Here at Farakunku we offer a range of arts and crafts opportunities. Have a look at our gallery, workshops and art studio experiences.
Heather has an art studio in the grounds of Farakunku where guests can join her for craft and painting workshops. She offers a choice of workshops for all abilities such as:
In nearby, Tunbung Art Village, you can experience a ½ day workshop and learn the traditional African skills of Batik, screen printing and tie dye.
‘Living, as I do, in a rural area of The Gambia, one can’t fail to notice that the local women play the major role both at home and in the garden. It is these women who have inspired me to paint in an attempt to capture the spirit of this country where, whatever the chore, there is laughter and chatter amongst the ladies who carry themselves with poise and dignity, however poor.’
Here in the grounds and at different times of day you will see several varieties of Sunbirds, Fire Finches, Red cheeked-Cordon Bleus, Weavers, Waxbills, Gonolek, Mannikins, Babblers, African Thrush, Starling, Woodpecker, Warblers and many others coming to drink from the bird bowls scattered in the gardens.
We have regular visits from a flock of Little Bee Eaters most afternoons they come down to drink from our plunge pool.
We have the coastal birds nearby as well as garden birds and bush species, all of which explains the growing number of identified species seen in the grounds or within walking distance of the Lodges.
We have three excellent GBA registered bird guides who can take guests to the good birding areas: Tanji Bird Reserve, Brufut Woods, Pirang, Abuko Nature Reserve, Lamin Creek, Tujereng Woods, all of which are just a short drive away and can be done as half day trips or by combining two destinations for a full day. Marakissa and the bush track at Faraba Banta, are both longer trips but very good for birding (allow a day for each of these).
This package is designed for guests who want a pre-booked week of birding with a registered Guide, visiting all the best sites within easy driving distance for 6 full day’s bird watching. It includes half board accommodation, airport transfers, all transport and the guide’s fees. You only need to arrange and pay for your own flights and any lunches and drinks. Additional days of bird watching at different sites can be arranged for longer stay guests who may also prefer to spread the days out across their stay.
Available November – end March.
Half board double occupancy of a lodge plus all birding trips and transfers for 2: £1425
Half board single occupancy of a lodge plus all birding trips and transfers for 1 : £1280
(Trips are for a minimum of 1 and a maximum of 4 unless a group booking is made for more)
Airport transfer on arrival and optional 2 hour self-guided walk in local bush area (this is dependent upon convenient flight timings.)
Abuko Forest Reserve and Lamin Rice fields ( pay for lunch locally)
Tanji Bird Reserve and Brufut Woods ( pay for lunch locally)
Pirang and Faraba Banta bush track (includes packed picnic lunch)
Tujereng Woods, Kotu Ponds & track, Fajara golf course (pay for lunch locally)
Darsilami Forest and Wetlands (Marakissa) (pay for lunch locally)
Kartong observatory and river trip (includes lunch at local restaurant)
Optional local self guided walk before departure and transfer to Banjul Airport.
Price on Request (including return transport to Denton Bridge.)
River fishing: cruise on a traditional wooden pirogue with sun canopy, flushing toilet, safety equipment, all fishing tackle & bait. Soft drinks can be purchased on board.
On-board by 10am return to Denton Bridge around 4pm
Choose to book a packed lunch to take with you (extra 250pp) or opt to stop at Lamin Lodge, a stilted riverside restaurant to purchase a lunch of your choice.(Average price 400pp).
Half day (10:00-1:30pm) Sea fishing for 2 persons Price on Request
All bait and rods provided plus instruction if required.
New boat 2018. Including return transport to Denton Bridge, tea/coffee flask, a packed picnic lunch, Life jackets. *Please note there is no toilet facility on board.
Both trips require at least 2 days advance booking to avoid disappointment. Let us arrange it all for you from Farakunku Lodges!