This casual beachfront resort overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is 7 minutes’ walk from Gambia National Museum, an 11-minute walk from Albert Market and 19 km from Abuko National Reserve.
Culture Rich Destinations
Gambia & Senegal
Heritage & Culture Travel Themes
Heritage and culture plays an important role in Africa. Each country have a unique culture that is rich and diverse and varies not only from one country to another, but within each country itself. The culture of each ethnic group centers on family and can be found in each group’s art, music and oral literature. From storytelling through oral literature to traditions, dialects, arts and music, indigenous culture persist. And we couldn’t agree more when Victoria falls guide describe the unification of communities. “In African culture, the “self” is not separate from the world, it is united and intermingled with the natural and social environment. It is through relations with one’s community and surroundings that an individual becomes a person of volition, whose actions and decisions affect the entire group rather than just oneself. There is a Xhosa proverb that is common to all African cultures and languages, “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu,” (“A person is a person through persons”).” Or as the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. We hope to take you on this journey to understand and appreciate African culture by highlighting cultural nuances, heritage and traditions of each country that seem to have tremendous influence in the world.
Heritage & Culture Travel Themes
Heritage and culture plays an important role in Africa. Each country have a unique culture that is rich and diverse and varies not only from one country to another, but within each country itself. The culture of each ethnic group centers on family and can be found in each group’s art, music and oral literature. From storytelling through oral literature to traditions, dialects, arts and music, indigenous culture persist. And we couldn’t agree more when Victoria falls guide describe the unification of communities. “In African culture, the “self” is not separate from the world, it is united and intermingled with the natural and social environment. It is through relations with one’s community and surroundings that an individual becomes a person of volition, whose actions and decisions affect the entire group rather than just oneself. There is a Xhosa proverb that is common to all African cultures and languages, “Umuntu ngumuntu ngabantu,” (“A person is a person through persons”).” Or as the saying goes, it takes a village to raise a child. We hope to take you on this journey to understand and appreciate African culture by highlighting cultural nuances, heritage and traditions of each country that seem to have tremendous influence in the world.
Stone Circles of Senegambia (Senegal and Gambia)
The Senegambian stone circles lie in The Gambia north of Janjanbureh and in central Senegal. Approximate area: 30,000 km². They are sometimes divided into the Wassu and Sine-Saloum circles, but this is purely a national division. The four groups, Sine Ngayène, Wanar, Wassu and Kerbatch, cover 93 stone circles and numerous tumuli, burial mounds, some of which have been excavated to reveal material that suggest dates between 3rd century BC and 16th century AD. Together the stone circles of laterite pillars and their associated burial mounds present a vast sacred landscape created over more than 1,500 years. It reflects a prosperous, highly organized and lasting society.
Traditional Landscapes - Saloum Delta (Senegal)
It is an extensive area of mudflats, mangrove swamp and channels, with about 200 small islands, some of which are forested. It has been settled by fishermen for centuries, and a rich cultural history is being pieced together from archaeological evidence in the delta. In particular, 218 man-made mounds, some several hundred meters long and made of shells have been discovered. Some 28 of these mounds have been found to include burial tumuli containing some remarkable artifacts. They are important for our understanding of cultures from the various periods of the delta’s occupation and testify to the history of human settlement along the coast of West Africa.
Traditional Landscapes - Janjanbureh Island or McCarthy Island (Gambia)
Colonial Architecture
There are a few historic buildings in the town that tell of the settlement’s colonial past. On the riverbank 19th century warehouses stand neglected and crumbling, aided by the relentless encroachment of vegetation. There is the Maurel and Prom Building, a former French trading house from Bordeaux, on the slipway to the ferry terminal. To its right are the roofless ruins of the CFAO Building. These structures are sometimes erroneously called ‘slave houses’ or ‘slave market’, they are not, as both were built long after Britain abolished slavery in 1807.
