Trip Description

This is more than a tour; it's an immersion into the soul of West Africa. Designed for the discerning traveler, it combines deep cultural experiences, historical insights, and stunning natural beauty. You will journey by private 4x4, traditional boat, and on foot, connecting with local communities, witnessing unique wildlife, and relaxing on untouched beaches. From the poignant history of Kunta Kinteh Island to the animist kingdoms of the south and the remote archipelago of the Bijagós, this trip offers a comprehensive and profound exploration of a rarely visited corner of the world.

Trip Highlights

Historical Reflection: Visit the poignant UNESCO site of Kunta Kinteh Island
Multi-Country Adventure: Experience the unique cultures of The Gambia, Senegal, and Guinea-Bissau in one seamless trip.
Bijagós Archipelago: Explore the pristine UNESCO Biosphere Reserve by private boat.
Wildlife Encounters: Spot seabirds and turtles on Pelican Island and search for marine life around the Bijagós.
Cultural Immersion: Meet a local Animist King, visit family homes, and walk through vibrant markets and rice fields.
Scenic Diversity: From tranquil bolongs and lush forests to stunning Atlantic beaches.

Detailed 9-Day Itinerary

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Embark on a breathtaking 9-day odyssey through the vibrant heart of West Africa. This meticulously crafted private journey takes you from The Gambia's historical roots, through Senegal's lush Casamance region, and into the captivating cultural tapestry of Guinea-Bissau, including a magical excursion to the pristine Bijagós Islands. Travel in comfort with expert guides, discovering wild landscapes, rich traditions, and unforgettable encounters.

Day 1: :

Arrival in Smiling Coast

Upon your arrival at Banjul International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your beautiful hotel or lodge in the Senegambia area. Alternatively, we can pick you up directly from your pre-booked hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax, take a dip in the pool, or have a first taste of Gambian cuisine by the Atlantic Ocean.
Overnight: Hotel/Lodge in the Senegambia Coast

Day 2: :

History and the Tranquil Bolong

We depart at 6:00 am for a journey into The Gambia's profound history. We travel to Kunta Kinteh Island (formerly James Island), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a powerful memorial to the transatlantic slave trade. We will explore the island and the accompanying museum. In the afternoon, a scenic boat transfer takes you to your serene accommodation nestled in the Bintang Bolong,
a stunning tidal creek.
Overnight: Bintang Bolong Lodge or Abcas Creek Lodge (B)

Day 3: :

Into the Casamance, Senegal

After breakfast, we drive south, crossing the border into Senegal at Jiboro/Seleti. The Casamance region is known for its lush vegetation and vibrant culture. En route, we immerse ourselves in local life: we'll stop at a colourful market, take a guided forest walk to discover the flora and fauna, and enjoy a peaceful boat trip through the mangroves. Our day ends in the coastal town of Kafountine.
Overnight: Lodge in Kafountine (B)

Day 4: :

Turtles, Tides and Crossing into Guinea-Bissau

Today we explore the marine life of the Casamance. We drive to Kassel Island and take a boat to Pelican Island, a vital sanctuary for numerous seabirds and sea turtles. After this natural interlude, we continue to Ziguinchor for lunch and to process our visas for Guinea-Bissau. Once visas are secured, we cross the border at Domingos and continue to the tranquil coastal village of Varela.
Overnight: Simple Eco Lodge in Varela (B)

Day 5: :

Village Life and the Capital City

We begin the day with a guided tour of Varela village, offering a genuine glimpse into local life. Our journey then continues towards the capital, Bissau. A highlight en route is a stop in Katel for a visit to a family home and a walk through vast, green rice fields, connecting with the agricultural heartbeat of the country. We arrive in Bissau for an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Hotel Imperio or similar in Bissau (B)

Day 6: :

The Magical Bijagós Archipelago

An early start for an unforgettable experience. We take a private boat from Bissau port to Ilha de Orango, one of the main islands of the Bijagós Archipelago (a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve). After settling in, we embark on a wildlife-spotting boat trip around Ilha de Bubaque, known for its diverse marine life and pristine beaches.
Overnight: Simple Lodge (e.g., Lodge les Dauphins) on Orango or Bubaque Island (B)

Day 7: :

Return to Mainland and Cap Skirring's Beaches

After a final breakfast in the islands, we return to Bissau by boat. From there, our private vehicle drives north, crossing back into Senegal. Our destination is the popular beach resort of Cap Skirring. The evening is free to enjoy the beautiful beach, go souvenir shopping, or relax at your comfortable hotel.
Overnight: Hotel Maya or similar in Cap Skirring (B)

Day 8: :

Kings, Kapoks and a Farewell in The Gambia

Enjoy a leisurely morning on the beach before we begin our journey back to The Gambia. The route is filled with cultural stops: we'll visit the cultural museum in Becutte, marvel at ancient, towering Kapok trees, and with a bit of luck, we may have the honour of an audience with a local Animist King. We cross the border and enjoy a special farewell meal together at our Eco Lodge or on the unique Baobab Island.
Overnight: Eco Lodge or Baobab Island Lodge (B, D)

Day 9: :

Final Markets and Farewells

After breakfast, we make a final stop at the bustling markets of Brikama, famous for their wood carvings and textiles—a perfect last chance for souvenir hunting. Afterwards, we provide a transfer back to your hotel in The Gambia or to Banjul International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of an incredible West African adventure.

(B)