Stone Circles of Wanar

The Stone Circles of Wanar are an extraordinary example of the megalithic culture in the Senegambia region and are listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This archaeological site is particularly famous for its lyre-shaped or bifid stones, which represent a unique form among West African megaliths. The site contains 21 stone circles, often associated with smaller auxiliary stones and complex subterranean burial structures. Research suggests that Wanar served primarily as a burial ground for the local elite, with funerary rites practiced here over several centuries. The precise alignment of the stones and the superior quality of the stonework testify to the high technological and artistic skills of the ancient inhabitants. The laterite blocks were quarried from nearby locations and meticulously shaped before being transported to the site. Today, Wanar provides deep insights into the burial customs and social hierarchy of the communities that thrived in this region between the 11th and 14th centuries.

Nearby cities

Farafenni

Farafenni is an important commercial town on the North Bank, strategically located along the Trans-Gambia Highway.

Kaur

Kaur is a historic trading town on the north bank of the Gambia River, known for its once-thriving peanut trade.

Mansa Konko

Mansa Konko is the administrative seat of the Lower River Region, located on a hill overlooking the Gambia River.

Soma

Soma is a major transport hub in the Lower River Region, at the crossing of the Trans-Gambia Highway.

Tendaba

A picturesque fishing village on the Gambia River and the main starting point for exploring the Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve.

Kalagi

Kalagi is a town in the Foni Jarrol district, strategically located on the South Bank Road and serving as an important local hub.

Kerewan

Kerewan is the administrative capital of the North Bank Region, situated along a bolong (creek) of the Gambia River.

River Gambia National Park (Baboon Islands)

A protected archipelago in the Gambia River serving as a sanctuary for chimpanzees, hippos, and lush jungle vegetation.

History & landmarks

Senegambia Bridge

Also known as the Trans-Gambia Bridge, it connects the north and south banks of the Gambia River.

Great Mosque of Kaolack

An impressive mosque in Kaolack serving as the spiritual center of the Niassène religious community.

Kerbatch Stone Circles

Another significant megalithic site in The Gambia, part of the UNESCO World Heritage listing.

Nature

Bao Bolong Wetland Reserve

A vast wetland on the north bank of the Gambia River, which is a paradise for birdwatchers.

Gambia River

The Gambia River is one of the most important waterways in West Africa, winding through the entire country to the Atlantic.

More places

Stone Circles of Sine Ngayène

An impressive archaeological site with hundreds of megalithic stone circles and burial mounds.

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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.

Kiang West National Park

One of the largest and most important wildlife reserves in The Gambia, with diverse flora and fauna.

Elephant Island

A large island in the Gambia River that gets its name from its shape, which resembles an elephant.

Sankandi Battlefield

Site of a historically significant battle in 1900, which was a decisive moment in the colonization of The Gambia.

Kiang West Plateau

An extensive high plateau within the Kiang West National Park, rising significantly above the river's tidal creeks.

Sonacos Peanut Oil Factory

A major processing center for the Senegalese peanut harvest in Kaolack.

Njau Recycling & Learning Center

An innovative center where women turn local plastic waste into useful items and provide environmental education.