Jinack Island (Gambia)
Jinack Island (also spelt Jinak or Ginak) is in the North Bank Region of the Lower Niumi District of The Gambia, in West Africa. It is located on the north western edge of the River Gambia estuary, and is separated from the mainland delta of the Niumi National Park by the Niji Bolon creek. The isle, often referred to by tour operators as ‘Paradise Island’ or ‘Treasure Island’, is a slightly curved and tapering strip of low-lying land about 10km long; with an interior of dry woodland and grassland, with vegetation such as Tamarisk scrub, baobab trees and acacia. It is fringed with mangrove creeks, tidal sand flats, saltwater marsh, low coastal dunes and a coastal lagoon, at Buniadu Point, in the northern section. In the winter season the isle is often visited by dolphins.
Cape Point (Gambia)
The Cape Point beach resort makes up the north-eastern part of the town of Bakau, in the Kombo St Mary District, in the West Coast Region of The Gambia, and is 12km to the west of Banjul capital. The district is a promontory and its beach area is where the River Gambia and the Atlantic Ocean merge at the estuary. To Cape Point’s eastern coastline is a wide seafront of fine, golden sand, while much of its north-western coastline starts at sea level, then, as you head south west it rises up to over 15 metres, and is mostly characterised by laterite cliffs dotted with palms along a narrow strand. Further to its southeast are the brackish mangrove swamps of Cape Creek, frequented by wetland birds.
European Colonial Influences - Island of Goree (Senegal)
The Island of Goree is located about 3 km off-shore, close to Senegal’s capital city, Dakar. It is a small island, approximately 600 m x 250 m, that was possibly Africa’s biggest slave trading center from the 15th to 19th centuries. It was first colonized by the Portuguese, followed by the Dutch, British and French. Gorée Island’s Maison des esclaves (House of Slaves), with its famous Door of No Return. Over a period of several hundred years, an estimated 500,000 Africans are thought to have been traded through the island, en route to the New World. The island has now come to symbolize the slave trade, and has become something of a pilgrimage site for the African diaspora.
European Colonial Influences - Island of Saint-Louis or Ndar (Senegal)
The island of Saint-Louis is located in the mouth of the Senegal River, a little north of the continent’s westernmost point. After more than three centuries, Ndar enjoys a history and cultural background, visible through its architecture and other characteristics. the island was developed as a French colonial town in the 17th century, and became the capital of French West Africa from 1895 to 1902. The city serves as a bridge between savanna and desert, ocean and river, tradition and modernity, Islam and Christianity, Europe and Africa. Its distinctive colonial architecture is among the features that put the island on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2000. Tourism makes up an important and integral part of Ndar’s economy.
European Colonial Influences - Juffrey Village/Kunta Kinteh Island (Gambia)
Kunta Kinteh Island is located in the middle of the Gambia River estuary, about 30 km from its mouth, in the heart of Gambia, West Africa. It has the ruins of a fort, slave house, governor’s kitchen and other buildings associated with the development of the Gambia River as the first European trade route into the African interior. There are six other components of the world heritage site, five of them located in the villages of Albreda, Juffureh and San Domingo on the north bank of the river opposite the island. The other component, Fort Bullen and the Six Gun Battery, is located near the mouth of the river. Together, these seven components demonstrate different aspects of the European experience in West Africa from the time of the first arrival of Portuguese sailors around 1446. In particular, the site bears testimony to the various stages of the slave trade from its early beginnings to abolition.
Senegal Arts, Dress, & other Cultural Significance
Arts and Culture
Dakar has some traditional shops, the large markets provide the best adventures, variety and bargains. Among the major ones are the Kermel and the Sandaga, both in downtown Dakar, and the Soumbedioune Village, a short taxi ride away.
Art
Senegal is famous across Africa for the quality of its jewelry. Local artisans sell their exquisitely crafted gold and silver jewelry in regional markets all over the country, and the large amber necklaces traditionally worn by Fulani women are a common sight. Beautiful gold, silver, and bronze jewelry are exquisitely crafted. Antique beads and large amber necklaces, traditionally worn by the Fulani women, can be found in the markets and antique shops.
The Blacksmiths constitute the socio-professional group that made the tools, the jewelries, and other materials, using steel, iron, gold, and other metals.
