The Kiang West National Park was
established in 1987 and is located in southern Gambia, adjacent
to the river bank and is
145 kilometres from the capital of Banjul.
It is one of the largest protected nature reservations in Gambia.
It is around 11,00 hectares and has the largest and most diverse
wildlife population. Being made up
mainly of deciduous woodland and Guinea savannah there are also
extensive stretches of mangrove creeks, bolong tributaries and
tidal flats. Its three main areas are the bolongs of Nganingkoi,
Jarin and Jali.
This varied topography and vegetation make it ideal for many animals
and species of birds. These include: Nile crocodile, monitor lizards,
warthog, clawless otter, marsh mongoose, patas monkeys and Sitatunga.
Rarer animals include the hyenas, leopards, West African manatees
and dolphins. The area is also a birdwatchers paradise with over
290 species of birds having been recorded here, including 21 raptors:
vultures, harrier eagles, sandgrouse, Blue-breasted, Kingfisher
hawks, White-shouldered Black Tit and falcons. An ideal spot to
watch birds is Tubabkollon Point. The dirt road to Batelling from
the Kwinella Tendaba highway can
take you to some prime bird watching
spots.
Travel Information
To get to Kiang West you use preferably a 4 by 4 suv car using
the southern trans Gambia highway to Dumbuto which is the main
base of the park.
Half-day and full-day guided excursions are available or around
£10 for the entry fee.
|
|
Attractions
Nature
Reserves
Resorts
Abuko Nature Reserve
Ballabu Conservation
Bama Kuno Forest
Bao Bolong Wetland
Bijilo
Forest Park
Bolong Fenyo
Kiang West
Kunkilling Forest Park
Makasutu Cultural Forest
Niumi National Park
Pirang Forest
River Gambia Park
Tanbi Wetlands
Tanji Bird Reserve
Tumani Tenda
|
