Things To Do
in Banjul
Banjul is a compact coastal capital perched at the mouth of the Gambia River where the Atlantic touches West Africa. The city blends colonial-era architecture with bustling markets, fishing boats, and vibrant street life. Life in Banjul centers on the harbor, Albert Market, and a string of seaside eateries serving fresh seafood.
Visitors can mix city sights with river sunsets and easy access to nearby nature reserves and beaches.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of The Gambia to immerse yourself in the rich history and diverse cultures of the region. Engage with informative exhibits and local artifacts that reflect the country's heritage. Afterwards, take a leisurely stroll through the vibrant streets, soaking up the local atmosphere and enjoying the hustle and bustle.
After lunch, head over to the Arch 22, an iconic landmark that offers stunning panoramic views of Banjul and its surrounding areas. This is a perfect spot to capture memorable photographs. Explore the nearby Albert Market for a taste of local life and a chance to shop for unique crafts and souvenirs.
As the sun sets, dine at a waterfront restaurant where you can savor traditional Gambian cuisine while enjoying the gentle sea breeze. Listen to local musicians playing traditional tunes to enhance your experience. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the beach, basking in the serene ambiance of the coast.
Begin your adventure with a guided tour of the Bijilo Forest Park, where you'll encounter diverse wildlife and massive baobab trees. Keep your camera at hand for great shots of monkeys and various bird species that thrive in this lush sanctuary. Take in the tranquil surroundings as you hike along the park's well-marked trails.
Post-lunch, take a boat trip to the nearby Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore the island, learning about its significance in the transatlantic slave trade while strolling through its historical remnants. The scenic boat ride also offers beautiful views of the Gambian landscape.
Upon your return to Banjul, treat yourself to a sunset dinner at a local tavern. Enjoy lively conversation with locals and fellow travelers while sampling some fresh grilled fish or a delightful peanut stew. The evening wraps up with enjoying traditional storytelling or drumming performances.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $20-40 |
| 💧Water (1.5 L) bottle | $0.50-1 |
| 🚇One-way local transport ticket | $0.50-1 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room per night | $40-90 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact city center ideal for walking
- Fresh seafood and vibrant markets
- Warm, welcoming locals and rich cultural texture
- Easy access to nearby nature reserves and beaches
- Nightlife is more low-key than mega cities
- Hot and humid climate can be exhausting
- Varied reliability of services outside core zones
- Infrastructure can be uneven in less-touristy areas
- "Nanga def?" - How are you?
- "Jamm rekk" - Peace / I’m fine
- "Jërëjëf" - Thank you
- "Ba beneen yoon" - See you later
- "Nanga def? Mangi fi" - How are you? I am here.
Places to Visit in Banjul
Visit one of these nice places.
A riot of color, textiles, and spices offering dynamic street photography and candid market scenes.
Sunset over the Atlantic, fishing boats, and river traffic provide atmospheric maritime photography.
Historic facades and cultural displays provide opportunities for architectural and portrait shots.
Food in Banjul
Banjul Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A flavorful one-pot dish with tomato, rice, vegetables, and fish or meat; widely found in markets and casual eateries.
Must-Try!
A rich peanut stew with meat or fish, commonly served with rice and a staple of Gambian tables.
A leafy greens and palm-oil stew, often cooked with fish and served with rice or fufu-like sides.
Freshly caught fish simply seasoned and grilled, a coastal favorite near the harbor and beaches.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, spices, dried fish, and street bites; a great place to sample local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm handshake and polite exchange are common; use respectful language and modest dress in markets and religious sites.
Ask before taking close-up photos of people or private property; be mindful in religious settings.
Safety
Tipping in Banjul
Ensure a smooth experience
5–10% is common in sit-down restaurants if a service charge isn’t included; small tips for porters and guides are appreciated.
Cash (GMD and USD) is widely used; many larger hotels and some restaurants accept cards, but carry small denominations for markets and taxis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler evenings and low humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and city walks, with clear skies for photography.
Hot and humid with afternoon rains; plan early-morning outings and bring a light rain shell for showers.
Very hot and sunny; stay hydrated, seek shade mid-day, and enjoy early morning excursions.
Banjul at Night
Hiking in Banjul
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near Brikama offering wildlife viewing and short, scenic walks.
Private forest reserve with guided nature walks, mangroves, and cultural activities a short drive from Banjul.
Airports
How to reach Banjul by plane.
Main international gateway for The Gambia, located roughly 20–40 minutes from central Banjul depending on traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of The Gambia’s largest ethnic groups, with a strong presence in the capital.
Widely represented in markets and urban life, a key trading group in the region.
Significant community contributing to the city’s cultural diversity.
Smaller communities that add to The Gambia’s mosaic of languages and traditions.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport, with local clubs and community matches throughout the country.
Common at schools and community events; various local competitions happen seasonally.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Banjul.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for bean- and peanut-based stews, lentil dishes, and vegetable curries; confirm stock and broth ingredients with servers.