Crucero por el río Roots Explora la isla y el museo de Kunta Kinteh

We watched Roots as children and as adults, we read the book written by Alex Haley. Discussing the transatlantic slave trade can be uncomfortable and downright draining, yet it is one of those enduring aspects of world history that must be discussed and discussed again and again so that the world does not forget. Arch Tours did an extraordinary job making our tour educational, engaging, and something of a pilgrimage. The experience was rewarding beyond anything we expected in many ways. We have visited numerous plantations throughout the United States, as well as a few Doors of No Return on the Continent and sites where Africans were sold and enslaved. There is an immeasurable sadness that borders grief, knowing that countless people were treated as chattel and for no other reason than their skin color, and it was profitable. The Gambia is known as The Smiling Coast, and Arch Tours embodies this. We were in high spirits at the enthusiasm of our guide, Modou Lamin, and his historical attraction. He discussed the gravity of the slave trade and the magnitude of depravity that it involved, not as an embittered person or a detached narrator, but as a passionate storyteller who knew he must communicate the truth of what happened in the past and what needs to happen presently and in the future. We had the great fortune to meet relatives of Kunta Kunteh, and although most of us descendants of formerly enslaved Africans cannot trace our heritage back to any particular family in Africa, there was comfort in knowing that we survived, thrived, and have a forever connection to those who came before us and those who live now. After the official tour ended, we were not simply dropped off back at our hotel but engaged in a debrief of sorts where we ate together, discussed contemporary issues, and how we can work to alleviate them. Despite living on different continents and facing different struggles, we found fellowship in our commonality. We sincerely thank Mr. Conteh and Modou Lamin not only for doing this most important work, but for doing it in a spirit of humility, service, and positivity. We highly recommend this tour and especially for brothers and sisters in the diaspora looking to gain further insight into their roots.

Arch Tours went above and beyond. Our Roots River Cruise was truly a world-class experience. From the moment we were picked up from the hotel until we were dropped off, our tour guide was engaging, professional, and highly attentive to our needs throughout the day. We also had the pleasure of meeting the company’s owner, and we were impressed with the level of commitment shown by Modou Lamin and Mr. Conteh. If anyone is planning a trip to The Gambia, you cannot go wrong with Arch Tours. The food, conversation, and hospitality were exceptional. One of the most memorable aspects was Arch Tours' genuine effort to ensure we were comfortable. If you are looking for a knowledgeable, well-managed tour and are interested in learning some world history, look no further. Arch Tours does not disappoint. We have visited world heritage sites across the globe, and are honored to have experienced the Roots River Cruise, Kunta Kinteh Island, and the Museum with Arch Tours. For anyone looking to gain some insight into the history of The Gambia, the transatlantic slave trade that took place there, and experience the unforgettable memory of visiting Jufureh, and Kunta Kinte Island, Arch Tours is the right choice.

Transportation from our hotel was right on time. Our guide ML was professional, knowledgeable, personable and spoke English very clearly. The trip went quite smoothly, the transport was comfortable, the driver was considerate and skilled, which for Barra and Banjul is remarkable!

Our guide ML was superb. He was knowledgeable, enthusiastic and very familiar with the stopping points on the tour. What wa really wonderful and one of the reasons we choose Viator over tours organized by the cruise ship: thanks to ML's planning we were able to avoid the deluge of cruise ship tourists and could enjoy the locations almost completely on our own.

This was an amazing experience and I highly recommend it. Modou (ML) was the perfect guide. He was extremely knowledgeable and very resourceful. I would go on just about any tour with him. The sites we visited were meaningful and memorable. We learned a lot about both the history of the region and the people today.

Interesting and moving and informative day tracing the history of slavery in Gambia ML was a a delightful host. Thank you.

From the moment Modolamine of Arch Tours picked us up at our hotel, the Kunta Kinteh Island tour was seamless and unforgettable. The tour included a visit to the museum, food, and drinks—although we had eaten breakfast at the hotel and weren’t hungry, Modolamine kindly refunded the lunch portion, which was very thoughtful. The guides were knowledgeable, respectful, and brought the island’s history during the transatlantic slave trade to life. Walking the island, taking in the river views, and reflecting on the stories was deeply moving. This tour is educational, emotional, and perfectly organized. Highly recommended if you visit The Gambia.

This tour was well worth the money. It’s a must do if you’re in The Gambia. Our guide was friendly and very knowledgeable. We learned a great deal about Juffureh Village and Albreda. The icing on the cake was getting to visit Kunta Kinte island. After the tour we wanted to stop at the market and our guide was most gracious and patient in helping us find the items that we wanted. Thank you for making it one of our favorite days in your country. I’d recommend this tour to everyone.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kunta Kinteh Island and its related places carry exceptional universal value as witnesses to the African-European encounter and the history of the slave trade - lest we forget. Protection, learning and remembrance must guide all development in this area - for local people as well as foreign visitors. Some work around conservation-compliant visitor facilities, safe and regulated docks at embarkation points and on the island, training of local guides and operators, and clear safety standards for boat services can strengthen stewardship while encouraging responsible tourism. Efforts towards conservation and immediate improved management will both safeguard the site and sustain community livelihoods for generations to come. Visitors - local or foreign - are encouraged to engage respectfully with the site, support local communities and contribute to preserving this shared heritage for future generations. We thank our guide, Mo Lamin (or ML as he preferred to be called) and others who facilitated our visit.

Highly recommend this tour which exceeded my expectations. I joined another solo traveller we both had a very positive experience. Our guide and his team were extremely accomodating and attentive to our needs. We got indepth historical and cultural insights, gained a wealth of information and perspectives. The guide was ponctual and highly organised which made for a smooth and pleasant experience. Thank you!