Explore Janjanbureh from a Kayak
Kayaking around Janjanbureh offers a calm and immersive way to experience the River Gambia, combining quiet exploration with gentle adventure. Moving at water level reveals the island, riverbanks, and wildlife from a different perspective, shaped by sound, movement, and changing light - especially at sunset
The kayaking experience developed through community initiatives linked to Janjanbureh’s growing role in sustainable tourism. With support from internationally funded youth programmes, local young people received training in guiding, safety, and river skills, along with access to quality kayaks and equipment.
Today, kayaking tours are locally led by trained youth guides with strong knowledge of the river.
The experience forms part of Community-Based Tourism in Janjanbureh, allowing visitors to explore responsibly while supporting youth livelihoods and skills development.
And your silence may provide special moments
Kayak trips vary in length and route and are guided by
trained local youth using appropriate safety equipment.
Charges
Hiring of kyak and guide for one day, short distances =500d
Overnight charge !000d
Per person
A separate story tells how one of the first Janjanbureh residents to become deeply involved in kayaking later supported an ambitious journey with Will, Hunt4Travel — paddling the full length of the River Gambia from the east of the country to the coast. For Basiru (Chris) Gomez and Will, the expedition was challenging and not without difficulties, offering insight into both the scale of the river and the realities of long-distance travel on water.
With thanks to www.fairplaygambia.com
and the intrepid guide, Basiru (Chris) Gomez and Will, of Hunt4Travel
Acknowledgements:
Kayak guide training and equipment were supported through the Youth Empowerment Project (YEP) with collaboration from FairPlay Gambia
