The Best Travel Guide to Banjul

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Gambia

Banjul

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Africa Gambia Banjul

Overview

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Banjul The guide was updated: 2022-12-12

The low-rise Gambian capital might not be as advanced of a visitor hub as one would, perhaps, expect from a city of such national significance, but it certainly boasts some raw appeal contained within its pulsating and often rather hectic streets. Beyond Banjul proper lies the sprawling Serekunda — Gambia's most populous area — and the vacationer-favoured coastal settlements of Kololi, Bakau, Koto and Fajara.

Facts

Population:	Banjul 34,828 Greater Banjul Area 413,397
Currency:	Gambian dalasi = 100 bututs
Search Accommodation:	Hotels »
Emergency numbers:	Ambulance 16 Police 17 Coast Guard +220 4497426 Banjul Police +220 4227256 Banjul Fire +220 422 8211
Newspapers:	Daily Observer Foroyaa Newspaper Gambia Daily
Opening hours:	General opening hours are Mon-Thurs 9am–12am & 2:30pm–6pm, Fri–Sat 9am–midnight. Some businesses (especially during high season) stay open until 10pm.
Tourist information:	Gambia Tourism Authority Palma Rima Highway, Kololi, Gambia +220 4462493 info@gta.gm

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Section in Banjul

The small, gritty port town of Banjul rarely figures as the final destination on visitor itineraries. If a few hours is all you have, explore the Royal Albert Market – the town's busiest commercial grounds – and shop around Ecowas and Liberation Avenues. If time permits, pay a visit to Banjul's most known landmark (Arch 22) – sweeping views unfold from its top floor. For further pursuits, look to nearby settlements, abundant natural parks and the beaches of Gambia's coastline.

Arch 22

Arch 22

Built to commemorate the coup of 1994, the unmissable cream-colored structure is a great vantage point from which to take in Banjul in its entirety. There is a small museum on its second floor, containing traditional Gambian crafts, artwork, clothing, and even historic weaponry.

Albert Market

Albert Market

The busy market is one of Banjul's primary attractions, a vibrant kaleidoscope of multi-colored peppers, all manner of foodstuffs (from rather standard fruit and vegetables to salted fish and even dried sea snails), fabrics, jewellery, and beauty products such as wonder-working shea butter.

St Joseph's Adult Education & Skills Centre

St Joseph's Adult Education & Skills Centre

The local institution has supported disadvantaged women for decades now, offering training in fabric processing, craft-making, sewing, and other practical skills. Hand-made products created by learners and graduates may be purchased at the adjacent shop at very reasonable prices.

Gambia National Museum

Gambia National Museum

The National Museum of Gambia contains a vast collection of artifacts dating back to various points in the nation's past - from prehistoric and pre-colonial times to the most recent era. Items on display range from folk culture pieces to historic documents and maps of the region.

Bijilo Forest Park

Bijilo Forest Park

The Bijilo Forest Park is most known for its inhabitants - it is home to a large population of monkeys, many of which do not mind interacting with visitors. Beware of unsolicited offers of being guided through the park, as the premises are safe and rather easy to navigate. Remember to bring peanuts, the monkeys' preferred treats (these may also be purchased on-site).

River Gambia National Park

River Gambia National Park

The River Gambia National Park (or Baboon Island) is a collection of 5 river islands inhabited by all manner of indigenous animal species, from the endangered hippopotamus to omnipresent primates - bonobos and chimpanzees. The best way to experience this natural reserve is to stay overnight - the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project Camp (Badi Mayo) offers all-inclusive stays in safari tents on the water.

Fishing

Fishing

The natural environment of coastal Gambia is very favourable fishing grounds - local waters contain a plethora of marine treasures, including dozens of species of fish, crabs, oysters, shrimp, and many other. Some local companies that offer guided fishing tours on board a traditional pirogue are: Paradise Fishing Gambia Denton Bridge Harbour, Banjul +316 28 21 34 32 www.paradisefishinggambia.com Pa's Fishing Company 49 Gloucester Street, Banjul +220 729 3785

Bird Watching

Bird Watching

Gambia is home to multiple bird species, many of which are present in the wetlands down Kankujereh Road. To make the most of your bird-sighting, join a guided tour or start by taking a trip to Bijilo Forest Park & Nature Trail, known for its abundant fauna.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool

Kachikally Crocodile Pool

A place of supernatural significance to locals, the Crocodile Pool is visited by women who have lost all hope to conceive a child - it is believed that a visit here may help the process along (hence the name "Kachikally" given to some children at birth). The pool is home to well looked-after Nile crocodiles, some of which are so tame they may be pet. Do not miss the adjacent museum, nature trail, and gift shop.

Abuko Nature Reserve

Abuko Nature Reserve

Compact in size compared to some other nature reserves in The Gambia, Abuko is a convenient half-hour drive away from town. The nature reserve offers ample opportunities for bird-watching and interacting with resident monkeys. Skip the on-site zoo if seeing caged animals upsets you.

Makasutu Culture Forest

Makasutu Culture Forest

A visit to the Makasutu Culture Forest (about a 45-minute drive out of Banjul) is an experience to be had by visitors to the area looking to experience Gambian wildlife guided by an experienced local. There is a free to use on-site pool, so do bring your swimwear.

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