Jarra Soma - Discovering Gambia

What to see, events, costs and every info for the perfect holiday
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Travelling to Jarra Soma

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Jarra Soma, 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 Jarra Soma 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 Jarra Soma, 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 Jarra Soma for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Jarra Soma

Jarra Soma is a town located in the Lower River Division of The Gambia, a small West African country. It is situated on the south bank of the Gambia River and has a population of approximately 5,000 people. The town is known for its bustling market, which attracts people from neighboring towns and villages. Some popular attractions in Jarra Soma and its surrounding areas include wildlife reserves, cultural sites, and scenic boat tours along the Gambia River. The town can be accessed by road from other parts of The Gambia, and there are also ferry services available to cross the river.

Travelling
Travelling to Jarra Soma and around: discovering Gambia

What to visit in Jarra Soma

Jarra Soma is a town located in the Lower River Region of The Gambia, a West African country. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Jarra Soma: 1. Kunta Kinteh Island: Also known as James Island, Kunta Kinteh Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was an important slave trading post and has a museum detailing the site's dark history.
2. Georgetown: This historic town was founded by black settlers who returned to Africa from Nova Scotia, Canada, in the late 18th century. It has preserved many of its original buildings and has a museum dedicated to the town's history.
3. Bintang Bolong Lodge: This eco-lodge is located in a beautiful natural setting and offers bird watching and other nature activities.
4. Kiang West National Park: This park is home to a variety of wildlife, including monkeys, baboons, and warthogs. It also has several walking and hiking trails.
5. Wassu Stone Circles: These stone circles are thought to be between 1200-2000 years old and are a UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are believed to have been used for religious ceremonies and burials.
6. Sankandi Village: This village is known for its pottery and visitors can watch craftsmen at work and even try their hand at pottery making.
7. Brikama Craft Market: This bustling market has a wide range of handmade crafts and souvenirs, including woven baskets, jewelry, and wood carvings.
Visitors should be aware of their surroundings and travel with a reputable guide when visiting some of these attractions, particularly Kunta Kinteh Island, due to its history.
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.


When to go on holiday to Jarra Soma

The best time to visit Jarra Soma, Gambia is during the dry season between November and April. During this time, you can expect plenty of sunshine and very little rain. The temperatures are also quite comfortable during this time, ranging from 25-30°C (77-86°F).
However, if you want to see the lush greenery and experience the local culture during the wet season, which runs from May to October, you can still plan your trip during this time. Just be prepared for occasional heavy rains and higher humidity levels. Additionally, some roads may be difficult to navigate during this time due to flooding.

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

How to get to Jarra Soma

To get to Jarra Soma in The Gambia, you can take a flight to Banjul International Airport and then travel by land to Jarra Soma, which is located about 3-4 hours from the airport.
From Banjul, you can hire a private taxi or take a public transport like a bus or shared taxi to reach Jarra Soma. The journey can be quite bumpy, but it gives you the opportunity to see many of the highlights of The Gambia's countryside.
Another option is to take a domestic flight from Banjul to Basse Santa Su, which is the region capital where Jarra Soma is located. From there, you can hire a private taxi or take a shared taxi which will take about 45 minutes to reach Jarra Soma.
It's always recommended to check the latest travel advice and entry requirements before you travel to The Gambia.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Jarra Soma, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Jarra Soma

Sure, here are some typical foods of Jarra Soma in Gambia along with a brief description of each: 1. Domoda: A delicious and spicy stew made with peanut butter. It is typically served with rice and can also be made with chicken or beef.
2. Chicken Yassa: Grilled chicken marinated in lemon juice and served with onions and spicy sauce. It is usually served with couscous or rice.
3. Benechin: A one-pot rice dish cooked with vegetables, meat or fish, tomato paste, and spices. It is slowly cooked over a wood or charcoal fire, giving it a smoky flavor.
4. Okra stew: A tasty stew made with okra, tomato sauce, and various meats like beef, chicken, or fish. It is usually served with rice or couscous.
5. Kebeh: A fried pastry stuffed with ground beef or lamb, onion, and spices. It is usually served as an appetizer or snack.
6. Mbahal: A popular Gambian dish made with smoked fish, groundnuts (peanuts), and spinach. It is cooked into a tasty soup that is usually served with rice or couscous.
7. Plasas: A typical Gambian soup made with cassava leaves, palm oil, fish or meat, and chili pepper. It is usually served with rice or fufu, which is a starchy side dish made from cassava or yams.
I hope this information helps!
You can find general info about typical foods in Gambia here.

