Basse Santa Su - Discovering Gambia

Travelling to Basse Santa Su

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Basse Santa Su, a pretty good destination in Gambia (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Basse Santa Su and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Basse Santa Su, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Gambia, here's everything to know about Basse Santa Su for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Basse Santa Su

Basse Santa Su is a town in the Upper River Region of The Gambia, located about 300 kilometers from the capital city of Banjul. It is a relatively large town and serves as a hub for transportation, commerce, and healthcare in the region. Basse Santa Su is surrounded by rural villages and has a diverse population, including many ethnic groups and religions. The town has a few tourist attractions, such as a local market and a mosque, but is primarily known for its friendly people and relaxed atmosphere. It is also one of the hottest regions in the country, with temperatures reaching up to 40 degrees Celsius in the hot season.

What to visit in Basse Santa Su

Some of the top tourist attractions in Basse Santa Su, Gambia are: 1. Wassu Stone Circles: The Wassu Stone Circles, located in the Niani District, are a UNESCO World Heritage Site consisting of 11 groups of prehistoric stone circles that date back to the 3rd century BC. Visitors can explore the site and learn about the history and cultural significance of the stones.
2. Janjangbureh Island: Janjangbureh is an island located in the middle of the River Gambia. It is known for its historic colonial architecture and the remnants of the slave trade that once dominated the island. Visitors can tour the island on foot, visit local markets, and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
3. Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve: The Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve is a nature reserve located in the North Bank of the River Gambia. It is home to over 270 species of birds and other wildlife. Visitors can take river cruises to explore the wetlands and observe the animals in their natural habitat.
4. Kunta Kinteh Island: Kunta Kinteh Island is another historic island located in the River Gambia. It was once a major trading post and the site of many slave auctions. Today, visitors can tour the island and learn about the history and culture of the Gambia.
5. Georgetown: Georgetown is a historic city located on the North Bank of the River Gambia. It is known for its colonial architecture, local markets, and the ruins of Fort Bullen, a British military post built in the 1800s to stop the slave trade.
6. Wildlife Park: The Badi Mayo Wildlife Park is a nature reserve located in the Upper River Division. It is home to many species of wildlife, including elephants, hyenas, and baboons. Visitors can take guided safari tours to observe the animals up close in their natural habitat.
7. River Gambia National Park: The River Gambia National Park is a large protected area located along the River Gambia. It is home to many species of birds, reptiles, and mammals, including hippopotamuses, crocodiles, and monkeys. Visitors can take guided tours of the park to learn about the wildlife and conservation efforts.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Gambia, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Basse Santa Su.

When to go on holiday to Basse Santa Su

The best time to visit Basse Santa Su (Gambia) is during the dry season which runs from November to May. During this period, the weather is sunny and dry with low humidity, making it an ideal time to explore the city and its surroundings. However, it's worth noting that this is the peak tourist season, and hotels and flights tend to be more expensive during this time. The wet season, from June to October, sees rainfall and high humidity levels, which can make travel around the city more challenging.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Basse Santa Su

To get to Basse Santa Su in Gambia, you have several options depending on your departure location.
If you are coming from a nearby country or region, the easiest way is by road. You can travel by bus or hire a taxi.
If you are coming from a far-off destination, the most frequent option is by plane. You can fly into Banjul International Airport, which is Gambia's main international airport. Once you arrive in Banjul, you can take a taxi to Basse Santa Su, which is approximately 300 kilometers east of Banjul.
Another option is to take a ferry from Dakar, Senegal, to Banjul. This journey takes approximately 6 hours.
It is essential to confirm the mode of transportation that best suits your needs before embarking on your journey. Also, ensure that you have all the necessary documents, such as a passport and visas if required.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Basse Santa Su, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Basse Santa Su

Here are some typical foods you can find in Basse Santa Su, Gambia: 1. Domoda: A popular Gambian dish which consists of stewed groundnut paste, vegetables and meat or fish. 2. Benachin: Also known as "one-pot rice," this dish is basically rice cooked with vegetables, meat or fish and sometimes served with a spicy tomato sauce. 3. Plasas: A stew made with a leafy green vegetable (usually cassava leaves), meat or fish and groundnut butter. 4. Yassa: A flavorful chicken or fish dish which is marinated in lemon juice and onions before grilling or frying. 5. Superkanja: A soup made with groundnut paste and vegetables like okra, pumpkin and eggplant. 6. Mbahal: A crispy, deep-fried snack made with leftover rice and served with hot pepper sauce. 7. Bisap: A refreshing, sweet-tart drink made from hibiscus flowers, it's usually served cold or over ice. These are some of the most popular Gambian dishes that you can try while in Basse Santa Su.
You can find general info about typical foods in Gambia here.

