Is it safe to visit Gambia and the Island?

The Gambia is known as the ‘Smiling Coast of Africa’ and you will find most of the people you meet friendly and welcoming. Gambia has one of the lowest crime rates in the world, but please take sensible precautions when passing through crowds, as pick pockets are known to operate in the busy market places.

Is the sea safe to swim in?

Yes but the usual precautions should be taken, i.e. don’t swim alone or go out too far. The local village children usually come down on Sundays to take a dip.

Is there a First Aid person on sight?

Yes there is a trained first aider, and there are trained nurses at the village clinic.

How much do the trips cost?

Please view our Things To Do page for the list of activities. Costs can be obtained on arrival from reception, or drop us an email enquiry with the particular trip you have in mind.

How far is the nearest village?

The nearest village is Niji, and its approximately 15 minute walk away

Is there a shop on the Island?

Yes there are several shops on the Island, which sell your basic commodities such as bread, milk, tinned fish, cigarettes, etc. We also have a small shop at the lodge.

Do you sell bottled water?

Yes we sell bottled water from our bar.

What shall I bring for the school?

Pens, Books, Pencils etc. are always greatly received, as well as any small donations

Shall I bring sweets for the local children?

Yes we all love sweets, but as any good parent knows to many are not good for your teeth.

Medical Advice

It is advisable to have the following : Yellow fever inoculation and to get a prescription from your doctor for anti-malarial.

Booking terms and advice

We recommend you check flight availability and confirmation before booking your Jinack Lodge stay.

Any changes requested to dates will depend on availability- although you will not be charged for changes, if we do not have availability for your new dates then you will forfeit your deposit. Could you please let us know of any date changes a.s.a.p.

All deposit must be paid within 14 days of receiving the payment request.

We will no longer reserve the lodge after the one month time period.


Cancellation more than 28 days prior to arrival will receive a full refund of any money paid to us.

Cancellation between 14 and 27 days will receive 50% refund

Cancellation within 14 days of arrival will be non refundable.

Cancellation of nights not used after arrival will be non refundable.

Bookings cancelled due to inclement weather or illness are non refundable.
On your confirmation of the booking we will send you your booking/payment details

We recommend you take out the relevant insurance before booking any stay.

Although we have our own Public Liability Insurance we strongly advise you to take out your own personal travel insurance.


All quotations are subject to availability and are not guaranteed until the booking is confirmed with payment. Quotes are valid for 7 days from issue date only.

All stays longer than 14 days qualify for a 10% reduction

A 50% deposit is required with the other 50% being paid on your arrival.