Baskets, pottery, hand-woven fabrics with incredibly intricate patterns are renowned great buys. Leather, iguana, crocodile and snake skins are used to create handbags, shoes, belts and other accessories. The Cobblers have been busy with transforming animal skins. They made shoes, harnesses and other materials from animal skins.
The Blacksmiths constitute the socio-professional group that made the tools, the jewelries, and other materials, using steel, iron, gold, and other metals.
Baskets, pottery, hand-woven fabrics with incredibly intricate patterns are renowned great buys. Leather, iguana, crocodile and snake skins are used to create handbags, shoes, belts and other accessories. The Cobblers have been busy with transforming animal skins. They made shoes, harnesses and other materials from animal skins.
Music/Dance
Music and dance play an integral role, and distinctive traditional music such as Yela, the rhythms of which mimic the sound of grain being pounded by female villagers, is still practiced by many people in Senegal. Musical instruments such as the kora and hoddu are still played during celebrations in many parts of the country. The famous Senegalese musician Youssou N'Dour was appointed the minister of culture in April 2012.
Dynamic and rhythmic dances in Senegal, the most popular of which is called Sabar or Mballax, are performed at any of the celebrations. Additionally, there are other special dances performed during the "Bore" (wrestling matches) on national holidays, and other special occasions.
Dynamic and rhythmic dances in Senegal, the most popular of which is called Sabar or Mballax, are performed at any of the celebrations. Additionally, there are other special dances performed during the "Bore" (wrestling matches) on national holidays, and other special occasions.
Gambia Arts, Dress, & other Cultural Significance
Arts and Culture
The Gambian musical scene within Africa has always been extremely vibrant with an intoxicating mix of the Kora(African Harp) with its twisting, winding melodies to the Balafon a kind of glockenspiel which often accompanies the Kora. There are also a few bands playing Ndaga music as well as many up-and-coming local rap, hip hop and reggae musicians.
Arts & Crafts
Within the vicinity of most of the major tourist hotels you will find a small craft market(called bengdulas) made up of a number of small stalls offering a selection of wood carvings featuring tribal masks, elephants, hunters etc., batiks, tie dye fabric prints, trade beads, gold and silver jewellery and locally made hand woven baskets. Despite the influence of tourism in creating mass production of such art (particularly in Brikama Craft Market) you can still see authentic local handicrafts and cultural dancing in the villages along the coast and the River Gambia. Artworks can be found being peddled on the beaches as well as in craft shops.
Music
Traditionally music-making is open to anyone with a voice and an instrument in the West, in the Gambia it falls to a select strata of society: the Griots (the word has a confused etymology but a general translation might be bard or praise singer). The role the griots fill is a vital one to the community as they are at once repositories of cultural and historical knowledge, genealogists, and frequent social commentators; and they are called upon to remember ancient songs and narratives and even invent songs around recent social events.
Batiks, Jewelry, Waxes, Damask Cloths, Food
Basketware
Baskets are woven in either plain beige or intertwined using coloured strips of mostly dry palm leaves and are shaped into not only baskets but hand fans, table mats, lampshades, fruit bowls and a variety of other household objects. The craftsmen tend to be from Senegal and the quality is generally quite good.
Calabash & Gourds
The gourd family, Cucurbitaceae, which includes the pumpkin and squash has many different uses. Before use as utensils the insides of the gourd is saturated in water and left to rot after which they are left to sun-dry which hardens them greatly. They are then used as ladles, storage containers and spoons (bottle gourd). The larger versions (called leket) are used to make food preparations and the Kora string instrument.
Jewelry
Traditionally gold and silver jewellery is made by the lower caste of people called the tega in Wolof. The families that are famous for making local jewellery are the Touray, (Samba) Mbow, Jobe and Cham clans. The metals are made into bangles, bracelets, pendants, brooches, earrings, spoons and fine rings. However, you can also see wealthy women who go to special occasions dripping with hugely extravagant gold jewellery which would put MR.-T to shame!
Pottery
Clay pots have been made in the Senegambia area for over 6,000 years and is the preserve of the women, with the finest examples being made by the Mandinkas, Jolas and the Serahules. This last group are mainly concentrated in the Upper River Division town of Basse and the nearby village of Alohungari where they are known to make beautifully decorated clay pots from a clay silicate mineral called kaolin (or dar) dug up from the fields or river banks. The clay is particularly suitable for making terracotta containers.
