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Senegambia Bridge
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The Senegambia Bridge, also known as the Trans-Gambia Bridge, is The Gambia's most significant modern infrastructure project and a crucial landmark for West African regional integration. Spanning an impressive 1.9 kilometers across the Gambia River near Farafenni, it connects the north and south banks of the country. Its opening in January 2019 marked the end of decades of delays and replaced the often unreliable and time-consuming ferry service that heavily hindered travel and trade between northern and southern Senegal. As a landmark, its high concrete pillars and elegant design dominate the river landscape. The bridge is a symbol of economic revival and political change under President Adama Barrow. It not only facilitates national transport but is also a vital part of the Trans-Gambia Highway, accelerating freight traffic throughout the ECOWAS region. For travelers, the crossing has an expansive view over the mighty Gambia River and the mangrove forests lining it.
- Location: Gambia
- Nearby: Soma (6 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 24 | 26 | 29 | 30 | 31 | 30 | 28 | 27 | 27 | 27 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 6 | 90 | 201 | 310 | 224 | 68 | 4 | 0 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Senegambia Bridge (Trans-Gambia Bridge) is a road bridge open to traffic - pedestrians can also cross it. There is no entry fee, and the bridge can be used at any time.
Typical hours
As the bridge is open 24 hours a day, there are no fixed visiting hours. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the light is especially beautiful.
Photography
Photography is allowed from the bridge and the banks - watch out for traffic. For good shots, position yourself at the start or end of the bridge to capture the full span.
Time needed
A walk across the bridge takes about 15 to 20 minutes, depending on pace. Allow extra time for photos and enjoying the view of the Gambia River.
Combine with
Combine crossing the bridge with a visit to nearby villages on the north bank. The Makasutu Cultural Forest or Kiang West National Park are also not far.
Getting there
The bridge is located on the main N4 road crossing Gambia, easily reachable by car or taxi. There are parking bays on both sides where you can stop.
Insider tip
Tip: Take the opportunity to observe the Gambia River from the bridge - crocodiles or hippos are often visible. Avoid the midday heat as there is little shade.
Geography
Facts
- At 1.9 kilometers long, it is one of the longest bridges in West Africa.
- Officially inaugurated on January 21, 2019, by the presidents of Gambia and Senegal.
- Largely financed through a grant from the African Development Bank (AfDB).
- Replaced the historic and congested ferry service at Farafenni.
- Reduced transit time for heavy trucks from several days to just minutes.
- Features a two-lane roadway and dedicated sidewalks for pedestrians.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
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Sights in the town Senegambia Bridge (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is the Senegambia Bridge located?
It crosses the Gambia River at Farafenni, about 100 kilometers from the coast.
Do you have to pay to cross the bridge?
Yes, a toll is charged for vehicles, payable at the bridge entrance.
How long is the bridge?
The bridge is approximately 1.9 kilometers long and one of the longest in the region.
Can you cross the bridge on foot?
Yes, there are walkways for pedestrians on both sides of the roadway.
What is the bridge's significance for traffic?
It connects northern and southern Gambia and facilitates transit between Senegal and Gambia.
Senegambia Bridge: where is it located?
Senegambia Bridge is located in Gambia.
Senegambia Bridge: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Senegambia Bridge: why is it worth visiting?
The Senegambia Bridge, also known as the Trans-Gambia Bridge, is The Gambia's most significant modern infrastructure project and a crucial landmark for West African regional integration.
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Nearby cities
Farafenni
Farafenni is an important commercial town on the North Bank, strategically located along the Trans-Gambia Highway.
Barra
Barra is a key port town opposite Banjul, serving as the terminal for the ferry across the Gambia River estuary.
Kerewan
Kerewan is the administrative capital of the North Bank Region, situated along a bolong (creek) of the Gambia River.
Albreda
Albreda is a historic trading post on the north bank of the Gambia River, known for its links to the slave trade.
Juffureh
Juffureh is a world-famous village, made famous by Alex Haley's book 'Roots' as the home of Kunta Kinte.
Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve
A vast wetland area on the north bank of the Gambia River, protecting a rich birdlife and complex mangrove ecosystems.
History & landmarks
Albreda Historical Site
A former French trading post on the north bank of the river, known for its role in colonial history.
Juffureh Village
The village that became world-famous as the home of Kunta Kinte through Alex Haley's novel 'Roots'.
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Berending Sacred Crocodile Pool
A sacred site in the North Bank District, known for its religious significance and its crocodiles.
Nature
More places
Farafenni Livestock Market
A major regional market for trading cattle, sheep, and goats, central for the region's livestock farmers.
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Kataba Fort
Ruins of a pre-colonial earth fort used in the 19th century during local conflicts and against colonial encroachments.
Kerewan Fish Landing Site
A strategic point for fishing on the North Bank, located on a deep side-arm of the Gambia River.
Kunta Kinteh Island
A small island in the river that is a UNESCO World Heritage site due to its role in the slave trade.
Vainqueur Ruins
Ruins of an 18th-century French military post, strategically located on the north bank of the river.
San Domingo Ruins
Remains of a 15th-century Portuguese settlement, which is among the oldest European traces in West Africa.
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CFAO Building Albreda
A prominent former French trading post that testifies to the economic importance of Albreda during the colonial era.
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Niumi National Park
This park on the north coast includes mangroves, swamps, and sand dunes.