Is Basse Santa Su an expensive destination for tourists?

Compared to other destinations in Gambia, Basse Santa Su can be considered a bit expensive for tourists. However, it's also worth noting that it depends on your budget and travel style. Basse Santa Su has a limited number of upscale hotels which can be quite pricey, while budget accommodations and local food options are more affordable. Transportation costs may also be higher due to the distance from the main tourist areas. Overall, it's possible to visit Basse Santa Su on a budget, but it may require some planning and research.

Where to find accomodation in Basse Santa Su

The best areas to find accommodations while visiting Basse Santa Su in Gambia would be the central area of Basse town, which is the largest town in the Upper River Region of Gambia and serves as the main commercial hub. Most of the hotels and guesthouses, as well as restaurants and other amenities, are located in the central area of Basse town, making it a convenient place to stay for visitors. Additionally, there are some lodges and guesthouses located outside of the town, along the banks of the River Gambia, where visitors can enjoy a more peaceful and rural setting.
You can check hotel prices at Basse Santa Su here:
Booking.com

Is Basse Santa Su a safe destination for tourists?

Generally, Basse Santa Su in Gambia is considered safe for tourists. The crime rate is low, and violent crimes are rare. However, as with any destination, it is important to take standard safety precautions. This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding flashing your valuables, and using common sense when interacting with strangers. Additionally, it is important to research any specific safety concerns and precautions for the area you plan to visit.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Gambia here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Basse Santa Su.

What type of travelers will enjoy Basse Santa Su the most?

Basse Santa Su in Gambia is a unique destination that caters to a variety of travelers. It is a perfect location if you want to experience the local culture and traditions. Here are some types of travelers who will enjoy the most in Basse Santa Su: 1. Cultural Travelers: Basse Santa Su is an excellent destination for cultural travelers who want to learn about the local way of life, history, and customs.
2. Families: Families can enjoy a relaxing holiday with nature walks, bird watching, and exploring cultural sites.
3. Adventure seekers: Adventure travelers will get an experience of hiking, kayaking and monkey viewing in Basse Santa Su.
4. Solo travelers: Solo travelers who want to experience an authentic Gambian culture without the rush of popular tourist destinations will enjoy Basse Santa Su.
5. History buffs: Those seeking insights into Gambia's rich history will enjoy exploring historical sites such as the Wassu Stone Circles among others. Basse Santa Su is also a great place for couples or young people looking for peace and tranquility away from the bustling crowds of typical tourist spots.

How to get around Basse Santa Su

In Basse Santa Su, the most common modes of transportation are taxis or shared taxis, and domestic flights for longer distances. Additionally, there are also motorbikes and bicycles for rent if you prefer to explore the area independently.

What to see around Basse Santa Su

Sure, here are some nice places to visit on a day trip from Basse Santa Su in Gambia: 1. Janjanbureh Island (550 km): Known as MacCarthy Island, it is a historic and peaceful island with beautiful colonial architecture, pristine beaches, and a rich cultural heritage. 2. Georgetown (180 km): A small fishing village with stunning coastal views and a bustling port, Georgetown is also the gateway to the Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was a major slave trading post in the past.
3. Wassu Stone Circles (180 km): The UNESCO World Heritage site of Wassu Stone Circles is one of the largest and best-preserved prehistoric burial sites in West Africa, with towering monoliths measuring up to 2 meters high.
4. Tendaba Camp (50 km): Situated near the River Gambia, Tendaba Camp is a perfect destination for birdwatching enthusiasts, with over 400 species of birds found in its surrounding areas.
5. Kuntaur (170 km): Kuntaur is located on the banks of the River Gambia and is a great place to experience local culture and traditions. You can visit a traditional Gambian compound, see handcrafted boats being made, and even go on a river dolphin sighting tour.
For every travel information about Gambia you can click here.

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