DISTANCE FROM BANJUL AIRPORT TO THE CITY CENTRE

The Yandum International Airport or the Banjul International Airport (IATA: BJL, ICAO: GBYD), is located at a distance of about 14.8 km from the centre of the city. It is served by many international carriers for providing services to West Africa, continental Europe, and the UK. Being the only international airport serving the populace of the city, the administration has taken special care to ensure its connectivity to the city. No matter which class, business class flights, or economy flights you might be arriving in, going from the airport to the destination of your choosing is convenient.

BANJUL AIRPORT TRANSPORT

Traveling flight between Gatwick to Banjul then be rest assured that there exists very good connectivity between the airport and the city.

Taxi: Taxis in Banjul can be distinguished by their yellow-stripped green colouring. The taxi fares range between 200 to 300 Ghanain Dalasi and roughly 25 minutes are sufficient to travel from the airport to the areas popular with tourists like Kololo or Kotu.

Shuttle Buses: Many hotels provide shuttle buses and minibusses to travel around Gambia’s districts. Check with the hotel where you are staying if they provide this facility.

Car Rental Services: Looking to explore Banjul and its surroundings? Many companies provide rental services. Some of the notable ones are BG Car Rental, AYK Gambia, and Easy Ride Rental.

Pick Up and Drop-Off Services: Additionally, have you chosen to fly on first-class flights? Then you can cross-check with the airline whether or not they provide pick-up and drop-off services from the Yundum International Airport.

FLYING TIME FROM GATWICK TO BANJUL

Roughly 9 to 12 hours are required to fly on this route. The precise time required to go along this route depends on factors like:-

Prevailing weather conditions

Air Traffic scenario

Conditions at stopovers

The airline on which you have decided to travel on

Our team at Pack and Fly will surely assist you in booking tickets for a variety of classes like business class flights or premium economy flights. With about 25 years in the travel industry, we will surely assist you in booking the optimum route while scouting for flights from Gatwick and Banjul.

ATTRACTIONS IN BANJUL

The city offers all visitors a vibrant blend of natural wonders, cultural heritage, and warm hospitable locals. This gem of a tourist destination has something for everybody, whether you might be an adventure seeker or simply looking to spend time relaxing in a tropical paradise. Still unexplored by Westerners and British tourists, you will indeed have a memorable time going sightseeing here. Being a former colony of Britain, English is spoken by locals. You will not find language to be a hindrance during your travels in Banjul. The places frequented by tourists stopping by here are:-

Arch 22: Built to commemorate the sacrifices made by the natives of the country during the freedom struggle against the oppressive British rule. Some of the added draws that you can get in the city are panoramic views of the city and Gambia River. For those interested in learning about the history of the country, the museum contains numerous relics showcasing the country''s past.

River Gambia National Park: The collection of Five Islands lying on the left bank of The Gambia River. One of the prime sites of the Chimpanzee Rehabilitation Project, you can find many chimpanzee groups, living in their natural habitat unmolested by humans. In addition to Chimpanzees, the national park is also home to a variety of other primates and mammals. You will be able to observe wild animals like great apes, hippos and West African Crocodiles during your boat trips.

National Museum of Gambia: Witness the meticulously preserved cultural relics on display, which include ethnic masks, musical instruments, ceramics, and numerous archaeological finds. You will surely gain valuable insights into the country''s history as well as a better understanding of the people''s traditions and how they live their lives. A historical tourist spot that everyone interested in learning about the country''s past, culture, and history should visit.

Abuko Nature Reserve: Located only a short distance from Banjul, you will be able to observe the diverse flora and fauna while learning about the conservation efforts that are taking place.  The national park is particularly famous for the residing Nile crocodiles and other varieties of snakes like forest cobras, pythons, and green mambas. If lucky, you can also find glimpses of endangered birds such as African goshawks, yellowbills, ahanta francolings, and western bluehills.

St. Joseph’s Adult Education and Skills Centre:- This centre has been providing vocational training to people from marginalized backgrounds for the last 20 years. As a visitor, you will be able to take a free tour of classes in sewing, crafts, and tie-dye. If you wish to pick up mementos of the good times spent in the city, there lies the option of purchasing boutique products like embroidered purses, patchwork products, and children''s clothes.

Written above is only a small list of places to visit in Banjul. Having a safe and calm atmosphere makes it a perfect holiday destination for everybody looking to get a refreshing break.

SHOPPING IN BANJUL

From lively markets selling wares for daily use to opulent, modern shopping malls Banjul offers everybody with a wide range of experiences. Banjul has something for everybody, whether you are looking for handicrafts, jewellery, or fashion accessories. The areas of the city which are frequented by tourists visiting the city are:-

Top Shop: The shop is well known for showcasing authentic African art items from the western part of the continent. Some of the items on display here are masks, batik clothing, basketry, wood carving, and pottery. The unique selling point of this outlet is that the items on sale are prepared by using techniques that have been handed down through generations.

Craft Market: The small craft market of the Bakau locality is surely worth a visit if you happen to be sightseeing in the city. Some of the things to expect here are sand art creations, wood carvings, statues, and other traditional handicrafts which perfectly fit the category of filling the role of lasting souvenirs. You might be looking for textiles or colourful fabrics sewn in elegant African style, or colourful paintings to take as mementos in your house this market has it all.

St. Joseph’s Adult Education & Skills Centre: What started as a small cooperative to provide support to women from marginalized sections of society, has now become a leading local institution. Hands-on training in crafts like fabric processing, craft-making, and sewing as well as other practical skills are provided at very nominal fees. The handmade products created by students who graduate from here can be purchased here at very reasonable prices process. A must-visit destination for all those who wish to see the creative and entrepreneurial spirit of the Gambians.

Kairaba Shopping Center: A glittering, glass-covered two-storied structure in the Serrekunda beach resort which is the largest supermarket in the country. Shoppers can easily purchase all that might be needed to run a household at competitive prices. As a result, this supermarket is exceedingly popular with the inhabitants of the city. The most unique aspect of this shopping centre is the attached bakery Items like croissants, cakes for birthdays and weddings as well as a variety of other sweet treats are available.

Maroun’s Supermarket: The Kombo Saint Mary District happens to be home to innumerable mini-markets as well as supermarkets. Among them, the most popular one is Maroun’s Supermarket. A truly wonderful place if you wish to purchase general household items or stock up on goods that might be required by tourists paying a visit to the country.

Indeed, the best way to know about the way people of a country lead their lives is to go shopping in its markets. Interact with citizens at a personal level, and take home unique souvenirs and memories to cherish for years to come.

NIGHTLIFE IN BANJUL

With innumerable places that you can pay a visit to while touring the city, Banjul is by all means a night owl paradise. Over the years, innumerable visitors from all corners of the globe have spoken volumes about the wonderful experiences they have had while exploring the city when the sun goes down. If you also wish to know where you can go and have a good time then just read on below:-

Pubs and Bars: Banjul, the capital of Gambia has a large variety of bars and pubs where locals and tourists can go to have a drink with the aim of socializing with their peers. The nightlife scene is dynamic and newer establishments are opening up with each passing day. Added draws here are the fact that many of these bars are located by the coastline. You can enjoy breathtakingly beautiful scenery while sipping on a drink of your choosing. Some of the most popular bars are the Calypso Bar & Restaurant, Bamboo Lounge, and the Parisien Lounge Bar.

Senegambia Strip: This area is especially famous for its nightlife and is home to numerous establishments that provide all visitors with a diverse mix of entertainment options like live music, dance clubs, and cultural performances. With lots of fresh fruit bars, beach cafes, and souvenir sellers, this is the best place you can go to soak up all that Gambia has to offer. Horse riding along the beach or riding on a horse-drawn carriage are some of the other popular activities with tourists.

Dance Events: If you enjoy dance types such as Salsa, Reggae, and Samba, be sure to visit one of the dancing locations hosted by the Tourism Development Area (TDA). These activities are held in the Senegambia strip, which is only a few minutes’ drive from Banjul. These dancing and music festivals have long been associated with village life and continue to be significant today. During the harvest and dry seasons, regular performances are organized. These performances aim to conserve cultural traditions and oral genealogies, as well as transmit knowledge of the land''s past, in addition to providing pleasure.