Wood Carvings
Many carvings are huge so be prepared to pay excess to get such works back to your country. With the craftsmen of such pieces being often Fulanis or Bambaras, many busts portray tribal signs. For example there are magnificent pieces to be found in Brikama market which can be more than four feet tall with scars engraved on each cheek, temple or forehead.
Tama
The Tama earned its western nickname the “Talking Drum” as the drum’s pitch can be regulated to the extent that it is said to ‘talk.’
This is the Tama of the Wolof people, typified by its smaller dimensions. It produces the highest pitch of all Talking Drums and is among the oldest instruments used by West African griot.
Traditional Fulani Hat
The traditional Fulani hat is a vibrant testament to the lives and culture of a nomadic, cattle herding, people group from across sub-saharan Africa. As comfortable as it is interesting and unusual, this lively chapeau is authentic West African headwear that makes a fabulous wall hanging as well. These are especially popular with drummers. This hat displays a rich cultural significance for many African people. not only is it worn to protect the wearer from the harsh rays of the sun, but is also a symbol of wealth and status.
Kora
There are 2 kinds of Gambian Griots in West Africa: One that sings and another that plays the Kora (Cora) musical instrument.
The first reference to the Kora was made by Mungo Park in his 1799 book describing his trips in West Africa. It can be described as an African harp held vertically between one's legs when played.
The first reference to the Kora was made by Mungo Park in his 1799 book describing his trips in West Africa. It can be described as an African harp held vertically between one's legs when played.
Senegalese Twist
Senegalese twists, otherwise known as rope twists, are a protective style that is not only utilitarian, but it also serves as a striking addition to any hair styling routine. When hair needs a break or rest, especially from any harsh treatments/chemicals or heat damage, try twist styles for their versatility and elegance. Twists can be worn up or down, braided or knotted.
Sorrel/Bissap/Wonjo
Locally made drinks includes: BissapWonjo (Sorrel drink), Baobab drink made from Baobab tree, Gbeer. In Gambia Coke, Fanta, and Sprite are locally bottled by Gambega Ltd. and are very popular. If you want to take the bottle away you must leave a non-refundable deposit. This is because the bottles are sent back to the bottling factory by local retail vendors for recycling. In Senegal Société des Brasseries de l'Ouest Africain - SOBOA is the soda brewery
Chakery
Chakery is a rare sweet dish in a culture dominated by all things savory. The name chakery derives from the traditionally millet couscous base. Some suspect that the modern rendition of chakery derives from a similar unsweetened dish that has since evolved from a main course to a dessert. Mix it in Yogurt or farmented milk.
Communal Eating
Communal eating is the most common way to eat both in Senegal and Gambia. A large bowl of food shared by Gambians at meal times (usually at lunchtime), accompanied by a set of table manners you might be considered rude for disobeying. Everyone squat around their food bowl and eat with their right hand—and only their right hand, as the left hand is used for rather unclean purposes. You are encouraged to eat this way, as long as you wash your hands first like everyone else. Popular dishes are Benachin (jolof rice), Domoda, Couscous.
Fishing
The Gambia has an abundance of fish.
Since the early 1990s, the growing popularity for recreational fishing has now made The Gambia one of the most sought after fishing holiday destinations in the world.
The Gambian beaches play host to the Masterline International Beach Fishing Festival every year and for good reason, the surf casting is excellent during the period from October through to May and beach fishermen can expect to take Large Guitarfish, Stingrays, Captain fish, Jack Crevalle, Cassava, Groupers and many more.
The Gambian beaches play host to the Masterline International Beach Fishing Festival every year and for good reason, the surf casting is excellent during the period from October through to May and beach fishermen can expect to take Large Guitarfish, Stingrays, Captain fish, Jack Crevalle, Cassava, Groupers and many more.
