Excursions & Day Trips

One of the great pleasures of staying at Luigi's is the ease with which you can explore. The Gambia is a small country, which means most excursions are half-day or full-day trips that get you back in time for dinner by the pool. Here are the most popular options.

River Gambia Cruises

The River Gambia is the lifeblood of the country, running 1,100 kilometres from Guinea to the Atlantic. Boat trips range from gentle afternoon cruises to full-day expeditions upriver. You will see dolphins, pelicans, fish eagles and mangrove forests. Some trips include a stop at a riverside village for lunch. Expect to pay around £20-35 per person for a half-day cruise, or £40-60 for a full day with lunch included.

Market Visits

The local markets are an experience in themselves. Serrekunda Market is the largest in The Gambia — a chaotic, colourful maze of stalls selling everything from fresh fish to hand-dyed fabrics. Albert Market in Banjul is more tourist-friendly but still wonderfully authentic. Guided market tours cost around £10-15 including transport. Bring cash and be ready to haggle — it is expected and part of the fun.

Fishing Trips

The Atlantic waters off The Gambia are excellent for sport fishing. Barracuda, jack, and red snapper are common catches. Deep-sea fishing charters run from Banjul and cost around £50-80 per person for a half day. If you prefer something more relaxed, pirogue fishing with local fishermen on the river or the creek is available for around £15-20.

Traditional Wrestling

Wrestling is The Gambia's national sport, and watching a match is one of the most memorable experiences you can have. Bouts are accompanied by drumming, chanting and dancing. The atmosphere is electric. Matches happen regularly, especially during the tourist season. Ask at reception and Julie will find out when the next one is scheduled. Entry is usually free or a nominal donation.

Mangrove Tours

The mangrove creeks around the coast are a world of their own. Kayak or pirogue through narrow waterways surrounded by dense mangroves, spotting mudskippers, fiddler crabs, herons and kingfishers. These tours are peaceful and fascinating, typically lasting 2-3 hours and costing around £15-25 per person.

Day Trips to Senegal

The Gambia is almost entirely surrounded by Senegal, and crossing the border for a day trip is straightforward. Popular options include the colourful fishing village of Joal-Fadiouth (built on a shell island), the colonial town of Kaolack, or the pink-tinged Lac Rose near Dakar. Full-day trips cost around £40-60 per person including transport and a guide. You will need your passport.

Other Activities

• Cycling tours through local villages (£10-15)
• Horse riding on the beach (from £20)
• Cooking classes learning Gambian dishes (£15-20)
• Sunset beach walks along the Atlantic coast (free)
• Visit to the Crocodile Pool at Kachikally (£3-5 entry)