Bijilo Forest Park Timing and Fees
Bijilo Forest Park is a small protected area located on the outskirts of Bijilo village, on the Atlantic coast of the Gambia. The park spans an area of approximately 51 hectares and is primarily covered by dense forest vegetation, which serves as a natural habitat for a variety of bird and mammal species.
The park is home to over 130 bird species, including African fish eagles, hornbills, grey parrots, and kingfishers. Bijilo Forest Park also has a large population of vervet and red colobus monkeys, which are major attractions for visitors. The monkeys are known to be very friendly and often approach visitors in search of food.
Bijilo Forest Park is an ideal place for an early morning walk or a peaceful stroll during the day. The park has well-maintained trails that allow visitors to explore the forest and spot different bird and mammal species. Visitors can also relax at the park’s picnic areas or visit the nearby Bijilo beach, which offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
It was created in the 1990s to protect the small remaining fragment of the Bijilo forest, which was once part of a much larger forested area that covered much of the Gambia. The forest was under threat from agricultural expansion, charcoal production, and urbanization, which led to a decline in wildlife populations and habitat destruction.
The government of the Gambia established the Bijilo Forest Park to preserve the forest and its biodiversity, and it is now managed by the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management. The park is also used for environmental education and research purposes.
What is the entry fee?
The entry fee for Bijilo Forest Park was 50 Gambian dalasi (roughly $1 USD). However, fees may be subject to change, so it’s always best to check the most up-to-date information before visiting.
Where is it located?
Bijilo Forest Park is located in the Western Region of the Gambia, near the town of Bijilo. It is situated on the coast, just a short distance from the popular tourist area of Kololi.