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Brikama Plateau
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Relief
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The Brikama Plateau in the West Coast Division is one of The Gambia's most geologically stable zones. It forms a vast, gently rising area of laterite that supports the city of Brikama and its environs. This relief is crucial for the region's groundwater recharge, as the porous rock efficiently channels rainwater into deeper aquifers. The plateau's surface is characterized by savanna vegetation, though original woodlands have been partially displaced by expanding urbanization. Economically, the plateau is significant for the quarrying of laterite rock used as construction material. Furthermore, its elevated position provides protection against the flooding common in the coastal lowlands. Archaeological evidence suggests the plateau has been inhabited since the Iron Age, favored by the accessibility of iron ore within the rock formations.
- Location: Gambia
- Nearby: Busumbala (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 26 | 28 | 29 | 29 | 29 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 0 | 5 | 2 | 4 | 74 | 187 | 306 | 231 | 67 | 3 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The uniquely elevated, distinctive plateau is swiftly reached via the local road network leading directly from the coast, with the bustling town of Brikama usually serving as the primary, highly central starting point.
Best season
During the long, highly reliable dry season, the unpaved dirt roads are far easier to successfully traverse, as the sometimes extremely heavy summer rains frequently cause very deep, highly slippery mud across the routes.
Terrain & paths
The extensive, rolling landscape is heavily dominated by solid, reddish laterite soils and gentle, broad elevations that very clearly demarcate the rural hinterland from the entirely flat, much lower coastal zones.
What to bring
For extensive, prolonged exploration of the vast surroundings, closed, completely robust footwear, light textile sun protection, and absolutely sufficient drinking water for the hot, exhausting day are extremely practical.
Parking
Within the busy town of Brikama itself and directly at important, lively transport hubs, arriving vehicles can usually be parked completely without issue and quite safely along the edges of the dusty main local roads.
Safety
The broad rural area is largely completely harmless and peaceful, though one should always drive very defensively and with extreme caution when traveling on the unpaved, exceptionally rough routes far outside the settlements.
Time needed
Highly interested visitors typically plan a good, extremely full half day to properly explore the wide plateau and totally immerse themselves in the authentic, very lively local culture of the traditional settlements upon it.
Geography
Facts
- Primary site for laterite quarrying in The Gambia.
- Located at an average elevation of 30 meters.
- Supports the major urban infrastructure of Brikama.
- Critical watershed area for the greater Kombo region.
- Soils consist of deep, red ferralsols.
- Site of archaeological significance for early metalworking.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Brikama Plateau (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Brikama Plateau located?
It surrounds the town of Brikama in western Gambia and forms a gentle elevation.
What is the main attraction nearby?
The Brikama Craft Market is world-famous for its wood carvings.
Is the plateau forested?
Partially. There are forest reserves like Nyambai and Furuyar right on the plateau.
Are there good photo motifs?
The mix of red earth, green forest, and bustling Brikama provides great contrasts.
What is the road quality like there?
Good in town, but on the plateau itself, many roads are unpaved and dusty.
Brikama Plateau: where is it located?
Brikama Plateau is located in Gambia.
Brikama Plateau: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Brikama Plateau: why is it worth visiting?
The Brikama Plateau in the West Coast Division is one of The Gambia's most geologically stable zones.
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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.
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Fajikunda
Fajikunda is a residential area in the Serekunda metropolitan area that has seen strong growth in recent years.
Bundung
Bundung is a densely populated residential neighborhood in the Kanifing Municipality, known for its vibrant community.
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
More places
Brikama Power Station
The country's most important thermal power plant, providing a significant portion of the electricity supply for the Greater Banjul Area.
Brikama Woodcarving Market
A vibrant market where artisans carve intricate masks, statues, and drums from local wood.
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Nyambai Forest
A forest park on the outskirts of Brikama, known for its tall teak plantations and peaceful atmosphere.
Brikama Ice Plant
An industrial refrigeration plant, crucial for the preservation and transport of fish from the coastal region.
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Kabafita Forest
A forest reserve south of Brikama, known for its dense tree stands.
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Furuyar Forest
A remote forest park in the south of the West Coast Region, featuring dense tropical vegetation.
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Jambanjali Forest
A coastal forest park characterized by a mixture of dry forest and savanna elements.
Bama Kuno Forest
A significant forest park in the West Coast Region, known for its dense tree cover and role in protecting local biodiversity.