PLAN YOUR STAY · CENTRAL GAMBIA
Riverside Lodge Frequently Asked Questions
Practical information about getting to Bansang, money and banking, river excursions, meals and your stay at Riverside Lodge.
GETTING HERE
Getting to Riverside Lodge
1. Where is Riverside Lodge Bansang located?
Riverside Lodge is located in Bansang in the Central River Region of The Gambia, beside the River Gambia. We are approximately 15–20 minutes from Janjanbureh.
2. How do I get to Riverside Lodge from Banjul or the coastal area?
Bansang is approximately 4–5 hours from the coastal area, depending on traffic and road conditions. Guests can travel by private vehicle, taxi or public transportation. If you need help arranging transportation to Riverside Lodge, contact us before your trip.
3. Can Riverside Lodge arrange transportation for guests?
Yes. We can assist with arranging private transportation to and from Riverside Lodge. Please contact us in advance with your arrival location, date and number of passengers so we can discuss available options and pricing.
4. Can I get to Riverside Lodge by public transportation?
Yes. Public transportation is available between the coastal area and Bansang and is generally the least expensive option. Travel times and schedules can vary, so we recommend allowing extra time for your journey.
5. How far is Riverside Lodge from Janjanbureh?
Riverside Lodge is approximately 15 km from Janjanbureh. The journey usually takes around 15–20 minutes, depending on transportation and ferry conditions.
MONEY & BANKING
ATMs, Banks & Payments
6. Are there ATMs in Bansang or near Riverside Lodge?
ATM availability in Central River Region is limited and should not be relied upon. We strongly recommend withdrawing enough cash before traveling from the coastal area.
7. Are there banks in Bansang?
Banking services in the region are limited compared with Banjul and the coastal areas. Guests who need banking services should make the necessary arrangements before traveling upriver.
8. Can I pay by credit or debit card at Riverside Lodge?
Riverside Lodge currently operates primarily on a cash basis. Guests should bring sufficient cash for accommodation, meals, transportation and activities.
9. What currencies should I bring?
The Gambian dalasi is the easiest currency to use locally. If you are traveling with foreign currency, larger euro, pound or U.S. dollar notes may be easier to exchange than small denominations. We recommend exchanging or withdrawing sufficient funds before traveling to Central Gambia.
RIVER EXPERIENCES
Boat Trips, Hippos & Chimpanzees
10. Can Riverside Lodge arrange a boat trip to see hippos?
Yes. We can help arrange boat excursions on the River Gambia for guests interested in seeing hippos and experiencing the river and its wildlife. Trips should preferably be arranged in advance.
11. Can you arrange a trip to see both hippos and chimpanzees?
Yes. Longer excursions combining opportunities to see hippos and chimpanzees can be arranged. These trips require more time than a standard river excursion, so we recommend discussing your plans with us before arrival.
12. Are hippo and chimpanzee sightings guaranteed?
No. These are wild animals in their natural environment, so sightings cannot be guaranteed. Local guides and boat captains use their knowledge of the area to provide guests with the best reasonable opportunity to see wildlife.
13. What is the best time of day for a river and wildlife excursion?
We generally recommend starting in the morning. For longer excursions involving chimpanzees and hippos, an early departure provides more time on the river and reduces the risk of returning too late.
14. How do I reserve a boat trip?
Contact Riverside Lodge before or during your stay and tell us what type of excursion you are interested in. We can assist with coordinating the boat captain and local guide and provide the current price before confirming your trip.
15. Can people who are not staying at Riverside Lodge arrange an excursion?
We can assist visitors with local excursions depending on guide and boat availability. Advance contact is recommended.
DINING
Vegetarian Meals & Restaurant
16. Does Riverside Lodge Restaurant serve vegetarian meals?
Yes. Vegetarian meals are available at Riverside Lodge Restaurant. Please let our staff know about your dietary preferences when ordering.
17. Can vegetarian meals be arranged for groups?
Yes. We can prepare vegetarian meals for individuals and groups. For larger groups or guests with specific dietary requirements, please let us know in advance so our kitchen can prepare accordingly.
18. Is breakfast included with accommodation?
Yes. Breakfast is included with your stay at Riverside Lodge.
19. Does the restaurant serve lunch and dinner?
Yes. Riverside Lodge Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. We recommend ordering dinner early, particularly if you will be returning late from an excursion.
20. Can Riverside Lodge accommodate other dietary requirements?
We will do our best to accommodate reasonable dietary requirements when ingredients are available locally. Guests with allergies or specific dietary needs should inform us in advance.
YOUR STAY
Wi-Fi, Power, Rooms & Reservations
21. Is Wi-Fi available at Riverside Lodge?
Yes. Wi-Fi is available. However, internet speeds in Central Gambia may be slower or less consistent than in the coastal areas.
22. Does Riverside Lodge have electricity during power outages?
Riverside Lodge uses a combination of grid electricity, solar power and battery backup. Essential services such as lighting, fans and refrigeration can continue during many grid outages, while air-conditioning availability depends on the available power supply.
23. Do the rooms have air conditioning and hot showers?
Yes. Our guest accommodation includes air conditioning, private bathrooms and hot showers.
24. Should I make a reservation before traveling to Bansang?
Advance reservations are recommended, particularly during the main tourist season from November through March and during periods when groups are staying at the lodge.
25. How can I contact Riverside Lodge before my trip?
You can contact us by phone or WhatsApp at +220 87 720 3000 or by email at riversidelodgebansang@gmail.com.
Explore Janjanbureh accommodation, birdwatching in Central Gambia, or request a reservation.