Abuko Nature Reserve

Out of the six National parks and reserves in Gambia, Abuko is Gambia's oldest protected area. Located in Western Gambia near the Atlantic Coast, the reserve covers area of 105 acres. Providing protection to a large tract of gallery forest, the park is popular for a variety of birds and monkey populations. Walking through the lush green park you can observe Africa's precious wildlife including: western red colobus and callithrix monkeys, crocodiles, antelopes, and spectacular birds and butterflies. Packed with wide bird varieties, this park offers excellent opportunities for birdwatchers. Over 270 species birds flock to nest in the park area, these include Kingfishers, Willow Warblers, Black Herons, red bellied fly catchers, little Greenbul, Yellow Breasted Apalis & the Green Touraco amongst others.

The park is within easy reach by taxi from any of the main coastal holiday resorts. There are several wildlife guides on site that help you locate animals and birds on the forest trail . While at Abuko Nature Reserve, you can also visit the Animal Orphanage which has hyenas, parrots, as well as various kinds of Monkeys including Chimpanzees. Also located on the reserve is the Darwin Field Station which is a research center focused on maintaining Gambia's biodiversity. After a visit to these two, you can now proceed to to the Brikama Wood Carving Center to observe the native craftsmen at work.