Regrettably, there are no direct flights to Banjul from anywhere in the UK. The preferred flight to Banjul is operated by Royal Air Moroc that takes the passenger from the UK to Casablanca and then from there to Banjul. Brussels Air and Lufthansa also offer similar flights.
The cheapest time to visit Banjul is in the months of June and July. It is not crowded on the beaches of Banjul anyway, but the tourist traffic to the city slows down significantly during these months. In June and July, Banjul receives a lot of rainfall and the highest average temperature can go beyond 34°C. Some tourists still like the toasty temperature of the Gambian summer. The rain makes Banjul seem greener, as the new leaves and foliage regrow over the trees in and around the city. It is still interesting to visit the city in the rainy season of Banjul. Additionally, the cheaper accommodation and airfare makes this escape truly grand.
The best time to visit the Gambia is from September to February. In the autumn season, not only are the rain far away from Banjul but the weather is nice and warm. The temperature remains between the Goldilocks range of 23°C to 27°C, which is perfect for a light tan. Why shiver in your home, as the winter grips Europe when you can celebrate Christmas with the warm sand clamping your toes at a beach in Banjul.
Banjul International Airport or Yundum International Airport (BJL) serves the city of Banjul and it is the only airport in the entire country. Banjul is the capital of the Gambia. Banjul city centre resides on the coast of the city, right on the delta of the Gambia River. The trip from the airport to Banjul city centre is 26 kilometres and it takes 40 minutes to get there from the airport by car.
British nationals with a valid British passport do not require a visa to visit the Gambia. On arrival, a 28-day visa is stamped on your passport which can further be extended for another 28 days. Please contact the Gambian High Commission in London if your trip to the Gambia is for more than 3 months or if you have further questions regarding your stay.
The capital city of Banjul has seen some infrastructure development recently. The road network built in the city’s centre and the main administrative district allows you to move freely. Hiring a taxi is the best way to go about Banjul. In the outskirts of the city, the roads are not as well maintained so it is best to have a hired taxi with a driver that knows the place well.