Gambia in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Gambia

33°C (92°F) High Temp

16°C (61°F) Low Temp

0.0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

45% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather with zero rainfall and comfortable 16-33°C (61-92°F) temperatures ideal for all outdoor activities
Peak bird migration season with over 400 species along the River Gambia - European migrants join resident species creating exceptional wildlife viewing
Harmattan winds from the Sahara bring clear skies and dramatic dusty sunsets, plus cooler evening temperatures perfect for outdoor dining
Optimal river conditions for boat excursions - low water levels concentrate wildlife along riverbanks making spotting hippos, crocodiles, and birds easier

Considerations

Harmattan dust can cause respiratory irritation and reduced visibility - problematic for those with asthma or dust allergies
Peak tourist season means higher accommodation prices (30-50% above low season) and advance booking essential
Very dry conditions create dusty roads and affect those sensitive to arid climates

Best Activities in February

River Gambia National Park Wildlife Cruises

February's low water levels concentrate hippos, crocodiles, and over 400 bird species along accessible riverbanks. Harmattan winds create perfect morning cruise conditions with calm waters and clear visibility. European migrants peak in February, joining resident species for exceptional birding.

Booking Tip: Book river cruises 14-21 days ahead through licensed operators. Morning departures (7-11am) offer best wildlife activity and cooler temperatures. Expect to pay 800-1,200 dalasi per person for full-day trips. Look for operators with ornithologist guides during peak migration season.

Abuko Nature Reserve Bird Watching

Peak birding season with resident species joined by European migrants. February's dry conditions make forest paths easily walkable, and early morning visits (6-9am) avoid midday heat while birds are most active. Gallery forest provides shade during warming afternoons.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is 100 dalasi for non-residents. Hire local bird guides at the entrance for 200-300 dalasi - essential for spotting species in dense forest. Early morning visits are crucial in February heat. Book guided walks through the booking widget below.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool Cultural Tours

February's dry season makes crocodiles more predictable and accessible as they concentrate around permanent water sources. Cool morning temperatures (16-24°C/61-75°F) are perfect for walking tours, and clear Harmattan skies provide excellent photography conditions.

Booking Tip: Visit early morning (8-10am) before temperatures rise. Entry plus guide costs 150-200 dalasi. Combine with Bakau market visits while temperatures remain comfortable. Most cultural tour packages include this stop - see current options in booking section below.

Bijilo Forest Park Monkey Encounters

Dry season concentrates green vervet monkeys and red colobus around remaining water sources and fruiting trees. February's comfortable morning temperatures make the 2 km (1.2 miles) of forest trails enjoyable, while afternoon visits offer beautiful Harmattan-filtered light through the canopy.

Booking Tip: Self-guided entry is 50 dalasi, guided tours 200-300 dalasi. Morning visits (7-10am) offer most monkey activity and cooler walking conditions. Combine with nearby beaches for full-day coastal experiences. Pack water as facilities are limited.

Tanji Fishing Village and Fish Market Tours

February's calm seas and favorable winds create peak fishing season. Witness traditional fishing methods as boats return with catches between 7-9am. Dry season means easier beach access and comfortable morning temperatures for walking through active fish markets.

Booking Tip: Visit during early morning fish landings (7-9am) for most real feel. Local guides charge 100-150 dalasi for cultural context. Combine with nearby Tanji Bird Reserve. No advance booking needed, but morning timing is crucial for active market scenes.

Makasutu Cultural Forest Canopy Walks

February's dry conditions make elevated walkways safe and accessible, while resident and migrant birds are active in cooler morning temperatures. Harmattan winds create comfortable canopy-level conditions, and clear skies enhance forest photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Full-day cultural experiences cost 1,500-2,000 dalasi including traditional lunch. Book 7-10 days ahead as groups are limited. Morning canopy walks are best before midday heat. Look for packages including traditional music and craft demonstrations.

February Events & Festivals

Mid February

Kanilai International Cultural Festival

Three-day celebration of Gambian music, dance, and traditional culture featuring local and West African artists. February timing coincides with ideal weather for outdoor performances and cultural exhibitions showcasing traditional crafts and cuisine.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 9 with intense Harmattan sun and minimal cloud cover

Dust masks or scarves for Harmattan winds - fine Saharan dust can cause respiratory irritation, especially during windy days

Light layers for 17°C (30°F) temperature swing - mornings start cool at 16°C (61°F) then reach 33°C (92°F) by afternoon

Closed-toe shoes with good grip - dusty conditions make surfaces slippery, essential for forest walks and boat boarding

High-quality camera lens cleaning kit - Harmattan dust settles on equipment quickly and can damage sensitive electronics

Moisturizer and lip balm - extremely dry conditions (45% humidity) cause skin and lip cracking within days

Light rain jacket despite dry season - occasional brief showers still possible, plus protection from morning dew during river trips

Insect repellent containing DEET - dry season concentrates mosquitoes around water sources where most activities occur

Portable water bottles with 2+ liter capacity - dehydration happens quickly in dry Harmattan conditions, especially during outdoor activities

Comfortable walking sandals for beach areas - hot sand temperatures reach uncomfortable levels by midday

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by early December for February travel - peak season pricing starts in January and availability becomes limited at better properties

Carry small denomination dalasi notes - many local guides, entry fees, and market purchases require cash in 5, 10, and 25 dalasi notes which are often in short supply

Schedule wildlife activities for 6-9am and after 4pm - midday heat reduces animal activity and creates harsh photography lighting during prime tourist season

Bring saline nasal spray and eye drops - Harmattan dust causes irritation even for those without typical dust sensitivity, and these aren't readily available locally

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating Harmattan dust impact - many visitors don't pack dust protection and suffer respiratory discomfort that ruins outdoor activities

Scheduling midday outdoor activities - February heat peaks at 33°C (92°F) making walking tours and wildlife viewing uncomfortable and less productive

Not booking river excursions early enough - February is peak season for birding tours and boat capacity fills up quickly with tour groups