We spent 4 nights at Farakunku Ecolodge with lovely hosts Heather and Moses as part of a birding trip. We stayed in one of four beautiful suites with a fabulous king sized four poster bed draped in white net, sitting area and ensuite bathroom. We had a private terrace outside with chairs and a hammock slung in the shade of a beautiful garden which was full of birds. There is a lovely little plunge pool where Little Bee-eaters came to drink every afternoon.
In fact the whole area around the lodge is fantastic for birds including Tujering and Tanji bird reserves. We also very much enjoyed the self-guided walks (on which over 170 species of birds have been seen) provided by Heather which allowed us to wander through the beautiful countryside on our own, feeling very safe and we were greeted with a warm welcome by all the local people we met.
The staff, who all live locally, were lovely and Heather and Moses were incredibly helpful and great company. They can organise birding, fishing or sightseeing trips – anything you want to do. They even offer to give you a free lift to the nearest beach and back. Or you could just enjoy a serene, luxurious retreat where you can fully relax.
And by the way, the three course candlelit dinners prepared by Lamin the chef, are wonderful.

Describing The Gambia and Farakunku is difficult as it is different things to different people. A relaxing holiday - yes; quality accommodation, yes: an active holiday, yes; an eye-opening holiday, yes.
Sun, sun, sun. No mosquitos seen during our week, in fact no nasties at all. The more you put yourself into the holiday the more you get out of it.
If your interested in Eco-rourism then this is the place for you. If you like good food this is it.
The hosts Heather and Moses plus all the wonderful staff are like friends rather than 'in charge' and nothing is too much trouble.
Cast all prejudices aside regarding Africa as if you haven't been before this is the perfect way to start.
The mark for sleep quality is only based on the numerous birds who start early which is wonderful too - especially the African Laughing Dove !
We will definitely return - and soon.

It is a wonderful Lodge in a tranquil and rural setting. Your hosts Heather and Moses are very special people who look after you like family and friends. The lodges are spacious and pristine with four distinct areas, a great bathroom, comfy living area, sleeping area with lovely netted four poster beds and a dressing area with a lockable door as a security facility. The food is all local and excellant. Heathers joy is her garden which attracts widlife and is a great place to chill out, as is the plunge pool area, complete with sun loungers, and an array of bird life. The staff are friendly and it is staffed 24/7, Moses provide a shuttle to the beach which has miles of golden sand, a good beach bar and no hassle or bumsters. Thank you Heather and Moses we cannot wait to go back. Ray

We had a great stay at the Farakunku Lodges, the owners Heather and Moses were extremely good hosts. The lodges are spacious, kept spotlessly clean and have a walk in wardrobe where you can lock your valuables. The staff were always freindly and helpful. Moses was happy to drive us to the local beach (free of charge) We only stayed 3 nights but wished we had stayed longer