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Banjul
Cut off from the mainland by mangroves, the obvious neglect
and apparent decay of this ex-colonial city belies its more
authentic African experience, away from the tacky tourist
resorts further along the coast. Banjul is best visited in
a day, check out the National Museum for a fair collection
of historical and ethnographic exhibits. Boat excursions in
the swamps around Banjul are popular; you can take a shared
tour or hire out your own canoe and paddle around yourself.
For entertainment, Banjul has some lively nightclubs, although
they don't compete with those found in Serekunda.
Serekunda
The wrestling in Serekunda is famous, and even if
it's not quite your cup of tea you should still check it out.
It is a big event, popular with the locals as well as tourists,
and begins with a colourful parade of the wrestlers around
the ring, their supporters cheering them on with the aid of
whistles and drums. The 'anything-goes' rule ensures a raucous
performance, but is extremely enjoyable for the lively crowd.
Catch the matches most weekends at the arena near Serekunda.
The wrestling, or boreh in Wolof, is a highlight
for those seeking traditional West African activities, as
you get to mix with locals and applaud the victors, coated
in grease and charms thought to ward off their attackers.
Serekunda is the Gambians choice when it comes to partying.
Definitely check out the clubs along the beach area up towards
Serekunda, they play a mix of local and international music.
Abuko Nature Reserve
This easy to reach nature park is about 13 miles south of
Banjul, and contains more than 200 species of colourful birds
and lush vegetation. There is a good selection of animals,
such as different varieties of monkey. Set up by an English
warden, a stream runs through the centre giving life to the
flora and fauna.
Kololi
An impressive beach on the tourist stretch, but be wary of
the undercurrent making swimming hazardous, always check which
tidal flag is flying. The resort is a hive of activity with
some water sports, beach volleyball, and mobile refreshments
skilfully balanced in baskets on top of the vendors' head.
There is also a friendly, bustling town here with a colourful
local market and choice of restaurants. The nightlife here
is vibrant, and its within easy reach of further interesting
points in The Gambia. Erosion is taking its toll here and
across the coast of Gambia, and as a result the beach is fairly
narrow.
Juffure
'Roots' author Alex Haley traced his ancestry
back to this small village, where Binta Kinte still lives.
His hero, Kunta Kinte was sold on the slave ships during the
dark middle passage to the New World. Since the publication
of 'Roots', Juffure has become something of a tourist trap,
unfortunately facilities don't support this, and there is
little else to see or do. There is, however, a museum depicting
'The Voyage of No Return', an aptly haunting memorial to the
horrific crimes imposed on the people of the area during the
middle passage.
The Gambia River
While in Gambia, take an excursion up the river, from Lamin
Lodge, near Lamin village and Jangjang-bureh Camp.
You will get to see the beautiful scenery along the river,
stopping at several picturesque towns along the way. You can
camp overnight at Tendaba and Sofin Yama Camps,
or alternatively you can kip on deck. Mosquito nets and mattresses
are provided for a few dollars. The boats have toilets and
a bar. Passengers can disembark at any of the stops along
the way, and it makes a great alternate way to see this wonderful
country. The river is 700 miles long, flowing from Guinea
through Senegal, then splitting The Gambia in two. You'll
find crocodiles, dolphins and hippos upriver, and a dazzling
variety of birds.
Kuntaur
Believed to be burial sites about 1200 years old, the Wassu
Stone Circles near the town of Kuntaur, about 15 miles
from Georgetown are well worth the trek.
Basse Santa Sue
A lively, interesting town with a waterfront market selling
many locally produced crafts. Ensure your meningitis vaccinations
are up-to-date, however, as recent outbreaks have been observed
in the region. There is accommodation available here, and
several chop bars for local grub. Take a bus or bush taxi
from Georgetown or Soma.
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