The best area to stay in the Gambia
The best area to stay in the Gambia depends on your travel preferences and what you want to do during your visit.
Here are a few options:
- Kololi: This is a popular tourist area with a variety of hotels, restaurants, and bars. It’s close to the beach, which is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
- Bakau: This is another popular area for tourists, and it’s known for its lively fish market and botanical gardens. There are also a few beaches nearby, as well as several restaurants and hotels.
- Fajara: This is a quieter area that’s ideal for travelers looking for a more peaceful stay. There are a few hotels and restaurants here, and it’s close to the beach and the Fajara golf course.
- Serrekunda: This is the largest city in Gambia and a hub for local life. It’s a good place to experience the local culture, with plenty of markets, shops, and restaurants. There are also a few hotels and guesthouses in the area.
- Banjul: This is the capital city of Gambia, and it’s a good place to stay if you want to be close to the main historical and cultural attractions. There are a few hotels and guesthouses in the area, as well as some shops and restaurants.
Kololi
Kololi is a popular tourist destination in the Gambia and is considered one of the best areas to stay in the country. It is situated along the Atlantic coastline and is known for its beautiful beaches, restaurants, bars, and lively nightlife.
Kololi is home to a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxury resorts. The area is well-known for its many restaurants, cafes, and bars, offering a wide range of local and international cuisine.
There are also many activities to do in Kololi, such as visiting the Bijilo Forest Park, a nature reserve where you can see monkeys and other wildlife. Another popular activity is visiting the Senegambia Craft Market, where you can purchase locally-made souvenirs and crafts.
Kololi is also in close proximity to other tourist attractions such as Bakau, Serrekunda, and the Tanji fishing village. Additionally, the Banjul International Airport is only a short drive away, making it a convenient location for travelers.
Overall, Kololi is a great choice for visitors to Gambia who want to be close to the beach, have access to many amenities, and explore the surrounding areas.
Bakau
Bakau is another popular area to stay in the Gambia, located just a short distance from Kololi. It is known for its lively atmosphere, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and shops to explore. Bakau also has several beaches, including Cape Point Beach and Bakau Beach, both of which are popular among tourists and locals alike.
One of the main attractions in Bakau is the Kachikally Crocodile Pool, where visitors can see crocodiles up close and even touch them. This site is considered sacred by the local people and is believed to have healing powers. There is also the Bakau Craft Market, where visitors can find locally made handicrafts and souvenirs.
Bakau is a great area to stay in if you want to be close to the beach and have easy access to restaurants and bars. It is also a good base for exploring other parts of Gambia, such as the nearby capital city of Banjul or the Abuko Nature Reserve.
Fajara
Fajara is a quiet and peaceful residential area located near the beach. It is known for its upscale hotels and resorts and is a popular choice for tourists who want to stay in a more relaxed and exclusive area. Fajara is also home to the Fajara Golf Club, which is a great place for golf enthusiasts to spend their time.
Serrekunda
Serrekunda is the largest town in the Gambia and is known for its bustling markets, lively streets, and vibrant nightlife. It is a great place to experience the local culture and cuisine, as there are plenty of restaurants and street food vendors. Serrekunda is also home to the Senegambia area, which has a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and bars.
Banjul
Banjul is the capital city of Gambia and is located on an island at the mouth of the Gambia River. It is a bustling city with a mix of colonial and modern architecture and is home to the country’s government buildings and institutions. Banjul has a few accommodations, restaurants, and markets, but it is more of a cultural and historical destination than a tourist hub.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in the Gambia depends on your interests and what you want to experience during your visit.