Is Jarra Soma an expensive destination for tourists?

Jarra Soma is not typically considered an expensive destination for tourists in Gambia. However, prices can vary depending on the type of accommodations, transportation, and activities you choose. Here are some average prices for common expenses in Jarra Soma: - Accommodation: budget guesthouses start from around GMD 300 (around USD 6) per night, while mid-range hotels/guesthouses can cost somewhere between GMD 800 and GMD 1,500 (USD 16 to USD 30) per night. - Food and Drink: you can find local meals at street stalls and small restaurants for around GMD 50 to GMD 100 (around USD 1 to USD 2). A typical sit-down meal in a mid-range restaurant can cost between GMD 200 and GMD 400 (around USD 4 to USD 8). Imported alcohol can be quite expensive, so it's best to stick to local beer (GMD 30-50 or USD 0.6-1.0 per bottle).
- Transportation: shared taxis (known as bush taxis) are the most common way to get around, and fares are typically around GMD 30 to GMD 50 (around USD 0.6 to USD 1) for short rides. Private taxis are also available at higher rates.
- Activities: visiting local cultural sites and attractions will usually cost between GMD 100 and GMD 300 (around USD 2 to USD 6), while guided tours can be more expensive.
Overall, compared to other popular tourist destinations, Jarra Soma is relatively affordable.

Where to find accomodation in Jarra Soma

The best areas to find accommodation to visit Jarra Soma in Gambia would be in nearby towns and cities such as Basse Santa Su, Mansa Konko, Janjanbureh, and Niamina West. These areas offer hotels, guesthouses, and lodges to suit various budgets. Basse Santa Su is the largest town in the region and has the most options for accommodations.
You can check hotel prices at Jarra Soma here:
Booking.com


Is Jarra Soma a safe destination for tourists?

Jarra Soma in Gambia is considered a relatively safe place for tourists, but it's always important to take necessary precautions and be aware of your surroundings. Crime rates in this area are generally low, but petty theft can occur, especially in crowded areas. It's recommended to keep your valuables secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash. It's also a good idea to be respectful of local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. Overall, with basic caution and common sense, you should be able to enjoy a safe and pleasant trip to Jarra Soma.
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 Jarra Soma.

What type of travelers will enjoy Jarra Soma the most?

Jarra Soma in the Gambia is a fascinating destination known for its cultural and natural attractions. Generally, the place caters to the needs of all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families. For couples, Jarra Soma offers a serene environment with breathtaking views that are perfect for couples to unwind and enjoy some quality time together. They can also explore museums, cultural sites, and visit the nearby villages to enjoy their traditional hospitality.
For young people, Jarra Soma has some fantastic places to enjoy, such as nightlife and bars. The vibrant atmosphere of the town is perfect for young people to have a great time, with music, dancing, and socializing.
For families, Jarra Soma has a range of activities that are fit for all ages, including bird watching, fishing, boat riding, nature walks, and much more. Families can also enjoy the cultural richness of the town and engage in cultural practices such as dancing, drumming, and handcrafts.
Overall, Jarra Soma is a great destination for all types of travelers, and everyone is bound to have a memorable experience in this amazing place.

How to get around Jarra Soma

In Jarra Soma, Gambia, the most common mode of transportation for locals is either walking or using minibusses (known as "gele-gele"). Taxis are also available but are more expensive. If you are traveling longer distances or planning to explore other parts of the country, hiring a private car or taking a shared taxi may be a better option.

What to see around Jarra Soma

Certainly! Here are some nice places you can consider visiting in a day trip from Jarra Soma in Gambia: 1. Wassu Stone Circles: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, these ancient stone circles are a fascinating attraction for history buffs.
2. Kunta Kinteh Island: This historic island is where Kunta Kinteh, a character from Alex Haley's Roots, was enslaved. It's a poignant reminder of the history of the transatlantic slave trade.
3. Janjanbureh Island: Also known as Georgetown, this charming island town is steeped in history and culture, with colonial-era architecture and a vibrant market.
4. Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve: A nature reserve with abundant birdlife and an opportunity for boat safaris through the mangrove forests.
5. Lamin Lodge: A rustic restaurant and lodge built on stilts on the river, offering stunning views and a serene atmosphere.
6. Abuko Nature Reserve: A small but impressive wildlife sanctuary with monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
7. Tanji Fishing Village: A colorful and bustling fishing village with a lively fish market and plenty of opportunities to observe local fishermen at work.
I hope this helps you plan a wonderful day trip from Jarra Soma!
For every travel information about Gambia you can click here.

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