West African Shore & Boat Fishing Festival Competition
The 3 day shoreline competition attracts fishing enthusiasts from all over the EU. Due to the high standard of beach fishing and and top cash prizes, the festival's popularity is on the increase as anglers return each year. Other activities during the week-long festival include practice days, social evenings, evening matches and international charity fishing. Entries are open to all sexes, abilities and ages.
“Fish The Gambia (FTG)” at the Gambia River
Gambia Tourism Board (GTB) partnered with stakeholders in the tourism sector and organised a beach casting or fishing competition. The aim is to turn this fishing competition into an internationally-acclaimed event by welcoming some of the famous anglers from around the world.
Blue Water Fishing
Deep sea fishing up to 20 miles offshore on a 28 foot Glacier Bay Catamaran using methods such as trolling, drift fishing, live baits and sight casting to target Sailfish, Dorado, Marlin, Tuna and many more pelagic species. The 'blue water' season in Gambia runs from the middle of May to October. During the summer June to Dec, large groups of migratory Marlin and Sailfish run down the Senegalese and Gambian coasts, along with Dorado, Tuna and Sharks. This adds up to an excellent sport fishery.
Creek Fishing
The Gambia's estuary is fringed on its banks by dense mangrove swamps interconnected by a maze of saltwater bolongs. These splendid, wild waterways make an ideal habitat for a range of tropical fish and an ideal marine environment for the light tackle angler. Shielded from the Atlantic Ocean, the bolong's meandering water-ways are perpetually tranquil and appealing to the boat anglers who prefer to avoid rough waters.
Skiff Fishing
The shallow clear waters of the islands at Tanji are home to numerous predators including Queenfish, Jack Crevalle, Barracuda, Snapper and Tarpon. If you fancy yourself as a bit of a Rex Hunt this is the trip for you, lure fishing on light gear is the name of the game. You may also catch a glimpse of the giant turtles.
Tigerfish
The shallow clear waters of the islands at Tanji are home to numerous predators including Queenfish, Jack Crevalle, Barracuda, Snapper and Tarpon. If you fancy yourself as a bit of a Rex Hunt this is the trip for you, lure fishing on light gear is the name of the game. You may also catch a glimpse of the giant turtles.
Seasons chart
Sea and river fishing is good all year round.
Senegal Fishing – Dakar
Senegal Blue water fishing: – During the summer June – Dec, huge numbers of Migratory Marlin up to 1200lb and Sailfish up to 120lb run down the Senegalese coast, along with Dorado, Tuna ,Wahoo and Sharks. This adds up to an excellent sport fishery.
St Louis
Situated on Senegal’s Northern most border, surrounded by the mighty Atlantic Ocean to the west , Mauritania to the north and one of the most fertile wetlands in the world to the east, St Louis is a sportsman’s paradise. Both Anglers and Non Anglers alike will find plenty to keep them entertained, a huge selection of options ensure you will always find something to fill a week or a fortnight.
Saly
Dakar and Saly offer excellent access to deep water just off shore and now a direct shipping channel has been cut through the sand bar in St Louis allowing access to the Blue water within 10kms of the dock, this means with our fast 9mt boats you are fishing within a maximum of 35 mins. Brand new international class gear has been used to equip all the boats and 2 international Guides are skippering the boats.
Accommodations
Set along the Atlantic Ocean, this chic resort on lush tropical grounds is next to Bijilo Forest Park, a rainforest nature reserve. It’s 18 km from Banjul International Airport.
Enjoying a fabulous location set on a large stretch of sandy beach in the Cape Point area, Sunbeach Hotel is an ideal choice for families and couples alike.
Just thirty minutes from Banjul International Airport (BJL), the Coral Beach Hotel & Spa Gambia is a genuine paradise: a spectacularly beautiful hotel inspired by local traditions on an unspoiled beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
Bordering Kotu Beach on the Atlantic Ocean, this laid-back hotel is a 14-minute walk from Fajara Golf Club and 6 km from Bijilo Forest Park.
The Holiday Beach Club hotel is located on the beautiful beach of Kololi, The Gambia. The Holiday Beach Club is adjacent to the main tourist strip in The Gambia, with great shopping facilities, a wide variety of bars, restaurants, night clubs and casinos.
