Berikolon Forest Park

Berikolon Forest Park is a protected area in Gambia.

Berikolon Forest Park at a Glance

Location
Central River Region, Gambia, West Africa
Coordinates
13.393147, -15.336400
Crowds
Very Quiet
Malaria Risk
Moderate
Best Time to Visit
November to April (dry season) for birdwatching. Peak birding December to March.

Getting to Berikolon Forest Park

Nearest airport: Kolda Airport (KDA), 68 km away.

Nearest international airport: Banjul International Airport (BJL), 142 km away.

Weather & Climate in Berikolon Forest Park

The warmest temperatures in Berikolon Forest Park occur in April, averaging 32.1°C (up to 40.2°C). The coolest conditions are in August at 26.4°C.

The driest weather conditions are typically in January with average rainfall of 0.0mm. Average humidity: 22.0%.

Monthly Temperatures

  • January: 27.2°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • February: 29.4°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • March: 30.6°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • April: 32.1°C (rainfall: 0.0mm)
  • May: 31.6°C (rainfall: 16.1mm)
  • June: 30.2°C (rainfall: 42.3mm)
  • July: 27.6°C (rainfall: 224.8mm)
  • August: 26.4°C (rainfall: 275.1mm)
  • September: 26.5°C (rainfall: 258.0mm)
  • October: 27.6°C (rainfall: 124.1mm)
  • November: 27.3°C (rainfall: 0.4mm)
  • December: 26.6°C (rainfall: 1.9mm)

Best Time to Visit Berikolon Forest Park

The best months to visit Berikolon Forest Park are January, February, March, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 27.24°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 22%
  • February: Great, temperature 29.43°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.7 hrs, humidity 18.4%
  • March: Great, temperature 30.57°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 23.9%
  • April: Great, temperature 32.08°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11.7 hrs, humidity 29.2%
  • May: Great, temperature 31.61°C, rainfall 16.1mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 40%
  • June: Great, temperature 30.24°C, rainfall 42.3mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 59.4%
  • July: Good, temperature 27.6°C, rainfall 224.8mm, sunshine 8.3 hrs, humidity 78.4%
  • August: Good, temperature 26.45°C, rainfall 275.1mm, sunshine 7.5 hrs, humidity 85.5%
  • September: Good, temperature 26.48°C, rainfall 258mm, sunshine 8.2 hrs, humidity 86.1%
  • October: Good, temperature 27.55°C, rainfall 124.1mm, sunshine 9.6 hrs, humidity 79.8%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.28°C, rainfall 0.4mm, sunshine 10.4 hrs, humidity 52.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 26.65°C, rainfall 1.9mm, sunshine 9.7 hrs, humidity 32.3%

Wildlife in Berikolon Forest Park

Home to 95 recorded species including 32 waterbirds, 28 iconic birds, 25 birds of prey, 5 tropical birds, 3 primates, 1 predators.

Recommended Packing List for Berikolon Forest Park

Based on average temperature of 28.6°C, typical conditions, humidity 51%.

  • Lightweight breathable clothing - warm 29°C weather calls for light fabrics
  • Binoculars - essential for every game drive
  • Sun hat & sunscreen - protection from the African sun
  • Sturdy walking shoes - for bush walks and uneven terrain
  • Neutral-coloured clothing - khaki, olive, and tan blend with the bush
  • Insect repellent - essential in most safari regions
  • First aid kit - basic medical supplies for remote areas
  • Torch / headlamp - useful for evenings at camp
  • Camera with telephoto lens - capture your safari memories

Notable Species

Similar Parks in Central River Region

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Gambia

Travel advisory for Gambia

Berikolon Forest Park FAQs

When is the optimal time of year to visit Berikolon Forest Park for wildlife viewing?

The best time to visit Berikolon Forest Park for wildlife viewing is during Gambia's dry season, which typically runs from November to May. During these months, animals are more concentrated around fewer water sources, making them easier to spot and observe.

What specific wildlife can I expect to see during a visit to Berikolon Forest Park, beyond general safari animals?

Berikolon Forest Park is particularly renowned for its diverse birdlife and various primate species, including baboons and vervet monkeys. While large predators are rare, you might also encounter antelopes like duikers and bushbucks, as well as monitor lizards and crocodiles near water bodies.

What are the typical entry fees and transportation options for reaching Berikolon Forest Park from major Gambian cities?

Entry fees for Berikolon Forest Park are generally quite affordable, usually a few hundred Gambian Dalasi for non-residents. You can arrange transportation via local taxis or tour operators from major cities like Banjul or Serekunda, with travel times typically ranging from one to a few hours depending on your starting point.

Given its moderate malaria risk and low crowding, what specific safety precautions should I take when visiting Berikolon Forest Park?

Beyond standard malaria prophylaxis, it is crucial to use strong insect repellent, wear long sleeves and trousers, especially at dawn and dusk, and sleep under mosquito nets if staying overnight. Due to the park's low crowding, always inform park staff or your guide of your planned routes and stick to designated paths for your safety.

What kind of activities or unique experiences does Berikolon Forest Park offer, considering its protected area status and low crowding?

Berikolon Forest Park is ideal for intimate guided walking safaris and dedicated birdwatching excursions, offering a tranquil experience away from large tourist groups. You can explore specific trails that lead to scenic viewpoints or quiet spots, perfect for photography and immersing yourself in the natural Gambian bush.

