overview
Janjanbureh — Georgetown, Heart of the Gambia River Step back in time and discover one of West Africa’s most captivating hidden gems. Janjanbureh Island sits 300 km upstream from Banjul along the majestic River Gambia, and its rich colonial history is written into every corner of the town. Founded in 1823 and formerly known as Georgetown, this UNESCO Heritage Island is home to one of the oldest Methodist churches in sub-Saharan Africa, charming 19th-century colonial buildings, and a warm, welcoming community of around 3,600 people. Whether you are a history lover, a culture seeker or simply looking to escape the beaten track, Janjanbureh offers an authentic Gambian experience unlike anywhere else in the country.
But the real magic of Janjanbureh lies in its extraordinary natural surroundings. Glide along the golden River Gambia on a river cruise and come face to face with hippos wallowing in the shallows and Nile crocodiles basking on the muddy banks. Birdwatchers will be in paradise — the lush gallery forests teem with over 300 species, from the dazzling Northern Carmine Bee-eater to the rare African Finfoot. Just a short boat ride away, the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project on the Baboon Islands is home to around 140 wild chimps living freely — a truly unforgettable wildlife encounter.
Here’s what wikipedia has to say about them:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Janjanbureh
If you time it right, immerse yourself in the colour and rhythm of the annual Janjanbureh Cultural Festival. This is upcountry Gambia at its very best.
The Janjanbureh trip is part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wassu stone circle experience and it’s the last stop along the route.
Here are the prices which include a bed and breakfast night in Janjanbureh
- person – £150
- people – £280
- people – £420
- people – £540
Bring water bottles, comfortable shoes and overnight bag. Contact us to book your trip and we’ll send you an upfront payment link for your convenience.
This trip can be combined with a farm side stay at Marysa’s lodge – please enquire for details. Contact us to book your trip and we’ll send you an upfront payment link for your convenience.
JANJANBUREH
overview
A trip to Janjanbureh is a culturally wonderful adventure with an opportunity to have a boat trip and experience the expansiveness of the River Gambia and spot hippos, crocodiles, monkeys and birdlife along the river bank. It’s also the home of the Kankurang Masquerade, a protective spirit in Mandinka tradition. It is also home to the Chimp Rehabilitation Project.