Gambia Road Trip Itinerary
Experience the beauty of The Gambia with the Gambia Road Trip! This route starts in Yundum, a city in the country of The Gambia, and ends in the same city. Along the way, you will pass through Sotokoi, Dumbutu, George Town, Wassu, Farafenni, and Sanyang, with a total distance of about 630 km. The recommended time to complete this road trip is 12 days, and the best time of the year to drive is during the dry season, which is between November and June.
Along the way, you will be able to enjoy the many beaches, nature, and UNESCO Heritage Monuments that The Gambia has to offer. Be aware that the road conditions are overall poor, and there is a border crossing along the route. Despite this, the Gambia Road Trip provides a very high level of experience and memories, and is suitable for any driver. This road trip can also be managed with a moderate budget, making it an ideal choice for those who want to explore The Gambia without breaking the bank.
12
number of days
625 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the left
traffic direction
high
accident level
START
Yundum
Distance 625 km
Driving time 14.6 h
Pace: slow
143.7 kWh
Airports
BJL
[detailsContainer]
Yundum is the perfect starting point for the Gambia Road Trip. Located in the western part of the country, the town is teeming with fascinating sights, sounds and activities to explore. The nearby international airport Fajara (IATA: FGA) offers car rentals for those looking to explore the area and its surrounding attractions.
Those who visit Yundum can take advantage of its many attractions, from the bustling markets of the small town to the nearby beaches. The nearby beaches of Kotu, Kololi and Bakau offer a range of activities from relaxing on the sand to snorkeling and kayaking. For the more adventurous traveler, there are also the nearby Abuko Nature Reserve and the Kiang West National Park, where visitors can explore the diverse wildlife and natural beauty of Gambia.
Yundum is also a great place to explore the vibrant culture of Gambia. From the lively bars and restaurants to the colorful markets, there is something to suit all tastes. For those looking to explore further afield, there are many interesting sights in the area, including the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Kunta Kinteh Island and the nearby River Gambia National Park.
For a truly unique experience, visitors can take a boat to the nearby Tanji Bird Reserve, where they can observe a wide variety of birds, such as pelicans, flamingos and kingfishers.
Yundum is the perfect starting point for a Gambia Road Trip, offering a range of attractions and activities for travelers of all ages and interests. From the bustling markets to the diverse wildlife and cultural attractions, it is the perfect place to begin your journey.
1
Yundum
- Sotokoi
Distance 47 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
10.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip starting in Yundum, The Gambia. This 46 km journey will take you through Abuko and Kubuneh, and end in Sotokoi. Along the way, you'll be able to take in the beautiful sights and sounds of Gambia. Make sure to take in the sights of Abuko Nature Reserve, which is home to a wide variety of birds, monkeys, and other wildlife. Visit Kubuneh, the second largest city in the Gambia, and explore its historical sites. Driving time for this section is less than two hours, so make sure to take a break and enjoy the scenery. A 4WD car is advisable for this journey. As you drive, look out for historical sites, as well as local restaurants and accommodation options. At the end of the journey, you'll reach Sotokoi, the perfect place to end your journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage.
Sotokoi - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - Mapio.net
❯
❮
2
Sotokoi
- Dumbutu
Distance 90 km
Driving time 1.3 h
Pace: fast
26.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a road trip from Sotokoi to Dumbutu, a 90 km journey that takes less than 2 hours. Get ready to experience the picturesque landscapes of The Gambia along the way. For this section, a 4WD car is recommended. Enjoy the views of the savanna, the local villages and the majestic river.
For a unique experience, stop at Sotokoi and visit the local market, where you can find colorful fabrics and local crafts. In Dumbutu, visit the local museum and admire the artifacts from the area's history. Don't miss the chance to take a boat ride on the river and take in the stunning views of the surrounding area.
For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!
Dumbutu - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - TravelerBase
❯
❮
3
Dumbutu
- Georgetown
Distance 163 km
Driving time 3.5 h
Pace: modest
42.3 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an amazing road trip from Dumbutu, The Gambia to George Town! This 163 km journey will take you fewer than 3 hours and is a great way to explore the region. We recommend you take a 4WD car for the route as you will be crossing the border. Along the way you will get to experience some of the UNESCO Heritage sites, as well as some of the historical sites and scenic roads. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the ‘Itinerary’ of this stage. So, get ready for an adventure and explore the wonders of Dumbutu, The Gambia to George Town!
