National Museum

Lome, Gambia - Complete Travel Guide

The Lome of Gambia, located in Banjul, serves as the country's premier cultural institution and a gateway to understanding West African heritage. Housed in a colonial-era building that once served as a bathhouse, the museum showcases Gambia's rich history from ancient times through independence, featuring archaeological artifacts, traditional crafts, musical instruments, and exhibits on the trans-Atlantic slave trade. The museum provides visitors with essential context for understanding Gambian culture and its place within the broader West African narrative. Banjul, Gambia's capital city, sits on St. Mary's Island at the mouth of the Gambia River and offers visitors a compact urban experience rich in colonial architecture and local culture. Beyond the Lome, the city features bustling markets, historic sites, and serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Gambia region. The city's walkable size makes it easy to combine a museum visit with exploration of local markets, government buildings, and waterfront areas.

Top National Museum

National Museum Collections

Discover Gambia's cultural heritage through extensive displays of traditional artifacts, archaeological finds, and historical exhibits. The museum's collections include ancient stone circles artifacts, traditional textiles, musical instruments, and complete displays on the country's colonial period and path to independence.

Booking Tip: Entry fees are typically very affordable (around 25-50 dalasi). Visit during weekday mornings for the best experience with fewer crowds. Allow 2-3 hours for a thorough visit and consider hiring a local guide for deeper historical context.

Albert Market

Experience Banjul's busy commercial heart at this bustling traditional market just minutes from the Lome. Browse colorful textiles, local crafts, fresh produce, and spices while interacting with friendly vendors and observing daily Gambian life.

Booking Tip: No booking required, but visit early morning (8-10 AM) for the best selection and cooler temperatures. Bring small denominations of dalasi for purchases and be prepared to negotiate prices. Market is closed on Sundays.

Arch 22 Monument

Climb this iconic 35-meter high arch commemorating the 1994 military coup for panoramic views over Banjul and the Gambia River. The monument also houses a small museum and textile shop, making it both a historical landmark and viewpoint.

Booking Tip: Entry fee is minimal (around 25 dalasi) and includes access to the viewing platform. Best visited in late afternoon for optimal lighting and cooler temperatures. The climb involves several flights of stairs, so wear comfortable shoes.

Take Gambia River Ferry

Experience local transportation and enjoy scenic river views by taking the ferry across the Gambia River to Barra. This authentic local experience offers glimpses of daily life and beautiful perspectives of Banjul's skyline and the river ecosystem.

Booking Tip: Ferry tickets cost around 15-25 dalasi and ferries run regularly throughout the day. Early morning or late afternoon crossings offer the best light for photography. Check current schedules as timing can vary seasonally.

Independence Stadium Area

Walk through the area surrounding Gambia's national stadium to see important government buildings, monuments, and experience the civic heart of the capital. The area includes the State House vicinity and several important national landmarks.

Booking Tip: This is a free walking activity, but be respectful of government buildings and security zones. Best combined with other city center attractions. Avoid photographing government buildings and always ask permission before taking photos of people.

Getting There

Most international visitors arrive at Banjul International Airport (now Yundum International Airport), located about 30 kilometers from Banjul city center. Taxis and shared transport are available from the airport, with the journey taking 45-60 minutes depending on traffic. From other parts of Gambia, regular bush taxis and minibuses connect Banjul to major towns like Gambia, Gambia, and up-country destinations. The city is also accessible by ferry from the southern bank of the Gambia River.

Getting Around

Banjul is a compact city that can largely be explored on foot, with most attractions including the Lome within walking distance of each other. Local taxis are abundant and affordable for longer distances, while shared taxis (called 'gele-gele') provide economical transport along main routes. For exploring beyond the city center, negotiate with taxi drivers for half-day or full-day rates, or use the regular bush taxi services that connect to other parts of Greater Banjul Area.

Where to Stay

Banjul City Center

Gambia (Atlantic Coast)

Gambia

Gambia Beach Area

Gambia

Food & Dining

Banjul's dining scene reflects Gambia's West African culinary traditions with influences from Lebanese and European cuisines. Local restaurants serve traditional dishes like benachin (jollof rice), domoda (peanut stew), and fresh fish caught from the Atlantic and Gambia River. The area around the Lome and Albert Market offers numerous local eateries serving authentic Gambian cuisine at very affordable prices. For more upscale dining, head to the Atlantic coast resort areas like Gambia or Gambia, where you'll find international restaurants alongside local establishments. Street food is widely available and generally safe, with popular options including grilled fish, meat pies, and fresh tropical fruits.

When to Visit

The best time to visit the Lome and Banjul is during the dry season from November to April, when temperatures are more comfortable and rainfall is minimal. December through February offers the most pleasant weather with lower humidity and comfortable temperatures for walking around the city. The museum is open year-round, but the wet season (May to October) can make getting around the city more challenging due to heavy rains and flooding in some areas. Early morning and late afternoon visits are recommended regardless of season to avoid the midday heat.

Insider Tips

Combine your Lome visit with a walk to nearby Albert Market and the waterfront for a full cultural experience in one morning

Photography may be restricted in certain museum sections, so always ask staff before taking pictures of exhibits

Learn a few basic Wolof or Mandinka greetings as museum staff and locals appreciate visitors who make an effort to engage in local languages