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Baboon Islands
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The Baboon Islands, part of the River Gambia National Park, is an archipelago of five islands renowned for the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project (CRP). Founded in 1979 by Stella Marsden, the project aimed to reintroduce chimpanzees to The Gambia after they had gone extinct in the early 20th century. Today, over 100 chimpanzees live in several social groups across the islands, thriving in a natural environment without human interference. The islands are strictly off-limits to visitors to ensure the primates’ safety and health, but boat tours allow for observation from the water. In addition to chimpanzees, the islands are home to hippos, crocodiles, and various other primate species like the Western Red Colobus. The dense gallery forest and lush vegetation of the islands provide a unique habitat within the Central River Division. The project remains a successful model for primate conservation and habitat restoration in West Africa.
- Location: Gambia
- Nearby: River Gambia National Park (Baboon Islands) (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 27 | 30 | 32 | 33 | 31 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 25 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 0 | 1 | 0 | 7 | 88 | 191 | 298 | 214 | 65 | 4 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The islands are strictly accessed via organized boat tours typically departing from established camps or lodges along the Gambia River.
Best season
The dry season, from November to May, generally provides the best conditions for river navigation and clearer views of the wildlife on the shores.
Terrain & paths
Visitors remain on the boats; stepping onto the islands is strictly prohibited to protect the sanctuary and ensure the safety of both humans and animals.
What to bring
Essential items include binoculars for close-up views of the primates, a camera with a good zoom lens, and plenty of sun protection for the boat ride.
Parking
Secure parking is generally available at the mainland river camps or designated tour departure points, where vehicles can be safely left behind.
Safety
It is mandatory to remain in the boat at all times and follow the strict instructions of the river guides to respect the wild environment.
Time needed
A typical riverboat tour around the islands usually lasts between two to four hours, depending on the specific itinerary of the local guides.
Geography
Facts
- Chimpanzees introduced in 1979.
- Consists of 5 separate islands.
- Home to over 100 rehabilitated chimps.
- Founded by conservationist Stella Marsden.
- Human landing is strictly prohibited.
- Part of the River Gambia National Park.
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Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Are you allowed to land on the Baboon Islands?
No, landing is strictly forbidden to protect the chimpanzee rehabilitation project.
What animals live there?
Chimpanzees, hippos, crocodiles, and baboons can be spotted from the boat.
How can you best see the chimpanzees?
During guided boat trips during feeding times in the late afternoon.
Where do the boat tours start?
Mostly from Kuntaur or nearby camps like the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project.
Is accommodation available?
There are some simple, eco-friendly camps on the riverbank opposite the islands.
Baboon Islands: where is it located?
Baboon Islands is located in Gambia.
Baboon Islands: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Baboon Islands: why is it worth visiting?
The Baboon Islands, part of the River Gambia National Park, is an archipelago of five islands renowned for the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project (CRP).
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Nearby cities
Bansang
Bansang is a market town on the south bank of the Gambia River, home to the only major hospital in the country's interior.
Janjanbureh
Janjanbureh, formerly Georgetown, is a historic island town in the Gambia River, known for its colonial past.
Kuntaur
Kuntaur is an important trading town on the Gambia River and the gateway to the River Gambia National Park.
River Gambia National Park (Baboon Islands)
A protected archipelago in the Gambia River serving as a sanctuary for chimpanzees, hippos, and lush jungle vegetation.
Kaur
Kaur is a historic trading town on the north bank of the Gambia River, known for its once-thriving peanut trade.
History & landmarks
Kerbatch Stone Circles
Another significant megalithic site in The Gambia, part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing.
Mungo Park Memorial
A memorial in Janjanbureh dedicated to the Scottish explorer Mungo Park, who explored the Niger River.
Freedom Tree of Janjanbureh
A historic symbol in Janjanbureh marking the spot where liberated slaves gained their freedom.
More places
River Gambia National Park
This park includes five islands in the river and is famous for its chimpanzee reintroduction projects.
Kuntaur Groundnut Depot
An important logistical hub on the upper reaches of the river for the transport of the region's agricultural products.
Kuntaur Highlands
One of the few gently rising hilly landscapes in the Gambia, rising above the Gambia River valley.
🗺️
Kuntaur Rice Mill
One of the largest rice mills in the country, central to processing the harvests from the surrounding floodplains.
Njau Recycling & Learning Center
An innovative center where women turn local plastic waste into useful items and provide environmental education.
Sapu Rice Research Station
A major agricultural research center focused on improving rice cultivation in the Gambia River valley.
Wassu Stone Circles
The most famous megalithic site in West Africa and a UNESCO World Heritage site, consisting of precisely arranged laterite pillars.
Nianija Hills
A group of low hills in the north of the Central River Region, near the border with Senegal.