long nature and birdling trail walk through Abuko Nature Reserve, which includes a visit to a traditional educational center, keeping a lookout for wildlife along the way as well as plants, including rare trees.

A birdwatcher's paradise! The Gambia is considered to be a paradise for birdwatchers. More than 250 species can be seen in the Reserve as well as Nile crocodiles and 4 species of monkeys and several types of reptiles.


Lamin Lodge and Pirogue Cruise

Drive to Lamin Lodge where a local pirogue will be waiting for a slow cruise through the creek. A pirogue also called a piragua or piraga, is any of various small boats, particularly dugouts and native canoes. The world is French and is derived from Spanish. The pirogue is motorized, has seats and cover overhead. Keep your binoculars handy to spot birds in their natural habitat. During the pirogue cruise, snacks and fruits will be offered on board.


Saint Albert Market

Disembark after the boat cruise at Denton Bridge to join the bus making a brief stop at the bustling Saint Albert Market in Banjul. It is named after Albert, Prince Consort, husband of Queen Victoria, who controlled Gambia during colonial times.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Abuko Nature Reserve, Walk in the Forest, Motorized Pirogue Creek Cruise, Saint Albert Market

Note

Please note: This tour involves an extensive amount of walking of approximately 2.5 Km or 1.5 miles and a few steps to negotiate board the boat. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight comfortable clothing, and flat, closed-toe walking shoes are recommended. Please bring with you a hat, sun protection, sun glasses and mosquitoes repellent. No short shorts to be worn at the Market. Guests are advised to ask for permission to take photos of locals. It is not permitted to take photographs of any Military or Government buildings.