Things To Do
in Essau
Essau is a riverside town in The Gambia's North Bank region, set along the Gambia River with a tranquil, rural atmosphere. It offers a glimpse of everyday Gambian life away from the capital, surrounded by palm groves, farms, and passing boats. The town serves as a gateway to nearby villages and natural habitats, making it a good base for exploringriver scenery and rural markets.
Expect warm hospitality, simple guesthouses, and a pace of life that centers on community and the outdoors.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at the Banjul International Airport and take a short drive to Essau. Settle into your hotel and freshen up after your journey. Take a leisurely stroll around the local area to acclimate yourself to the Gambia.
After lunch, visit the nearby fishing village to observe traditional fishing techniques and interact with local fishermen. Capture stunning photographs of colorful fishing boats and the serene waters of the river. Enjoy a refreshing beverage at a local café while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.
Indulge in Gambia's culinary delights at a local restaurant, trying traditional dishes like domoda and benachin. Spend the evening listening to live music or attending a cultural dance performance. As the sun sets, take a scenic walk along the riverbank and reflect on your day.
Embark on a boat tour along the River Gambia, allowing for close encounters with the diverse wildlife. Birds, monkeys, and crocodiles are just a few of the creatures you may see during this tranquil cruise. Enjoy breakfast on board as you glide past lush mangroves.
Dock at one of the river's islands for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Engage in birdwatching or simply relax under the shade of a tree, enjoying the serene sounds of the river. Return to Essau by late afternoon, feeling rejuvenated by the natural beauty.
Participate in a cooking class hosted by local chefs, where you can learn to prepare traditional Gambian dishes. Dinner will be the result of your culinary experience, paired with local beverages. After dinner, mingle with other travelers and share stories from your adventures.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-8 |
| 🧃Soft drink / juice | $0.5-1 |
| 🚎Public transport (local minibus) | $0.5-1 |
| 🚕Taxi (short ride) | $2-4 |
| 🛏️Budget guesthouse bed | $8-20 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people
- Compact size makes it easy to explore by bike or foot
- Rich riverfront scenery
- Low-cost travel experience
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure in Essau
- Heat and humidity can be intense for first-time visitors
- Infrastructure in rural areas can be uneven
- "Nanga def?" - How are you?
- "Jamm rekk" - I am fine
- "Jërëjef" - Thank you
- "Salaam aleikum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Waaleikum salaam" - And upon you be peace
Places to Visit in Essau
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide river views at sunrise or sunset with boats and palm silhouettes creating dramatic silhouettes and reflections.
Candid street photography of traders, fishermen, and daily routines along the market lanes and riverfront.
Rural scenes with palm fronds, huts, and farm plots; excellent for wide-angle and landscape shots.
Narrow village lanes with traditional houses and daily life activities, perfect for portrait and cultural photography.
Food in Essau
Essau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A one-pot meal with rice cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce with vegetables and meat or fish.
Must-Try!
Peanut-based stew typically cooked with meat or fish and served over rice.
Freshly caught river fish prepared with peppers, onions, and spices; often grilled or fried and served with rice or yams.
Whole or filleted fish served in a creamy peanut sauce with side vegetables or rice.
A staple cassava-based side often eaten with stews or sauces.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling regional market where you can sample fresh fruit, roasted corn, fried fish, and traditional snacks.
Small stalls near Essau offering fried fish, palm oil, groundnut snacks, and fresh produce.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and a short greeting in the local language or in English. A handshake or light touch is common; avoid prolonged physical contact in certain religious settings.
Dress modestly in public; lightweight clothing is suitable for the heat, but shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites.
Ask for permission before photographing people, especially in homes or at ceremonies; some individuals may prefer not to be photographed.
Safety
Tipping in Essau
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is welcomed but modest; 5-10% at restaurants if service is not included. Small tips to guides, drivers, and hotel staff are appreciated but not obligatory.
Cash (Gambian Dalasi) is widely used in rural areas; US dollars or euros may be accepted in some places. Card payment is more common in larger towns and guesthouses; carry small denominations for markets and street vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant daytime temperatures with cooler evenings; lower humidity; dust can be noticeable. Great for river views and outdoor photography, though expect dry, bright lighting and sunny conditions most days.
Warm to hot days with afternoon downpours and high humidity; lush green landscapes and vibrant skies. Pack a lightweight rain jacket and protect gear from moisture during showers.
Warm with occasional rain; a good time to combine outdoor activity with fewer crowds and potentially lower prices.
Essau at Night
Hiking in Essau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A short, accessible trail near Brikama through forest and wetlands; popular for birding and close-up wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Essau by plane.
The main international gateway to The Gambia, located near Yundum; about a 30–60 minute drive to Essau depending on route and traffic.
A domestic airport serving some internal flights; located in the eastern part of the country, primarily for domestic connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in The Gambia, with significant presence in the Essau area.
A major group involved in cattle rearing and trade.
A common language group contributing to multilingual communication in the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across The Gambia, with local clubs and informal matches in towns including Essau.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Essau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options include peanut stews, vegetable-based Benachin, beans, yams, and fresh fruit. Communicate clearly with cooks about avoiding meat stock and fish sauce.