Brikama Travel Guide

This comprehensive travel guide provides information on the top things to do, places to visit, food and drink, where to stay, and more in Brikama, Gambia.


Introduction to Brikama

Located in West Africa, in the small country of Gambia, Brikama is a city with a vibrant culture and rich history. Brikama is the largest urban center in the West Coast Region and is often referred to as the “Gateway to the Region”. The city is known for its bustling markets, friendly local people, and opportunities for outdoor adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Brikama

Brikama is a city rich in historical sites, natural wonders, and cultural landmarks. Here are some of the top destinations to explore in the city.

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Brikama Museum: The Brikama Museum is a great place to learn about the city’s culture and history. It showcases the city’s unique traditional art, music, and dance.
  • Matakally’s Compound: This compound is a well-preserved example of traditional Gambian architecture. Visitors can explore the household items and furniture used by the wealthy families in the past.
  • Big Tree: The Big Tree is a centuries-old baobab tree that is steeped in Gambian folklore and culture. The tree is rumored to have magical powers, and it’s a popular spot for local rituals.

Natural Attractions of Brikama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Abuko Nature Reserve: Located just a few miles outside of Brikama, the Abuko Nature Reserve is the perfect spot to experience Gambia’s natural beauty. Visitors can see monkeys, baboons, and dozens of bird species.
  • Bijilo Forest Park: Bijilo Forest Park is a great destination for hiking and birdwatching. This park is located a few miles from Brikama and contains a lush forest, several hiking trails, and stunning views of the coast.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Brikama

Brikama’s natural beauty makes it an excellent destination for hikers and bikers. Here are a few popular routes for outdoor enthusiasts:

  • Nyambai Forest Park is a perfect hiking spot that is located just a few miles outside Brikama. The park is renowned for its stunning rock formations and endemic tree species, offering hikers the perfect blend of nature and culture. The round-trip takes approximately 4 hours.
  • Abuko Nature Reserve offers visitors an adrenaline-packed biking experience. Visitors can explore the park on bike and enjoy a smooth, gentle ride on their way, while enjoying the natural scenery the park has to offer.

Best Things to Do in Brikama: Activities and Tours

Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or culture, Brikama has something to offer for all travelers. Here are a few popular activities and tours in the city:

  • Visit the local markets: Brikama is known for its vibrant, bustling markets, where you can haggle for everything from traditional clothing to handcrafted souvenirs.
  • Take a city tour: Take a city tour with a local guide to learn about the city’s unique culture and history. The tour will take you through the neighborhoods and traditional compounds so that you can really get a feel for the city.
  • Take a traditional music and dance lesson: Brikama is famous for its traditional music and dance, which are a part of the city’s rich heritage. Visitors can take local music and dance lessons to experience this culture firsthand.

Week-Long Itinerary for Brikama

A week in Brikama can be a perfect blend of history and natural beauty. Here’s how you can spend your week in the city:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Brikama Museum and Big Tree
Day 2 Explore Matakally’s Compound and Nyambai Forest Park
Day 3 Take a bike ride to Abuko Nature Reserve and stop at the markets
Day 4 Explore Sanyang beach and experience local cuisine
Day 5 Take a city tour and learn about the city’s history and culture
Day 6 Take a traditional music and dance class
Day 7 Visit Bijilo Forest Park and explore the scenic views

Food and Drink Scene of Brikama

Gambian cuisine is a mix of African, European and some Indian influences. Here is a list of traditional dishes and beverages that are a must-try in Brikama.

Must-Try Dishes

  • Benachin: Often called the ‘one-pot dish,’ Benachin is a popular Gambian rice dish prepared with chicken, fish, lamb, or beef and a combination of vegetables and herbs.
  • Domoda: Domoda is another very popular Gambian dish that is somewhat like a peanut stew. The stew typically contains either chicken or beef, along with vegetables like eggplant or okra, and peanut sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Ataya Tea: Ataya Tea is one of the most popular beverages in The Gambia. The tea is made using green tea leaves, sugar, and mint and is typically served in small cups with three servings.
  • Julbrew: Julbrew is a local beer that is made and sold only in The Gambia. It has a light, crisp, and refreshing taste and is perfect after a day of adventure.

