Banjul Port Guide

BANJUL, THE GAMBIA

Banjul, the capital of The Gambia, is a small yet bustling port city situated at the mouth of the Gambia River. Known for its colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and friendly locals, Banjul serves as a gateway to the country’s rich culture, history, and natural beauty. Known as the “Smiling Coast of Africa,” The Gambia is celebrated for its friendly and welcoming people.

KEY INFO

PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Ships dock at the Port of Banjul, located 2km from the city centre (5-min drive). An optional shuttle bus service runs from the pier to Albert Market (7-min drive).

Facilities: Tourist information, currency, souvenir market, and taxis.

Port Address: Banjul Port – 34 Liberation Avenue P.O. Box 617 Banjul, Gambia

Getting Around: Banjul is compact and walkable in the city centre. Taxis are readily available and inexpensive for longer distances. Public minibuses (“town trip”) operate for 10-20 GMD per ride. Pay in cash.

Taxis: Operate on flat rates; fares to nearby attractions range from 50-150 GMD. Pay in cash.

Tourist Bus: There is no Hop-On Hop-Off bus service in Banjul. Private guided tours are available.

For more information: Visit https://visitthegambia.com/

BANJUL HIGHLIGHTS

Albert Market: A vibrant market selling everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts and colourful fabrics. 7a-7:30p (Mon-Fri), 9a-5:30p (Sat-Sun) | Free | 1.5km (10-min walk) from port.

Arch 22: A monumental arch commissioned to commemorate the military coup that brough Yahya Jammeh to power on 22 July 1994. Ironically, Jammeh was exiled in 2017 for refusing to accept election defeat to Adama Barrow… 22 years after taking power. Panoramic observation platform at top.
8a-4p | 200 GMD | 2km (25-min walk) from Albert Market.

National Museum of The Gambia: Explore exhibits on The Gambia’s history, culture, and natural heritage. 8a-6p (Mon-Thu), 8a-1p (Fri-Sat) | 100 GMD | 1km (13-min walk) from Albert Market. www.ncac.gm

State House: The official residence of the President of the Gambia and one of the city’s most prominent colonial-era buildings. No photos. 24 hours (exterior only) | Free | 850m (12-min walk) from Albert Market.

King Fahad Mosque: Banjul’s largest and most important mosque, on Independence Drive. Built in 1980s with support from Saudi Arabia. All Day (seek permission) | Free | 2km (24-min walk) from Albert Market.

St. Mary’s Cathedral: A historic church showcasing stunning colonial architecture and distinctive African murals inside. All Day (seek permission) | Free | 1km (12-min walk) from Albert Market.

A LITTLE FURTHER AFIELD

Fajara War Cemetery: A peaceful cemetery honouring Commonwealth soldiers who served during WWII.
6a-6p | Free | 14km (20-min drive) from port. www.cwgc.org

Bakau Craft Market: A bustling marketplace offering handmade jewellery, wooden carvings, and textiles.
Hours unknown | Free | 10 km (20-min drive) from port.

Serrekunda Market: The largest market in The Gambia, offering fresh produce, crafts, and clothing.
Hours unknown | Free | 13 km (25-min drive) from port.

Kachikally Crocodile Pool: A sacred fertility site in nearby Bakau where you can see and interact with live crocodiles in a serene setting. 8a-7p | 100 GMD | 13km (18-min drive) from port.

BEACHES NEAR BANJUL

Banjul Beach: The closest beach to the port, offering a quiet atmosphere and scenic views of the Gambia River estuary. Ideal for a short walk or quick relaxation. 24 hours | Free | 1 km (5-min drive) from port.

Cape Point Beach: A serene beach with golden sands, calm waters, and nearby restaurants and resorts.
24 hours | Free | 12 km (25-min drive) from port.

Kololi Beach: A lively beach area known for its vibrant atmosphere, water sports, and beach bars.
24 hours | Free | 15 km (30-min drive) from port.

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REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Abuko Nature Reserve: A lush wildlife sanctuary featuring trails and opportunities to spot monkeys, antelope, and exotic birds. 8a-6p | 75 GMD | 20 km (40-min drive) from port. www.abukonaturereserve.gm

River Gambia National Park: Explore the diverse flora and fauna of this pristine park on guided boat tours. Tours: 3950 GMD | 80 km (2-hour drive) from port. www.rivergambiapark.gm

TIPPING CUSTOMS

Optional. A 10% service charge is common in restaurants. Tips for guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.

FOOD & DRINK

Domoda: A hearty peanut stew with meat or fish, served with rice.

Benachin: A flavourful one-pot rice dish cooked with vegetables, fish, or meat.

Wonjo Juice: A tangy, refreshing drink made from dried hibiscus flowers, enjoyed throughout The Gambia.

Baobab Juice: A refreshing drink made from the fruit of the baobab tree, rich in nutrients.

SOUVENIR TOP TIPS

Take home colourful batik fabrics, handcrafted wooden carvings, and locally made jewellery. Gambian spices and baobab powder also make excellent gifts.

LOCAL LINGO