Banjul

Banjul is the vibrant and compact capital of The Gambia, located on an island at the mouth of the river of the same name, where the Atlantic Ocean meets the continent. This city serves as the main gateway for travellers wishing to enjoy sunny beaches or immerse themselves in authentic West African culture. You can reach here via direct flights or by land from neighbouring countries, choosing the most convenient route for your adventure.

The fastest way to reach the country is by air. The main aerial gateway is Banjul International Airport (Yundum) (BJL), which accepts scheduled and charter flights. The airport is conveniently located relative to the city, allowing tourists to quickly reach their hotels after landing.

If direct tickets are unavailable, travellers often choose to fly into neighbouring Senegal. The nearest major aviation hubs are located in the cities of Ziguinchor and Dakar. From these points, you can continue your journey to Banjul by land transport or local airlines, if available during the season.

When planning your trip, it is important to note that there is no railway service in Banjul or in The Gambia as a whole. There are no train stations here, and trains do not run even between major settlements in the region.

Even if you arrive in neighbouring cities such as Dakar or Ziguinchor, it is not possible to reach your destination by rail. The main burden of passenger transport falls on road networks and ferry crossings.

Although a centralised schedule for international buses often changes or is not publicly available, getting to Banjul by public transport is quite realistic. Usually, these are route taxis ("bush taxis") or small buses running from the borders with neighbouring states.

Travelling by bus is an option for experienced tourists ready for transfers and the absence of a fixed schedule. Travel time will depend on the speed of border control procedures and the operation of the ferry crossing over the Gambia River, which is an important part of the route when travelling from the north.

Travelling by car allows for flexible time planning, especially if you are driving from Senegal. The shortest route runs from the city of Ziguinchor: a distance of 152 km can be covered in approximately 3.5 hours. If you start from the resort area of Cap Skirring, the road will take about 4.8 hours (220 km).

The journey from the capital of Senegal, the city of Dakar, is longer — about 5.5 hours for a distance of 293 km. When planning a trip by taxi or rental car, be sure to account for time at the border crossing and potential queues for the ferry crossing in Barra, which connects the northern bank of the river to Banjul.

Banjul is a friendly and safe city, but as with any journey through West Africa, knowing local customs will make your holiday more comfortable. Here are some recommendations for preparing for your trip.

1. Clothing and Dress Code. The climate here is hot and humid, so choose light clothing made from natural fabrics (cotton, linen). Since The Gambia is a country with a predominantly Muslim population, it is recommended to wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees when outside of beach areas.
2. Transport within the city. For getting around, it is most convenient to use yellow or green taxis. Green ones (tourist taxis) are more expensive but more comfortable; yellow ones operate as shared taxis and are cheaper. Always agree on the price before starting the trip.
3. Money and Payment. The local currency is the Dalasi. Cards are accepted only in major hotels and supermarkets, so always carry cash. It is better to exchange currency at official exchange bureaus or banks, avoiding street money changers.
4. Health and Hygiene. Drink only bottled water and avoid ice in beverages at street cafes. It is recommended to carry mosquito repellents, especially in the evening, and to pack a first aid kit with basic medicines.
5. Language and Communication. The official language of the country is English, which greatly simplifies communication for tourists. Locals are open and welcoming; many also speak local languages (Wolof, Mandinka).
6. Etiquette Rules. Greetings are very important: do not get straight to business, first ask "How are you?". Taking food, passing money, or handing over items should be done only with the right hand, as the left is considered reserved for personal hygiene.
7. Photography. Avoid photographing military objects, police, and government buildings. Before taking photos of local residents, be sure to ask for permission — this is a sign of respect.
8. Useful Tip. Visit Albert Market not just for shopping, but for the atmosphere. The best time to visit is in the morning, before it gets too hot and crowded.

Observing these simple rules will help you avoid awkward situations and ensure that your visit to Banjul leaves you with only the warmest memories.