Where to Stay in Brikama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Brikama offers visitors an array of accommodation options that are perfect for every budget. Here are some of the best places to stay in Brikama:

  • Woodpecker Lodge: This lodge is located just outside of Brikama and offers visitors comfortable rooms with modern amenities like air conditioning, a swimming pool, and a restaurant.
  • Sanyang Beach Camp: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, Sanyang Beach Camp is a great choice. This camp offers dormitory-style rooms and private chalets.

What to Buy in Brikama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Gambian handicrafts are renowned for their quality and uniqueness. Visitors to Brikama can shop for a range of souvenirs and locally made products, including:

  • Wood Carvings: Hand-carved wooden masks, figurines, and bowls are popular souvenirs in The Gambia.
  • Batik Art: Batik is an art form where the fabric is dyed using wax and ink designs to create a pattern. Visitors can purchase interesting batik artifacts like tablecloths, clothing, and accessories.

Local Culture and Customs of Brikama

Gambians are a friendly and welcoming people. Visitors to Brikama should take note of some cultural customs that are important to the locals.

  • Gambians greet each other with the phrase ‘Salam Maleykom’, which means ‘peace be upon you’.
  • Modest clothing is preferred in Brikama, and visitors should dress conservatively to show respect to the local people.
  • Visitors shouldn’t take pictures of people without their explicit permission.

Best Time to Visit Brikama

Brikama has a tropical climate with a dry season between November and May and a rainy season from June to October. The dry season is the best time to plan a visit, and December to February offers pleasant temperatures.

Do’s and Don’ts of Brikama

Here are a few things that visitors should keep in mind during their stay in Brikama:

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Learn some basic phrases in the local language.

Don’t:

  • Wear skimpy clothing.
  • Take pictures of people without their permission.
  • Wander into areas that are off-limits for visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Brikama

Brikama is generally safe for visitors, but tourists should stay vigilant and take common sense precautions like not flashing valuable items and not wandering in deserted areas at night.

Health in Brikama

Visitors to Brikama should take precautions against diseases like malaria, which is prevalent in The Gambia. It is advisable to check with a doctor for any necessary vaccination requirements to ensure a safe and healthy trip. Visitors should also carry mosquito repellent and use it regularly.

Getting to Brikama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Brikama

The nearest international airport to Brikama is Banjul International Airport, which is located about 20 kilometers away. The airport is serviced by several international airlines, including Royal Air Maroc, Turkish Airlines, and Air France.

Bus Stations Near Brikama

The main bus station in Brikama is the Brikama Garage, which is located in the heart of the city. Buses run daily to other major cities like Banjul, Dakar, and Bissau.

Other Options

Visitors also have the option of renting a car, hiring a taxi or taking a shared minibus between cities.

How to Get Around in Brikama

Brikama is a relatively small city, and visitors can easily explore the city on foot. Taxis are also readily available, and visitors can hire a taxi at a reasonable price.

Where to Go Next from Brikama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore beyond Brikama, here are some nearby destinations worth a visit:

  • Banjul: Banjul is the capital city of The Gambia and is located about 20 kilometers away from Brikama. Visitors can explore the city’s history, museums, and markets.
  • Sanyang: Sanyang is a small, scenic village located on the coast about 30 kilometers from Brikama. Visitors can bask on the beach, enjoy the local cuisine, and experience the laid-back, relaxed pace of life in a Gambian village.

Conclusion

Brikama is a city that has much to offer visitors who are looking to experience Gambia’s rich culture, natural beauty, and incredible outdoor adventures. Whether you’re looking for history, culture, food, or outdoor adventure, Brikama has something for everyone. With this comprehensive tour guide, visitors can easily plan their trip to this incredible city and make the most of their time there.