Georgetown - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - - Wikimedia Commons
❯
❮
4
Georgetown
- Wassu
Distance 21 km
Driving time 0.5 h
Pace: modest
5.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an unforgettable road trip from George Town, Malaysia to Wassu! Along the way, you will pass through the River Gambia National Park, a lush and beautiful landscape that is home to a variety of wildlife. A 4WD car is recommended for this 21 km drive, which should take you less than 1 hour. As you traverse the scenic road, be sure to keep an eye out for the border crossing. Once you arrive at the River Gambia National Park, you will be able to explore the area's numerous attractions, including the beautiful beaches, the rainforest, and the many animals that inhabit the park. After taking in the sights, you can continue your journey to Wassu, where you will find more exciting attractions. Be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage for more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route. Enjoy your trip!
Wassu - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
5
Wassu
- Farafenni
Distance 95 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: modest
24.7 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip from Wassu to Farafenni! This 95 km journey will take you fewer than 2 hours, and is a great way to explore the area. A 4WD car is advisable for this section, and you'll even get to take a ferry crossing! Along the way, you'll get to take in the beautiful scenery, so keep your eyes open for any interesting sights. Some of the most interesting places to visit in this area include Wassu Stone Circles, Kiang West National Park, and the Farafenni Market. Whether you're just passing through or making this part of a larger tour, you'll find plenty of attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites to make your journey even more enjoyable. For more information, check out the Itinerary for this stage!
Farafenni - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - de.wikipedia.org
❯
❮
6
Farafenni
- Essau
Distance 109 km
Driving time 2.3 h
Pace: modest
28.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Are you ready to embark on the Farafenni to Essau road trip? This 109 km journey will take you less than two hours and you will be able to explore the beautiful sights of The Gambia. A 4WD car is recommended for this trip, as the roads are quite bumpy. Along the way, you will be able to take in the stunning views of the countryside, so keep your eyes peeled.
Make sure to stop in Farafenni, where you can visit the Farafenni Mosque and the Kiang West National Park. In Essau, you can explore the Kiang Central River National Park, the Essau Mosque and the Essau Island.
This road trip is just one of the many stages on a much longer journey. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants and campsites along the route, please check the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, buckle up and get ready for an exciting adventure!
Essau - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
❯
❮
7
Essau
- Banjul
Distance 11 km
Driving time 0.6 h
Pace: slow
2.5 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
If you're looking for an exciting road trip, look no further than the 11km drive from Essau to Banjul in The Gambia! This journey will take you less than an hour, so it's perfect for a short day trip. To make the most of the journey, we recommend you take a 4WD car and be prepared for a ferry crossing. As you drive, take in the historical sites, picturesque landscapes, and scenic roads. You'll be amazed at what you'll find along the way! For more information on attractions, accommodation, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the itinerary for this stage. So what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and hit the road!
Banjul - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
Banjul - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - Pixabay
❯
❮
8
Banjul
- Sanyang
Distance 39 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: slow
8.9 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a thrilling road trip from Banjul to Sanyang, a journey of 39 km that will take no more than two hours. Start your journey in Banjul, the capital of The Gambia, and make your way to Bijilo Forest Park, an enchanting wildlife reserve with an abundance of wildlife, including monkeys, baboons, and many species of birds. While there, take some time to explore the trails, observe the local wildlife, and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. After leaving Bijilo, you will make your way to Sanyang, a coastal town with beautiful beaches and a vibrant fishing industry. Along the way, be sure to take in the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads. A 4WD car is recommended for this section of the route. From Sanyang, you can continue on your journey, with more information on attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip!
Sanyang - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
❯
❮
9
Sanyang
- Gunjur
Distance 13 km
Driving time 0.3 h
Pace: modest
3.4 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on a thrilling road trip from Sanyang to Gunjur and explore the best of Gambia! Enjoy the scenic drive of just 13 km and take in the beauty of the Gambian countryside in fewer than 1 hour. A 4WD car is advisable to drive this section, and you will be rewarded for your efforts with stunning views of the region. Along the way, be sure to visit the bustling Sanyang Market, the peaceful Sanyang Beach, and the vibrant Gunjur Beach. For more information about attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip through Gambia!
