Things To Do
in Essau
Essau is a riverside town in The Gambia's Upper River Region, anchored by the Gambia River and a gateway to rural Gambian life. The town offers a calm pace, colorful markets, and close-knit communities that welcome visitors. Local fishing boats, palm-fringed banks, and farmland scenes frame a vivid snapshot of everyday West African life.
With easy access to nature, culture, and river adventures, Essau makes a relaxed base for exploring the northern Gambia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Banjul International Airport and take a scenic drive to Essau, enjoying the views of local villages and landscapes along the way. Check into your accommodation and freshen up before beginning your adventure in this vibrant fishing community. Take a moment to relax and acclimate to the warm Gambian air as you prepare for the day's activities.
Explore the local market in Essau, where you can interact with friendly vendors and sample traditional Gambian snacks. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you browse for handcrafted items, textiles, and fresh produce. Take some time to walk along the coast and enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Savor a traditional Gambian dinner at a local restaurant, trying dishes such as peanut stew or jollof rice. Afterward, enjoy a leisurely walk along the beach, watching the sunset paint the sky with vibrant colors. Engage in conversations with locals, learning more about their customs and way of life.
Begin your day with a guided boat tour of the River Gambia, where you can spot wildlife including monkeys and various bird species. Enjoy breakfast onboard while taking in the lush scenery along the riverbanks. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the river's history and its significance to the local economy.
Disembark at a nearby island where you can explore traditional fishing villages and learn about the daily lives of local fishermen. Participate in hands-on activities, such as fishing or boat-making, to connect with the community. Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the beautiful natural surroundings.
Return to Essau in the evening and share stories with fellow travelers about your day's adventures. Have dinner at a local eatery, enjoying more delightful Gambian flavors. End your night by experiencing traditional music and dance, joining in with locals to truly embrace the region's vibrant culture.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $8-12 |
| 🧃Bottle of water | $0.5-1 |
| 🍚Local lunch/dish | $6-10 |
| ☕Coffee/Tea | $1-2 |
| 🚌Local bus or shared taxi | $0.5-1.5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming communities and a genuine village atmosphere
- Low prices and affordability for travelers
- Proximity to nature and river-based activities
- Limited nightlife and developed tourist infrastructure
- Varied English proficiency in rural areas
- Some roads and facilities outside town can be basic
- "Salaam Aleikum" - Hello / Peace be upon you
- "Jërëjëf" - Thank you
- "Nanga def?" - How are you?
- "Ba beneen yoon" - See you later
Places to Visit in Essau
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden light over the river at dawn with fishing boats and palm-fringed banks.
Colorful stalls, merchants, and everyday life that make vibrant street photography subjects.
Rustic wooden boats and nets with locals mending gear—great human-interest shots.
Soft silhouettes of palm trees and boats as the sun sinks behind the water.
Food in Essau
Essau Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A one-pot Gambian rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and fish or meat.
Must-Try!
A rich peanut-tomato sauce served over rice, typically with meat or fish.
Citrusy marinated chicken with onions, served with rice or cassava.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Buzzing local market stalls offering fresh fish, vegetables, spices, and ready-to-eat street bites along the riverfront.
Casual stalls where you can try grilled fish skewers, fried plantains, and spicy sauces.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet everyone politely with a handshake or a nod; use the right hand; a warm welcome is important.
Cover shoulders and knees in villages and religious sites; swimwear is only appropriate on beaches or resort areas.
Safety
Tipping in Essau
Ensure a smooth experience
Small tips for service are appreciated (about 10-20% for meals in guesthouses, smaller for simple transactions); tip guides and porters directly in cash.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and dry days with occasional Harmattan dust; pack light clothing, sunscreen, and a hat; stay hydrated and seek shade during peak heat.
June to October brings heavy but usually brief rains and high humidity; carry a compact rain jacket and waterproof bag for cameras.
November to February is cooler in the mornings and evenings, with dusty winds; comfortable layers work well and mornings can be chilly.
March to May blends heat with sporadic rain; still sunny most days, but expect higher humidity toward May.
Essau at Night
Hiking in Essau
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Nearby nature reserve with guided forest walks, wildlife sightings, and cultural demonstrations.
Airports
How to reach Essau by plane.
Main international gateway for The Gambia, located near Yundum, about 20-30 minutes from Essau by road.
Smaller regional airport serving domestic flights and connecting routes to regional hubs.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominantly engaged in agriculture and fishing; close-knit and traditional lifestyles.
Muslim communities are predominant; daily rhythms revolve around prayer times and market days.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Everyone plays or follows football; many villages host informal matches and tournaments.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Essau.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can enjoy bean stews, lentil dishes, rice, and grilled vegetables; ask for peanut-free sauces if needed and opt for salads or vegetable sides.