Recommended Books

  • The Handbook of Bird Photography by Markus Varesvuo, Jari Peltomäki & Bence Máté - Excellent for birding photographers on safari - covers technique, equipment, fieldcraft, and post-processing with stunning example images.
  • Photographing Wildlife in Africa by Paolo Torchio - Practical guide specifically for African safari photography - camera settings, lens choices, composition techniques, and how to make the most of game drives.
  • Fodor's The Complete Guide to African Safaris by Fodor's Travel - Country-by-country planning guide with lodge reviews, practical logistics, packing lists, and insider tips. Often cited as the best all-in-one safari planning resource.
  • National Geographic Kids: Safari by National Geographic - Age-appropriate wildlife facts with stunning photographs. Great for getting children excited about the animals they'll see on safari.
  • The Last Elephants by Don Pinnock & Colin Bell - Conservation-focused book combining beautiful photography with urgent storytelling about the threats facing Africa's elephant populations.
  • Here Is the African Savanna by Madeleine Dunphy - Beautifully illustrated picture book about the savanna ecosystem. Teaches children about the interconnected web of life on an African plain.
  • Lonely Planet West Africa by Lonely Planet - Covers Ghana, Senegal, Gambia, Nigeria, Cameroon, and more. Includes national parks, wildlife reserves, and practical overland travel advice across the region.
  • Safari: A Photographic Journey by Art Wolfe - Large-format coffee-table book from one of the world's most celebrated nature photographers. Stunning images from across the African continent.
  • The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals by Jonathan Kingdon - The definitive mammal field guide for Africa covering over 1,150 species with detailed illustrations. Considered the gold standard for safari-goers and researchers alike.
  • The Behavior Guide to African Mammals by Richard Despard Estes - Goes beyond identification to explain why animals behave as they do. Essential reading for safari-goers who want to understand the wildlife they observe.
  • Remembering Lions by Various Photographers - Part of the acclaimed Remembering Wildlife conservation book series. Features contributions from world-class wildlife photographers, with proceeds supporting lion conservation.
  • African Animals ABC by Stella Blackstone & Petr Horacek - Simple alphabet book with bold, colourful animal illustrations. Perfect for toddlers and young children preparing for their first safari. Ages 2–5.
  • Beat About the Bush: Mammals by Trevor Carnaby - The single best book for understanding animal behaviour on safari. Explains why animals do what they do - feeding, mating, territory, predator-prey dynamics. Makes every game drive infinitely more rewarding.
  • Africa's Top Wildlife Countries by Mark W. Nolting - The most respected safari planning book in print. Detailed country-by-country guide covering parks, lodges, best times to visit, and what wildlife to expect. Updated regularly. The first book every safari planner should read.
  • The Safari Companion: A Guide to Watching African Mammals by Richard D. Estes - Part field guide, part planning tool. Explains mammal behaviour in a way that transforms game drives. Covers tracks, signs, social structures, and habitat preferences. A must-pack for serious safari-goers.
  • The Shadow of the Sun by Ryszard Kapuscinski - Widely considered the greatest book ever written about Africa. Kapuscinski spent 40 years reporting from across the continent. Vivid, poetic, and deeply insightful. Essential pre-safari reading for understanding the continent.
  • Elephant Company by Vicki Constantine Croke - The extraordinary true story of James Howard Williams and the elephants who helped him build bridges, extract teak, and ultimately rescue refugees across the Burmese jungle during WWII. Gripping and moving.
  • When the Last Lion Roars by Sara Evans - An urgent, accessible account of the African lion's decline from 200,000 to under 20,000 in a century. Covers the science, politics, and human stories behind lion conservation. Eye-opening pre-safari reading.
  • Ivory, Horn and Blood by Ronald Orenstein - The definitive book on the poaching crisis devastating African elephants and rhinos. Covers the criminal networks, the rangers fighting back, and what travellers can do. Important context for any safari visitor.
  • Last Chance to See by Douglas Adams & Mark Carwardine - Witty and heartbreaking tour of endangered species by the Hitchhiker's Guide author. Combines humour with urgent conservation messaging.
  • Owen and Mzee by Isabella Hatkoff, Craig Hatkoff & Paula Kahumbu - True story of an orphaned hippo befriending a 130-year-old tortoise in Kenya. A heartwarming tale of unlikely friendship that teaches empathy.
  • Remembering Elephants by Various Photographers - Stunning coffee-table book from the Remembering Wildlife series. All proceeds go to elephant conservation - beautiful photography with a purpose.
  • Whatever You Do, Don't Run by Peter Allison - Hilarious memoir from a Botswana safari guide - true stories from the bush that will have you laughing out loud. A favourite among safari enthusiasts.
  • Poached by Rachel Love Nuwer - Gripping investigation into the illegal wildlife trade - from African poaching networks to Asian markets. Essential reading for understanding the threats to safari wildlife.
  • Safari Nation by Jacob S. T. Dlamini - Fascinating history of South Africa's national parks and their complex colonial legacy. Academic but accessible - changes how you think about safari tourism.
  • Safari: A Photicular Book by Dan Kainen & Carol Kaufmann - Mesmerising book with moving photographic images of African animals. Kids and adults love the magical moving pictures - perfect pre-trip gift.