Bijilo Forest Park

Bijilo Forest Park, frequently called the Monkey Park, is a small but popular nature reserve located on the cliff edge along the Atlantic coast. Gazetted in 1951, it covers an area of 51.3 hectares and was opened to the public in 1991. The park serves as a vital patch of coastal forest and gallery forest amidst the growing tourist infrastructure of the Senegambia region. It is famous for its resident populations of Green monkeys and the increasingly rare Western Red Colobus monkeys, which are easily spotted along the nature trails. The park features a 4.5-kilometer path that winds through lush vegetation and sand dunes, offering views of over 133 bird species. As an accessible wildlife sanctuary, it plays an important role in environmental education for both locals and tourists. Management focuses on maintaining the fence and trails to protect the forest from coastal development and human interference.

Nearby cities

Serekunda

Serekunda is the largest city in The Gambia and a major commercial hub, known for its bustling markets.

Brikama

Brikama is one of the largest cities in The Gambia, famous for its woodcarving and musical traditions.

Sukuta

Sukuta is a rapidly growing town in the West Coast Region, closely linked to the Serekunda metropolitan area.

Bundung

Bundung is a densely populated residential neighborhood in the Kanifing Municipality, known for its vibrant community.

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Fajikunda

Fajikunda is a residential area in the Serekunda metropolitan area that has seen strong growth in recent years.

Bakau

Bakau is a coastal town known for its botanical garden and the Kachikally sacred crocodile pool.

Busumbala

Busumbala is a growing settlement in the West Coast Region, conveniently located on the main road to Brikama.

Brufut

Brufut is a coastal town known for its pristine beaches and the Brufut Woods, a paradise for birdwatchers.

Latri Kunda

Latri Kunda is a major neighborhood of Serekunda, known for its busy markets and as an important commercial hub.

Gunjur

Gunjur is a coastal town known for its thriving fishing industry and ecological protection areas.

Manjai Kunda

Manjai Kunda is a rapidly growing residential area in the Kanifing Municipality, close to the main tourist areas.

Dippa Kunda

Dippa Kunda is a lively neighborhood of Serekunda, known for its large market and bustling streets.

Tallinding

Tallinding is a neighborhood of Serekunda, known for its markets and as a key residential area.

Ebo Town

Ebo Town is a vibrant neighborhood in the Kanifing Municipality, located at the edge of the mangrove swamps.

New Jeshwang

New Jeshwang is a densely populated residential neighborhood that developed from the expansion of Serekunda.

History & landmarks

Makasutu Culture Forest

A pristine eco-tourism reserve encompassing diverse ecosystems including mangroves, savanna, and dense palm forests.

Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara Conference Center

A state-of-the-art international conference center in Bijilo, used for summits and major events.

More places

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Salagi Forest

A forest reserve located near the urban areas of Kombo, preserved despite urbanization.

Kololi Beach

The center of tourism in The Gambia with a lively nightlife and a wide beach.

Serekunda Central Market

The largest and most visited market in the country, a labyrinth of colors, smells, and local trade.

Abuko Nature Reserve

The Gambia's first nature reserve is home to an amazing variety of animals in a protected forest area.

Brufut Woods

An important forest area for bird conservation, home to many rare species.

Kotu Beach

A popular beach stretch with many hotels, which also offers good opportunities for bird watching.

Lamin Lodge & Mangroves

A restaurant built on stilts and a tour starting point leading deep into the mangrove swamps of the Tanbi Wetland.