The beautiful nature reserves of Gambia are just a six hour flight away for Brits.
Lets take a wondrous journey deep into the heart of the Makasutu forest which runs parallel to River Gambia. Hop into a canoe and float downstream taking in the glorious sights that slip past you as you venture down the river. If you enjoy looking at exotic birds you’ll love bird island. Watch in awe as clusters of colourful birds of flight soar through the sky and fly down to perch in the leafy trees.
Africa is home to some absolutely devastatingly beautiful landscapes, from the rolling flats of Kenya to the stretching Namibian desserts and Tanzanian forests.
The most noteworthy thing about the Gambia is it’s untouched beauty. It’s a place of wonderful isolation and privacy. A place where you need not hear the noise pollution of another human and can absolutely lose yourself in nature and connect with it’s roots once more.
At the end of Makasutu Forest lies the Mandina Lodge – a traditional African inspired building. Groups of lodges either floating or on stilts are built around a tropical garden which is an absolute haven of tranquility. The bedrooms are immense with a winding stairway that takes you to the most optimum viewing spot on top of the roof. The showers are outdoors and you can enjoy cleansing your body whilst gazing at the beautiful skies or Africa and listening to birdsong.
Designed by partners James English and Lawrence Williams – they aimed to create an eco lodge for backpackers which would not threaten the local wildlife. 15,000 trees were planted and 70’s wells. Mandina is a 5 star lodge which pays homage to the natural world. Everything it encompasses is eco friendly.
If you love wildlife a forest walk in search of baboons is an absolute must. Watch in fascination as the little l’uns tumble around and play just like humans. These protected creatures are an absolute joy to behold and will have you spellbound with the beauty of the planet and the life forms that occupy the forests of the Gambia.
These furry amber creatures have no fear of humans so you can enjoy taking close up picture without worry of scaring them and having them scarper away.
This is a place where nature is all around you as you breathe in the fresh air and enjoy all that this magical place has to offer.