Gunjur - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - Access Gambia
Gunjur - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - Access Gambia
Gunjur - The Gambia - Africa - Road Trip - Access Gambia
❯
❮
10
Gunjur
- Yundum
Distance 38 km
Driving time 1.6 h
Pace: slow
8.8 kWh
↓
View map
↓
Itinerary
[detailsContainer]
Embark on an exciting road trip stage starting in Gunjur, The Gambia and leading through Brikama and Yundum. This 44km journey will take you less than 2 hours to complete, and you will be able to explore the most interesting places in these locations.
Start your adventure in Gunjur, where you can visit the Gunjur Market, the largest market in the region, and the Gunjur Beach, a beautiful beach with crystal clear waters. Then, make your way to Brikama, where you can explore the Brikama Market, a bustling market with local goods and products, and the Brikama Baobolong Wetland Reserve, a protected area with a rich biodiversity. Finally, end your journey in Yundum, the city of peace, where you can visit the Yundum International Airport and the Yundum National Park.
This is one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready to explore the most interesting places in Gunjur, Brikama, and Yundum.
Yundum
[detailsContainer]
Yundum is the perfect destination to finish off your Gambia Road Trip. Located just 30 minutes outside of the capital, Banjul, Yundum is the ideal place to relax and take in the beauty of The Gambia.
The town offers many attractions, including the beautiful Yundum Mosque, the Yundum National Park and the Yundum National Monument. The National Monument is particularly interesting, as it is the last resting place of the first President of The Gambia, Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara.
For nature lovers, there is plenty to explore in Yundum. The Yundum National Park is a great place to get up close and personal with the local wildlife. From monkeys and parrots to antelopes, you’ll be sure to find something interesting here.
If you’re looking to take in some culture, Yundum is home to a number of traditional markets and art galleries. Here you can find a variety of local arts and crafts, including traditional fabrics, jewellery and pottery.
For those travelling by car, Yundum is easily accessed via the Trans-Gambia Highway. The nearest international airport is Banjul International Airport (BJL) which is just 30 minutes away.
Finish your Gambia Road Trip in style by visiting Yundum. With plenty of attractions and activities to explore, you’re sure to have a great time here.
Gambia Road Trip at a glance
-
Start:
Yundum
-
End:
Yundum
-
Distance:
625 km
-
Stay:
12 days
-
Getting there:
Banjul International Airport (BJL)
-
When to drive:
January, February, March, April, November, December
-
More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Embark on the Gambia Road Trip for an unforgettable journey through the smallest country within mainland Africa. The Trip begins and ends in Yundum, near the Banjul International Airport, and covers approximately 630 km over twelve days. This Road Trip offers a deep dive into The Gambia's stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and welcoming villages.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
- Sotokoi: Experience the essence of Gambian village life and its tight-knit community.
- Dumbutu: Bask in the serenity of the Gambian countryside and interact with local artisans.
- George Town (Janjanbureh): Wander through a town filled with colonial history and vibrant local culture.
- Wassu: Stand in awe of the ancient Wassu Stone Circles, a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to around 1,200 years ago and is considered one of the most significant megalithic complexes in Africa.
- Farafenni: Dive into the energetic atmosphere of a traditional market where you can haggle for local goods and crafts.
- Sanyang: Unwind on some of The Gambia's most beautiful beaches, where golden sands meet the Atlantic Ocean.
Best Time to Go:
The ideal time for this Road Trip is during The Gambia's dry season, between November and June, when the climate is cooler and less humid, making travel more comfortable and the Roads more navigable.
Potential Risks:
Travelers should be aware of the challenging Road conditions and prepare for the possibility of a border crossing if venturing beyond The Gambia. It's crucial to drive with care and be well-informed about the latest local driving regulations and safety advisories.
Facts for Roadtrippers:
- Budget-friendly: This Trip is accessible for travelers on a moderate budget, with options for affordable accommodations and local dining.
- Experience level: The Road Trip is suitable for drivers of any level, though those with experience in international and rural driving conditions may feel more at ease.
- Scenery: A diverse showcase of The Gambia's topography, including idyllic beaches, lush nature reserves, and historical landmarks that tell the story of the country's past.
- Preparation: Considering the variable Road conditions and potential border formalities, thorough preparation is recommended. This includes ensuring vehicle reliability, carrying necessary documentation, and planning accommodations in advance.
A good choice for:
The Gambia Road Trip is an extraordinary way to experience the captivating allure of The Gambia's natural beauty, complex history, and the warmth of its people. It's an adventure that promises to leave travelers with a rich collection of memories and a true sense of discovery, all on a reasonable budget.
-
