Things To Do
in Serekunda
Serekunda lies just southwest of Banjul along The Gambia's Atlantic coast, blending busy markets with riverfront charm. It is The Gambia's largest urban center, where colorful stalls, ferries, and beach shacks create a lively rhythm. Visitors can savor street-food flavors, explore nearby nature reserves, and use Serekunda as a base for day trips to the coast and inland villages.
The town offers warm Gambian hospitality, a growing tourism scene, and easy access to beaches, markets, and cultural experiences.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your adventure with a visit to the bustling Serekunda Market, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere. The morning sun illuminates an array of colorful stalls filled with fresh produce, handcrafted goods, and traditional textiles, creating a sensory feast. Be sure to engage with local vendors, who are eager to share stories about their products and culture.
After enjoying a lunch of local delicacies, return to explore more of the market or visit nearby artisan shops that showcase local craftsmanship. Take your time to browse through the unique items, from traditional jewelry to intricate carvings, all reflecting the rich cultural heritage of The Gambia. Don’t hesitate to bargain, as it’s all part of the market experience!
As the sun sets, head to a local restaurant to sample traditional Gambian dishes like domoda or yassa. Enjoy live music performances that often accompany dinner, offering a taste of local rhythms and dance. Share stories with fellow travelers and locals, embracing the welcoming spirit of Serekunda.
Begin your day with a visit to the Kachikally Crocodile Pool, an intriguing sacred site that offers a chance to see and interact with these fascinating creatures. Learn about the cultural significance of the pool, as well as the conservation efforts in place to protect it. Watch as the crocs bask in the sun and participate in the unique tradition of touching them for good luck.
After touring the crocodile pool, enjoy a peaceful stroll in the surrounding gardens filled with lush greenery and local plants. Consider having a picnic lunch amidst the serene atmosphere, allowing you to soak up the tranquility. Alternatively, visit the nearby museum to gain further insight into local wildlife and traditions.
Return to Serekunda and unwind at a local bar where you can sip on refreshing palm wine or fresh fruit juices. Engage in conversations with locals and fellow travelers, exchanging experiences and travel stories from your respective journeys. As the night sets in, enjoy the laid-back ambiance that the night markets offer, presenting a perfect end to your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $4-7 |
| ☕Coffee or tea in a cafe | $1-3 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant markets and street food
- Friendly, welcoming locals and a relaxed coastal vibe
- Good value for money and easy access to nature
- Limited large-scale nightlife
- Heat and humidity can be intense
- Some areas have basic infrastructure and healthcare outside Banjul/Kololi
- "Nanga def?" - How are you?
- "Jërëjëf" - Thank you
- "Ba beneen yoon" - See you again
- "Maangi tudd Wolof" - I speak Wolof
Places to Visit in Serekunda
Visit one of these nice places.
A famous pool surrounded by palm trees where crocodiles are kept; early morning and late afternoon offer dramatic light for wildlife photography.
Colorful market stalls and weaving stalls provide vibrant, candid photography opportunities amid locals going about daily trade.
Long sandy shore with silhouettes of palm trees and boats; soft golden light at sunset is ideal for landscape and people photography.
Food in Serekunda
Serekunda Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A one-pot rice dish with meat or fish, vegetables, and a tangy tomato base; try it at family-run eateries in Serekunda.
Must-Try!
A rich peanut stew often cooked with chicken or beef and served over rice; widely available in Gambian restaurants.
Freshly caught fish grilled and served with a spicy pepper sauce and rice or a side.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A sprawling hub where you can sample fresh fruit, fried snacks, maize cakes, and traditional dishes from cheerful vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people with a friendly nod or handshake; use the right hand for giving and receiving.
Dress modestly in markets and religious sites; lightweight, breathable clothing is common in the heat.
Ask before photographing people, especially in markets and homes; accept refusals gracefully.
Be mindful of fasting observers during Ramadan; plan meals and entry to mosques accordingly.
Safety
Tipping in Serekunda
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping around 5-10% in casual eateries; 10-15% in nicer restaurants if service is not included. Small tips for hotel staff and guides are appreciated.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Bright sunny days with low humidity and pleasant evenings; great for outdoor activities, markets, and beach sessions. Expect harmattan winds that can feel cool at night.
Lush green landscapes and frequent showers, often in the late afternoon. Humidity is higher and mosquito protection is important, but trails are at their greenest.
Serekunda at Night
Hiking in Serekunda
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Short, shaded trails through woodland with chances to spot monkeys, birds, and butterflies.
Guided nature walks through mangrove and forest, with cultural performances and viewpoints.
Airports
How to reach Serekunda by plane.
Main international gateway for The Gambia, about 20-30 minutes’ drive from Serekunda; taxis and shuttles run from the airport to major towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group, traditionally involved in trade and agriculture.
A significant community known for livestock herding and trading.
A common language group in The Gambia with West African roots.
An important community with diverse cultural practices and languages.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; you’ll see local matches and informal games around markets and schools.
Running and community sports are common in urban and rural areas; informal courts and fields are easy to find.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Serekunda.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many dishes are meat- or fish-based. Ask for vegetarian versions of benachin or domoda, or request vegetable stews with extra greens; clarify no meat stock or fish sauce when needed.