The River Gambia and its Wildlife

The River Gambia, which the whole country follows inland from the Atlantic, is the lifeblood of this tiny West African nation and the setting for its finest wildlife experiences. Within the River Gambia National Park, the forested Baboon Islands are home to a celebrated chimpanzee rehabilitation project, where rescued chimps live wild and can be glimpsed from boats, alongside hippos, crocodiles and monkeys. Above all, though, the Gambia is a paradise for birdwatchers, with an astonishing variety of colourful and easily seen species along the river, in mangroves and reserves, making it one of Africa's premier and most accessible birding destinations.

What you actually see

• The chimpanzees - the rescued chimps of the Baboon Islands.
• The birdlife - the extraordinary variety of colourful birds.
• The hippos and crocodiles - the river wildlife.
• The river and mangroves - the boat trips through the waterways.

When to go

November to February, the cool, dry season, is the best time, with comfortable weather and excellent birdwatching as migratory species join the residents; the wet season brings rain and heat. The upriver national park and reserves are reached by road and explored by boat, ideally over a few days for the full experience.

Honest expectations

The famous chimpanzees live wild on protected islands that cannot be landed on, so they are viewed at a distance from boats and sightings are not guaranteed, and the upriver parks take time to reach; the country's real, reliable wildlife draw is its superb, accessible birdlife rather than big game. For birdwatchers especially, and anyone wanting easy, rewarding wildlife along a beautiful river, though, the Gambia is a delight.

Nearby

The island town of Janjanbureh and the Kiang West park are within reach.