Bintang Bolong
A wide mangrove creek off the south bank, with a village and lodges on the water.
Updated 2 October 2026
The Bintang Bolong is one of the largest creeks off the Gambia, running inland from the south bank through mangrove wide enough to feel like a river in its own right, with the village of Bintang on it and a lodge built out over the water on stilts. Pirogues go up the creek from there. Kingfishers, herons and fish eagles work the mangrove edge and the fishing is good.
What's there
- The creek width - a bolong large enough to read as a river.
- The stilt lodge - accommodation built out over the water.
- The mangrove edge - the fringe worked by kingfishers and herons.
- The pirogue trips - the boat runs further up the creek.
When to go
November to February is the cool dry season and best for birds. Tide changes the creek considerably through the day. The rains from June bring heavy insects.
Good to know
Accommodation is simple and the road in has rough stretches. Mosquitoes on the water at dusk are severe. Boat trips depend on tide and on the boatman being available.
Nearby
Tumani Tenda is west, and Tendaba is east.
Key facts
Source: Wikidata, item Q864068, read on 18 October 2026.
What to pack for Bintang Bolong
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
- Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
- Travel rod + reel - A packable multi-piece rod fits in a case and covers most holiday fishing. Find on Amazon
- Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
- A small tackle selection - Hooks, weights, line and a few lures or flies suited to local waters. Find on Amazon
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