The Kiang West National Park
was established in 1987 and is located in southern Gambia, adjacent to the
river Gambia bank and is 145 kilometres from the capital of Banjul.
It is one of the largest
protected nature reservations in Gambia.
It is around 11,00 hectares
and has the largest and most diverse wildlife population.
Being made up mainly of deciduous woodland and Guinea
savannah there are also extensive stretches of mangrove creeks, bolong
tributaries and tidal flats. Its three main areas are the bolongs of
Nganingkoi, Jarin and Jali.
Half-day and full-day guided excursions are available or around £8 for the
entry fee.
This varied topography and
vegetation make it ideal for many animals and species of birds. These include:
Nile crocodile, monitor lizards, warthog, clawless otter, marsh mongoose, patas
monkeys and Sitatunga. Rarer animals include the hyenas, leopards, West African
manatees and dolphins.
The area is also a
birdwatchers paradise with over 290 species of birds having been recorded here,
including 21 raptors: vultures, harrier eagles, sandgrouse, Blue-breasted,
Kingfisher hawks, White-shouldered Black Tit and falcons.
An ideal spot to watch birds
is Tubabkollon Point. The dirt road to Batelling from the Kwinella Tendalla highway can take you to
some prime birdwatching spots.
Driving: To get to Kiang West you use preferably a
4 by 4 suv car using the southern trans Gambia highway to Dumbuto – TENDABA CAMP
- which is the main base of the
park.
Kiang West Accomodation:
Tendaba Camp – Safari Lodge.
In the Tendaba Camp Lodge
Safar, you can buy safaris and excursions to Kiang West National Park.
Enjoy #Gambia, enjoy wild life