Set on the Atlantic Ocean, this vibrant resort is a 10-minute walk from hiking the tranquil Bijilo Forest Park and birdwatching at Tanji River Reserve.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this upscale resort in the Cape Point beach district is 2 km from the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool and 12 km from Bijilo Forest Park.
Situated on the magnificent golden beach of Kololi, The Kairaba Hotel offers a unique ambiance of relaxation and tranquility in which to rest and unwind in complete comfort.
All rooms have twin beds (some have extra beds if required), suite bathrooms, air conditioning or wall fans, satellite TV. Ground floor rooms have a private balcony, while upper floors boast private staircases ascending to individual balconies.
Set a 1-minute walk from Monkey Park, this beachfront, golf course resort is also 3 km from the entrance of ocean-side Bijilo National Park.
Modern design and excellent service in a fantastic African landscape. A chic boutique hotel that is run by the Austrian owners around-the-clock.
Set on a stretch of Kotu Beach, this casual hotel is 4 km from the Fajara Golf Club, and 6 km from the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool.
A 13-minute walk from Pointe des Almadies Beach on the Atlantic Ocean, this straightforward guesthouse is 6 km from Aéroport international Léopold-Sédar-Senghor.
Featuring warm, simple decor and tile floors, the airy suites feature TVs, and living areas with sofabeds and minibars. Some suites have separate living rooms, while bi-level villas (some 2-bedroom) add kitchenettes and furnished terraces.
Overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean, this laid-back, beachside hotel is 1 km from Lagune de la Somone national park and 9 km from Golf de Saly.
In a complex of locally inspired circular buildings, this relaxed, beachfront resort is 2 km from Le Golf de Saly and 9 km from the Somone Lagoon Reserve.
This colourful, beachfront hotel overlooking Ile De Ngor is 3 km from Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport and 6 km from the Mosque of the Divinity.
This contemporary oceanfront hotel is 3 km from Îles des Madeleines national park and 12 km from Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport.
Set along the Atlantic shore, this laid-back hotel with private bungalows is 5 km from Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine and 6 km from the Mosque of the Divinity.
This polished, high-end hotel is 6 minutes’ walk from the nearest beach, 12 minutes’ walk from modern art at the Musée Khelcom and 2 km from Golf de Saly.
Set among gardens and mangroves by the Saloum River, this relaxed hotel spans a series of thatched-roof buildings and is 1 km from the N5 highway and 18 km from the Fathala Wildlife Reserve.
A 14-minute walk from the 18-hole green at Golf de Saly, this beachfront hotel set in Baobab Park is 7 km from Stade Caroline Faye sports stadium.
Palm Beach is located on the edge of a large sandy beach, on the Petite Côte, in the heart of Saly Portudal, a seaside resort located 80 km south of Dakar.
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This casual beachfront resort overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is 7 minutes’ walk from Gambia National Museum, an 11-minute walk from Albert Market and 19 km from Abuko National Reserve.
Set along the Atlantic Ocean, this chic resort on lush tropical grounds is next to Bijilo Forest Park, a rainforest nature reserve. It’s 18 km from Banjul International Airport.
Enjoying a fabulous location set on a large stretch of sandy beach in the Cape Point area, Sunbeach Hotel is an ideal choice for families and couples alike.
Just thirty minutes from Banjul International Airport (BJL), the Coral Beach Hotel & Spa Gambia is a genuine paradise: a spectacularly beautiful hotel inspired by local traditions on an unspoiled beach on the Atlantic Ocean.
Bordering Kotu Beach on the Atlantic Ocean, this laid-back hotel is a 14-minute walk from Fajara Golf Club and 6 km from Bijilo Forest Park.
The Holiday Beach Club hotel is located on the beautiful beach of Kololi, The Gambia. The Holiday Beach Club is adjacent to the main tourist strip in The Gambia, with great shopping facilities, a wide variety of bars, restaurants, night clubs and casinos.
Set on the Atlantic Ocean, this vibrant resort is a 10-minute walk from hiking the tranquil Bijilo Forest Park and birdwatching at Tanji River Reserve.
Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, this upscale resort in the Cape Point beach district is 2 km from the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool and 12 km from Bijilo Forest Park.
Situated on the magnificent golden beach of Kololi, The Kairaba Hotel offers a unique ambiance of relaxation and tranquility in which to rest and unwind in complete comfort.
All rooms have twin beds (some have extra beds if required), suite bathrooms, air conditioning or wall fans, satellite TV. Ground floor rooms have a private balcony, while upper floors boast private staircases ascending to individual balconies.
Set a 1-minute walk from Monkey Park, this beachfront, golf course resort is also 3 km from the entrance of ocean-side Bijilo National Park.
Modern design and excellent service in a fantastic African landscape. A chic boutique hotel that is run by the Austrian owners around-the-clock.
Set on a stretch of Kotu Beach, this casual hotel is 4 km from the Fajara Golf Club, and 6 km from the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool.
A 13-minute walk from Pointe des Almadies Beach on the Atlantic Ocean, this straightforward guesthouse is 6 km from Aéroport international Léopold-Sédar-Senghor.
Featuring warm, simple decor and tile floors, the airy suites feature TVs, and living areas with sofabeds and minibars. Some suites have separate living rooms, while bi-level villas (some 2-bedroom) add kitchenettes and furnished terraces.
Overlooking the North Atlantic Ocean, this laid-back, beachside hotel is 1 km from Lagune de la Somone national park and 9 km from Golf de Saly.
In a complex of locally inspired circular buildings, this relaxed, beachfront resort is 2 km from Le Golf de Saly and 9 km from the Somone Lagoon Reserve.
This colourful, beachfront hotel overlooking Ile De Ngor is 3 km from Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport and 6 km from the Mosque of the Divinity.
This contemporary oceanfront hotel is 3 km from Îles des Madeleines national park and 12 km from Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport.
Set along the Atlantic shore, this laid-back hotel with private bungalows is 5 km from Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine and 6 km from the Mosque of the Divinity.
This polished, high-end hotel is 6 minutes’ walk from the nearest beach, 12 minutes’ walk from modern art at the Musée Khelcom and 2 km from Golf de Saly.
Set among gardens and mangroves by the Saloum River, this relaxed hotel spans a series of thatched-roof buildings and is 1 km from the N5 highway and 18 km from the Fathala Wildlife Reserve.
A 14-minute walk from the 18-hole green at Golf de Saly, this beachfront hotel set in Baobab Park is 7 km from Stade Caroline Faye sports stadium.
Palm Beach is located on the edge of a large sandy beach, on the Petite Côte, in the heart of Saly Portudal, a seaside resort located 80 km south of Dakar.
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FAQ on Senegal
Frequently Asked Questions
For US citizens a passport is required. For U.S. passport holders, a visa is not required for stays of less than 90 days. Current yellow fever vaccination is mandatory to enter Senegal and meningitis vaccination is highly recommended if the traveler is arriving from or has recently traveled to an endemic area. US Embassy Dakar processes immigrant and non-immigrant visas. US Embassy Dakar also processes immigrant visas for The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, and Mauritania.
In general, the water is not safe to drink in Senegal. All local water should be considered contaminated. Bring all tap water to a good rolling boil if you want to drink, brush your teeth or make ice cubes. Otherwise, buy capped bottled water from reputable brands.
You can choose from different service providers, namely Orange, Tigo, IT Arc, Expresso, etc. Note that Senegal is one of the African countries having the best Internet coverage. Thus, you can choose between ADSL, 3G broadband connections, as well as mobile Internet packages. You can have more information on the conditions and services provided on their respective websites.
To obtain an Internet connection, visit any branch of your favorite Internet service provider along with your passport or foreigner identity card if you are a resident. In case you want a typical Internet connection, you must have a land line beforehand.
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Trailblazer Travelz are highly recommended to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
American Express is the most commonly accepted credit card in Senegal, but Visa, MasterCard, and Diner’s Club cards are also sometimes accepted. Many ATMs do not accept foreign cards, and ATMs are generally hard to find outside of Dakar.
