Fathala Game Park is located within the Senegalese border and is just 12 kms north of the Gambian border. Both countries border the Atlantic Ocean, therefore fish is an important part of both countries’ cuisine.

The cuisine of Senegal is influenced by North African, French and Portuguese, while Gambia is is influenced by the Arabs, English and Portuguese.

Guests visiting Fathala will have travelled within Senegal or have crossed across from Gambia, so the likelihood of enjoying local foods made from similar ingredients will be strong, each country believing that their version is the best one.

When you arrive at the Safari Game Lodge you will be welcomed with a drink made from Bissap, Bissap is a delicious and refreshing non-alcoholic drink made from the dried hibiscus flowers and sugar. In Gambia this is known as “Wonjo Juice”.

Breakfast time you will be able to enjoy fresh fruits that are in season, mangoes, pawpaws, oranges and bananas. Enjoy a glass of fresh Bissap juice or try the lovely Baobab juice made from the fruit of the Baobab. Mixing the Baobab and the Bissap Juice is a good early morning tonic to start the day with!

“The other famous dishes that you will come across within the two countries are..”

Thieboudienne or ceebu Jën – (the rice of fish)- dubbed the national dish, this is made from fish, rice and tomato sauce. Other ingredients often include onions, carrots, cabbage, cassava and peanut oil.

Yassa is also another popular dish which is prepared with fish or chicken it is a spicy food prepared with lemon on chicken or fish with salt, paper, onion, clove, garlic, mustard, chili sauce, lime juice, water and white rice.

Domodah is a ground nut stew made with meat, fruits and vegetables and is served with rice.

So, look forward to some new taste adventures and why not even try the local “Tapalapa”- A bread looks much like a French bread stick and is commonly eaten for breakfast with jam.

Bon Appetit!