Bustling Banjul

If you’re after an African adventure, want to see interesting animals and visit a place with plenty of character then Banjul in The Gambia hits the spot.
Banjul, Gambia’s capital, is the perfect location if you want to have an affordable week’s break. It boasts a tropical climate, is packed with culture and is within a reasonable flying distance.


If you have never been to Africa before then The Gambia, nicknamed the ‘smiling coast’ because everyone is so friendly, is a great introduction with its gorgeous beaches, exotic wildlife and crazy markets with African craft stalls. It’s one of the continent’s smallest countries and is on the West coast, less than 6 hours away from London and in the same time zone.

Don’t Miss
The river trips. The Gambian Experience tours have many excursions along the river such as lazy day cruises and a half-day boat trip to James Island where you can learn all about the colonial history. You can also explore the countryside in a 4x4 or Land rover and make trips to meet the villagers and their families to get a taste of local life.


Shopping
Haggle in Banjul’s Albert Market. There’s so much to see and buy – why not pick up some colourful material? The shopkeepers can instantly sew it into dresses, tops and scarves to match. There’s a craft section so you can buy authentic handmade wooden sculptures. If Banjul market is too busy the smaller Serrekunda market is only a 10-minute drive away.

Beaches
The Gambia has three beaches on the Atlantic Ocean - Paradise Beach , Senegal
Beach and Banjul Beach . Find beachside restaurants with hammocks, palm trees and you may even see fishing boats along the coast which stretches on both sides of the mouth of the river Gambia.

Animals
Bird lovers will find a huge variety in Banjul . Many can be spotted along the river in the mangroves and you can go on excursions where you wake up with the birds in the early morning.
A 10-minute taxi ride away you can find a crocodile pool where you can touch the crocs and even feed them if you’re feeling brave enough! You’ll also spot wild monkeys in the bushes and can visit small parks dotted around Banjul, where these daredevil monkeys will climb all over you in exchange for peanuts! You can also travel across the border into Senegal, which is less than an hour away from Banjul, for a Safari. The national park is home to wild giraffes,white rhinos, zebras, buffaloes, antelopes and warthogs.

Night Life
The liveliest place in Banjul is the Senegambian Strip, which has tons of restaurants, bars and nightclubs. You can find a variety of different eating places from Indian to Italian or even sample local dishes such as Yassi curry and ladyfish. The place doesn’t close until late and tourists can rub shoulder with locals. Reggae music, European chart music and also a mix of African tribal drumming are played in the clubs.

Any Buts?
Gambia is a third world country so be prepared to witness some poverty. Avoid the ‘bumbtsers’ or con men who lurk outside hotels and tourist areas. In high season there are plenty of tourist police so you always feel safe. Bush taxis may also be cheaper than the tourist ones but not all are fully insured. If you ever feel uncomfortable, guides from the hotel are more than happy to escort you out and stay with you for a small tip.

A seven-night package from The Gambian Experience costs from £319 per person in low season (May-September) and from £495 per person in high season (October-April), including flights, taxes, transfers and breakfast.