Gambia, Senegal · Culture

10-Day Gambia and Senegal Tour with Safari and Kunta Kinteh Island

10 Days Round trip from Bintang Easy pace
Witness the towering playful giraffes
Spot the wildlife
View the native wildlife
Spot monochromatic giraffes
African Eland
View all 16 photos

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Cultural dive into Banjul's historical sites and lively markets
  • 02 Experience a serene water adventure through mangroves with birdlife and tranquil waterways
  • 03 Explore Makasutu Culture Forest with a guided nature walk, canoe ride, and traditional palm wine tapping
  • 04 Experience an open-air safari and guided Lion Walk in Senegal's Fathala Reserve
  • 05 Follow the footsteps of Kunta Kinteh with a boat trip to this UNESCO heritage site
  • 06 Marvel at a riverboat safari to spot chimpanzees, hippos, and other wildlife in their natural habitat
  • 07 Discover Senegal's coastal beauty and visit an island with unique animist traditions

Embark on this 10-day adventure through The Gambia and Senegal, combining bustling markets, historical landmarks, serene natural reserves, and cultural villages. Encounter wildlife on safari and river excursions, paddle through mangroves, and enjoy scenic boat trips to places including Kunta Kinteh Island and the River Gambia National Park. Along the way, discover local traditions, sacred sites, and coastal communities while staying in a mix of charming lodges, camps, and hotels. Each day blends cultural insight with outdoor adventure to capture the vibrant essence of Senegambia.

Later in the morning, embark on a Lion Walk, a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you walk alongside lions with trained guides while learning more about these majestic animals.

From the itinerary

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 10 Days
Tour type Private
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Included · Standard
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Yes
Cities Banjul, Fathala Wildlife Reserve, Bijilo Forest Park, River Gambia National Park, Kunta Kinteh Island
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Arrival in The Gambia

  • Your adventure begins with a warm welcome at Banjul International Airport, where your guide will meet you and transfer you to your hotel.
  • Check in to your accommodation and unwind after your journey.
  • Enjoy free time in the evening to explore nearby areas or relax at your hotel.
2
Day 02

Banjul Markets, Monuments and Nature

  • In the morning, stroll through Albert Market, where local vendors sell fresh produce, textiles, and crafts. Learn about Gambian trade and daily life from your guide.
  • Visit Arch 22 and climb this 35-meter-tall monument for panoramic views over Banjul. The arch commemorates Gambia's coup d'état in 1994, and its museum offers historical insights.
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and savor a traditional Gambian meal, perhaps trying dishes like benachin (rice and fish) or domoda (peanut stew).
  • In the afternoon, visit Kachikally Crocodile Pool, a sacred site where you can see and touch the docile crocodiles. Learn about its significance in Gambian culture and the beliefs surrounding fertility blessings.
  • Finish the day with a walk through Bijilo Monkey Park, a nature reserve home to different monkey species and beautiful trails.
  • Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
3
Day 03

Kayaking Through the Mangroves

  • In the morning, set off for a peaceful kayaking journey through the mangroves.
  • Paddle through tranquil waterways, where you'll spot birds and enjoy the serene surroundings.
  • Stop for a picnic-style lunch along the riverbank, with time to relax and take in the natural beauty around you.
  • In the afternoon, continue exploring nearby river channels, spotting more local wildlife or taking a refreshing swim.
  • Return to the hotel in the evening for dinner and relaxation.
4
Day 04

Makasutu Culture Forest Experience

  • In the morning, arrive at the eco-lodge and begin with a guided walk through Makasutu Culture Forest.
  • Learn about traditional medicine and the uses of forest plants, meet local wildlife such as baboons, and witness traditional palm wine tapping.
  • Enjoy a canoe ride through the forest's waterways, surrounded by mangroves, while your guide shares details about the rich biodiversity of the area.
  • Savor a traditional Gambian lunch at the eco-lodge.
  • Return to the hotel in the evening to relax and prepare for the next day's adventure.
5
Day 05

