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Wassu Stone Circles
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Historical site
The Wassu Stone Circles are the most famous megalithic site in The Gambia, located in the Central River Region. This ancient burial ground consists of 11 stone circles and associated frontal stones, representing a segment of the larger Senegambian Stone Circles complex. These monoliths were carved from local laterite and vary in height from 60 centimeters to over 2.4 meters, with some weighing up to 10 tons. Archaeological excavations have revealed that the site was used for burials between the 3rd century BC and the 16th century AD, containing pottery, iron tools, and human remains. In 2006, the site was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List for its outstanding universal value and cultural significance. The precision with which the stones were cut and transported indicates a highly organized social structure and advanced engineering skills of the ancient inhabitants. A dedicated museum at the entrance provides visitors with detailed historical context and archaeological findings.
- Location: Gambia
- Top sights: Wassu Stone Circles Quarry Site · Wassu Stone Circles Museum
- Nearby: River Gambia National Park (Baboon Islands) (11 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
Visiting
The stone circles are an open archaeological site outdoors, visitable at any time. Entry is ticketed, and there is a small museum and parking lot.
Typical hours
The site is typically open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, with the museum having slightly shorter hours. Coming early is recommended to catch the best light for photos.
Photography
Photography is allowed throughout the stone circles area. Drones require a special permit as the site is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Time needed
One hour is enough for a tour of the main stone circles and the small museum. Those with more time can also visit the nearby Kerbatch circles.
Combine with
Combine the stone circles with the nearby Wassu Nature Camp for an overnight stay in the wild. Janjanbureh Island on the Gambia River provides birdwatching and history.
Getting there
The Wassu Stone Circles are about 20 km northwest of Janjanbureh along the main road. They are reachable by taxi or minibus from Janjanbureh or Basse Santa Su.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear as the ground is uneven with grass growing between stones. A hat and sunscreen are essential as there is little shade.
Geography
Facts
- Inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2006.
- Comprises 11 concentric stone circles at the main site.
- The tallest stones stand over 2.4 meters in height.
- Used for burials from 300 BC to 1600 AD.
- Carved from local laterite rock with significant precision.
- Individual monoliths weigh up to 10 tons each.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
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Sights in the town Wassu Stone Circles (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What are the opening hours for the Wassu Stone Circles?
The site is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. A small visitor center provides information on-site.
Are the stone circles part of the UNESCO World Heritage?
Yes, they were inscribed on the World Heritage list in 2006 as part of the Stone Circles of Senegambia.
How much is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee is approximately 100 to 200 Dalasi, which goes towards the preservation of the historical site.
Is photography allowed on the site?
Yes, photography for private use is allowed. Professional shoots require a permit.
How many stone circles are there in Wassu?
In Wassu, there are 11 stone circles consisting of over 100 individually shaped laterite stones.
Wassu Stone Circles: where is it located?
Wassu Stone Circles is located in Gambia.
Wassu Stone Circles: what is there to see?
Highlights include Wassu Stone Circles Quarry Site, Wassu Stone Circles Museum.
Wassu Stone Circles: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Wassu Stone Circles: why is it worth visiting?
The Wassu Stone Circles are the most famous megalithic site in The Gambia, located in the Central River Region.
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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.
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Kuntaur Highlands
One of the few gently rising hilly landscapes in the Gambia, rising above the Gambia River valley.
Kuntaur Groundnut Depot
An important logistical hub on the upper reaches of the river for the transport of the region's agricultural products.
River Gambia National Park
This park includes five islands in the river and is famous for its chimpanzee reintroduction projects.
Janjanbureh Slave House
A historic building in Janjanbureh that commemorates the island's history as a resettlement site for liberated slaves.
Janjanbureh Island
An island in the Gambia River known for its historical significance and natural beauty.
Baboon Islands
A group of islands where chimpanzees can be observed in their natural environment.
Sapu Rice Research Station
A major agricultural research center focused on improving rice cultivation in the Gambia River valley.