In addition to the report by Dan Stroud, published 16th Feb 2018, about clearance and the Banjul area (see link below), I would like to give some information about the anchorage at Lamin Lodge. It is not a lodge where one can stay. It is a restaurant and a recreational area in the mangroves, 5 miles past Banjul at position 13° 23′ 35″ N, 16° 17′ 31″ W. The tidal stream in the mangroves provides excellent anchorage at 4m depth. Entrance into the mangroves is straightforward. At low tide some areas are shallow, however, it is always a navigable passage.

What makes the anchorage attractive is not only the lodge but also the group of friendly men hanging around outside the lodge, who are eager to provide services, for a small fee, to yachtsmen. I would especially recommend Edi Jammeh (phone +2207217121, also on Whatsapp and Facebook). He is a former river captain and he provides services like drinking water and laundry. He can also guard a boat when the owner must go abroad, be it perhaps, for months. Whatever is needed, he or one of the other man will try to obtain. He has experience with fuel and gas, as well as guidance to local restaurants.

Lamin lodge is a very good spot for bird watching, in the mangroves, but even more in the adjacent rice fields. Modou Njie who is also present at the lodge is an excellent guide for bird watching. He knows all the birds by their English names and spots them at a great distance even without binoculars.

The Lodge is situated near Lamin Village. It is a 20 minutes walk through the village to the paved road, Birkama Highway, where the local 
buses run to Westfield in Serekunda, where the nearest supermarket is situated, a distance of around 10 km. The men can also arrange a taxi. On the downside it is rather isolated and you have to love nature to enjoy it. On the other hand, it is a pleasant contrast from the crowded city.

For some, Lamin Lodge is a starting point for a trip upriver. But it is several days of motoring to Makata, aka George Town, where hippos and chimps can be seen. It is easier to go on an excursion by car.

Marti Rijken