Tanji
A working fishing town on the coast, with a village museum and a bird reserve.
- Location
- Atlantic coast, south of Brufut
- What it is
- Fishing town, museum and bird reserve
- Stay nearby
- Bijilo and Brufut, Kololi and Senegambia
What it is
Tanji is one of The Gambia's main artisanal fishing communities. Colourful boats land their catch directly on the beach, and fish is smoked and processed nearby.
The Tanje Village Museum shows traditional crafts and village life. The Tanji Bird Reserve, established in 1993, lies about 3 km north.
Why people visit
The beach is at its liveliest when the boats come in. Birdwatchers visit the reserve, which includes the Bijol Islands, The Gambia's only offshore islands and an important site for seabirds.
Local significance
Fishing is central to Tanji's life and economy. Visitors are guests at a working place, not a show.
Before you go
- Ask before photographing people, especially fishermen and traders.
- Keep out of the way of boats and workers on the beach.
We don't publish entrance fees or opening hours because they change. Confirm them locally or with your guide. Last reviewed 26 September 2026.
Where to stay nearby
- Bijilo and BrufutA quieter stretch of coast south of Kololi, with more space and resort hotels.
- Kololi and SenegambiaThe liveliest resort strip, with the widest choice of hotels and restaurants.
Related attractions
- Bijilo Forest ParkCoastal forest trails with monkeys, beside the Senegambia area.
- Makasutu Culture ForestA forest reserve inland near Brikama, with palms, mangroves and a creek.
- Abuko Nature ReserveThe Gambia's first wildlife reserve: gallery forest, monkeys and birdlife.
Photos on this page: Niels Elgaard Larsen, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0. Cropped for display. All image credits