Banjul, a small port city in West Africa, is the capital of The Gambia. It's on Saint Mary's Island, in the southern part of the Gambia River estuary, separated from the mainland by a series of waterways bordered with mangroves.
Banjul is for tourists who prefer to visit the beaches. The sandy lanes with sun-bleached colonial structures give a historic sense that the more modern beach resorts lack. It also has a bustling harbour and a market representing the best urban Africa.
Plan a trip to this beautiful city of Banjul with Tap Portugal Airlines so enjoy your vacation in Banjul.
Safety in The Gambia
Many people are concerned about the safety of Banjul, particularly in light of the possibility of political upheaval posed by President Yahya Jammeh's refusal to surrender office following the election. But, former President Yahya Jammeh has stood down and left the nation, and the elected President, Mr. Adama Barrow, is to return to The Gambia soon.
As a result, the Foreign and Commonwealth Office has dropped its advisory against visiting here. The situation is now stable, and military action is no longer an option.
With the political update, I can declare that visiting Banjul in The Gambia is safe. Pick-pocketing in crowded settings like Albert Market is not unheard of, so be cautious. Also, avoid dark streets, and if in doubt, ask your hotel or a nearby restaurant to contact a trustworthy taxi. Aside from the usual precautions, it's safe.
The one thing to be cautious of (especially as a female) that is more of a bother than a threat is the enough of 'bumsters'! These are young Gambian men who wish to be your friend, guide, boyfriend, and so on. They will bother you, especially around the beach and markets. They are, but, generally harmless and will leave you alone nine times out of ten if you tell them you've been there before or that you have a husband or partner. Make sure to visit an otherwise fantastic location.
What to do in The Gambia
several tourists that into Banjul are content with sunbathing, cheap(ish) cocktails, and great seafood on one of the several neighbouring beaches. For various reasons, Kololi, Kotu, and Senegambia are the most popular. The more daring can spend a day or a few nights in a historic roundhouse on one of the surrounding islands. But, for those who like to immerse themselves more in a country's culture, there is a vast array of things to see and do on either side of the Gambia River outside of Banjul.
1. Arch 22
This 36-meter-high arch dominates Independence Drive, the main road into Banjul. It was in 1996 to commemorate the military takeover of July 22, 1994. The top floor of the arch provides magnificent panoramic views over the city, giving you a clearer sense of it being an island. The Atlantic Ocean surrounds it, as do the River Gambia and some of the Tanbi mangroves. There is a cafe and a tiny ethnographic museum on the higher level (which can be via an elevator or steps). Traditional fabrics, clothing, agricultural tools, and weapons like bows and arrows are on show at the museum. The alternative Marina Parade path must be instead of driving beneath the arch between the columns.
2. Joseph’s Adult Education and Skills Centre
For 20 years, disadvantaged young women have received skill training in an old Portuguese building. Visitors are welcome to enjoy a free tour of the classes, which include tie-dye, crafts, sewing, and embroidery. There is also a priced shop where you can buy products handcrafted by women, which make great mementos.
3. Sports Fishing
You have a few options if you want to go sports fishing. You might purchase a long canoe (pirogue) in the area, some of which come with an outboard engine and an operator to take them out on Oyster Stream. The mangroves are home to a variety of fish species and other fauna, making for excellent fishing. You can do this on your own with one of the small boat operators at Dentons Bridge or with a local fisherman on the shore near the Barra Ferry Terminal. The other alternative is to charter a larger, more professional boat to take you fishing upriver or out to sea. Many of these larger boats also include a bar and restaurant.
4. Gambian Home Cooking Experience
This is an experience that is well worth making time for, especially if you are a foodie. It will also give you a different perspective on Gambian life. It begins with a trip by Landrover to a crowded local market to buy the fresh ingredients needed for the dishes you'll learn to cook later. A native juice, such as Wonjo or Baobab juice, can also be prepared. All the meals, including the herbs and spices used for seasoning, will be in a large pot balanced over a tiny fire.
5. Bird Watching
If you enjoy bird viewing, use the most road, Kankujereh Road. This travels through salty marsh areas, home to many bird species. This road passes the Gambia River's estuary mudflats on the left, which are home to sunken boats and ships. Pelicans and cormorants roost here for the night. Many wading birds can be on the mudflats during low tide, where they feed. Soon after, on both sides, are the Tanbi Mangroves. A word of caution: the ground can be uneven, and there is a lot of scrap metal dumped, so wear enclosed shoes or boots.
The land of Banjul is well connected with Tap Portugal Flight Changes so that you can book your flight easily.
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