Explore on your own rating
The small city centre is walkable from the gate, but the rest needs a taxi or tour.
Where ships dock
- The Gambia Ports Authority multipurpose berth in Banjul's commercial port on St. Mary's Island; follow the marked passenger route or the port shuttle to the gate
Getting to town
The gate opens onto central Banjul: Albert Market is about 1 to 1.5 km (15 to 20 minutes on foot) and Arch 22 about 2 km. It is hot, so many people take a taxi.
Walk the small centre or take a yellow (licensed) taxi; agree the fare first. The State Department advises against gelly-gellys and three-wheelers. For Kachikally crocodile pool in Bakau (about 15 km) or the Abuko reserve, take a taxi or the ship's tour.
Fares are as reported by the sources below and change often. Treat them as estimates.
Money & entry
Currency: Gambian dalasi (GMD). U.S. dollars and euros are accepted in some places; cards only at major hotels. Exchange money only at banks or licensed bureaus.
Entry: The State Department says a visa is required: it can be obtained in advance or on arrival ($100 to $105 cash), plus a $20 cash security fee on entry and departure. Cruise lines often handle the formalities for passengers, so ask yours what applies. (U.S. State Department, checked Oct 2026.)
Top sights nearby
- Albert Market
- Arch 22, the gateway monument
- The Gambia National Museum
- Kachikally crocodile pool in Bakau (taxi or tour)
- Abuko Nature Reserve (tour)
Beaches
- Cape Point and the Bakau and Kololi beaches (taxi). The State Department warns of persistent "bumsters" on beaches; be polite but firm.
Safety & tips
- The State Department rates The Gambia Level 2 (Exercise increased caution; advisory dated Jan 16, 2026) for crime, unrest and poor health care. Petty crime is common in Banjul and tourist areas: don't display valuables or walk alone on beaches.
- Ask before photographing people.
- Drink bottled water only.
- Avoid the Banjul–Barra ferry and river pirogues: the State Department calls them unsafe.
Check U.S. State Department travel advisories before you sail.
⏰ Back to the ship on time
Allow 30 minutes back from Bakau and 15 minutes from the market. Be back at the gate 45 minutes before all-aboard.
Ship time can differ from local time. Your ship won't wait for independent travelers.
Shore excursions that get you back on time
Prefer a guided option in Banjul? Browse shore excursions with reviews, and pick one that returns well before all-aboard.
Find Banjul shore excursions on Viator ↗
Affiliate disclosure: We may earn a commission if you book through these links, at no extra cost to you.
Quick answers
Can you explore Banjul on your own?
Yes, with some planning (rated Moderate). The small city centre is walkable from the gate, but the rest needs a taxi or tour.
How far is it from the cruise dock to town in Banjul?
The gate opens onto central Banjul: Albert Market is about 1 to 1.5 km (15 to 20 minutes on foot) and Arch 22 about 2 km. It is hot, so many people take a taxi.
Do I need a passport for Banjul?
The State Department says a visa is required: it can be obtained in advance or on arrival ($100 to $105 cash), plus a $20 cash security fee on entry and departure. Cruise lines often handle the formalities for passengers, so ask yours what applies. (U.S. State Department, checked Oct 2026.)
When should I head back to the ship in Banjul?
Allow 30 minutes back from Bakau and 15 minutes from the market. Be back at the gate 45 minutes before all-aboard.
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