Bakau

The Gambia, Africa

Bakau, known for its vibrant fishing community and stunning coastal views, offers a unique blend of culture and nature. Famous for the Bakau Fish Market and the serene Kachikally Crocodile Pool, visitors can immerse themselves in local traditions while enjoying picturesque beaches. The lush landscapes are ideal for exploration, and the warm hospitality of its people adds to its charm. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Bakau serves as a perfect gateway to experience the beauty of The Gambia.

Quick facts

Target stay

4-7 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Banjul

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Bakau

1

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit Kachikally Crocodile Pool

Interact with sacred crocodiles at this unique site.

No booking required
2

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Stroll Bakau Fish Market

Experience local culture at this vibrant fish market.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Bakau Beach

Unwind on the sandy shores of Bakau Beach.

No booking required
4

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Adults only

Explore Cape Point

Visit the stunning views at Cape Point.

No booking required
5

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Bakau Museum

Learn about Gambian history and culture at this museum.

No booking required
6

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Take a boat trip on the River Gambia

Enjoy a scenic boat ride on the River Gambia.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the African Art Gallery

Discover local art and crafts at this gallery.

No booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local cuisine at a restaurant

Savor traditional Gambian dishes at local eateries.

No booking required
9

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Botanical Garden

Explore beautiful flora at the Bakau Botanical Gardens.

No booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend a local festival

Experience vibrant local culture and celebrations.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~7.5%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Dalasi

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Mandinka

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Domoda

Peanut stew with meat or fish (National dish)

Benachin

Jollof rice with fish or meat

Chicken Yassa

Marinated chicken in lemon and onions

Plasas

Vegetable stew with meat or fish

Chere

V

Sweet rice pudding with milk and sugar

Phrases to learn

English

Mandinka

Hello

I ni ce

(Ee nee che)

Yes/No

Haani / Hani

(Hah-nee / Hah-nee)

Thank you

Abaraka

(Ah-bar-rah-kah)

Excuse me

HakÉ›

(Hah-keh)

How much?

Nye namutoo?

(Nye nah-moo-too)