Rural Excursions to Janjangbureh and Basse
Janjangbureh (formerly known as Georgetown) is a historic town located on Janjangbureh Island in the middle of the Gambia River. It was founded in 1832 by the British as a center for slave trade and later became a colonial administrative center. The town played a significant role in the anti-colonial struggle and was the site of the country’s first trade union.
Visitors can take a rural excursion to Janjangbureh and experience the town’s rich history and culture. The trip involves a scenic journey through rural Gambia, passing through small villages and towns. The journey takes about four hours and provides a unique opportunity to experience the local way of life.
Once in Janjangbureh, visitors can explore the town’s historical landmarks, including the Arch 22, which was built to commemorate the 1994 coup d’etat that brought former president Yahya Jammeh to power. There is also the Wassu Stone Circle, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is believed to be a burial ground from the late Stone Age period.
In addition to exploring the town’s historical landmarks, visitors can also take part in various cultural activities, including traditional music and dance performances, and sample local cuisine.
Basse, on the other hand, is the largest town in eastern Gambia and is known for its bustling markets, lively street scenes, and rich cultural heritage. It is situated on the south bank of the Gambia River and is accessible by road or by river.
A rural excursion to Basse takes visitors through scenic rural landscapes and provides an opportunity to experience local village life. The town itself is a vibrant hub of activity and is home to a number of historic landmarks, including the colonial-era governor’s residence, which is now a museum.
Visitors to Basse can also explore the town’s bustling markets, where they can purchase a range of locally made products, including textiles, crafts, and food. The markets are a great place to experience the local culture and interact with friendly Gambians.
Overall, rural excursions to Janjangbureh and Basse offer a unique opportunity to experience the rich history, culture, and natural beauty of Gambia’s rural areas.
Here is a sample day trip.
here’s an example of a day trip for Rural Excursions to Janjangbureh and Basse:
- Early morning departure from Banjul or any other nearby city, in a private vehicle or hired car.
- Stopover at the Wassu Stone Circles, a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Central River Region, where you’ll learn about the history and significance of these ancient megaliths.
- Continue to the town of Janjangbureh, formerly known as Georgetown, and take a guided tour of the town, including visits to historic landmarks such as Fort Bullen and the McCarthy Island Divisional Headquarters.
- Have lunch at a local restaurant and sample traditional Gambian dishes like benechin, domoda, or yassa.
- Depart for the town of Basse, located further east along the river, and visit the local market, where you can shop for souvenirs and interact with the locals.
- Visit the Wassu-Kuta Stone Circle, another UNESCO World Heritage site located near Basse, before returning to your starting point in the evening.
This day trip allows you to explore some of the most historic and culturally rich areas of the Gambia, while also experiencing the beautiful countryside and interacting with locals along the way.
Note: It is recommended to book this excursion with a reputable tour company that has experienced guides and safe transportation. The trip involves a lot of driving and boat rides, so it may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues.
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