Abuko Nature Reserve

Abuko Nature Reserve, The Gambia's first reserve, was established in the early twentieth century to safeguard a water gathering source for surrounding people. It was officially established in the 1960s. This region, which is rich in Gambian wildlife, is currently the country's most popular tourist destination, with over 33,000 tourists each year.

Three monkey species, as well as antelope, porcupine, African palm civets, crocodiles, galagos, and around 300 bird species, are all found in this 260-acre reserve. Abuko Nature Reserve is also the nearest tropical forest to Europe, which is a great fact.

Nile crocodiles and other slithering species such as pythons, puff adders, green mambas, spitting cobras, and forest cobras are particularly well-known in the reserve. Sunbirds, green hylias, African goshawks, oriole warblers, yellowbills, and leafloves abound in the small Abuko region.

The 106-hectare reserve has 5 kilometers of pathways and a field station with views over a watering hole that is frequently a wonderful spot for animal observation.

• Location: Brikama Hwy, Lamin, Gambia
• Timing: Open all day
• Famous for: pythons, puff adders, green mambas
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best Time To Visit: early morning or late afternoon.