Beachside Entertainment Venues: Owing to its wholesome blend of natural beauty and social activities, the city has emerged as a magnet for travellers looking to have an interesting experience. The appeal of the shoreline in the backdrop of moonlight combined with the calming sound of waves produces a beautiful ambiance that draws tourists from all over the world. Also, it is the venue for a wide variety of activities like cultural performances, live music events, and cultural performances. The place where you should visit if you wish to have a gala time after dark.

Gambians are recognized for their generosity and hospitality. They will go out of their way to make you feel at ease among them. As a former British colony, English is widely spoken, and you will have no trouble talking with the locals. Banjul will undoubtedly provide you with an unforgettable experience.

WHERE TO GET FOREX CONVERTED IN BANJUL

Banjul, the capital city of the Gambia has many options for tourists looking to exchange the British Pound for the local currency Galasi. A brief list of the venues which you can visit to exchange currency is given below:

Banks: Various banks such as the Arab Gambian Islamic Bank, Trust Bank Banjul Branch, and Skye Bank Banjul Branch provide Foreign Currency Services at affordable exchange rates of about 2-3%.

Airport: There many are ATMs inside Banjul Airport in the ATM''s, in the Main Hall are open 24 hours, all seven days a week. These are convenient venues where you can obtain receipts of Dalasi.

Hotels: You can also get currency exchanged at the hotel where you are putting up. The only flipside of these hotels is that the exchange rates can be high.

Currency Exchange Bureaus: The Central Bank of Gambia has approved the following currency exchange bureaus. They are the most apt locations where you can go to exchange the British Pound for the local currency, Galasi.

GREAT EATING PLACES IN BANJUL

Gambian cuisine includes a wide range of foods that can fulfil any specific taste, budget, or choice. One of the key reasons why Western tourists keep returning to Gambia is the food. Some well-known restaurants in town are:

Solomon’s Fish Bar: The Solomon''s Beach Bar is a famous and moderately priced hotel noted for offering traditional Gambian seafood meals. This restaurant, located in the Kololi region, is a favourite of all people staying at nearby hotels. This restaurant is known for its beautiful beach views and excellent local cuisine. All restaurant diners spoke about the superb food supplied by the hotel''s pleasant staff. You can watch the world go by while eating delicious food on the beach, in this award-winning restaurant.

Dominos Beachbar: The outlet has earned a reputation for being a vibrant and cheerful location to go for drinks and lunch thanks to the management''s dedicated efforts. Crispy Chicken Burgers, Jamaican Jerk Chicken, and Chicken Afra are some of the most popular dishes here. This outlet, in addition to serving flavourful cuisines, is a wonderful location to visit in the evening. Listening to drums play Reggae sounds while dining on traditional Gambian cuisine is an experience you must have while visiting the nation.

Two Rays Bar and Restaurant: This outlet, located on the route to Senegambia, is famous with both residents and visitors for selling African foods alongside the traditional European fare. You will be able to sample beverages in the adjoining bar, which is an extra bonus to this motel. This cafe is especially popular with those traveling with their families due to its large open spaces and plenty of space for children.

YOSH: YOSH is unquestionably one of Banjul''s most popular restaurants. Tourists love them for their beautiful ambiance, tasty food, and a large menu of vegetarian and vegan options. It has garnered many honours as a consequence of its hard work and dedication. This restaurant is well-known for its delicious food as well as performances by local artists, musicians, and fashion designers.

Rhun Palm Restaurant: If you''re searching for a vibrant & pleasant location to sit by the beach and watch the sunset, this lively & friendly place will certainly fit the bill. This restaurant is nice and hospitable, and it serves delicious lunches at very reasonable costs. Chicken shawarma and buttery garlic toast are two dishes to try at the hotel. If you want to party the night away, go on Friday and Saturday nights. You will undoubtedly have excellent experiences when dining at this amazing beachside restaurant.

