ATTRACTIONS

Banjul & The Coast
This tiny country, the smallest of Arica, is packed with a multitude of attractions. The landscape is picturesque and the sandy beaches of the Atlantic are a special attraction. For those who love exotic greenery, there is an abundance of forests, swamps, marshes and savannah.

The River Gambia is a prominent geographical feature and it is widest at Cape St Mary . It narrows to 5km (3 miles) at Banjul (formerly known as Bathurst), located on St Mary's Island and has a deep sheltered harbour.

BANJUL: I t is a significant town as the centre of governance and also the only town with a substantial area. The National Museum is a major landmark. Other attractions include the MacCarthy Square known for its architectural style that is along the lines of colonial structures and a pleasant 19 th century setting. Shopping can be done at the stalls done up in African style near the hotels.

One can also shop for various odds and ends at the bengdulala meaning meeting place in the Mandinka language. These craft markets sell souvenirs and local handicrafts.

Resorts: The Atlantic coast to the south of Banjul has some of the best beaches in all Africa with nearly 15 hotels in the Banjul, Kombo and St Mary area. They are served by the international airport at Yundum , a few miles from the capital.

The River Gambia

The major landmark of the country, the Gambia River is the main source of irrigation with potential for activities like fishing, boating and sailing. Short boat trips along the river make interesting activity. The shores abound in birdlife.

WILDLIFE PARKS : One can catch a glimpse of a wide variety of fauna like crocodiles, monkeys, birds and antelopes at the Abuko Nature Reserve. Hotel noticeboards will give more information on the tours. Another wildlife park is the Kiang West National Park also known for many species of animals and birds as well as great tourist facilities. All coach and river trips to any part of the country or coastline, commence from Banjul. The river with its abundance of flora and fauna along its shores and the creeks also called 'bolongs' are a paradise to anyone who enjoys Nature.

THE RIVERMOUTH : 200 years back, the British built Fort Bullen at Barra Point strategically to monitor approaches to Banjul and the river. It was a vital defence landmark in the colony after the James Island Fortress that was razed by the French. There is a direct ferry from the capital to this point. From Banjul, one can visit Oyster Creek , a network of creeks and waterways.

UPRIVER FROM BANJUL

The main spots up the river from Banjul start with Albreda, the main French trading post before they withdrew from The Gambia. Juffure , the village nearby is known as the supposed homeland of the ancestors of the black American writer Alex Haley, author of 'Roots'. Nature lovers who want to observe the countryside can opt for ferry rides from Banjul to Barra and travel by road for about 50 minutes to reach Juffure and Albreda. From there a canoe will take them to James Island, in the placid waters of The Gambia. Tendaba is a popular tourist spot, 100 miles away from Banjul by river or road. The historical burial grounds, older than 1200 years are located around Wassau and are known for their circular standing stones. The 'second city' of colonial days Georgetown , is still the administrative and trading hub of the region . Basse Santa Su is the main trading centre for the upper reaches of the Gambia River. Trading houses built at the turn of the century stand proud and beautiful here. In the early days, trade was prominent up the river and the remnants of the shops owned by European, Gambian and Lebanese merchants can be found at Perai Tanda at the riverside.