Tanji Travel Guide | Things to Do in Gambia

Tanji is a vibrant fishing village located along Gambia's Atlantic coast, approximately 30 kilometers south of the capital Banjul. Known as one of West Africa's largest fishing centers, this coastal community offers visitors an authentic glimpse into traditional Gambian maritime life, with colorful pirogues (fishing boats) lining the beach and bustling fish markets creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day. Beyond its fishing heritage, Tanji serves as an excellent base for exploring Gambia's coastal attractions, including pristine beaches, mangrove forests, and the nearby Tanji Bird Reserve. The village combines cultural authenticity with natural beauty, offering visitors opportunities to witness traditional fishing techniques, explore local markets, enjoy fresh seafood, and experience the warm hospitality of Gambian coastal communities.

Top Things to Do in Tanji

Tanji Fish Market Experience

Visit one of West Africa's most vibrant fish markets where hundreds of colorful wooden boats bring in their daily catch. Witness the bustling auction process as fishermen sell their catch directly on the beach, with women traders bargaining for the best fish to sell in local markets.

Booking Tip: Best visited early morning (6-9 AM) when boats return with fresh catch. No booking required, but consider hiring a local guide for 200-300 dalasi to explain the process and help navigate the busy market safely.

Tanji Bird Reserve Wildlife Watching

Explore this coastal nature reserve that protects important wetland habitats and supports over 300 bird species. Walk through diverse ecosystems including dry woodland, coastal scrub, and lagoons while spotting pelicans, flamingos, and various migratory species.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is approximately 100 dalasi for adults. Best visited during dry season (November-April) for optimal bird watching. Bring binoculars and water, and consider visiting early morning or late afternoon for most active wildlife viewing.

Traditional Fishing Boat Trip

Join local fishermen on a traditional pirogue for an authentic fishing experience along the Atlantic coast. Learn traditional fishing techniques while enjoying stunning ocean views and possibly spotting dolphins or sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Booking Tip: Arrange through local fishermen or guesthouses for 1,500-2,500 dalasi per person for half-day trips. Best during calm weather conditions, typically October-May. Ensure boats have life jackets and experienced captains.

Coastal Beach Relaxation

Enjoy Tanji's beautiful stretch of golden sand beach, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and beachcombing. The beach offers a more authentic and less commercialized experience compared to resort areas, with opportunities to interact with local fishermen and beach vendors.

Booking Tip: Free to access, but bring sun protection and water. Beach bars and small restaurants charge 50-150 dalasi for meals. Best enjoyed during dry season when weather is most pleasant and seas are calmer.

Local Village Cultural Tour

Explore traditional Gambian village life through guided walks that include visits to local compounds, schools, and community projects. Learn about traditional crafts, farming techniques, and daily life while supporting community-based tourism initiatives.

Booking Tip: Book through local community tourism offices or guesthouses for 800-1,200 dalasi per person. Tours typically last 2-3 hours and often include traditional lunch. Best to book 1-2 days in advance to ensure guide availability.

Getting There

Tanji is easily accessible from Banjul and other parts of Gambia via the coastal highway. From Banjul International Airport, the journey takes approximately 45 minutes by taxi (costing around 800-1,200 dalasi) or shared transport. Regular bush taxis and local buses run between Banjul, Serekunda, and Tanji throughout the day for 25-50 dalasi per person. Many visitors rent cars or arrange private transfers through their accommodations, which provides more flexibility for exploring the coastal area.

Getting Around

Tanji is small enough to explore on foot, with most attractions within walking distance of the main fishing beach area. Local boys often offer bicycle rentals for 100-200 dalasi per day, which is ideal for reaching nearby beaches and the bird reserve. Horse and cart rides are available for short distances and cultural experiences. For longer excursions, motorcycle taxis (jakarta) are common and inexpensive, while shared taxis connect Tanji to neighboring coastal villages and towns.

Where to Stay

Tanji Village Center

Beachfront Area

Near Bird Reserve

Coastal Road

Traditional Compounds

Eco-Lodge Areas

Food & Dining

Tanji's dining scene revolves around incredibly fresh seafood, with beachside restaurants serving grilled fish, prawns, and lobster caught the same day. Local women prepare traditional Gambian dishes like benachin (jollof rice), domoda (peanut stew), and fresh fish yassa at small eateries throughout the village. Beach bars offer cold drinks and simple meals with ocean views, while the fish market area has food stalls serving affordable local breakfast and lunch options. Most meals cost between 150-400 dalasi, with fresh fish being exceptionally good value.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Gambia

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

Ganbei Japanese Restaurant & Bar

4.5 /5

(972 reviews) 2

bar

View on Map Website

Delicious Indian Cuisine & Bar

4.7 /5

(900 reviews) 2

View on Map Website

Nepali Chulo

4.9 /5

(200 reviews) 2

View on Map

When to Visit

The best time to visit Tanji is during the dry season from November to April, when temperatures are more comfortable (20-30°C), humidity is lower, and there's minimal rainfall. This period offers the best conditions for beach activities, bird watching, and fishing trips, with calm seas and clear skies. The harmattan winds from December to February provide cooler temperatures but can create hazy conditions. Avoid the rainy season (June-October) when heavy rains can disrupt transportation and outdoor activities, though this period offers lush landscapes and fewer tourists.

Insider Tips

Visit the fish market on weekdays rather than weekends for the most authentic experience, as fishing activity is highest during the working week

Bring small denominations of dalasi for market purchases and tips, as vendors often don't have change for large notes

Learn a few words in Wolof or Mandinka to enhance interactions with locals, who greatly appreciate visitors' efforts to speak local languages

Things to Do in Tanji