Map of Gambia – Regions, Cities & Location Guide
Explore this interactive map of The Gambia to find Banjul, Serekunda, Brikama, the River Gambia, regional towns and the country's Atlantic coastline. Zoom in to see local roads, river crossings and settlements, or zoom out to understand how this narrow West African country fits between Senegal and the ocean.
The Gambia is a small country in West Africa. It is bordered by Senegal to the north, east and south, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west. Its capital is Banjul, near the mouth of the River Gambia. The country has five administrative regions, plus Banjul and Kanifing as separate urban administrations.
Interactive Map of The Gambia
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors. Use the + and − controls to explore the country in more detail.
Where Is The Gambia?
The Gambia stretches inland from the Atlantic coast along both banks of the River Gambia. Its long, narrow shape is unusual: the river provides a central geographic corridor, while Senegal surrounds almost all of its land boundary. The western end contains the capital and the main concentration of urban settlements, beaches and tourism facilities. Farther east, the landscape becomes more rural, with farming communities, smaller towns and riverine wetlands.
The country is on mainland Africa, not an island. On a regional map, look just south of Senegal's central Atlantic coast and north of Guinea-Bissau. Although the country is compact from north to south, travelling from the coast to its eastern settlements can take considerably longer than the map's shape suggests.
Capital and Major Towns
- Banjul: The national capital, situated near the river mouth on the Atlantic side of the country.
- Serekunda (Serrekunda): A major urban and commercial centre in the Greater Banjul area, near the western coast.
- Brikama: An important town and administrative centre in the West Coast Region.
- Farafenni: A significant town on the river's north side, associated with regional road connections.
- Soma: A town in the Lower River Region, near routes linking the northern and southern banks.
- Janjanbureh: A historic town on an island in the River Gambia, formerly often called Georgetown.
- Basse Santa Su: A principal town in the eastern Upper River Region, often shortened to Basse.
Regions of The Gambia
The country's five administrative regions are listed below. The capital city of Banjul and Kanifing Municipality are administered separately; maps showing local government areas may therefore use a different number or set of boundaries.
| Region | Administrative centre | General location |
|---|---|---|
| West Coast | Brikama | South-west, inland from the coast |
| North Bank | Kerewan | North of the river in the west |
| Lower River | Mansakonko | South of the river, farther inland |
| Central River | Janjanbureh | Central part of the country |
| Upper River | Basse | Eastern inland area |
River Gambia, Coastline and Natural Features
The River Gambia is the defining feature on the map. Flowing west towards the Atlantic, it widens considerably near Banjul and supports mangroves, wetlands, farming areas and river transport. Its banks help explain the location of many settlements and the importance of bridges and ferries. The river also continues upstream beyond The Gambia into neighbouring countries.
Along the Atlantic coast are sandy beaches and developed resort areas, while inland scenery includes savanna, woodland, floodplains and protected habitats. Abuko Nature Reserve, near the western urban area, is known for wildlife and birdwatching. Kiang West National Park protects habitats south of the river, and the River Gambia National Park includes islands within the central river system.
Roads, Bridges and Getting Around
Road journeys often follow either the north or south bank of the river. Crossings are therefore important when planning routes between communities. The Senegambia Bridge near Farafenni and Soma links major road corridors, while the BanjulâBarra ferry connects settlements near the river mouth. Ferry timetables, queues and availability can change, so check arrangements before travel.
Banjul International Airport serves the capital region. For local journeys, mapped distances do not always reflect actual travel times: road conditions, congestion and river crossings may affect the route. Zoom into the map to locate the relevant town and then confirm transport details with current local information.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the capital of The Gambia?
Banjul is the capital. It is near the Atlantic coast at the mouth of the River Gambia.
Which country surrounds The Gambia?
Senegal borders The Gambia to the north, east and south. The Atlantic Ocean lies to the west.
Why is The Gambia so narrow?
Its territory follows the River Gambia and the surrounding river corridor, giving the country its distinctive elongated shape.
How many regions does The Gambia have?
There are five administrative regions, with Banjul and Kanifing forming separate urban administrative areas.
Is Banjul the largest urban centre?
No. The nearby Serekunda urban area is larger and is an important commercial centre.
Can you cross the River Gambia by road?
Yes. The Senegambia Bridge is a major crossing. Ferries also operate at certain river locations.
Can I use this map to plan a trip?
Yes, for general orientation. Confirm current road conditions, border procedures, transport schedules and travel advice before departure.