Kachikally Crocodile Pool Bakau
A sacred pool in Bakau, Gambia, where you can safely touch crocodiles and explore rich history and culture.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Crocodiles are active and handlers are present.
Kachikally Crocodile Pool Bakau
Best Time
Crocodiles are active and handlers are present.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred pool in Bakau, Gambia, where you can safely touch crocodiles and explore rich history and culture.
"It might sound a little scary at first, but the experience truly unforgettable. "
🤝 Trust the Handlers
Always listen to the crocodile keepers; they ensure your safety and provide the best interaction. :handshake:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Get ready for amazing photos petting crocodiles! The keepers are happy to assist. :camerawithflash:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sacred Crocodile Encounters
The main pool
Get up close and personal with numerous crocodiles, even touching them under handler supervision. A truly unique wildlife experience!
The Ancient Silk Cotton Tree
Grounds of the pool
Marvel at the sheer size and age of this magnificent tree, a breathtaking natural wonder on the sacred grounds.
Gambian History Museum
On-site
Explore artifacts and exhibits detailing Gambia's rich history, from tribal culture to modern independence.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Sacred & the Wild
Beyond the Crocodiles
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🤝 Trust the Handlers
Always listen to the crocodile keepers; they ensure your safety and provide the best interaction. :handshake:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Get ready for amazing photos petting crocodiles! The keepers are happy to assist. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Museum is a Must
Don't skip the museum; it offers fascinating insights into Gambian culture and history. :museum:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Wander around the impressive silk cotton tree and enjoy the peaceful, natural surroundings. :evergreen_tree:
Tips
from all over the internet
🤝 Trust the Handlers
Always listen to the crocodile keepers; they ensure your safety and provide the best interaction. :handshake:
📸 Photo Ops Galore
Get ready for amazing photos petting crocodiles! The keepers are happy to assist. :camerawithflash:
🏛️ Museum is a Must
Don't skip the museum; it offers fascinating insights into Gambian culture and history. :museum:
🚶♀️ Explore the Grounds
Wander around the impressive silk cotton tree and enjoy the peaceful, natural surroundings. :evergreen_tree:
🛍️ Souvenir Shopping
Browse local handicraft shops on-site for unique souvenirs to remember your trip. :shopping_bags:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kachikally Crocodile Pool for its incredible and unforgettable experience, particularly the unique opportunity to get up close and touch crocodiles under handler supervision. The site's historical museum and the impressive silk cotton tree also receive high marks, rounding out a culturally rich and engaging visit. While the lack of barriers might seem daunting, the experienced handlers ensure a safe and enjoyable encounter.
"Incredible Experience at Kachikally Crocodile Pool
Kachikally Crocodile Pool is such an amazing place to visit while in The Gambia! It’s not every day you get the chance to get up close, touch real crocodiles, and even take photos with them. It might sound a little scary at first, but the experience truly unforgettable.
Beyond the crocodiles, there’s so much more to see—the silk cotton tree which is the biggest tree in the area on the grounds is breathtaking, and the peaceful surroundings make the visit even more special.
To top it all off, the small museum give great insight into Gambian history and culture. It really rounds out the experience and makes you appreciate the place even more. Highly recommended for anyone visiting!"
Michel B
"This is an interesting place as there are no barriers between the visitors (or humans) and the crocodiles. So your fate is completely in the hands of the crocodile handlers at the place. A lot of fun and great photos. Overall, a good experience."
C Neon
"It's worth mentioning here is also a national museum in connection with the crocodile pool (same ticket). The museum covered a lot of ground from old, tribal culture through the colonial times and into modern day independence. Very informative and educational. The crocodile pool was also amusing and getting your photo taken petting a crocodile is obviously a bit of fun. On site were also a few handicraft shops for those hunting souvenirs."
Bjørn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kachikally Crocodile Pool is located in Bakau, about 10 miles (16 km) from Banjul, the capital. You can take a taxi or a local bus. Taxis are readily available and can be negotiated for a round trip.
Yes, it's a well-known landmark in Bakau. It's situated in the heart of the residential suburb of Kachikally, about 700m south of Atlantic Boulevard.
Taxis are the most convenient option for getting around Bakau and to nearby attractions. Negotiate your fare before starting your journey.
Local buses operate in the area, but they might be less direct and more crowded. Taxis offer a more comfortable and direct route.
Bakau is a coastal town, and the pool is located within the town, making it easily accessible from the beaches and other coastal attractions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the crocodile pool and the museum is typically covered by a single ticket. Prices are generally affordable, making it a great value.
No, advance booking is usually not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance.
The pool and museum are generally open daily, but it's advisable to check for any seasonal changes or specific timings upon arrival. Afternoons are often recommended.
Yes, the museum is typically included with your admission ticket to the crocodile pool, offering a comprehensive experience.
There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for entry, but parental supervision is advised for children due to the presence of crocodiles.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Yes, under the strict supervision of trained crocodile handlers, visitors are allowed to touch the crocodiles. It's a unique and safe interaction.
While they are wild animals, the crocodiles at Kachikally are accustomed to human presence and are managed by experienced handlers who ensure visitor safety.
It's one of three sacred crocodile pools in Gambia, historically used for healing and fertility rituals by the local community.
The site features a large, ancient silk cotton tree and an informative museum detailing Gambian history and culture.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for unique photos, especially with the opportunity to interact with the crocodiles.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
While there might be small snack vendors, dedicated dining facilities are limited. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit.
Bakau offers various local eateries and restaurants, especially near the coast, serving fresh seafood and Gambian cuisine.
Bringing your own snacks and water is generally acceptable, but it's always good practice to clean up after yourself.
Expect to find Gambian specialties like 'Domoda' (a peanut stew) and fresh grilled fish, often served with rice.
Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, especially those based on rice and vegetables. Inquire at local restaurants.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic shots involve visitors interacting with the crocodiles, the ancient silk cotton tree, and the museum exhibits.
Yes, photography is encouraged, especially when interacting with the crocodiles under handler supervision.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a lens that can capture both close-ups and wider shots of the environment.
Generally, no major restrictions, but always be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid flash photography directly at the crocodiles if it seems to disturb them.
While not a formal service, the crocodile keepers often assist with taking photos for visitors.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Ensure children are closely supervised by handlers at all times. The grounds are relatively safe for walking, but keep an eye on little ones. Consider visiting in the afternoon when the crocodiles are more active. The museum is engaging for older children interested in history.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Photography tips: Bring a versatile lens that can handle both close-ups of the crocodiles and wider shots of the environment. Be patient to capture candid moments of interaction. The handlers are often happy to help stage photos, so don't hesitate to ask.
🌍 Culture & History Buffs
The accompanying museum is a treasure trove of information, detailing the country's rich heritage from ancient times to the present day. Exploring the museum after observing the sacred crocodiles provides a comprehensive understanding of the local traditions and historical context.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Sacred Significance of Kachikally
Visitors are often told stories about the pool's history and its importance in traditional beliefs. The handlers play a crucial role not only in ensuring safety but also in sharing this cultural heritage. Understanding this context enhances the appreciation for the crocodiles and the site itself, transforming a simple visit into a more meaningful cultural immersion.
Interacting with the Crocodiles: Safety and Experience
It's essential to remember that these are wild animals, and while they are accustomed to human presence, their behavior can be unpredictable. Always follow the instructions of the handlers implicitly. They will demonstrate how to approach and touch the crocodiles, often selecting calmer individuals for these interactions. This supervised approach allows for an incredible, memorable experience without compromising safety.
Exploring the Museum and Grounds
The grounds themselves are also worth exploring. The most prominent feature is the magnificent silk cotton tree, which is noted as the largest in the area. Its sheer size and age are awe-inspiring. The peaceful surroundings of the pool and the tree offer a tranquil contrast to the excitement of the crocodile encounters, making for a well-rounded visit.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit