Roots Juffureh River Cruise

OVERVIEW

Discover the land of Alex Haley's epic novel and TV series, Roots: The Saga of an American Family, during this scenic and memorable full-day cruise along the Juffureh River. Depart Banjul Port via boat for the long, relaxing cruise up-river to the centuries-old trading station of Albreda, whose flagpole gained fame during the slave-trade days. According to local lore, the flagpole was once thought to guarantee freedom to any slave who touched it after escaping from nearby James Island. Next, you will proceed to the Museum of Slavery for a unique insight into Gambia's slave trade. From here, you will take a short walk to the village of Juffure, purported birthplace of Kunta Kinte, the central character in the novel and TV series, Roots: The Saga of an American Family. The original home of Alex Haley's great-great-grandfather stands near the mosque; it is still inhabited by the family, and may be visited during your stroll through the village. You will then embark the boat again and be served lunch while continuing your river cruise towards James Island. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island is steeped in slave trade history. Although you will not set foot on the island, the boat will cruise close enough for you to see the fortress ruins and learn about its history from your guide. Following your visit, you will commence the cruise back to the pier. En route, you may see dolphins swimming in the estuary.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Visit the ancient Albreda trading station and the flagpole thought to have been a pathway to freedom for slaves.
• Obtain a deeper understanding of Gambia’s slave trade at the thought-provoking Museum of Slavery.
• Visit Juffureh, said to be the birthplace of Kunta Kinteh, central character of Alex Haley’s Roots.
• View Kunta Kinteh Island’s fortress ruins and discover its slave-trading history.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.