Basse the Busy Trading Town
Basse is a bustling trading town located in the eastern part of the Gambia, near the border with Senegal. It is an important economic hub for the region and is known for its lively markets and diverse cultural heritage. Visitors to Basse can experience a unique blend of African, Arabic and European influences.
One of the most popular things to do in Basse is to visit the local markets. The central market is a vibrant and bustling place where locals gather to buy and sell a wide range of goods, from fresh produce and spices to traditional textiles and handicrafts. Visitors can wander through the maze of stalls, haggle with vendors and soak up the colorful atmosphere.
Another popular attraction in Basse is the old colonial fort. Built in the early 1900s, the fort was used to house British soldiers during the colonial era. Today, it has been converted into a museum where visitors can learn about the town’s history and the impact of colonialism on the region.
For those interested in traditional Gambian culture, Basse offers a unique opportunity to experience local customs and traditions. Visitors can witness traditional dance performances, sample local cuisine and learn about the customs and beliefs of the local people.
To get to Basse from Banjul, visitors can take a taxi or bus to the nearby town of Janjangbureh and then catch a ferry across the river to Basse. The journey takes around 5-6 hours, depending on the mode of transportation and the time of day. It is recommended to plan for a full day trip to Basse to allow time to explore the town and its surroundings.
History
Basse, also known as Bassé Santa Su, is one of the largest towns in The Gambia, located in the Upper River Region, near the border with Senegal. The town is an important center for trade and commerce, serving as a hub for farmers and traders from the surrounding rural areas.
Basse was founded as a trading post by the British in the early 19th century, and it quickly became an important center for trade in the region. The town played a key role in the colonial economy, serving as a center for the export of groundnuts, cotton, and other cash crops to Europe.
In the post-colonial era, Basse continued to thrive as a center for trade and commerce, with its markets drawing merchants and traders from across the region. Today, Basse is a vibrant and bustling town, with a diverse population and a rich cultural heritage.
A day trip to Basse can be a great way to experience the cultural and historical richness of The Gambia.
Here is a possible itinerary for such a trip:
- Early morning departure: The trip to Basse from the capital city of Banjul is a long one, so it is best to leave early in the morning, around 6 or 7 AM. This will give you plenty of time to explore the town and its surroundings.
- Breakfast stop: Along the way to Basse, you can stop at one of the many roadside cafes to have breakfast. These cafes serve a variety of dishes, including local delicacies such as domoda (a peanut stew) and benechin (a rice dish).
- Arrival in Basse: After a journey of about 4 hours, you will arrive in Basse. The town is located on the banks of the Gambia River and is a major trading center for the region. Here, you can explore the colorful markets and see the hustle and bustle of daily life.
- Visit to the central market: The central market in Basse is a must-visit for anyone interested in the local culture. You can see a wide variety of goods for sale, including fresh produce, textiles, and handicrafts.
- Visit to the historic mosque: Basse has a beautiful historic mosque that is worth a visit. The mosque was built in the early 19th century and is an excellent example of traditional West African architecture.
- Lunch: For lunch, you can try some of the local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in town. Some popular dishes include benachin (a rice dish), chicken yassa (chicken cooked in a lemon and onion sauce), and grilled fish.
- Afternoon excursion: In the afternoon, you can take a boat ride on the Gambia River to explore the surrounding countryside. Along the way, you can see wildlife such as crocodiles and hippos, as well as a variety of birds.
- Return trip: After a full day of exploring, you can head back to Banjul in the late afternoon. You will arrive back in the city in the evening, tired but satisfied after a day of adventure.
Overall, a day trip to Basse can be an unforgettable experience, giving you a chance to see a different side of The Gambia and learn more about its culture and history.
There are several tour operators that offer trips to Basse. Here are a few:
- Gambia Tours and Safaris: This tour company offers a day trip to Basse that includes a visit to the local market, a tour of the town, and lunch at a local restaurant.
- Senegambia Adventures: This tour company offers a two-day trip to Basse that includes a visit to the Wassu stone circles, a boat trip on the Gambia River, and a tour of the town.
- Gambia Experience: This tour company offers a three-day trip to Basse that includes a visit to the Wassu stone circles, a boat trip on the Gambia River, a tour of the town, and a visit to a local school.
- Adventure Tours Gambia: This tour company offers a four-day trip to Basse that includes a visit to the Wassu stone circles, a boat trip on the Gambia River, a tour of the town, and a visit to a local school and hospital.
These are just a few of the many tour operators that offer trips to Basse. It’s always a good idea to do your research and read reviews before choosing a tour company.
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