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Banjul International Airport (BJL/GBYD) is the main airport in Gambia that assists in linking the country to the world. Located in Yundum and only about 24 km from Banjul, the capital city, it is the only international airport available in the country. With modern state-of-the-art facilities, it accommodates both domestic and international flights in its operation with efficiency. Since it is the busiest airport in Gambia, it is of great support to tourism, trade, and economic growth. Major airlines serving this airport include Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, and Turkish Airlines, making it a key pit stop for travellers visiting the smallest mainland country in West Africa.
Quick Details
Location: Yundum Village, Banjul, The Gambia
IATA Code: BJL
ICAO Code: GBYD
Runway Type: Asphalt
Runway Length: 3,600 meters (11,811 feet)
Number of Terminals: 1
Facilities: Duty-free shops, lounges, restaurants, rental cars, taxis, currency exchange, and immigration services
Built-in: 1977
Location
Photo: huynhkimdaihuu30051999 / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
The Banjul International Airport (BJL/GBYD), located in Yundum, is around 24 kilometres from the capital city of Banjul. This airport, located on the West African coast, serves as a major hub for international and regional flights. The airport’s ideal location further helps tourism as it is right next to Gambia’s most famous beach resorts, including Kololi, Kotu, and Cape Point. BJL is the only international airport in the country, with flights from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The airport has a single runway suitable for large aircraft, as well as a terminal providing basic passenger facilities.
Places To Visit Near Banjul International Airport
Whether you are here for a layover of a few hours or an extensive, prolonged visit, here is a collection of the best places near the airport.
1. Banjul, The Capital City
Photo: IsaacTuray / Wikimedia Commons
You just need to travel twenty-four kilometres from Banjul International Airport, to reach Banjul, the capital of The Gambia. Though small in size, the city is full of life, culture, and historical traditions. Visit Albert Market, where the artisans sell crafts and local vendors sell fabrics and spices. For a panoramic view of the city and the River Gambia, there is also Arch 22, which serves as a monument. You can get a taste of the colonial history and traditions of The Gambia in the National Museum.
Distance From Banjul International Airport: 24 km
2. Abuko Nature Reserve
Photo: Atamari / Wikimedia Commons
Abuko Nature Reserve, the first protected wildlife area in The Gambia, is a sanctuary that covers around 105 acres. It shelters different species of flora and fauna, including monkeys, antelopes, crocodiles, and 270 species of birds or more, thus making the reserve a paradise for avid birdwatchers. The reserve has a range of properly maintained tracks along which one can enjoy and view its tropical rainforests and wetlands. The nature reserve is near Banjul, easily accessible from the major airports in the Gambia, like Banjul International Airport.
Distance From Banjul International Airport: 13 km
3. Kotu Beach
Photo: Mark Hodson Photos / Wikimedia Commons
Kotu Beach, located along Gambia’s Atlantic coastline, is one of the most beautiful tropical getaways, with its golden sands, waving palm trees, and warm and friendly waters. It is a prime coastal area of Gambia situated on the upper coast, not far from Banjul International Airport. Along the shores, there are beach resorts, markets, and lively seafood restaurants, guaranteeing both comfort and adventure. Boat tours down the mangroves, birdwatching, and fishing are among the attractions available.
Distance From Banjul International Airport: 22 km
4. Brikama, The Craft Market Hub
Photo: clurr / Wikimedia Commons
Brikama town in The Gambia is the focal point of craft markets with its impressive cultural background and handcrafted masterpieces. Brikama Craft Market offers beautiful wooden carvings, traditional woven baskets, colourful textiles, and intricately designed jewellery. The artisans then use these creations to embellish the paintings and sculptures they have beautifully created. In West Africa, these unique pieces often represent the artistic soul of many customs, which skilled craftsmen create with techniques handed down to them for generations.
Distance From Banjul International Airport: 15 km
5. Bijilo Forest Park (Monkey Park)
Photo: Atamari / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Bijilo Forest Park, also known as Monkey Park, is a green, woody nature reserve east of Kololi in The Gambia. The coastal forest is around 51 hectares, with a variety of wildlife, including the predominant green vervet monkeys and the red colobus. Walking trails through the park allow for diverse flora and fauna appraisal in a peaceful atmosphere. Tourists frequently interact with these monkeys by feeding them peanuts and bananas. Other than the primates, the park is abundant with bird species, reptiles, and exotic plants.
Distance From Banjul International Airport: 25 km
Where To Stay
Photo: Tjeerd Wiersma / Wikimedia Commons
There are a few excellent accommodations for travellers landing at the airport in Gambia. Coconut Residence is a serene retreat and luxury boutique hotel in Serrekunda that offers quality services. Ocean Bay Hotel and Resort, located in Cape Point, has a combination of beachfront accommodation and poolside relaxation. Budget-friendly hotels include Badala Park Hotel in Kotu, which offers clean and comfortable accommodation and easy access to beaches nearby. As for Leo’s Beach Hotel & Restaurant in Bijilo, it is highly favoured for its soothing ambience and ocean views.
Where To Eat
Photo: Tjeerd Wiersma / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
If you’re looking for great places to eat near Banjul International Airport, there are several restaurants scattered around inside and outside the airport, offering mouth watering Gambian and other international cuisines. Gusto Italian Resto & Bar is popular for authentic Italian pasta and seafood dishes, located in Bijilo, about 20 minutes away from the airport. Calypso Beach Bar & Restaurant in Cape Point serves you freshly grilled fish, Gambian-style domoda (peanut stew), and seafood platters with ocean views for that local experience. There is another top-rated place, Butcher’s Shop, serving premium steaks, gourmet burgers, and all, but in a very cosy café setting.
Tips For Travellers
Photo: ian dooley / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
- Security and immigration can take a while. It’s a good idea to have some Gambian Dalasi (GMD) on you because ATMs and card payments aren’t always a sure thing.
- Wear something comfy too; the weather is hot and humid. Before you arrive, double-check that you have all your documents ready. This includes a visa if needed.
- Have some small bills for tipping porters and taxis, since that’s just what people do. Try to set up your airport ride beforehand, as taxis may try to charge extra.
- Keep in mind that flights are sometimes late, so bring something to drink while you are at the airport.
Banjul International Airport is how most people get into The Gambia and access the country’s cultural and natural attractions. So, whether you’re just passing through or sticking around for a while, you’ll find some awesome history, nature, and beaches nearby. It’s the busiest airport in Gambia, linking people to all sorts of great stuff if you plan your trip right. TripXL can hook you up with special offers to make your trip smooth.
Cover Photo: Jolle / Wikimedia Commons
