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Banjul in 24 Hours

While in Senegal it’s worth a stop to visit The Gambia, the smallest country on mainland Africa.

Surrounded by Senegal lies Africa’s smallest mainland nation, The Gambia. This former colony of the Portuguese and the British is not likely a place you’ve heard a ton about and that’s why it’s a great place to visit if you have a few extra days in Senegal. I had the chance to visit the country and hang out with Chiquita Afuluenu Johnson, a fellow Liberian transplant who recently returned to West Africa after 20 years of living in the United States. Together we discovered the perfect day in Gambia — trust me it’s worth the 30 minute flight from Dakar. 24 hours might not seem like enough time to really experience everywhere but with the right guidance, a la this handy guide, you can get just enough of a taste of the capital city to have you scrambling to return for more. Here are our favorite places to explore:

RELAX

Coco Ocean Resort & Spa is really a breathtaking place. As you make your way to the estate through a jungle of tropical trees and impeccable landscaping you’ll start feeling pretty good about your decision to stay here. The Moroccan-inspired architecture greets you with high ceilings, elaborate tiling and dream like color palettes. The attention to detail embodies African luxury. Live it up in one of the four Royal Suites that feature a private pool or a Club Villa with a balcony and stunning sunset beach views. Coco is a great way to start your day with some poolside relaxation. The view of endless ocean and palm trees dancing in the breeze puts something in you at peace.

EAT

After you’ve dropped off your bags and relaxed by the pool, it’s time to put that fresh tan in a dress and spend some time on the Senegambia strip — a jumping hub for nightlife and restaurants in The Gambia. Don’t let these tour guides have you scared, be cool, put on your new ankara frock and head over to Gaya Art Cafe to have dinner against the backdrop of an artful experience. When is the last time you dined in art? From the moment you enter Gaya you are surrounded by African sculptures, paintings and furniture that is so beautifully and thoughtfully selected. The staff is friendly while being genuine and actually understand what’s on the menu. It’s a mix of African and European cuisine many of which highlight local ingredients, because let’s face it, bissap in a cocktail is rarely a bad idea.

PLAY

Round about midnight, something shifts in Senegambia. Gambian culture is centered on the importance of family so there are a few hours where it seems like things are winding down. In fact, it is understood that partying comes second to family dinner but once the party gets started it doesn’t cease until dawn. Midnight hits and people are back in the flow — be prepared for a dance until sunrise kind of night — it felt like these people invented #teamnosleep. Everyone’s first stop is the neighborhood favorite, Kora (pictured below). Named after the instrument that dominates Gambian music, Kora epitomizes the laid back vibe of The Gambia. It’s one of those venues that just keep you feeling sexy with great lighting and vibes. This is where the networking happens, social politics are discussed over shisha and the evening’s move is finally decided after a fair amount of pre-game vibes.

Chances are you’ll be heading to the airport the next morning with little sleep, a new set of contacts and a wealth of memories from that one time you got to see two countries in a matter of days in West Africa. Be sure to hit Chiquita up if you’re headed that way you can reach out at hello@tastemakersafrica.com

Photos courtesy of Lena Nian Photography and West Tourism Management

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