The Gambia
Day 2 - Tanji Village and local experiences
Our first full day at The Gambia was one to remember. We were immersed directly into the local life and got to see the locals in their daily life. We started off slow, with an early kayak tour with our guide to spot birds in the Tanji Bird Reserve. Afterwards, we found ourselves at the busy fish market of Tanji Creek, enjoying all the colors and liveliness. Our next stop was Berending village, where we got to experience a traditional dance, accompanied by traditional live music by the Jola tribe. To end the day in the same local vibe, we got a traditional cooking class at Kanem Farm and learned more about the healing powers of their flora.
Bird spotting at Tanji Creek
Next to Tanji Village lies the Tanji Bird Reserve, a beautiful natural area with over 250 bird species, including breeding terns and gulls. 🦜 With our expert guide, we kayaked through narrow river channels under lush greenery. 🛶 He effortlessly spotted and named countless birds, and we even saw playful monkeys in the trees. After an hour of peaceful paddling, we enjoyed a quiet coffee break surrounded by nature. A perfect trip for bird lovers, kayakers, and anyone seeking tranquility.
Tanji Fish Market
On our first day in Gambia, we visited Tanji Village, home to one of the country’s largest and most vibrant fish markets. Set right on the coast, freshly caught fish are hauled straight from colorful boats onto the beach, cleaned, and sold on the spot. 🐟 The market was a sensory overload: salty sea air, shouting vendors, vivid clothes, and nonstop activity. It was chaotic, raw, and unforgettable, nothing like Europe. 🇬🇲 Just walk into town and you’ll find it easily, you can’t miss it. 😉
Local dance at Berending Village
After our visit to Tanji Fish Market, our guide took us to Berending Village. There we learned more about the warmth and hospitality of the Jola Tribe. They welcomed us with a traditional dance and live music, inviting us to join them. The warmth and joy we felt here was heartwarming.
Traditional Gambian cooking
Our final stop of the day was something we were really looking forward to: FOOD. Two lovely ladies welcomed us at Kanem Farm. They prepared traditional outfits for us and got all ingredients ready to make a traditional dish: Domoda. Together, we washed the vegetables and crushed garlic, onion, tomato, and chili into a thick, aromatic paste using a traditional mortar and pestle. The stew included beef and cow heart, adding depth and richness. For carbohydrates, we made findou, a grain similar to couscous, and flavored it with baobab powder, which comes from the iconic African baobab trees. After cooking, we all gathered in the serene botanical garden to enjoy our Domoda together, our guide joined us and couldn’t stop raving about the flavors, haha!
