Makasutu Culture Forest
Makasutu
A privately run eco-reserve near Brikama where you can paddle through mangroves, watch palm wine tapping, and enjoy traditional dance.
Makasutu, meaning 'sacred forest,' covers about 400 hectares and is a privately run eco-tourism project best known for its cultural day tours. Led by a guide, you hike through palm groves and grasslands, paddle a dugout canoe through the Mandina Creek mangroves, and watch a man climb a palm tree to tap palm wine. You can also visit local healers and craftspeople. After lunch, there is a performance of traditional Jola dance. The Mandina Lodges on the reserve include floating wooden houses where you can stay overnight. Advance booking is required. Day tours include transfers, making it a good choice for visitors who want to experience Gambia's nature and culture in one trip.
Opening hours
Day tours approx. 09:00-16:00; reservation required
Nearby sights
- Brikama Craft Market
- Lamin Lodge
- Abuko Nature Reserve
- Serrekunda Market
- Bijilo Forest Park (Monkey Park)
- Senegambia Strip
- Kotu Beach & Kotu Creek
- Kachikally Crocodile Pool