Banjul, Gambia 🇬🇲
#1092
13.45535, -16.575645
Nomad Score:
48%
Essentials
| 🏙️ City | Banjul is the capital city of The Gambia, located at the mouth of the Gambia River. |
| 👥 Population | Approximate population is 31,000. |
| 💻 Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 20 Mbps. |
| 💸 Currency & Banking | Currency used is the Gambian Dalasi (GMD); 1 USD ≈ 60 GMD. |
| 🚰 Tap Water | Not drinkable; bottled water recommended. |
| 🔌 Power | Electricity is 230V, 50Hz; compatible with Type C and G sockets. |
| 📶 SIM Card | Available providers include Africell and Qcell. |
| 💳 Banking for Expats | Major banks include EcoBank and Guarantee Trust Bank; international cards are accepted. |
| 🛌 Accommodation | Options include hotels, guesthouses, and rentals via Airbnb. |
| 💳 Cashless Friendly | Limited; cash is preferred, but mobile money services like E-money are emerging. |
| 🏠 Short Term Rentals | Airbnb has various short-term rental listings available in Banjul. |
| 🛏️ Budget Accommodation | Cheap hostels and guesthouses such as the Gambia Hotel and The Crown Hotel are available. |
Working and Networking
| 🏢 Best Coworking Space | Banjul does not have dedicated coworking spaces; consider using cafes with good Wi-Fi. |
| ☕ Best Cafe for Work | The Coffee Bean is popular for its atmosphere and reliable Wi-Fi. |
| 💼 Networking Events | Look for events organized on local Facebook groups focused on expats and entrepreneurs. |
| 🥂 Social Events for Expats | Regular meetups occur at various restaurants and bars, especially during the tourist season. |
Transportation
| 🚕 Best Taxi/Ride App | No prominent ride-sharing apps; taxis are available, and negotiation is common. |
| 🚲 Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are limited; consider local street vendors for bicycle rentals. |
| 🏖️ Best Beach Nearby | Cape Point Beach is the closest beach, approximately 15 minutes from Banjul. |
| ✈️ Top Regional Airline | Air Senegal is a common regional airline for nearby destinations. |
| ✈️ Top International Airline | British Airways and Air France connect to Banjul from Europe. |
| 🛣️ Highway Access | Banjul has direct access to the Trans-Gambia Highway leading to various regions. |
| 🚉 Main Train/Transit Hub | Banjul does not have a train service; local transportation relies on buses and taxis. |
| 🚍 Public Transport Passes | Public transport is primarily through shared taxis and buses with no formal passes. |
| ✈️ Regional Travel | Travel to nearby cities using local taxis or private mini-buses. |
Health and Wellness
| 🏥 Best Hospital | Royal Victoria Teaching Hospital is the main healthcare facility. |
| 🧘 Yoga & Wellness Centers | Limited options; check local hotels for wellness programs. |
| 🏋️ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Fitness centers like Elite Fitness Center are available. |
| 🧺 Laundry Services | Services are available in hotels or local laundromats. |
Food and Drink
| 📱 Best Food Delivery App | Delivery services are limited; consider local eateries for takeout. |
| 🍽️ Best Local Dish to Try | Try 'benachin' (one-pot rice dish) or 'domoda' (groundnut stew). |
| 🍱 Vegan/Vegetarian Options | Local restaurants offer some vegetarian options, but choices may be limited. |
| 🍫 Best Dessert Spots | Gambia's traditional sweets are available at local markets and bakeries. |
| 🛒 Affordable Shopping Spots | Street vendors and Gambian markets provide cheap food options. |
| 🛒 E-commerce/Online Store | Limited; locals use Facebook Marketplace for some goods. |
| 🛒 Grocery Delivery | Limited options; grocery shopping is usually done in local markets. |
| 🍸 Bar/Nightlife Area | Senegambia Strip is popular for nightlife with several bars and clubs. |
| 🍻 Local Brewery | The Gambia is home to Banjul Breweries producing local beers. |
| 🍷 Wine Bars | Limited; check major hotels for wine selections. |
| 🍲 Street Food Stalls | Popular street food includes kebabs and 'chop chop' (snack bars). |
