The Gambia

Getting around

Boat

Gambia River Experience (4494360; www.gambiariver.com), off Kairaba Ave, does trips from Denton Bridge near Banjul to Lamin Lodge and all the way up to Georgetown. Trips are either done by motorised pirogue or large boat. One of their offers includes a week-long cruise along the river. Hidden Gambia (in UK 01527-576239; www.hiddengambia.com) also has an excellent set of boat excursions, including ‘Discover the River’ trips that take you all the way from the coast upcountry (seven-day trip around US$800, 14-day trip US$1000).

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Car & motorcycle

Reliable car hire companies include:

AB Rent-a-Car (4460926; abrentacar@gamtel.gm ; Kairaba Hotel, Senegambia, Kololi) Has had consistently good reviews for years.

Hertz (4390041; hertz@gamtel.gm ; Boketh Total Station) Slightly more expensive.

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Local transport

Most minibuses and bush taxis upcountry go along the road following the south bank of the Gambia River. This road is in a terrible condition, so prepare for a rough ride and unpredictable delays. If possible, try to get a vehicle that goes along the north bank. Not a dream journey either, but marginally less rough. If you go to Georgetown or Basse, you usually have to change vehicles at Soma. Serekunda–Basse costs US$11, the 360km trip takes nine to 12 hours. Serekunda–Soma is US$5.30 (four to six hours). A private taxi from Serekunda to Basse should cost around US$140 to US$180. Make sure it’s in a good condition.

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