Kiang West National Park, National park on the Gambia River, The Gambia
Kiang West National Park is a protected area along the southern bank of the Gambia River, containing Guinea savanna, dry deciduous woodlands, tidal flats, and mangrove creeks. The landscape spans approximately 11,500 hectares and brings together diverse ecosystems that support a rich variety of wildlife.
The park was established in 1987 by the Department of Parks and Wildlife Management to protect one of the country's largest wildlife populations. This designation became a significant step in securing the region's ecosystems for the long term.
Local communities practice traditional livelihoods within the park, including small-scale agriculture and forest product gathering, which shape how the land is used and managed today. Visitors can observe these daily practices and see how people have long coexisted with the environment here.
The park headquarters and visitor facilities are located in Dumbuto village, about 145 kilometers from Banjul. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is recommended to navigate the park routes reliably.
The park is home to over 290 bird species, including 21 types of raptors, with the bateleur eagle serving as its official symbol. This exceptional bird diversity makes the reserve particularly important for raptors across the region.
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