Things To Do
in Serekunda

Serekunda is the largest urban center in The Gambia, known for its vibrant markets and rich cultural heritage. This bustling town is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, contributing to its diverse culture and traditions. Visitors can experience the warmth of Gambian hospitality and enjoy the lively atmosphere created by street vendors and local musicians.

Serekunda serves as a gateway to exploring the rest of The Gambia, with easy access to beaches and natural reserves.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Serekunda Market, the largest in the country, to experience the local hustle and bustle.

afternoon
:

After lunch, visit the nearby Kachikally Crocodile Pool, a symbolic site where visitors can learn about the local folklore and culture.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then head to a nearby beach for a sunset view over the Atlantic Ocean.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Spend the morning at the Tanji Bird Reserve, where you can spot various bird species and enjoy the natural beauty.

afternoon
:

Relax at the beautiful Kololi Beach, where you can swim or sunbathe.

evening
:

Experience Serekunda's nightlife by visiting a local bar or club, enjoying live music or a cultural performance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a Local Restaurant$5
🚌Local Bus Fare$0.50
🍺Bottle of Local Beer$1.50
🏨Night in a Mid-range Hotel$30
🥤Fresh Fruit Juice$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Diverse culinary scene with affordable and delicious food.
  • Close proximity to beautiful beaches and nature reserves.
  • Limited infrastructure and public transport options.
  • Safety concerns in certain areas after dark.
  • Can be very hot and humid during the rainy season.
  • "Naka sa?" - How are you?
  • "Jama joge" - Thank you.
  • "Sukuta" - Welcome.
  • "Fii dii" - Where is...?
  • "Awa, a da a" - Yes, I understand.

Places to Visit in Serekunda

Visit one of these nice places.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool

A serene site where you can capture beautiful images of crocodiles in their natural habitat.

Kololi Beach

Stunning sunset views and vibrant beach life offer great photographic opportunities.

Serekunda Market

The colorful stalls and lively atmosphere make for vibrant market photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Serekunda

Serekunda offers a tantalizing array of local dishes that reflect the rich culinary heritage of The Gambia, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts.

Serekunda Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Benachin

A flavorful one-pot rice dish cooked with fish or meat, vegetables, and a blend of spices.

Must-Try!

Yassa

Marinated chicken or fish cooked with onions, lemon, and mustard, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Serekunda Market

The largest market in The Gambia, where you can find a variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food vendors.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around Serekunda offer local snacks like meat pies and kebabs.

Climate Guide

Weather

The climate in Serekunda is tropical, with a distinct wet and dry season. The dry season (November to May) is characterized by warm temperatures averaging 28-32°C (82-90°F) and low humidity. The rainy season (June to October) brings high humidity and temperatures around 27-30°C (81-86°F), with heavy rainfall. The Harmattan season (December to February) brings cooler temperatures and dusty winds.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greetings are important; a handshake or traditional greetings are customary.

Dress Code

Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and during visits to religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Show respect for elders by standing when they enter a room or greeting them first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Serekunda is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should remain vigilant about their belongings and avoid walking alone at night. It's advisable to stay in well-populated areas and use reputable transport services. Always be cautious in crowded markets and be aware of your surroundings.

Tipping in Serekunda

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated; rounding up the bill or giving 5-10% is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is the most commonly accepted form of payment; ATMs are available but may have limited access.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to May)

This is the best time to visit with pleasant weather and minimal rain.

Rainy Season (June to October)

Expect heavy rains and humidity; travel may be disrupted.

Harmattan (December to February)

Dusty winds from the Sahara can make the weather cooler and drier.

Festive Season

During religious festivals, expect vibrant celebrations and local cultural events.

Nightlife Guide

Serekunda at Night

Serekunda's nightlife is vibrant, with numerous bars and nightclubs offering live music, dance, and cultural performances. Many venues feature local Gambian music, providing an authentic experience. The nightlife scene tends to peak on weekends, attracting both locals and tourists.

Hiking in Serekunda

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tanji Bird Reserve Trail

A serene trail through the bird reserve, perfect for birdwatching and enjoying the natural landscape.

Kafuta Forest Trail

A scenic hike through a forested area known for its diverse flora and fauna.

Airports

How to reach Serekunda by plane.

Banjul International Airport

Located about 30 km from Serekunda, it is the main airport serving The Gambia with flights to various international destinations.

Getting Around

Walkability

Serekunda is relatively walkable, with many attractions, markets, and restaurants located within walking distance of each other. The streets can be crowded, especially in the market areas, so it's important to stay aware of your surroundings. Pedestrian paths may not always be well-defined, so caution is advised.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mandinka

One of the largest ethnic groups in The Gambia, known for their rich culture and traditions.

Wolof

Another significant ethnic group, recognized for their language and vibrant social customs.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

The most popular sport in The Gambia, with local leagues and community matches played regularly.

Basketball

Increasingly popular, especially among the youth, with local courts available in urban areas.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Serekunda can be congested, especially during peak hours. Public transportation includes shared taxis and buses, which are affordable but can be crowded. Walking is a good option for short distances, and motorbike taxis are also commonly used.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Serekunda.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local dishes can be made vegetarian; just ask the vendor or restaurant staff.

Halal Food

Most local foods are halal, but it's always best to confirm with the vendor.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Serekunda includes several clinics and hospitals, but the quality may vary. For serious medical issues, it is recommended to travel to larger cities like Banjul. Always travel with health insurance and consider vaccinations before visiting.

Discover Gambia, The

Read more in our Gambia, The 2025 Travel Guide.

Gambia, The Travel Guide