Things To Do
in Serekunda

Serekunda is the largest city in The Gambia, known for its vibrant markets and lively atmosphere. The city serves as a hub for commerce and culture, attracting visitors with its rich traditions and friendly locals. Nestled along the Atlantic coast, Serekunda offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty.

It is a gateway for exploring the scenic beaches and wildlife that The Gambia has to offer.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Explore Serekunda
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Serekunda Market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of local vendors selling fresh produce, textiles, and crafts.

afternoon
:

Visit the Katchikally Crocodile Pool, a sacred site where you can learn about the cultural significance of crocodiles in Gambian folklore.

evening
:

Enjoy a traditional Gambian dinner at a local restaurant, followed by a stroll along the beach to catch the sunset.

day 2
Day 2: Culture and Nature
morning
:

Take a guided tour of the local crafts workshops to see artisans at work creating beautiful handmade goods.

afternoon
:

Spend time at the nearby Bijilo Forest Park, where you can enjoy a nature walk and observe various bird species.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife by visiting a local bar or live music venue to enjoy Gambian music and dance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🍺Beer at a bar$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$30
🥤Bottled water$0.50

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and friendly locals.
  • Affordable cost of living and travel.
  • Diverse outdoor activities and beautiful natural scenery.
  • Limited public transportation options.
  • Potential language barriers in rural areas.
  • Variable quality of healthcare facilities.
  • "Naka sa?" - How are you?
  • "Jamma" - Goodbye
  • "Tawfeek" - Thank you
  • "Ndey jamm" - I am fine
  • "Maa fooni" - I don't understand

Places to Visit in Serekunda

Visit one of these nice places.

Katchikally Crocodile Pool

A picturesque site with crocodiles in a natural setting, ideal for unique wildlife photography.

Bijilo Forest Park

A lush forest area with diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature and bird photography.

Serekunda Market

Captivating scenes of local life, vibrant colors, and bustling activity make for excellent street photography.

Culinary Guide

Food in Serekunda

Serekunda offers a delicious array of local dishes that reflect the rich cultural heritage of The Gambia. From spicy stews to fresh seafood, the culinary scene is vibrant and diverse.

Serekunda Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Jollof Rice

A flavorful rice dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, and spices, often served with chicken or fish.

Must-Try!

Benachin

A popular one-pot dish made with rice, fish or meat, and a variety of vegetables.

Domoda

A peanut stew typically made with meat, vegetables, and served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Serekunda Market

The largest market in The Gambia, offering a variety of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls.

Street Vendors

Look out for vendors selling grilled meat skewers (chicken or beef) and traditional snacks like meat pies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Serekunda experiences a tropical savanna climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season (November to April) is characterized by warm temperatures and lower humidity, while the wet season (May to October) sees higher humidity and significant rainfall. Average temperatures range from 20°C to 35°C, with cooler evenings during the Harmattan season. Overall, the climate is conducive to outdoor activities during the dry months.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greeting locals with 'Salaam Aleikum' (peace be upon you) is important; handshakes are common.

Dress Modestly

Dressing modestly is recommended, especially in rural areas; shorts may be frowned upon.

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to elders is crucial; always greet the oldest person first in a group.

Safety Guide

Safety

Serekunda is generally safe for tourists, but it's wise to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas. Avoid displaying valuables and be cautious when using ATMs. It's advisable to travel in groups, especially at night, and to seek local advice on safe areas to visit. Health precautions include ensuring vaccinations are up to date and considering malaria prophylaxis.

Tipping in Serekunda

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is appreciated, typically around 10% in restaurants. In bars, rounding up the bill is common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but some places accept credit cards. ATMs are available, but ensure to notify your bank of travel.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November - April)

Expect sunny weather, making it ideal for outdoor activities and beach visits.

Wet Season (May - October)

Be prepared for heavy rain and humidity; some areas may be less accessible due to flooding.

Harmattan (December - February)

Cooler and drier winds from the Sahara can make temperatures more pleasant, but dust may affect visibility.

Holiday Season

Local festivals and events during this time provide a unique cultural experience, but accommodations can fill up quickly.

Nightlife Guide

Serekunda at Night

Serekunda's nightlife is vibrant, featuring a mix of local bars, nightclubs, and live music venues. Visitors can enjoy traditional Gambian music, dance performances, and various themed nights that cater to different tastes. Popular spots often feature outdoor seating, allowing guests to soak in the lively atmosphere while enjoying drinks and local cuisine.

Hiking in Serekunda

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tanji Bird Reserve

A scenic area featuring walking trails and opportunities for birdwatching, set along the coast.

Abuko Nature Reserve

A short hike through lush vegetation, offering glimpses of wildlife and various bird species.

Airports

How to reach Serekunda by plane.

Banjul International Airport

Located approximately 30 km from Serekunda, this airport serves as the main international gateway to The Gambia, with connections to several major cities.

Getting Around

Walkability

Serekunda is moderately walkable, especially in areas like the market and beach. Sidewalks are available, but the condition may vary. It’s common to walk short distances, but be cautious of traffic, as vehicles may not always yield to pedestrians. In some regions, walking may also be combined with local transport options like shared taxis for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Mandinka

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

Wolof

The Wolof people are known for their vibrant music and dance, and they play a significant role in the cultural landscape of The Gambia.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is the most popular sport in The Gambia, with many local leagues and passionate fans.

Basketball

Basketball has been growing in popularity, especially among the youth, with local courts available for play.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Serekunda can be congested, particularly during peak hours. Public transportation options include shared taxis and minibuses, which are affordable but may be crowded. It's advisable to plan for extra travel time during busy periods and to remain alert while navigating roads, as traffic rules may not be strictly followed.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Serekunda.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about ingredients.

Halal Food

Most local food is Halal, but confirm with the vendor or restaurant if unsure.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Serekunda is limited compared to more developed countries. Basic medical facilities are available, but for serious conditions, traveling to the capital, Banjul, may be necessary. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation if needed. Pharmacies are available, but be cautious about the availability of specific medications.

Discover The Gambia

Read more in our The Gambia 2025 Travel Guide.

The Gambia Travel Guide