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River Gambia National Park

About River Gambia National Park

River Gambia National Park stands out because it feels very different from the coastal side of The Gambia. The setting is quieter, more remote, and shaped almost entirely by the river, with the Baboon Islands and the chimpanzee rehabilitation project giving the area a stronger wildlife and conservation focus than a typical nature stop. It is one of the places that adds more depth and variety to a trip through the country. 

When to visit

November to May is the strongest overall period, with dry weather, easier river travel, and better wildlife visibility around the islands.

Most popular: December - February

Spring · Mar, Apr, May

Spring runs from Mar. to May and grows steadily hotter before the rains begin. March and April are dry, bright, and rewarding for river-based wildlife viewing, while May becomes more humid and transitional as the wet season starts to build.

Summer · Jun, Jul, Aug

Summer spans Jun. to Aug. and is the wet season, when the islands and riverbanks turn lush and intensely green. The scenery is beautiful and atmospheric, but heavier rain, thicker vegetation, and more humid conditions make this a less polished period for classic wildlife-focused visits.

Autumn · Sep, Oct, Nov

Autumn falls from Sep. to Nov. and begins wetter before drying improves later in the season. September can still feel damp and green, while October and especially November become much more attractive for clearer river scenery and easier wildlife viewing

Winter · Dec, Jan, Feb

Winter in River Gambia National Park runs from Dec. to Feb. and is the most attractive time to visit, with dry weather, bright light, and more comfortable temperatures than the hotter late-dry-season months. This is when the river landscape feels crispest and most rewarding for nature trips.

Weather Highlights

  • Summer high

    33°C / 92°F

  • Winter low

    19°C / 66°F

  • Rain

    76 days

  • Snow

    0 days

Location

Getting There

River Gambia National Park is located in the Central River Region of The Gambia, about 300 kilometres upstream from the coast, with the usual approach by road toward Kuntaur or Janjanbureh followed by a river transfer in the wider park area.

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