Janjanbureh, Gambia: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2023]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

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

Contents

When to go to Janjanbureh, Gambia

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

What to wear/what to pack for Janjanbureh, Gambia

Already know when you're traveling?

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

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

January

If you visit Janjanbureh during January, you are likely to notice that it is extremely warm, extremely 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 high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can 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 Janjanbureh 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 things.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be sure to get the correct type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

February

February in Janjanbureh is really hot, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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 Janjanbureh 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.

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

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

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the necessary type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

March

March for Janjanbureh is consistently hot, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 90s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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 frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Janjanbureh may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold 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.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

April

If you go to Janjanbureh in April, you will notice that it is sizzling, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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 repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you 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 Janjanbureh 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the correct type. The majority of adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

May

If you go to Janjanbureh in May, you will notice that it is a scorcher, somewhat hazy and very dry. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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 protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate 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 Janjanbureh may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

June

If you are traveling to Janjanbureh in June, you will notice that it is really hot and dry with little rain. Expect it to rain occasionally. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can 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 Janjanbureh 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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to pick the necessary type. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

July

July for Janjanbureh is extremely hot. Temperatures average in the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day. It rains sometimes.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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 Janjanbureh may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

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

  • Money/passport pouch

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

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Be careful to find the right kind. Most adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • 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

August

If you vacation in Janjanbureh during August, you are likely to find that it is extremely warm. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 Janjanbureh may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you get the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

Traveling to Janjanbureh in September, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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 Janjanbureh may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing things recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • 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 belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Check that you find the right type. Most adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

October

Traveling to Janjanbureh in October, you will notice that it is extremely hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can 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 Janjanbureh 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Ensure that you choose the right type. Many adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

November

If you visit Janjanbureh during November, you might see that it can be very hot, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 80s F (high 20s C). Humidity is generally between 30 and 40% during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Gambia has some specific safety 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 Janjanbureh may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, 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 stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to get the right kind. A lot of adapters on sale are just plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

If you are traveling to Janjanbureh in December, you will notice that it is extremely hot, very 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

    Gambia has some specific safety concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, 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 Janjanbureh 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 airports always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types G. Take care to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

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

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

What to do in Janjanbureh, Gambia

Janjanbureh, also known as Georgetown, is a historic town in the Central River Division of Gambia. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country due to its rich cultural heritage and history. Despite being small in size, Janjanbureh is home to a plethora of attractions, ranging from museums to nature parks. In this article, we will cover some of the top tourist attractions in Janjanbureh, Gambia.

1. James Island and Fort Bullen

James Island, also known as Kunta Kinteh Island, is a small island situated on the Gambia River, just off Janjanbureh. It is known for its dark history as a major center for the transatlantic slave trade. The island has a museum with exhibits that showcase the history of the island and the plight of many Africans who were taken from Africa as slaves. Fort Bullen, located on the mainland, was built by the British in 1826 to protect the river from French attacks. It nowadays also houses a museum with exhibits detailing the history of the area and the slave trade.

2. Wassu Stone Circles

The Wassu Stone Circles is a UNESCO World Heritage site located near Janjanbureh. The site features a cluster of stone circles made up of standing stones, some of them weighing up to 5 tons. These circles are believed to have been built over 1000 years ago, and their purpose is still a subject of debate among historians and archeologists. Nevertheless, the site is a fascinating area to explore and is a must-visit if you're in the area.

3. River Gambia National Park

The River Gambia National Park is a vast nature conservation area along the Gambia River, covering over 5000 square kilometers. The park is home to a wide variety of wildlife such as chimpanzees, crocodiles, hippos, and many species of birds. Visitors can take guided boat tours of the park, which offer a chance to spot many of these animals in their natural environments.

4. Georgetown's Old Town

Janjanbureh's old town is a picturesque area that has retained many of its original colonial-era buildings, complete with balconies, pillared verandas, and wrought-ironwork. Visitors can take leisurely strolls through the town, admiring the architecture and soaking up the town's laid-back atmosphere.

5. Janjangbureh Market

Janjangbureh has a bustling market area that is a lively center of activity. The market is a perfect place to taste and buy local fruits and vegetables, and visitors can also find locally-made crafts and souvenirs to take home with them.

In conclusion, Janjanbureh, Gambia, is an excellent destination for travelers seeking to experience Africa's vibrant culture and rich history. Whether you're interested in The Gambia's dark past or wildlife excursions, Janjanbureh has something for you. The town's friendly locals add to the charm of the area, making Janjanbureh a warm and welcoming destination.

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.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Ko Sire, Thailand, Lierna, Italy, Wayne, Maine, United States of America, Aniak, Alaska, United States of America, Shelley, Idaho, United States of America, Plymouth, California, United States of America, Whidbey Island, Washington, United States of America, Seinäjoki, Finland, Mankato, Minnesota, United States of America, Perechyn, Ukraine, and Jeita, Lebanon.