The Gambia is the smallest country on the African mainland, surrounded by Senegal, with the Atlantic coast in the west. It stretches along the Gambia River and has around 3 million inhabitants. The capital is Banjul. The Gambia is known for its rich culture, diverse wildlife and tropical climate. The economy is mainly based on agriculture and tourism.
Leybato’s asset: the lovely flat beaches
In the beginning it was just a fish stall offering grilled fish. But with more guests and success, the business grew surprisingly fast and … the Leybato Beach Hotel was founded and … very quickly became the favourite place of backpackers and beach lovers.
Breathtaking sunsets, very good food in the Leybato restaurant and more and more repeat guests from the UK, the Netherlands, the Scandinavian countries and especially Austria, Germany and Switzerland showed a beautiful Gambian hospitality concept with the unique selling point of being on one of the best beaches in West Africa…
The cosy Leybato Beach Hotel with its now 17 rooms and cute round huts was founded 40 years ago by the current managing director Mr Saihou Demba. The small beach hotel is perfectly situated on one of the most beautiful beaches in The Gambia. It is located in the famous Fajara area, 5 kilometres from Banjul, the central capital of The Gambia.
Catering has been the main activity of the Leybato boss 50 years ago
More and more customers of Mr Demba’s food stall asked for nice, but not expensive, beach accommodation. So he soon offered a few pretty round huts for guests. Because of the breathtaking view of the beaches, they were almost always fully booked and provided a new business for Mr Demba’s family and his employees who lived near Leybato.
Leybato’s green garden
Mango trees, cashew trees, coconut trees, the characteristic baobab trees, acacias, casuarinas – and birds feel at home in this little paradise on the beaches of Fajara…
Safe beach at Leybato – perfect for families with children
The usually very calm and mild mid-Atlantic is warm enough for swimming all year round. Whether in July or December – the temperatures in The Gambia always invite you to take a few laps in the waves or sunbathe.
What has been attracting holidaymakers from Europe to Leybato Beach Hotel for decades?
A shallow and very beautiful sandy beach. The usually very calm and mild mid-Atlantic, the warm Atlantic and air temperatures, whether in July or December – the temperatures in The Gambia and at Leybato invite you to swim and splash around. Children can let off steam here and do so safely.
The food is good, the prices are affordable, here a three-week holiday in The Gambia costs no more than 1600 US Dollar … including flights, if clever Europeans book a little smartly in advance.
What guests can expect here?
The Leybato Beach Hotel in The Gambia is a charming hotel close to the beach near Bakau. It is located directly on a quiet stretch of the Atlantic coast, surrounded by lush nature and palm trees. The hotel offers cosy, simple rooms with a balcony or terrace and a wonderful sea view. Guests can enjoy local and international dishes in the restaurant and relax in the bar with direct access to the beach. It is an ideal place for travellers looking for a quiet, authentic atmosphere.
