What is Bakau?
Matthew Wilson
Updated on May 02, 2026
Bakau refers to plants living in swampy areas at the mouth of the river, between freshwater and sea water clashes. Mangrove trees are comprised of various species including Avicennia spp.
Does the Gambia have nice beaches?
With long sandy beaches that are never overcrowded, even in the height of the season, The Gambia is a beach lover’s paradise. By the main tourist areas you’ll find plenty of sun loungers and parasols, restaurants and beach bars. You don’t need to go far, however, to discover quieter beaches in The Gambia.
Where is baku in Gambia?
Bakau is a town on the Atlantic coast of Gambia, west of Gambia’s capital city of Banjul. It is known for its botanical gardens, its crocodile pool Bakau Kachikally and for the beaches at Cape Point.
Is it safe to swim in Gambia?
While on your holidays in Gambia you should never swim anywhere alone as you could get into trouble with no one around to help. If a lifeguard is nearby then it maybe OK. Look out for the sea condition flags placed on the sand along the beaches by the attendant lifeguards, before going into the water.
What are the beaches like in Gambia?
Beaches in The Gambia
- Bijilo. This is an unspoilt stretch of sand; and with only a couple of smaller hotels and no beach bars or restaurants it feels deserted and personal.
- Kololi.
- Kotu.
- Bakau & Fajara.
- Cape Point & Banjul.
- Brufut.
- Sanyang.
- Batokunku.
Are there sharks in Gambia?
Top Tips: The Gambia estuary sharks are mainly requiem sharks i.e. Lemon, Dusky, Sandbar, Sand Tiger, Bull Head & Nurse with Black Tips being the only prominent surface feeder. Sharks can be fished from the anchor as well as on the drift.
What do Gambians eat?
Traditional Gambian Food and Drink
- Afra. Afra is a very popular late night snack.
- Akara. Akara (pictures above) is a delicious local dish served for breakfast sometimes in tapalapa bread.
- Baobab Juice.
- Benachin.
- Domoda.
- Okra Stew.
- Palm wine.
- Tapalapa.
Is Gambia safe for tourists?
Gambia is, for the most part, a safe country to visit. However it does have a rather high crime rate, though it’s mainly ridden with petty street crime. You should be vigilant and take all possible precaution measures in order to minimize the risk of getting stolen from.
Is Baku a rich city?
“You know, Baku is one of the most expensive cities in the world. Just to live here costs 500 manat a month [about 633 USD].
Can you swim in the sea in Gambia?
Where are the best beaches in the Gambia?
One of The Gambia’s finest beaches lies just south of the bustling village of Tanji. This wide, palm-backed stretch of white sand makes a superb shoreline retreat. Come to Batukuku to unplug and enjoy long walks along the waterside, memorable sunsets and leisurely days soaking up the rays.
Where is Sanyang Beach in the Gambia?
Sanyang Beach Located around 30km south of the Gambia’s capital of Banjul, and around 5 kilometres west of the small village of Sanyang, this pretty beach is an excellent choice for those seeking a tranquil stretch of shoreline. Sanyang Beach is sometimes called – not inappropriately – Paradise Beach.
Where can I Go Boating in the Gambia?
An ideal place to overnight and arrange boating excursions is the garden-fringed Bees Mouth Gambia. On the southern coast just a few kilometres from the Senegal border, Kartong is one of the oldest settlements on The Gambia’s Atlantic coast; its roots date back over 400 years.
What are the best things to do in Bakau?
2. Bakau Fish Market And do go all the way down to the beach where you can see the local fishermen land the fish. 3. Bakau’s Botanical Gardens 4. Musa Manneh Bird Watching Tours Musa is a really nice guy and has a great knowledge about the birds and places to go.