French is the official language of Senegal. Senegal is a multilingual country: Ethnologue lists 36 languages, Wolof being the most widely spoken language.
You will definitely have access to telecommunication services in the country although these are not as developed as you could expect in many other countries. In fact, the country hosts only two major telephone service providers which have monopolized the telecommunications market. But these provide land line, mobile phone lines as well as Internet connection in most of the country.
To obtain your mobile phone, visit any branch of your favorite service provider with a copy of your passport or your consular card. You then have to duly fill and sign the subscription form. Note that you can choose between a monthly subscription or a prepaid package whereby no contract is involved. However, conditions may vary from one service provider to another. The same applies to services and packages provided.
The country uses the West African CFA franc as the legal tender. Senegal depends on economic aid from developed nations. The West African colonies of France used the French West African franc as their currency. The currency was introduced in the colonies in 1903 and used until 1945 when CFA franc was introduced.
The CFA franc is the currency used by a group of 14 countries within Central and West Africa. Those in central Africa use the Central African CFA franc while those in West Africa use the West African CFA franc. In theory, the two currencies are the same and have an equal value with the difference being in their geographical regions of use.
All the banks in Senegal now have ATM machines. Many ATMs do not accept foreign cards, and ATMs are generally hard to find outside of Dakar.
Tipping is not expected at budget eateries. At pricier restaurants, a 10% tip is customary, though this is sometimes included in the bill. It’s uncommon to tip taxi drivers. If you hire a guide or a driver for the day, however, you should plan on tipping.
FAQ on Gambia
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. A visa is required for travel to Gambia, as are a valid passport and proof of the Yellow fever vaccine. A visa for travel to Gambia for US citizens is currently good for five years. It is highly recommended that all travelers to Gambia obtain their visas before they depart.
In general, the water is not safe to drink in Gambia. All local water should be considered contaminated. Bring all tap water to a good rolling boil if you want to drink, brush your teeth or make ice cubes. Otherwise, buy capped bottled water from reputable brands.
All hotels and resorts provide free WIFI and few restaurants. ISPs in Gambia. InsistNet is an internet service provider serving companies, organisations, schools & residential homes with fast internet access. The company provides internet access when using its 3G connections over your mobile smartphone.
Absolutely. All passengers traveling with Trailblazer Travelz are highly recommended to purchase travel insurance before the start of their trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.
MasterCard prepaid, credit and debit cards can be used at GTBank Gambia ATMs and Point of Sale (POS) terminals including hotels, retailers and restaurants located in the Greater Banjul area. Discover card has only a few establishments that accept them. Solo and Switch cards are not accepted.
English is the main language used for official purposes and in education. In the Gambia, Mandingo is spoken as a first language by 38% of the population, Fula is spoken by 21.2%, Wolof / Serer by 18%, Jola by 4.5%. Several other languages are also spoken. Gambian Sign Language is used by the deaf. French is also spoken in few establishments.
Purchase a new cell phone and SIM card for Gambia and take advantage of the low rates that the local cellular phone users are paying, regardless of the length of your trip. These rates are extremely advantageous and will earn you big savings while you travel abroad!
The Gambian Dalasi is the currency of Gambia. The three letter currency code for the Gambian dalasi is GMD and the symbol is D. It is the domestic currency in Gambia. Another popular option is to use a Pre-paid Travel Card. Your Debit/Credit Card provider will charge you 2% from market mid-rate, but your bank may also charge an extra 3% as an “Overseas Transaction Charge” plus “Overseas ATM” fees for withdrawing cash.
All the banks in Gambia now have ATM machines which can be used to withdraw money using their custom cash cards. Visa debit cards can be used to withdraw money from ATMs run by the Standard Chartered Bank and Access Bank.
Tipping works on a loose set of principles in Gambia. Well-performed service is usually rewarded. In most cases, only well-to-do locals and foreign guests are expected to give gratuity. For instance, a visitor in a classy hotel must tip the porter, but a solo backpacker in a small inn is not expected to do the same.
Tipping at restaurants and bars is the usual 10% of the total bill. Check first if service is included in the quoted price. If it is, further tipping is up to your discretion.
