Gambia in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Gambia

30°C (86°F) High Temp

23°C (73°F) Low Temp

250 mm (9.8 inches) Rainfall

85% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

Dramatic river levels make boat trips to Baboon Islands and Saintvincentandthegrenadines spectacular - hippos and crocodiles are more active and visible during high water season
Lush green landscapes transform the country into its most photogenic state - baobab trees are fully leafed and rice paddies create impressive emerald carpets
Bird watching reaches peak season with over 300 species present, including migrant waders and herons concentrated along swollen riverbanks
Hotel rates drop 40-60% from peak season pricing, and you'll have beaches and cultural sites virtually to yourself

Considerations

Daily afternoon thunderstorms lasting 2-3 hours can disrupt outdoor plans - most occur between 2pm-5pm with little warning
High humidity makes temperatures feel like 35-38°C (95-100°F) - even locals reduce midday activities significantly
Some upcountry roads become impassable, limiting access to remote villages and certain eco-lodges in eastern regions

Best Activities in August

River Gambia National Park Boat Safaris

August's high water levels make this the optimal time for wildlife viewing along the Gambia River. Hippos are more active in cooler, deeper waters, and crocodiles gather in larger numbers. The journey to Baboon Islands takes you through flooded forests where birds congregate in unprecedented numbers. Morning departures (7am-11am) avoid afternoon storms and offer the best wildlife activity.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through licensed operators at Kuntaur or Janjanbureh. Expect to pay GMD 2,500-4,000 per person for full-day trips. Ensure boats have covered areas and life jackets. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Georgetown Colonial Heritage Walking Tours

The former colonial capital on MacCarthy Island is impressive in August when the surrounding wetlands are at their fullest. The cooler, overcast conditions make walking comfortable in early morning (7am-10am). Ruins of colonial buildings contrast beautifully with the lush green landscape, and ferry crossings offer excellent bird watching opportunities.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration works well, or arrange local guides through Janjanbureh Camp for GMD 800-1,200. The 6km (3.7 mile) walking circuit takes 3-4 hours. Reference booking widget for organized cultural tours.

Serekunda Market Cultural Immersion

August brings peak season for local fruits and vegetables, making market visits incredibly busy. Covered sections provide shelter from afternoon rains, and the humid conditions keep produce fresh longer. Experience authentic Gambian life while locals shop for rainy season staples. Best visited 8am-12pm before the heat becomes overwhelming.

Booking Tip: No booking required, but hiring a cultural guide enhances the experience for GMD 500-800. Allow 2-3 hours and bring small denominations for purchases. Look for current cultural tour options in the booking section.

Kachikally Sacred Crocodile Pool Visits

The sacred crocodiles are more active in August's humid conditions, and the pool area is surrounded by lush vegetation. Local ceremonies and traditional healing practices are more frequent during the rainy season. The covered viewing areas provide respite from sudden downpours, making this an ideal wet season activity.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are typically GMD 100-150. Visit between 9am-11am for most active crocodiles and cooler conditions. No advance booking needed, but check current hours during rainy season. See booking options for cultural tours that include this site.

Atlantic Coast Beach Activities

While swimming is excellent in warm waters (26-28°C/79-82°F), beach time is best scheduled for early morning (6am-10am) or late afternoon (5pm-sunset). August's dramatic storm clouds create spectacular sunset photography opportunities. The powerful waves are ideal for experienced surfers but require caution for casual swimmers.

Booking Tip: Beach access is generally free, but consider staying at coastal accommodations in Kololi or Cape Point for easy access. Surf lessons available from local instructors for GMD 1,500-2,500 per session. Check current water sports options in booking section below.

Abuko Nature Reserve Forest Walks

The reserve transforms into a tropical great destination in August with maximum bird activity and lush forest canopy. The 2.5km (1.6 mile) trail system offers excellent shelter from rain, and wildlife viewing is enhanced by animals seeking water sources. Monkeys, antelope, and over 200 bird species are most active in cooler, humid conditions.

Booking Tip: Entry GMD 200-300 per person, open 7am-5pm. Best visited early morning (7am-10am) to avoid afternoon storms and heat. Guided walks available for additional GMD 500-800. See current nature tour options in booking section.

August Events & Festivals

Throughout August

Kankurang Mask Festival Ceremonies

Traditional coming-of-age ceremonies occur throughout August in various Mandinka communities, featuring elaborate mask dances and cultural rituals. These sacred ceremonies mark the transition from boy to man and offer authentic cultural experiences rarely seen by tourists.

Early to Mid August

Rainy Season Rice Planting Celebrations

Communities celebrate the crucial rice planting season with traditional music, dance, and communal farming activities. Visitors can participate in authentic agricultural traditions and understand the cultural significance of the rains.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry synthetic pants and shirts - cotton stays damp for hours in 85% humidity and never fully dries

Waterproof phone case and dry bag - sudden downpours happen daily with little warning

Lightweight rain poncho that packs small - umbrellas are useless in Gambian storm winds

Antifungal powder and moisture-wicking socks - foot fungus develops quickly in constant humidity

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index of 7 burns quickly even on overcast days

Insect repellent with 20%+ DEET - mosquitoes are most active during humid August conditions

Sandals with good grip - wet surfaces become extremely slippery during and after rains

Lightweight long sleeves for evening - protection from insects becomes crucial at dusk

Silica gel packets for camera/electronics - humidity destroys equipment faster than you'd expect

Electrolyte powder or tablets - you'll sweat constantly even in shade and air conditioning

Insider Knowledge

Schedule all outdoor activities between 7am-11am - locals completely avoid midday sun and you should too. Most businesses close 12pm-3pm during peak heat.

Carry exact change in small denominations - vendors often lack change during rainy season when business slows, and wet bills stick together making transactions difficult.

Book accommodations with backup power - electricity cuts are frequent during August storms, and properties with generators charge 20-30% premiums but are worth it.

Learn the phrase 'Suma dorong' (How much?) in Wolof - locals appreciate the effort and you'll get better prices, especially important when tourism is slow in August.

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities after 12pm - the combination of heat, humidity, and storm risk makes afternoon plans frequently canceled or miserable

Staying in budget accommodations without air conditioning - the humidity makes sleeping impossible without climate control, despite being August being low season

Not bringing enough cash - ATMs frequently run empty during rainy season when restocking is difficult, and card acceptance remains limited outside major hotels