Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
BANJUL
POP 37,000
It's hard to imagine a more consistently ignored capital city. It sits on an island crossed by
sand-blown streets and dotted with fading colonial structures. And yet, it tempts with a
sense of history that the plush seaside resorts lack, and is home to a busy harbour and mar-
ket that show urban Africa at its best.
Sights & Activities
Albert Market
MARKET
(Russell St)
Since its creation in the mid-19th century the Albert Market, an area of frenzied
buying, bartering and bargaining, has been Banjul's hub of activity. This cacophany of
Banjul life is intoxicating, with its stalls stacked with shimmering fabrics, hair extensions,
shoes, household and electrical wares and the myriad colours and flavours of the fruit and
vegetable market.
Give yourself a good couple of hours to wander around - long enough to take in all the
sights, smells and sounds - and get your haggling skills up to scratch. There are several
drinks stalls and chop shops in the market to pacify shopped-out bellies. It's never calm
here, but early in the morning or late in the afternoon is less crazed.
