How to Reach Janjanbureh

Travelling from within The Gambia

Janjanbureh lies inland, along the River Gambia, and reaching the island is part of the journey — whether you choose comfort, affordability, or local adventure.

We encourage visitors to travel sustainably where possible, and public transport remains a reliable and character-filled way to reach us.

 

Public Transport (GTSC Buses)

The Gambia Transport Service Corporation (GTSC) operates daily long-distance buses between the coast and the east of the country.

Main route:
Kanifing Bus Station (Coastal Area) → Soma → Janjanbureh → Bansang → Basse

Departure:
From Kanifing: from around 7:00 am
From Basse: similar early departures
(Local timing runs on “GMT” — Gambia Maybe Time — flexibility is wise.)

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Standard GTSC Bus

• Cost: approx. D185

• Slower journey with frequent stops

• Pick-up and drop-off along the route

• A good budget option if time is not critical

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Super Express Service

• Cost: approx. D385

• Comfortable seats, air-conditioning, no standing

• Limited stops: Brikama, Soma, Janjanbureh, Bansang, Basse

• Leaving Kanifing by 8:00 am often gets you to Janjanbureh by early afternoon

• Seats fill quickly — arriving early or booking ahead is advised

Important return note:

When travelling back to the coast, Super Express buses coming from Basse may already be full and may not enter the island. A short taxi ride to Sankuli Kunda (off the island) is often the safest option. We’re happy to help arrange this.

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Travelling from Janjanbureh to the Coast

• Daily GTSC bus departs Janjanbureh around 7:30 am

• Cost: D185 (approx. £2.25)

• Seats are usually available

• Journey time varies due to multiple stops

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Shared Minibuses (“Gelli Gelli”)

For travellers who enjoy local colour, shared minibuses operate from Bundung or Brikama garages.

• Leave only when full

• Pick up and drop off anywhere along the route

• Journey can take several hours

• Cost: approx. D250–300

Expect lively roadside stops, fruit sellers at the windows, and conversations you didn’t plan to have — all part of the experience.

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Private Transport & Drivers

Some visitors prefer to travel with small local operators or recommended drivers, particularly from the tourist areas.

Facebook groups and traveller forums are useful sources for recommendations. If you’d like help identifying reliable options, just contact us.

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Further Reading: A Human Perspective

For a thoughtful, detailed account of travelling inland, we recommend the blog series by Fair Play Gambia, which explores public transport, sustainability, and everyday travel realities in The Gambia.

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Need Help Planning the Journey?

We’re happy to help with:

• Choosing the best transport option for your travel style

• Booking Super Express seats

• Arranging island transfers on arrival

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