Seedy's Gambia Excursions

Roots by Land: Tracing the Historical Tapestry of The Gambia

Embark on a transformative journey with our “Roots by Land” excursion, a historical odyssey that traverses the landscapes of The Gambia, unraveling the profound connections to its past. As we navigate through significant waypoints, each stop on this expedition will breathe life into the chapters of history, showcasing the resilience and cultural richness that define this West African nation.

Ferry Terminal: Our journey commences at the ferry terminal, a bustling hub that connects the north and south banks of the Gambia River. This crossing, significant in its own right, echoes the historical movements of people and goods, mirroring the exchanges that have shaped The Gambia’s cultural mosaic.

Barra: Arriving at Barra, a historical trading post, we find ourselves at the intersection of time and tradition. Established by the British in the 17th century, Barra witnessed the ebb and flow of commerce, becoming a gateway to the interior. The remnants of its colonial architecture stand as silent witnesses to a bygone era.

Juffureh-Kinteh Family: Our journey takes a poignant turn as we reach Juffureh, the ancestral home of Kunta Kinteh, immortalized in Alex Haley’s “Roots: The Saga of an American Family.” Visiting the Juffureh-Kinteh family compound, you step into a living history. The descendants of Kunta Kinteh, who was captured and enslaved, offer a firsthand account of the impact of the transatlantic slave trade on their family and the broader community.

James Island: No exploration of The Gambia’s historical roots is complete without a visit to James Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Formerly known as St. James Island, this stronghold changed hands between European powers in the pursuit of dominance in the lucrative trade of human lives. The ruins of Fort James, a somber sentinel, bear witness to the suffering and resilience of those ensnared in the transatlantic slave trade.

Village Museum: Our journey concludes at the Village Museum, an immersive experience that encapsulates the cultural diversity of The Gambia. Here, traditional architecture, artifacts, and daily practices come to life. The museum stands as a testament to the vibrant heritage of The Gambia, showcasing the distinct traditions of various ethnic groups that have coexisted for centuries.

Book Your Historical Expedition: “Roots by Land” is not merely a journey; it’s a pilgrimage through The Gambia’s soul. From the ferry terminal symbolizing connections across the river to the historical echoes of Barra, the profound impact of Juffureh-Kinteh family’s story, the haunting legacy of James Island, to the cultural kaleidoscope at the Village Museum, each stop is a chapter in the epic tale of The Gambia. Book now for a historical expedition that unveils the resilience, heritage, and interconnectedness of this remarkable nation.

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time:  07:00 to 16:00

• Ferry terminal
• Barra
• Juffureh-Kinteh family
• James island
• Village museum