Introduction:
The Kiang West National Park was established in 1987
and is located in southern Gambia, adjacent to the river
bank and is 145 kilometres from the capital of Banjul.
It is one of the largest protected nature reservations
in Gambia. It is around 11,00 hectares and has the largest
and most diverse wildlife
population. Being made up mainly of deciduous woodland
and Guinea savannah there are also extensive stretches
of mangrove creeks, bolong tributaries and tidal flats.
Its three main areas are the bolongs of Nganingkoi,
Jarin and Jali.
This varied topography and vegetation make it ideal
for many animals and species of birds. These include:
Nile crocodile, monitor lizards, warthog, clawless otter,
marsh mongoose, patas monkeys and Sitatunga. Rarer animals
include the hyenas, leopards, West African manatees
and dolphins.
Bird
Watching:
The area is also a bird watchers paradise with over
290 species of birds having been recorded here, including
21 raptors: vultures, harrier eagles, sandgrouse, Blue-breasted,
Kingfisher hawks, White-shouldered Black Tit and falcons.
An ideal spot to watch birds is Tubabkollon Point. The
dirt road to Batelling from the Kwinella Tendaba highway
can take you to some prime bird watching spots.
Travel Information:
To get to Kiang West you use preferably a 4 by 4 suv
car using the southern trans Gambia highway to Dumbuto
which is the main base of the park.
Half-day and full-day guided excursions are available
or around £10 for the entry fee.
Kiang Accommodation:
Up to 24 people can be accommodated with basic facilities
Tel: 9860925
Email:
mawjami@yahoo.com
See also 
Tendaba
Camp |
