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Bakau Fish Landing Site

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Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)

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The Bakau fish landing site is one of the most prominent centers of artisanal fishing in The Gambia. Here, local fishermen land their daily catches of bonga, barracuda, and other coastal species, which are often sold or processed directly on the beach. The site is characterized by traditional, colorful pirogues and includes smokehouses and fish-drying facilities that extend the shelf life of the products. The economic significance for the Bakau community is immense, with hundreds of jobs directly linked to fishing, net maintenance, and trade. In recent years, with international assistance, notably through Japanese cooperation, modern cold storage facilities and a new market building were established. Beyond its economic function, the site is a magnet for tourists, generating additional income through local crafts and catering. The landing site exemplifies the integration of traditional methods with modern market infrastructure.

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Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C242628292929282727272624
Rain mm10524741873062316730

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?
This landing site in Bakau is the central transshipment point for artisanal fishing on the Gambian coast. It supplies surrounding markets with fresh catch.
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Visiting
The fish market and landing site are publicly accessible, offering a lively scene. Visitors can watch fishermen at work and buy fresh fish.
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Where to view it
The best view is from the quay, where boats dock and fish are unloaded. From the nearby beach promenade, the colorful activity can be well observed.
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Local products
The main product is daily fresh catch such as barracuda, snapper, and tuna. Dried and smoked fish are also available, often as seasonal specialties.
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Active season
The fishing peak season is during the dry months from November to May, when the sea is calmer. Early mornings are the busiest time at the landing site.
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Nearby
Combine the visit with the nearby Bakau Botanical Garden and the beach. The capital Banjul is also a short drive away.

Geography

Coordinates
13.48000, -16.67000

Facts

  • Major hub for artisanal coastal fishing activities
  • Equipped with modern Japanese-funded cold storage
  • Specializes in smoking and drying fish products
  • Provides direct market access for local consumers
  • Home to a large fleet of traditional pirogues
  • Combines fishing with tourism-related services

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kachikally Sacred Crocodile PoolKachikally Sacred Crocodile Pool<1 km · SExplore →
African Heritage MuseumAfrican Heritage Museum1 km · WExplore →
Banjul Breweries (JulBrew)Banjul Breweries (JulBrew)2 km · SExplore →
Old JeshwangOld Jeshwang3 km · SEExplore →
Denton Bridge Industrial AreaDenton Bridge Industrial Area3 km · EExplore →
KotuKotu4 km · SWExplore →
Latri KundaLatri Kunda4 km · SWExplore →
Denton BridgeDenton Bridge5 km · EExplore →

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Sights in the town Bakau Fish Landing Site (3)

Kachikally Crocodile Pool🏛 museum

Museum and crocodile pool in Bakau. Visitors see sacred crocodiles in a natural pond.

Ebun Jan Theatre

Theatre in Bakau. It hosts local plays and cultural events.

Pipeline Mosque

Mosque in Gambia, located in Bakau. It is a place of prayer for the Muslim community.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is Bakau famous as a fish landing site?
It is one of the most colorful and active places to experience the traditional craft of fishermen and the market right on the beach.
What can you buy at the Bakau market?
Besides freshly caught fish, they sell smoked fish, vegetables, and fruit. It is a very lively local market.
Are there good photo opportunities?
Yes, the painted pirogues and the sunset bustle are fantastic. However, always ask for permission.
Is the beach suitable for swimming?
This area is busy with fishing; for swimming, the quieter hotel beaches nearby are more suitable.
How do you get there from the hotels?
Bakau is easily accessible by taxi. Many hotels are even within walking distance of the fishing port.
Bakau Fish Landing Site: where is it located?
Bakau Fish Landing Site is located in Gambia.
Bakau Fish Landing Site: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kachikally Crocodile Pool, Ebun Jan Theatre, Pipeline Mosque.
Bakau Fish Landing Site: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Bakau Fish Landing Site: why is it worth visiting?
The Bakau fish landing site is one of the most prominent centers of artisanal fishing in The Gambia.
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Nearby cities

Banjul — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
Banjul
Banjul is the capital city of The Gambia, located on St.

History & landmarks

🗺️
National Museum of The Gambia
A museum in Banjul showcasing the history, culture, and ethnography of The Gambia through various exhibits.
July 22nd Square — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
July 22nd Square
A central public square in Banjul used for national celebrations and parades.
St. Joseph&#39;s Cathedral — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
St. Joseph's Cathedral
The primary Catholic church in Banjul, known for its colonial architecture and stained glass windows.
King Fahad Mosque — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
King Fahad Mosque
The largest mosque in Banjul and a major religious landmark of the capital city.
State House — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
State House
The official residence and workplace of the President of The Gambia, a historic colonial-style building.
Albert Market — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
Albert Market
A vibrant and colorful market in Banjul, selling everything from food items to local handicrafts.

More places

Banjul Breweries (JulBrew) — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
Banjul Breweries (JulBrew)
The only brewery in Gambia, producing the famous national beer JulBrew as well as various soft drinks.
Denton Bridge Industrial Area — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
Denton Bridge Industrial Area
A cluster of fish processing plants and warehouses near the bridge connecting Banjul to the mainland.
Sarro Groundnut Processing Plant — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
Sarro Groundnut Processing Plant
The largest facility of the Gambia Groundnut Corporation for processing and storing groundnuts for export.
St. Mary&#39;s Island — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
St. Mary's Island
The island at the mouth of the Gambia River on which the capital city Banjul is located.
St. Joseph&#39;s Church Banjul — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
St. Joseph's Church Banjul
The country's first Catholic church, built in the mid-19th century, a significant religious monument.
National Museum of The Gambia — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
National Museum of The Gambia
The museum presents a rich collection on the archaeology, ethnography, and colonial history of the country.
Arch 22 — Bakau Fish Landing Site (Gambia)
Arch 22
A monumental triumphal arch at the entrance to Banjul, commemorating the peaceful military coup of July 22, 1994.
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Gambia Milling Corporation
A modern wheat mill in the Banjul port area, which produces most of the flour needed in the country.