Kachikally Crocodile Pool, Bakau - Image 1
1 / 3

Kachikally Crocodile Pool Bakau

4.3
·1k reviews·Bakau, The Gambia

A sacred pool in Bakau, Gambia, where you can safely touch crocodiles and explore rich history and culture.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Afternoons

Crocodiles are active and handlers are present.

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Kachikally Crocodile Pool, Bakau - Image 1

Kachikally Crocodile Pool Bakau

Best Time

Afternoons

Crocodiles are active and handlers are present.

CrowdMedium

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A sacred pool in Bakau, Gambia, where you can safely touch crocodiles and explore rich history and culture. TikTokReddit

4.3
(1k reviews)

"It might sound a little scary at first, but the experience truly unforgettable. Reddit"

Vertical photo
TIP

🤝 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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Sacred Crocodile Encounters

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!

Instagram+1
The Ancient Silk Cotton Tree

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.

Reddit
Gambian History Museum

Gambian History Museum

On-site

Explore artifacts and exhibits detailing Gambia's rich history, from tribal culture to modern independence.

TikTokReddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Sacred & the Wild

Kachikally Crocodile Pool is a sacred site, one of three in Gambia used for healing and fertility rituals. While you can get up close and even touch crocodiles, remember they are wild animals. Always follow the guidance of the handlers for a safe and unforgettable experience. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the Crocodiles

Don't miss the impressive silk cotton tree, the largest in the area, and the on-site museum. The museum offers a deep dive into Gambian history and culture, providing context to the sacred significance of the pool. TikTokReddit

Best Times

When
Afternoons
Why
Crocodiles are active and handlers are present.
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed atmosphere.
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Gambia #africa #Africans #foryoupage #shorts #fypシ゚viral #blacksroots
@nanaqwame25
19.1K likes • 297.8K views

🤝 Trust the Handlers

Always listen to the crocodile keepers; they ensure your safety and provide the best interaction. InstagramReddit :handshake:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Get ready for amazing photos petting crocodiles! The keepers are happy to assist. InstagramReddit :camerawithflash:

One of the coolest places in Gambia! Kachikally is wild, fun, and full of surprises not just crocodiles. Come see it for yourself. #Kachikally #BakauGambia #VisitGambia #ExploreGambia #WildlifeExperience #GambiaTikTok #NatureVibes #GambianTourism
@gambiadecide
3.9K likes • 49.8K views
This Amazing KACHIKALLY Crocodile Pool in BAKAU , is a Perfect Place for Everybody who loves to See or Touch this Friendly Crocodiles , in such a Beautiful, Friendly, Peaceful and wonderful environment..#ONLYINTHEGAMBIA #ilovetheGambia 🇬🇲💯, #thesmilingcoast #Katchikallycrocodikepool. .#fypシ #thegambia🇬🇲 #tiktok #stories #fyp #world #senegal #reels #today #theweeknd
thegam_web
1.7K likes • 53.2K views

🏛️ Museum is a Must

Don't skip the museum; it offers fascinating insights into Gambian culture and history. TikTokReddit :museum:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Wander around the impressive silk cotton tree and enjoy the peaceful, natural surroundings. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

Would you touch a crocodile? 🐊 Leave jokes, the Nigerian in me was SCARED 🤣🤣🤣 but I didn’t come all the way to The Gambia to skip this wild life experience 😂😂😂  📍 Kachikally Crocodile Pool and Museum, Bakau, The Gambia #ChopLifeMadam #Crocodile #Kachikally #Gambia #Wildlife
mz_eddiey
0 likes • 319 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🤝 Trust the Handlers

Always listen to the crocodile keepers; they ensure your safety and provide the best interaction. InstagramReddit :handshake:

📸 Photo Ops Galore

Get ready for amazing photos petting crocodiles! The keepers are happy to assist. InstagramReddit :camerawithflash:

🏛️ Museum is a Must

Don't skip the museum; it offers fascinating insights into Gambian culture and history. TikTokReddit :museum:

🚶‍♀️ Explore the Grounds

Wander around the impressive silk cotton tree and enjoy the peaceful, natural surroundings. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

🛍️ Souvenir Shopping

Browse local handicraft shops on-site for unique souvenirs to remember your trip. Reddit :shopping_bags:

What Travellers Say

4.3
(1k reviews)

