The Gambia: The Smiling Coast of Africa – Day Six: A Final Adventure at Brufut and Kotu Creek

Birdwatching at Brufut

As the final day of my adventure dawned, I was filled with both excitement and a sense of bittersweetness. It was my last day exploring the vibrant wildlife of The Gambia, and I was eager to make the most of it. Mustapha arrived, as punctual as ever, with his signature smile that had become a familiar and reassuring presence during my time here.

Our first stop of the day was the bird hide at Brufut, a well-known spot for birdwatching. The hide provided the perfect vantage point to observe the local avian life, a hidden gem where the birds went about their morning routines, seemingly unaware of our presence. As I settled in, camera at the ready, the tranquility of the hide allowed me to focus on the details—the sounds of nature, the rustling of leaves, and the flurry of wings as various species came into view.

After spending some time in the hide, we decided to take a walk in the nearby forest. A local birding guide from the hide joined us, adding another layer of expertise to the experience. It was during this walk that we had one of the most memorable sightings of the day: a pair of Long-tailed Nightjars. These incredible birds were so well camouflaged that, had it not been for the guide's keen eyes, we might have missed them entirely. The male and female lay perfectly still among the leaves, blending seamlessly with their surroundings, watching our every move. They were clearly ready to take off if we got too close, but their remarkable ability to stay motionless made them an unforgettable sight.

Seeing the Long-tailed Nightjars was truly the highlight of the morning, a reminder of how nature can surprise you with its subtle beauty and the importance of having knowledgeable guides who can reveal these hidden gems.

A Relaxing Boat Trip at Kotu Creek

After our time at Brufut, we made our way to Kotu Creek for a different kind of experience—one that offered both relaxation and stunning views. The boat trip along the creek provided a refreshing change of pace from the more stationary birdwatching at the hide. As we glided through the water, the banks of the creek unfolded like a tapestry of natural beauty, with mangroves and lush vegetation lining the water's edge.

The creek was teeming with life, from the calls of birds echoing across the water to the occasional glimpse of a monitor lizard basking on the shore. The tranquility of the boat ride allowed me to reflect on the past few days and appreciate the unique landscapes The Gambia had to offer. Watching a Western Reef Egret walking elegantly in the water, hunting for fish, was one of the highlights of the boat ride. The bird's graceful movements, as it carefully navigated the shallows, searching for its next meal, added a touch of serenity to the scene.

During the boat trip, Mustapha suddenly gave four young boys who were near the river a vocal lesson. They were skipping school and instead heading to the river to fish for crabs. Later, Mustapha explained to me that he had scolded them not just because they were missing school—disrespecting their parents who were spending a lot of money for their education—but also because he feared for their safety. Sadly, he mentioned, some young ones end up drowning in the river as not all of them are strong swimmers. It was a somber reminder of the realities faced by local communities, and it made the day's adventures feel more grounded in the everyday lives of the people living by the creek.

The gentle rhythm of the boat moving through the creek, paired with the soft breeze, made this final outing a peaceful and fitting conclusion to my time in The Gambia's wilderness. As the sun began to lower in the sky, casting a golden glow over the landscape, I couldn't have asked for a more perfect end to the day.

Saying Goodbye to The Gambia

As the boat gently made its way back to the shore, the golden hues of the setting sun began to bathe the landscape in a soft glow. My heart was full, knowing that this would be my last outing in The Gambia, a country that had offered me so much in terms of wildlife, culture, and unforgettable experiences. The days spent birdwatching, exploring new landscapes, and connecting with the locals had left a deep impression on me, and I couldn't help but reflect on the memories I had created.

Mustapha had been an exceptional guide, always sharing his knowledge with enthusiasm and patience, while making sure each experience felt unique and personal. His kindness, wisdom, and genuine passion for The Gambia's wilderness had made every day a little more special.

As we headed back to the hotel to say our goodbyes, I thanked Mustapha for three unforgettable days spent exploring the wilderness of The Gambia. He had truly made my time here memorable, and I was grateful for the moments we had shared. Saying goodbye was bittersweet, but as with all good adventures, it only left me with a sense of anticipation for the next chapter.

Though my birdwatching adventure in The Gambia had come to an end, the memories I'd made—the birds I'd seen, the vibrant wildlife I'd encountered, and the people I'd met—would stay with me for a long time to come. The Smiling Coast of Africa had certainly lived up to its name, and I knew this wouldn't be my last visit.

Until next time, The Gambia!