Banjul Beach holidays

Banjul Beach holidays

A small seaport located on the River Gambia, Banjul has a low-key night-life but brims with energy and colour during the day. Banjul Beach has a few restaurants and various nature parks within reach, whilst the large local markets offer the chance to barter for authentic African crafts. A taste of authentic Africa, Banjul Beach is a perfect Gambian retreat where you can relax on a palm–fringed beach and soak up the sub–tropical sunshine.

As the capital city of The Gambia, there’s a long history dating back to the colonial era, marking the 200th anniversary of its official founding in 2016. Visit the city's museums and two cathedrals to learn more about its history and culture. Banjul Beach is also a popular base for day trips to Gambia's inland natural attractions such as the Abuko Nature Reserve.

Things to do

Spend some time at the Banjul Gambia National Museum during your holiday, where you can learn all about the history of this nation, such as the colonial period, the liberation and growth of Banul, and West Africa's archaeological history. Or visit the Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool in Bakau, where you can see a sacred crocodile pool used for fertility rituals.

Home to the large and vibrant Albert Market, you’ll find great local produce, wooden masks, and locally made fabrics. It is named after the British royal Albert, Prince Consort, who was Queen Victoria's husband. If you're looking for some quality hand-crafted souvenirs to take home with you, this is an excellent place to visit.

Excellent beaches

The remote paradise of Banjul Beach provides the ideal setting for peaceful days by the shore. Wild greenery and palm trees decorate the long stretch of soft sand that shelves gently into crystal clear waters. There’s plenty of opportunity for water sports along the coast just outside of town, where you can parasail, ride a banana boat and hire a boat. Or if you prefer to just relax, recline on sun loungers, taking shade under parasols as you enjoy the views of the glistening coast.

History and culture

Banjul Beach is a quaint seaport and the capital of The Gambia, which is one of the smallest in Africa. The beach resort can be found on the south of the River Gambia and comes alive each day with packed markets, working fishing boats and exotic species of birds. Colonial British originally established it in the 19th century who used its location as a base for important trading up the river. Trade is still a huge part of Banjul’s culture, which can be explored in its vibrant city markets selling everything from fresh fruit, fish and textiles.

Vibrant nightlife

Banjul Beach has a relatively low key nightlife but there is a variety of restaurants and bars to enjoy. Spend your evening dining in one of the coastal restaurants and sampling locally grown fruit and authentic Gambian cuisine such as domoda, a heart meat stew in peanut sauce. Make your way to one of the bars and pubs to enjoy a vibrant atmosphere and a place to sip on a cocktail or try the iconic local beer, Jul Brew. For something more upbeat, head to one of the few open air clubs where you can dance till the early hours to music played by a live band.

More Travel Guides

We also have travel guides available for destinations, including: Bijilo | Brufut Heights | GambiaKololi Beach | Kotu Beach

 

Map of Banjul Beach

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30℃

Banjul, Gambia is hot all year round, although the nights are noticeably cooler in the winter, which is a little sunnier, too. The area can experience intense heatwaves from around March to May, when temperatures can occasionally exceed 38°C

6 hours

The nearest airport is Banjul International Airport (BJL), around 30km from the main resort. It’s served by London Gatwick, Manchester, and Birmingham on a seasonal basis, so it's a good idea to check flight dates before you book your accommodation.

Banjul Beach is best for...

Nature Lovers: Because of its wonderful natural scenery and exotic birds, this destination makes an ideal base for nature lovers.

Sun Seekers: For pristine white sands and plenty of tropical sunshine, Banjul Beach is the perfect escape for sun seekers.

Bargain Hunters: You can find a wide variety of local goods at the craft market or ‘bengdulalu’ shopping areas if you're looking for some souvenirs.

Fast facts for Banjul Beach

Language: The languages spoken in Gambia are English, Mandinka and Wolof, among many others. English is actually the official language, which is taught in most schools and is used for official purposes

Currency: The currency used in Banjul Gambia is Dalasi (D)

Local time: Banjul Beach is the same time as GMT/UK time

Fly to: Banjul International Airport. Transfer time to Banjul Beach is about 50 minutes

Flight time from UK: The Banjul Beach flight time is 6–7 hours

Tourist Information: Further Gambia tourist information can be found at www.visitthegambia.gm

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Getting around Banjul Beach

By bus: Buses in this area come in all colours, shapes and sizes, and can be hired for groups and tours. They’re an excellent choice for bigger families travelling to Banjul and can be arranged from your hotel reception.

By taxi: Taxis can be found near your hotel, so look out for these green cars. They might be a little more expensive than other taxis, but they’re regulated for your safety so are well worth the extra cost during your holiday. Make sure to always agree a price with the driver before you set off.

Events in Banjul Beach

Roots Homecoming: Every other May. This biannual festival in the town of Albreda brings descendants of Gambian families from all over the world to their ancestral home to discover their roots with music, shows and a celebration of all things uniquely African.

Bob Marley Day: This area celebrates national Bob Marley Day with a fantastic beach festival, but there are regular theme nights and beach parties throughout the spring, including an African King / Queen Banquet and a Masquerade Ball.

Banjul Beach safety and security

Visa / Health: Before you travel, visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/gambia for recommendations and advice on visas and health for your holiday to The Gambia

Banjul Beach weather

Temperature: Low 30s (°C) by day all year round.

Best time to visit: Winter and spring if you want to avoid the wet seasons.

Banjul, Gambia has a very warm climate, with daytime temperatures normally exceeding 30°C all year round. The hottest period of the year is February to April, when it can often reach 35°C or higher, while the wet season from around June to October is very humid and sticky with warm nights. From December to February, the nights are much more pleasant, cooling down to around 16 to 17°C, so this is the best time of year to explore the destination. Rain is also rare from November to May, when humidity is much lower.

Weather in Banjul Beach

Jan, Feb, March, Apr, May, June, July, Aug, Sep, Oct, Nov, Dec 

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