Formerly known as Bathurst, beautiful Banjul is the capital city of The Gambia, sitting at the point where the Gambia River meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The colourful island boasts a wealth of local produce, from vibrant textiles to handmade jewellery, as well as archaic colonial buildings such as the National Museum, and the mighty, 36 metre-high Arch 22 gateway, commemorating the 1994 military coup.
Must sees for free
Stare into the dark history of the slave trade and its abolition, stretching from pre-colonial and pre-slavery times to independence, on Kunta Kinteh Island. Explore caves and prisons where slaves were held before being shipped off to the American colonies and see some of the cannons still standing in their military attack position.
Locals and tourists alike head to Albert Market to shop. The emporium-like bazaar is split into three distinct markets - wholesale and retail, fresh produce and tourist stalls. Do not be put off by the bustling crowds, but get ready to hunt for bargains.
Set in a old Portuguese building, St Joseph’s Adult Education and Skills Centre has been providing training to disadvantaged women for more than 20 years. Visitors can take a free tour of the classes and will even have the chance to buy items made by some of the women in the souvenir shop.
Top sees for a fee
Situated 10 miles from the capital, Kachikally Museum and Crocodile Pool in Bakau Newtown really is as exciting as the name suggests. As one of three sacred crocodile pools on the island, the site is known for its healing properties and spiritual atmosphere. In addition to the pool there is a museum, nature trail and refreshments bar, plenty to fill a day. Entry costs around 100 GMD.
Abuko Nature Reserve is another example of the lush greenery of Banjul’s landscape. This rare reserve deserves a visit, especially for its diverse ecosystem and array of animals, including bush babies, three types of monkey, snakes and exotic birds. Prices are 35 GMD for adults and 15 GMD for children.
Gambia National Museum showcases both historical and cultural artefacts from the country, so any first-time visitor can get a sense of the region, from the earliest period up to the present day. Prices start from 50 GMD.
Getting around
Although the city does not have a public bus service, there are a number of car rental companies and taxis. Instead of taking one-off, separate trips, it is possible to rent a taxi for the day, which may work out cheaper and makes it very easy to travel around this new place.
Eating out
In The Gambia there are a number of restaurants serving up all kinds of cuisine, from Lebanese to Italian, but why not ditch the familiar and try something not usually found in the UK? Among the most popular foods is domada, a peanut butter-based dish with white rice or jollof rice, which translates to ‘one pot’ and is shared among a group. Solomon’s Fish Bar is an ideal location to be introduced to the new and unusual nature of Gambian food. Be sure to try the speciality red snapper and barracuda grilled in a wood stove. Rhun Palm Restaurant is another authentically Gambian spot that dishes up the best of the city at reasonable prices, from tasty chicken yassa to benachin.
Going out
Nightlife is fairly scarce in Banjul, however, the Nefertiti Beach Bar and Restaurant is an ideal place to have a quiet drink or relax in the sun. Many party-seekers leave for nearby towns such as the Senegambia Strip, which offers a selection of bars and a generally livelier experience than Banjul. There is something for everyone, from low-key beach bars to more modern lounges. Opened in 1994, The Wow Nightclub of Gambia is a must-see and caters for both a wild night dancing away on the spacious floor or a more relaxing scene in the jazz cafe downstairs.
Hotels
Luxury:Leo’s Beach Hotel & Restaurant: A fresh take on the boutique hotel with a cool and contemporary style and top class service in the stunning Gambia landscape, this hotel has just six rooms, a bar and the beach nearby. Brufut Heights, Brufut. From £102 per night.
Mid-range:Ocean Bay Hotel & Resort: Set upon a private beach, this is a peaceful escape has more 190 guest rooms, two restaurants, a pool and a range of family-friendly amenities. It is located close enough to the primary hotspots of Banjul, yet far enough to offer a tranquil stay. Kofi Annan Street, Cape Point, Bakau. From £65.
Budget:Seafront Residences & Hotel feels like a luxury hotel, but has budget prices. It is set in fabulous landscaped gardens and sits on the doorstep of the Atlantic Ocean. This lavishness also extends to the hotel’s interior, from the suites to the spa and lounge area. Kombo Coastal Airport Road. From £66.
Fact file
Currency: Gambian Dalasi (GMD) - £1 = D66.88
The flight: Fly direct from Manchester to Banjul with Thomas Cook Airlines. Flight duration: 6hrs 30mins. From £280 return.
Time zone: GMT
Best time to visit: The temperatures in Banjul can go as high as 29C in the early summer months of May and June, so later in the season may be more comfortable for sightseeing.
Visas, injections and precautions: Before travelling to The Gambia, courses or boosters of Hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid and yellow fever are usually advised.