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

Unique crocodile interaction
Informative history museum
Sacred cultural site

What People Dislike

Reliance on handler guidance

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. Instagram+1

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. Instagram+1

Taxis are the most convenient option for getting around Bakau and to nearby attractions. Negotiate your fare before starting your journey. Instagram

Local buses operate in the area, but they might be less direct and more crowded. Taxis offer a more comfortable and direct route. TikTok

Bakau is a coastal town, and the pool is located within the town, making it easily accessible from the beaches and other coastal attractions. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

No, advance booking is usually not required. You can purchase tickets upon arrival at the entrance. TikTok

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. Instagram

Yes, the museum is typically included with your admission ticket to the crocodile pool, offering a comprehensive experience. Reddit

There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for entry, but parental supervision is advised for children due to the presence of crocodiles. TikTok

🎫 🧭 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. InstagramReddit+1

While they are wild animals, the crocodiles at Kachikally are accustomed to human presence and are managed by experienced handlers who ensure visitor safety. InstagramReddit

It's one of three sacred crocodile pools in Gambia, historically used for healing and fertility rituals by the local community. TikTokInstagram+1

The site features a large, ancient silk cotton tree and an informative museum detailing Gambian history and culture. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! It's a fantastic spot for unique photos, especially with the opportunity to interact with the crocodiles. InstagramReddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While there might be small snack vendors, dedicated dining facilities are limited. It's advisable to eat before or after your visit. Instagram

Bakau offers various local eateries and restaurants, especially near the coast, serving fresh seafood and Gambian cuisine. Instagram

Bringing your own snacks and water is generally acceptable, but it's always good practice to clean up after yourself. TikTok

Expect to find Gambian specialties like 'Domoda' (a peanut stew) and fresh grilled fish, often served with rice. Instagram

Many local dishes can be adapted for vegetarians, especially those based on rice and vegetables. Inquire at local restaurants. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The most iconic shots involve visitors interacting with the crocodiles, the ancient silk cotton tree, and the museum exhibits. InstagramReddit

Yes, photography is encouraged, especially when interacting with the crocodiles under handler supervision. InstagramReddit

A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a lens that can capture both close-ups and wider shots of the environment. TikTok

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. Instagram

While not a formal service, the crocodile keepers often assist with taking photos for visitors. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kachikally Crocodile Pool offers a unique and exciting experience for families. Children are often fascinated by the crocodiles, and the opportunity to touch them under supervision can be a highlight of their trip. The on-site museum also provides educational value, making it a fun and informative outing. TikTokReddit

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. TikTok

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Kachikally Crocodile Pool presents a wealth of unique opportunities. Capturing the interaction between visitors and crocodiles, the imposing presence of the ancient silk cotton tree, and the details within the museum can yield stunning shots. The natural light within the pool area and the museum provides good conditions for photography. InstagramReddit

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. Reddit

🌍 Culture & History Buffs

This destination is a must-visit for those interested in Gambian culture and history. Kachikally is not just a pool of crocodiles; it's a sacred site with deep spiritual significance, used for traditional rituals. Learning about these practices from the local handlers adds immense value to the visit. InstagramReddit+1

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. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Sacred Significance of Kachikally

Kachikally Crocodile Pool is more than just a tourist attraction; it's a deeply spiritual site for the local community. As one of the three sacred crocodile pools in The Gambia, it has historically been a place for rituals focused on healing and fertility. The crocodiles themselves are revered, and their presence is believed to hold protective powers. This sacredness is palpable when you visit, adding a layer of cultural depth to the experience. TikTokInstagram+1

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. InstagramReddit

Interacting with the Crocodiles: Safety and Experience

The most thrilling aspect of Kachikally is the opportunity to get up close and personal with crocodiles, and even touch them. This is made possible by a dedicated team of crocodile keepers who have a long-standing relationship with the animals. They guide visitors, ensuring that interactions are safe and respectful for both humans and crocodiles. InstagramReddit+1

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. InstagramReddit+1

Exploring the Museum and Grounds

Beyond the main attraction, Kachikally offers a rich educational component. The on-site museum provides a fascinating glimpse into The Gambia's past, covering everything from ancient tribal customs and colonial history to the nation's journey to independence. It's a well-curated space that complements the experience of the crocodile pool by offering historical and cultural context. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit