Banjul Weather Guide: Best Times to Visit & Seasons
Banjul Weather Guide: Best Times to Visit & Seasons
Banjul, the capital city of The Gambia, is located on the west coast of Africa. It enjoys a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Understanding the weather patterns and the best times to visit can help you plan your trip to Banjul more effectively.
Seasons in Banjul
Banjul experiences two main seasons: the wet season and the dry season. These seasons are characterized by different weather conditions, which have a significant impact on the overall experience of your visit.
Wet Season (June - October): The wet season in Banjul is marked by heavy rainfall, high humidity, and occasional thunderstorms. The temperature during this season averages around 28-32°C (82-90°F). The rain showers, although intense, are usually short-lived, giving way to sunny spells. The lush green landscapes and lower tourist crowd make this season an attractive time to visit for nature lovers and budget travelers.
Dry Season (November - May): The dry season is characterized by hot and dry weather with minimal rainfall. The temperature ranges from 25-30°C (77-86°F) during the day and drops slightly at night. The dry season offers sunny days and pleasant evenings, making it the peak tourist season. With less humidity and lower chances of rain, this period is ideal for beach activities, wildlife safaris, and exploring the city.
Monthly Weather Overview
To help you plan your visit to Banjul, here's a breakdown of the weather conditions each month:
| Month | Season | Humidity | Temperature (°C) | Sunshine (hours per day) | Rainfall (mm) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| November | Dry | 65% | 28-32°C | 8 | 10 |
| December | Dry | 60% | 25-29°C | 8 | 0 |
| January | Dry | 55% | 25-30°C | 9 | 0 |
| February | Dry | 50% | 26-31°C | 9 | 0 |
| March | Dry | 55% | 27-32°C | 9 | 0 |
| April | Dry | 60% | 28-33°C | 9 | 2 |
| May | Dry | 65% | 28-32°C | 8 | 10 |
| June | Wet | 75% | 28-31°C | 6 | 100 |
| July | Wet | 80% | 27-30°C | 5 | 230 |
| August | Wet | 85% | 26-30°C | 5 | 285 |
| September | Wet | 85% | 26-31°C | 6 | 350 |
| October | Wet | 80% | 27-32°C | 6 | 100 |
Best Time to Visit Banjul
The best time to visit Banjul largely depends on your preferences and the type of experience you seek.
If you prefer dry and sunny weather with lower chances of rain, plan your visit between November and May. During this period, temperatures are comfortable, and you can make the most of outdoor activities without worrying about sudden downpours.
On the other hand, if you don't mind occasional rain showers and want to experience the lush green landscapes, wildlife, and lower tourist crowds, consider visiting during the wet season from June to October. Just be prepared for higher humidity levels and occasional thunderstorms.
Regardless of when you choose to visit, Banjul offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, friendly locals, and a vibrant culture that will make your trip memorable.
Map coordinates: 13.4531° N, 16.5775° W