Embark on an extraordinary cultural journey that reconnects you with our ancestral homeland of The Gambia. Every detail of this tour has been thoughtfully curated to immerse you in the country’s rich heritage. Explore vibrant markets, savor the flavors of authentic Gambian cuisine, and enjoy seamless transportation for a stress-free experience. For a truly unforgettable touch, take part in an optional traditional naming ceremony—a profound way to honor your roots. This transformative adventure promises authenticity, deep cultural connection, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Group Confirmation Requirement
This experience requires a minimum of six (6) cousins to confirm. Your deposit secures your place while the group forms. Once the minimum is reached, the tour is officially confirmed and preparations move forward.
If the group minimum is not met by the registration deadline, you may choose to:
Upgrade to the private tour
Request a refund
REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS JANUARY 31ST, 2027
PLEASE BE SURE TO REVIEW ROOTS IN GUINEA BISSAU CULTURAL TOURS' TERMS AND CONDITIONS PRIOR TO BOOKING YOUR TOUR.
For RIGB Cultural & Development Initiative Members
Seafront Residences
Including airport arrival and departure
Admission to all attractions
Local Village life
Flights to and from The Gambia are not included in the tour price. A travel agent recommendation is available upon request.
Visa Entry into The Gambia is available upon arrival and is approx. $108 USD but is subject to change on the ground. Please have cash on hand to cover visa fees.
Travelers must pay a $20 USD security fee when arriving and departing by plane. The entry & Exit Fees are subject to change on the ground. Please have cash on hand.
Travel Insurance
Any and all required Immunization and testing.
Breakfast is included at the resort, but guests are responsible for their own lunch and dinner. Plan to budget at least $50 per person daily for meals.
The naming ceremony is available as an optional add-on and must be selected during checkout to be included.
Not included or required
Anything not listed under What is Included
Welcome to The Gambia!
As you touch down at Banjul International Airport, our friendly team is eagerly awaiting your arrival. We're here to ensure your journey begins with comfort and a smile. Let us take care of your transportation so you can relax and prepare for an incredible adventure. Upon settling into your accommodation, the excitement doesn't stop. Your first evening promises to be a memorable one,
brimming with captivating cultural entertainment that will introduce you to the soul of this remarkable country. And to make it even more special, we've arranged a delightful dinner that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Your journey has only just begun, and the Gambia has so much to offer. We're thrilled to have you here, and we can't wait to share the beauty and culture of this enchanting destination with you. Let's make your visit to the Gambia an unforgettable experience from the moment you arrive!"
A place of supernatural significance to locals, the Crocodile Pool is visited by women who have lost all hope to conceive a child - it is believed that a visit here may help the process along (hence the name "Kachikally" given to some children at
birth). The pool is home to well looked-after Nile crocodiles, some of which are so tame they may be pet. Do not miss the adjacent museum, nature trail, and gift shop.
Embark on a profound journey through history as we explore the rich cultural heritage of Kunta Kinteh Island, Juffureh, and Albreda—sites deeply tied to the transatlantic slave trade and the legacy of Kunta Kinte.
🔹 Tour Museum – Begin your journey with an insightful visit to the local museum, where artifacts, narratives, and historical records provide a deeper understanding of the region’s past.
🔹 Juffureh & Albreda – Explore these historic villages, where you’ll gain firsthand insight into the lives of the people and the lasting impact of history on their communities.
🔹 Visit the Family of Kunta Kinte – Experience an intimate and meaningful encounter with the descendants of Kunta Kinte, whose story was immortalized in Alex Haley’s Roots. Hear their personal accounts and the legacy they continue to
uphold.
🔹 Cross to James Island (Kunta Kinteh Island) & Visit the Door of No Return – Travel across the waters to this UNESCO World Heritage Site, where remnants of fortresses and slave-holding structures stand as solemn reminders of the past. Stand before the Door of No Return, a powerful symbol of those who were forcibly taken from their homeland. This immersive experience offers a rare opportunity to connect with history, honor resilience, and reflect on the cultural heritage that continues to shape the region today.
A Journey to the Heart of Balanta Heritage
🔹 Ancestral Village Day Experience – Immerse yourself in the customs, stories, and artistry of your ancestors. From oral
histories passed down through generations to the rhythmic beats of traditional music, every moment is a step closer to your
cultural roots.
🔹 A Celebration of Heritage – Conclude the day with a communal gathering, where storytelling, music, and dance come together in a joyous celebration of identity and cultural pride. This unique experience is more than a visit—it is a homecoming, a chance to rekindle your connection with your heritage
and celebrate the rich tapestry of your cultural identity. Would you like to add any specific cultural rituals or interactive experiences to enhance this itinerary?
The River Gambia National Park (or Baboon Island) is a collection of 5 river islands inhabited by all manner of indigenous animal species, from the endangered hippopotamus to omnipresent primates - bonobos and chimpanzees.
Senegambia Strip
While Banjul proper may not have much - or any, for that matter - nightlife entertainment to offer, the Senegambia area (only a short taxi drive away) is quite the opposite in this respect. Here, dozens of restaurants, bars and evening hangout
spots sit next to each other in an area frequented by party-seeking locals and visitors.
Do not hesitate to haggle at this tourist-geared craft market – prices here tend to be higher than elsewhere (like Serekunda) but may be significantly brought down with the right amount of negotiation. Items on sale range from traditional jewelry to wood carvings, woven baskets, and other Knick knacks.
Poco Loco on the Beach is a trendy beach club, situated directly on the beautiful sandy beach of Kololi. Doors opened on November 26th, 2011, and was a hit straight away. Walking down the street towards the beach you will be attracted to the warm and inviting color scheme and the looks of our establishment.
As your incredible journey comes to a close, we want to ensure your departure from the Gambia is as memorable as your arrival. Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at the resort, where you can reflect on the adventures and experiences that have filled your trip with joy. Savor a delicious lunch, the perfect way to bid farewell to the culinary delights of this extraordinary destination. Our
carefully selected menu will leave your taste buds longing for more.
Then, it's time to prepare for your departure. We'll arrange seamless transportation to Banjul International Airport, ensuring you have a stress-free and comfortable journey home. Although your tour may be ending, the memories you've created and the experiences you've cherished will stay with you forever. We're honored to have been a part of your adventure and hope to welcome you back soon for more incredible moments in the Gambia. Safe travels!
Roots in Guinea-Bissau Cultural Tours is a specialized cultural tour operator dedicated to creating meaningful and immersive travel experiences throughout Guinea-Bissau. Our journeys connect travelers with the country’s history, culture, communities, traditions, and everyday life through thoughtfully designed, locally guided experiences.
Our story began with a commitment to helping members of the African Diaspora reconnect with Guinea-Bissau and their ancestral heritage. Today, we welcome travelers from around the world who are curious about the country and seek a deeper, more meaningful way to experience the destination.
Through community-centered travel and strong local relationships, we aim to create experiences that respect the people and places we visit while giving travelers opportunities for genuine cultural connection and understanding.