Banjul is a gourmet''s dream. While in town, you should consider visiting one of the above-mentioned establishments and savour the finger-licking cuisine to be found here.

HOTELS STAY IN BANJUL

While traveling to a new destination, it is of utmost importance that you can find a comfortable place to go. We at Pack and Fly have about 25 years of experience in this regard and are, without doubt, the best in the industry to assist seasoned travellers like yourself. Listed below is a thoroughly screened list of the best hotels in the city where you can go and stay throughout your stay.

Ngala Lodge (5 Star)

Address: Bakau, Banjul, Gambia

The lodge has magnificent suites that may be leased individually or in groups. The hotel caters to a wide spectrum of customers, from families and couples to business retreats, and offers a serene refuge where guests can rest and fully immerse themselves in nature. More than just a place to stay, this resort will enable you to explore the wonders of the outdoors that this great continent has to offer.

Sunprime Tamala Beach Resort (5 Star)

Address: Kotu Beach, Serrekunda, Kotu Gambia

Opened to provide all guests with a one-of-a-kind African vacation experience. The hotel''s location on the Atlantic Coast provides all guests with an untouched and incomparable view of the sea. If you want to stay active while on vacation, the management has developed a fully equipped gym complete with trainers and the latest equipment to keep you entertained during your stay.

Flourish Wellness Resort (5 Star)

Address: Kotu Gambia

The hotel, which is just on the beach, provides all visitors with a direct ocean view. The beautiful Gambian sunset may be seen from the room where you are staying. Another feature that makes Flourish Wellness Resort popular with tourists is the presence of amenities such as valet parking, a restaurant serving delicious meals from around the world, and complimentary WiFi for business travellers or others who may wish to stay in touch with others while on vacation.

Kairaba Beach Hotel (4 Star)

Address: Westfield, Banjul, Gambia

The 4-star facility provides all tourists with an exceptional combination of cost, cleanliness, value, and service. Another advantage of building this resort is that it is well-connected to the city''s attractions.  This hotel unquestionably offers the best combination of amenities and value for money. With amenities such as bellhops, room service, and valet parking, you will undoubtedly appreciate every moment spent here.

Ocean Bay Hotel & Resort (4 Star)

Address: Cape Point, Bakau, Banjul, Gambia

Your quest for a high-quality hotel that can meet any special needs you may have is now over. This hotel is ideal for both vacationers and business travellers searching for a decent combination of services and pricing. This is one of the first choices for travellers arriving in The Gambia to live during their vacation, as it is decorated in tasteful African style and is not far from the Senegambia Strips areas of restaurants and entertainment.

Assaraya Atlantic Hotel (4 Star)

Address: Marina Parade Avenue, Banjul 296 Gambia

The outlet, also known as the LAICO Atlantic Hotel & Resort, is located on The Gambia''s magnificent 50-kilometer coastline. Another advantage of living here is that it is close to popular sites in the main city, such as The Gambia National Museum.   A once-in-a-lifetime adventure awaits you in its Rose Garden, Bird Sanctuary, and sandy coastline. The hotel is very popular with British tourists, and it is unquestionably worth every penny.

Bamboo Garden Hotel (3 Star)

Address: Cape Point, Bakau, Banjul, Gambia

Known for offering guests with a peaceful and tranquil environment surrounded by natural beauty. The hotel has nice rooms that are constructed around lovely gardens. Other European languages spoken by the staff include French, Danish, and Dutch, in addition to English. The experienced crew in this resort will be able to provide you with impeccable service due to many years of experience in serving Western travellers.

African Princess Beach Hotel (3 Star)

Address: Kotu, Banjul, Gambia

The main advantage of staying here is that local sites such as Arch 22 and Fort Bullen are close. You will undoubtedly receive an unrivalled blend of cleanliness, staff, service, and hotel comfort at extremely affordable prices. Tourists staying here have access to additional amenities such as one-way airport shuttle services, free Wi-Fi, and valet parking.

Simply get on a plane and fly to this fantastic tourist location. Join the thousands who have been captivated by the splendour of this tropical paradise. You are in for a once-in-a-lifetime trip.