Banjul is the capital of Gambia and its fourth largest city. The city is on an island, which has constrained its size - its population is only 31,000 (2013). Consequently much of the population now is based on the mainland between the airport and the city. The main tourist and business centres are around Bakau, Fajara, Kotu and Serrekunda. Banjul has become very popular as a package holiday destination with British and other European visitors.
Photos: Wikimedia Commons contributors.
Most hotels will have a selection of green tourist taxis, which have fixed prices to the most popular destinations. Yellow taxis are cheaper and more fun; locals buy a seat in a taxi on a journey from junction to junction for a few dalasi, or pay for a "town trip" to their destination. Minibuses and trucks are colourful, but extremely uncomfortable. Bicycles are also available for rental. Cycling is popular for young locals, but there is little respect for the safety of cyclists on or near the roads. Car hire is available from Avis and AB, both of which are based at the SeneGambia Hotel. Car hire will cost about D1500/day for a small car. Gambians drive mostly on the right.
1 Arch 22 (at the end of Independence Drive). Gives good views over Banjul city. The gate is 35 m tall and the centre of an open square. It houses a textile museum. D200. 2 The Gambia National Museum, Independence Drive, info@ncac.gm. M-Th 9AM-6PM, F-Su 9AM-5PM. Small museum with cultural and historic artifacts D200. 04/2026. (updated Apr 2026) Albert Market Banjul State House Banjul Court House The African Heritage Museum or African Heritage Centre is a museum and art gallery in Banjul, The Gambia. It holds a large collection of African art and statues. The city has two cathedrals and several major mosques.
Being on the Atlantic ocean, Banjul has some excellent and well priced seafood on offer. The locally produced peanuts are also very good and go well with a pint of Julbrew. Nefertiti, ☏ +220 4222400. Good buffet, great location on the beach and free WiFi. Calypso Bar & Restaurant, in Bakau, ☏ +220 992 0201. Watch marsh crocodiles and monkeys while you have a lunch. Gibbi's on the Beach, in Bakau, ☏ +220 530 2976. Seafood and rice and other edibles on the Cape Point beach. Smiling Coast Guesthouse Bar & Restaurant, Kofi Anan Street, Cape Point, ☏ +220 449 4653. There are many good restaurants in the road leading to the hotels at Kololi Beach.
Guide content from Wikivoyage contributors (CC BY-SA) — abridged; the full article has much more.
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In Aug, Banjul typically sees ~29°C daytime highs and 29 rainy days.
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