Banjul, Gambia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Banjul, Gambia? If you're planning to go to Banjul, here is some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Banjul, Gambia

Based on the climate and weather in Banjul, Gambia, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Banjul, Gambia

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Banjul, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Banjul, Gambia by month

January

If you vacation in Banjul during January, you will probably find that it is hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Make sure to choose the right type. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

February

If you visit Banjul during February, you are likely to find that it can be very hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

March

If you visit Banjul during March, you will probably see that it can be very hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

April

If you are traveling to Banjul in April, you will notice that it is consistently hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the right type. Many adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

May

If you vacation in Banjul during May, you may find that it is really hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 40 and 50% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to pick the correct type. Most adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

June

If you vacation in Banjul during June, you are likely to see that it is extremely hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are just plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

July

In July, Banjul is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Banjul, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you pick the right kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

August

August in Banjul is hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you choose the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

September

In September, Banjul is extremely hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 70s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Banjul, with several of the days of the month having rain. In September, humidity reaches as high as 80%.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the correct type. Most adapters currently available are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

October

If you vacation in Banjul during October, you may find that it is consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you get the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

November

If you go to Banjul in November, you will notice that it is really hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. It's important that you pick the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

December

December here is extremely warm, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Gambia has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Banjul may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the necessary type. Many adapters that you can buy are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the Gambia National Museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

What to do in Banjul, Gambia

Banjul, the capital city of Gambia, is a splendid destination for tourists visiting West Africa. The city has a rich cultural heritage alongside its vibrant atmosphere, making it an ideal travel destination. Banjul is a city of historical sites, museums, markets, and restaurants, making it exciting for anyone who visits. Here are the top tourist attractions in Banjul, Gambia:

1. Arch 22:

Arch 22, also known as the Banjul Arch, is a historic monument in Banjul that was erected in 1996 to commemorate the bloodless coup that took place in 1994. The arch is a towering structure standing at 35 meters tall, and it provides excellent views of the city from its observation deck. Visitors can also see the exhibition center inside the arch, which features photos and artifacts relating to Gambia's political history.

2. Katchikally Crocodile Pool:

Katchikally Crocodile Pool is another significant tourist attraction in Banjul. The pool is situated in Bakau, a suburb of Banjul, and is said to be home to sacred crocodiles. According to local beliefs, the crocodiles have healing powers and bring good luck to those who visit the pool. Visitors can watch the crocodiles swim, feed them with chicken legs, and even take selfies with them.

3. National Museum of the Gambia:

The National Museum of the Gambia is a fascinating and informative tourist attraction located in Banjul. The museum offers visitors a glimpse of the country's cultural heritage, providing a historical insight into the region from pre-colonial times to modern-day. The museum's highlights include traditional outfits, musical instruments, and hunting equipment used by ancient Gambians. Visitors can also learn about the country's slavery history and the struggle for independence.

4. Albert Market:

Albert Market is Banjul’s largest open-air market, where visitors can buy fascinating souvenirs and immerse themselves in authentic Gambian culture. The market offers everything from clothing, household items, handicrafts, and fresh produce, giving tourists an opportunity to experience the local lifestyle. As with many markets around the world, visitors should practice caution and remain aware of their surroundings.

5. Independence Stadium:

The Independence Stadium in Bakau is a significant landmark in Banjul and has hosted various sporting events since its construction in 1984. The stadium is home to the Gambia national football team and can accommodate up to 30,000 spectators. While visiting, tourists can witness the vibrant atmosphere during national team soccer matches and other sports events that take place in the stadium.

In conclusion, Banjul is a city that is rich in culture and tradition. It is a vibrant destination for tourists where visitors can learn about the country's history, culture, and people. From exploring the National Museum of The Gambia to visiting the Katchikally Crocodile Pool or shopping at Albert Market, Banjul has something for everyone. It continues to attract visitors from across the globe, making it a must-visit destination in Gambia.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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