| 🍕 Popular International Cuisine | Few options available; some restaurants serve Italian and Indian food. |
Culture and Attractions
| 🎟️ Must-See Landmarks | Check out the Arch 22 and the National Museum of The Gambia. |
| 🏛️ Museums & Art Venues | The Gambia National Museum offers insights into local culture. |
| 🏰 Historical Sites | Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is worth a visit. |
| 🕍 Religious Sites | The Banjul Mosque is a notable landmark. |
| 🎉 Annual Events | Banjul celebrates the Gambia's Independence Day every February. |
| 🎨 Cultural Districts | Banjul is the hub of Gambian culture with local markets and art shops. |
| 🎭 Theater Venues | Performances are occasionally held at the National Arts and Culture Centre. |
| 🛍️ Local Markets | Albert Market is a bustling place for local goods and spices. |
| 🎼 Music Scene | Live music and cultural performances are common in the Senegambia Strip. |
| 🎨 Street Art | Street art can be found in various locations throughout Banjul. |
| 🧑🍳 Cooking Classes | Available in some local hotels; inquire for specific offerings. |
| 👩🎨 Art Galleries | Check local listings for upcoming exhibitions in art spaces. |
| 🕰️ Historic Buildings | The Old French Port and the Arch serve as historical landmarks. |
| 🏴 Local Heritage | The Gambian Kora is a vital piece of cultural heritage. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
| 🌅 Nearby Nature Escapes | Tanji Bird Reserve is nearby for birdwatching enthusiasts. |
| 🏞️ National Parks Nearby | Abuko Nature Reserve is accessible for day trips. |
| 🚲 Cycling/Walking Paths | Paths along the river provide scenic walks for leisure. |
| 🌄 Scenic Viewpoints | Lookout points by the river offer picturesque views. |
| 🦉 Birdwatching Locations | The Gambia is known for its birdwatching along the riverbanks. |
| 🔥 Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Some beaches permit bonfires; check local regulations. |
Other Services and Amenities
| 📦 Parcel Delivery Service | Local courier services like Gambia Post provide delivery. |
| 🛠️ Tech Repair Services | Limited; some shops in the city offer basic repairs. |
| 🏓 Table Tennis Spots | Local clubs may offer table tennis facilities. |
| 🧑🏫 Language Classes | Language schools in Banjul offer English and local language courses. |
| 📚 Libraries & Study Spots | Public libraries have limited resources; consider cafes for study. |
| 🏘️ Community Centers | Local centers offer cultural events and gatherings. |
| 🕹️ Gaming Lounges | Limited options; check local listings for gaming events. |
| 🎰 Casino & Gaming Halls | Some hotels have gambling facilities. |
Business
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $700 per m² for city center studios, e.g., 50 m² = $35,000. |
| 🏢 Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $500 per m² for suburban studios, e.g., 50 m² = $25,000. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $650 per m² for 1-bedroom apartments in central locations, e.g., 60 m² = $39,000. |
| 🏠 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $400 per m² for 1-bedroom apartments outside city area, e.g., 60 m² = $24,000. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $600 per m² for 2-bedroom apartments in central locations, e.g., 80 m² = $48,000. |
| 🏡 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $350 per m² for 2-bedroom apartments outside city areas, e.g., 80 m² = $28,000. |
| 💼 Corporate Tax | Corporate tax rate is typically 31%. |
| 💵 Dividend Withholding Tax | Standard dividend withholding tax is 10%. |
| 🏦 Tax System | Based on territorial income for residents and expats. |
| 📈 Highest Income Tax Bracket | Maximum personal income tax rate is 30%. |
| 🧾 VAT | Value Added Tax (VAT) is 15%. |
| 🌐 Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Limited regulations on foreign subsidiaries. |
| 🏠 Property Tax | Annual property taxation is based on property value. |
| 🏠 Property Transaction Tax | Standard rate during property purchases is 5%. |