A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Exploring Bakau: The Hidden Gem of Gambia

Introduction

Bakau, a small but vibrant city in Gambia, is a growing tourist destination that offers a unique blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and genuine hospitality. Located on Gambia's Atlantic coast, Bakau is known for its stunning beaches, lively market, and famous crocodile park. Despite its size, Bakau has a lot to offer visitors and is a place that should not be overlooked on any trip to Gambia.

Bakau Beaches

The beaches of Bakau are one of the city's main attractions. Cape Point beach, in particular, is very popular among tourists and locals alike. With its fine white sand, crystal clear waters, and abundance of palm trees, it is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the sun. In addition, the beach offers a variety of water activities, such as swimming, diving, and fishing.

Bakau Market

The Bakau market is a bustling hub of activity where visitors can experience local life first hand. Vendors sell a variety of products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to clothing and local crafts. The market is also an excellent place to try Gambian cuisine, with many food stalls offering local dishes such as yassa (a chicken stew with onion and lemon) and benachin (a rice dish with meat and vegetables).

Kachikally Crocodile Park

The Kachikally Crocodile Park is another of Bakau's main attractions. The park is home to over 100 crocodiles and offers visitors the unique opportunity to see these impressive reptiles up close. In addition, the park has a museum that provides information about the history and culture of Gambia.

Surroundings of Bakau

In addition to its own attractions, Bakau is also an excellent starting point for exploring the surroundings. A short drive away is Gambia's capital, Banjul, which offers a variety of attractions, including Arch 22, a monumental arch that offers panoramic views of the city, and the National Museum of Gambia, which houses a wide collection of historical and cultural artifacts.

Conclusion

With its blend of natural beauty, rich culture, and genuine hospitality, Bakau is a tourist destination that is worth exploring. Whether you're looking to relax on the beach, experience local life at the market, or learn about the history and culture of Gambia, Bakau has something for everyone.

Gastronomic Products of Bakau

• Domoda

  Domoda is a very popular peanut stew in Bakau and throughout Gambia. This dish is prepared with meat, usually lamb or chicken, and is cooked in a thick peanut sauce. It is served with rice and is often garnished with vegetables and chilies to give it a spicy touch.

• Benachin

  Benachin, also known as "Jollof Rice", is a very popular rice dish in Bakau. This dish is cooked with rice, meat, fish or vegetables and a variety of spices. Benachin is known for its bright red color, which comes from the tomato paste and spices used in its preparation.

• Superkanja

  Superkanja is a thick and nutritious soup enjoyed in Bakau. It is prepared with okra, fish or meat, and a variety of vegetables. The okra gives the soup a unique texture and it is a very nutritious and satisfying dish.

• Tapa Lapa

  Tapa Lapa is a meat pie enjoyed in Bakau. It is prepared with minced meat, onion, garlic, chilies and other spices, all wrapped in banana leaves and then steamed. This dish is a delight and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Sporting Activities in Bakau, Gambia

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Gambia and Bakau is no exception. You can enjoy a match at the Independence Stadium or even join a local game at one of the many courts in the city.

Fishing

Bakau is known for its fishing. You can rent a boat and fishing gear to try your luck at catching a variety of local fish. You can also join a guided fishing tour to learn more about local fishing techniques.

Hiking

The surroundings of Bakau offer several hiking routes where you can enjoy nature and wildlife. The Kiang West National Park and the River Gambia National Park are two of the most popular destinations for hiking.

Surfing

If you are a lover of surfing, Bakau has several beaches where you can catch waves. Bakau beach is known for its consistent waves and is a popular spot for local and international surfers.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Bakau and its surroundings. You can rent a bicycle and tour the city at your own pace, or join a guided cycling tour to learn about local points of interest.

Places near Bakau

If you are in Bakau and wish to explore a bit more, here we present you with some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Serrekunda, the largest city in Gambia, is a vibrant hub of culture and cuisine. Visitors can explore bustling markets, try local dishes like domoda, and enjoy the lively nightlife and live music.

Banjul, capital of Gambia, is a vibrant tourist destination with colorful markets, stunning beaches, and a rich history. Visitors can enjoy authentic Gambian cuisine, which includes dishes of fresh seafood and the traditional "Domoda".

Kololi, Gambia, is a vibrant tourist destination known for its lively nightlife, beautiful beaches and exquisite local cuisine, which includes fresh seafood dishes and traditional African delights.