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Where is it, How Do you Reach
and Where Can You Stay?

Ah! The town with three names ...
McCarthy Island, Georgetown, Janjanbureh

Anchor 1

Where is Janjanbureh?

An island in the River Gambia approx. 300 km from the coast.

Accessible by south bank road via the bridge onto the island

or ferry at Banjul to Barra on to north bank road and ferry on to the  island.

Map
South road to Janjanbureh

 A further bridge at Farafenni allows for transferring midway to either bank.

The town was built in a grid system in Colonial times, reflected in their street names, and only occupies a small proportion of the island. 

JJB street names
Streets in relation to island

 The Gambia is in West Africa

West Africa

Surrounded by Senegal

Senega

Its shape is said to be defined by how far a British warship could travel along the River Gambia and shoot its cannon.   Thus, away from the coast and its tributaries, it's rarely more than 10 miles either side.

Where is The Gambia?

It is located in West Africa 

Senegal around The Gambia
West Africa

Its shape is said to be defined by how far a British war ship could negotiate the river.  
Thus away from the coast and its tributaries it is rarely wider than 10 miles either side

Where is The Gambia in relation to Europe?

  Popular because much is on the same GMT time line  particularly to United Kingdom during the winter months.

Europe to West Africa
Night view Europe to West Africa

Which Airlines Fly to The Gambia?

The 'season' typically begins in October and ends towards the end of April.

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There are currently 57 flights a week arriving at Banjul Airport according to
My Gambia Facebook.

What is the Environment?

Find out what to expect as you arrive in Janjanbureh and the villages.

Travel Sustainably to Janjanbureh via Public Transport

Geli-geli journey

Traveling to Janjanbureh by public transport offers a truly immersive journey, taking you beyond the typical tourist spots and into the heart of the real Gambia. Opt for the Super Express from Gambia Transport Service for a comfortable, air-conditioned ride with reserved seating.

Using public transport reduces your carbon footprint and helps sustain local communities by contributing to the economy.

It is economical too ...check!!!!

Along the way, you'll enjoy vibrant scenes of bustling towns, rural farmlands, and traditional villages. Pass by colourful markets, lush mangrove swamps, and even catch glimpses of wildlife like birds and monkeys and the most amazing trees. As you cross the bridge onto the island, you'll find yourself right in the heart of Janjanbureh. The changing scenery and lively atmosphere make the journey fly by, offering a memorable start to your adventure.

A General Guide  to Travel By Pubic Transport

For a detailed fun guide to all forms of  traveling to Janjanbureh, check out FairPlay Gambia's information by Dave Adams, who's been deeply connected to the area since 2009 and now calls the north bank home.

Self Drive to Janjanbureh 

Yes, it's possible and an excellent drive once out of the coastal area and Brikama. Read FairPlay's further blog about this subject

which will prepare for the driving experience.

Accommodation

New rooms at Cheers Janjanbureh

Janjanbureh presents a range of accommodation choices, primarily designed for visitors seeking a tranquil, nature-focused experience. As a smaller town, the lodgings are generally simpler than those found in coastal areas, with some offering camping options, yet each provides a unique stay. Most accommodations are conveniently located near the town center, with some directly on the River Gambia on the island itself, while a few are on the North Bank.

For direct bookings, you can find details on Google Maps or contact

Destination Janjanbureh for enquiries.

With the growing interest in Sustainable Tourism, there is a rising investment in new and higher class  businesses in the area.

You can follow here.to see the latest developments.

An important note about cash

Prepare to have access to enough cash.  The easiest way is using Money Transfer apps but there are not as many services available as at the coast and ideally, should be set up before you travel.
 

CASH IS KING!!! 

Contact Us

Find Us At

Tourist Information Centre

Enter Youth Centre,
Mercer Street near the Market

Whats ap logo
Whats app logo

Gambia Tourism Board Office

Governor's Office
Near the North Bank Ferry

Destination Janjanbureh Logo

Janjanbureh ~ the gem of Gambian tradition

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