Fathala Safari, Lion Walk and Roots Tour

  • Early in the morning, drive to Fathala Wildlife Reserve in Senegal, crossing the border and arriving in time for an early safari drive.
  • Explore this rich savanna ecosystem and spot wildlife such as rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes.
  • Later in the morning, embark on a Lion Walk, a once-in-a-lifetime experience where you walk alongside lions with trained guides while learning more about these majestic animals.
  • Enjoy lunch at Fathala's restaurant.
  • In the afternoon, continue to Albreda and Juffureh for the Roots Tour and a visit to the Village Museum, where you'll learn about Gambian culture.
  • Then take a boat ride to Kunta Kinteh Island, the historic UNESCO site and former hub of the transatlantic slave trade.
  • In the evening, stay overnight at Roots Camp and enjoy a special cultural dinner experience.
6
Day 06

Wassu Stone Circles and River Gambia National Park

  • Early in the morning, drive to the Wassu Stone Circles and explore these ancient megalithic sites, believed to mark burial grounds from over a thousand years ago.
  • At midday, travel to Kuntaur, where you'll board a boat at 2 pm for a guided tour of the River Gambia National Park.
  • Keep an eye out for chimpanzees, hippos, and other unique wildlife during the boat excursion.
  • Later in the afternoon, visit the JJB Island settlement and gain insights into the community's traditional way of life.
  • Stay overnight at JJB Camp, where you'll enjoy a hearty dinner and stories shared by locals.
7
Day 07

Bintang Village and Bolong River Cruise

  • After breakfast, drive to Bintang Village.
  • Check in to Bintang Lodge and enjoy a riverside lunch.
  • In the afternoon, relax on a scenic cruise along Bintang Bolong, gliding through mangroves and possibly spotting dolphins, local fish, and birdlife.
  • Stay overnight at Bintang Lodge, with dinner served at the lodge's restaurant.
8
Day 08

Kafountine Coastal Adventure

  • Drive to Kafountine in Senegal, a picturesque coastal town known for its art and fishing communities.
  • Check in to Esperanto Lodge.
  • Spend the rest of the day at leisure: relax on the beach, explore the village, or browse the local art markets.
9
Day 09

Animist Island Boat Excursion

  • Head out by boat to an island inhabited by traditional animist communities who continue to practice ancient African spiritual rituals.
  • Learn about their customs and enjoy a picnic on the island.
  • Return to Esperanto Lodge in the evening for a farewell dinner.
10
Day 10

Return to The Gambia and Departure

  • After breakfast, return to The Gambia for your departure, bringing your journey to a close with an authentic experience.
  • Conclude your unforgettable Senegambia adventure.
Kunta Kinteh Island, River Gambia National Park, Fathala Wildlife Reserve, Makasutu Culture Forest

Where this trip takes you

Kunta Kinteh Island, River Gambia National Park, Fathala Wildlife Reserve, Makasutu Culture Forest

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map
Round trip from Bintang 5 cities · 10 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Accommodation: 10 nights' bed and breakfast in a mix of eco-lodges, rustic camps, and hotels
  • Activities: Guided tours, boat trips, safaris, and entrance fees
  • Transportation: Ground transfers and inter-destination travel
  • Expert guides at each location

What's Not Included

  • Lunch and dinner
  • International flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities or tips for the driver and guide

What to bring

Is this itinerary suitable for families?

Yes, but some activities may not be ideal for very young children.

What should I pack?

Comfortable clothing, walking shoes, sun protection, insect repellent, and swimwear.

Do I need a visa to enter Senegal?

Depending on your nationality, you may require a visa to cross into Senegal. Please check with the Senegalese consulate or your travel agent for more information. A passport and yellow fever vaccination card are required for border crossing.

Can dietary needs be accommodated?

Yes, with prior notice.

Is travel insurance required?

Yes, it's recommended to cover medical and trip cancellations.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Bintang, The Gambia
Tour start
Bintang, The Gambia
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 10 days finish where they began, in Bintang.

Watch the tourHQ film Watch the film

Create your own adventure

Can't find the perfect tour? Tailor your dream trip.

  • Tell us your destination, dates and group size.
  • Our travel experts and local guides design a tailored itinerary, just for you.
  • Enjoy your trip with peace of mind, knowing everything is taken care of.
Plan my holiday

Say goodbye to travel stress.

Starting from

EUR 2,400 /person
Book This Tour

Estimated room rates

Single Room €2,400.00 — €2,700.00
Double Sharing €2,400.00 — €2,700.00

When

Travellers

Total