Banjul in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Banjul

33°C (91°F) High Temp

18°C (65°F) Low Temp

0 mm (0.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Perfect dry season weather - February is the heart of Gambia's dry season with virtually no rainfall (0mm expected), making it ideal for river excursions and walking tours without weather delays
Optimal temperatures for exploration - daytime highs of 33°C (91°F) are warm but manageable, while evening lows of 18°C (65°F) create perfect conditions for sunset river cruises and evening markets
Peak bird migration season - February brings over 400 migratory species to Gambia River wetlands, making it the absolute best month for birdwatching with species like European bee-eaters and various warblers at maximum numbers
Comfortable Harmattan winds - February features gentle northeastern trade winds that reduce humidity from typical 85% to 70%, making outdoor activities significantly more pleasant than wet season months

Considerations

Dust haze from Sahara - February's Harmattan winds carry fine dust particles that can reduce visibility and affect those with respiratory sensitivities, particularly during mid-morning hours
Higher accommodation costs - February falls in peak tourist season, with guesthouse prices typically 40-60% higher than April-October rates, and advance booking essential
Intense UV exposure - with clear skies and UV index of 8, sunburn risk is severe; many visitors underestimate the intensity at 13°N latitude even in 'winter' months

Best Activities in February

Gambia River Birdwatching Cruises

February is peak season for spotting both resident and migratory birds along the Gambia River. Over 400 species are present, including European migrants like bee-eaters, kingfishers, and various warblers that arrive in massive numbers. The dry weather means reliable boat schedules and calm waters perfect for photography. Morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) create ideal conditions for early departures when birds are most active.

Booking Tip: Book river cruises 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators at tourism ministry-registered bases. Half-day tours typically cost 1,500-2,500 GMD (£20-35) including guide and binoculars. Morning departures (7am-11am) offer best sightings. Reference booking widget for current tour availability.

Kunta Kinteh Island Historical Tours

February's dry conditions ensure reliable boat access to this UNESCO World Heritage site. With minimal rainfall and calm river conditions, you can explore the ruins of James Fort and learn about the slave trade history without weather disruptions. The cooler morning temperatures make the 45-minute boat journey and island walking tour comfortable.

Booking Tip: Combine with river cruises for better value - joint tours typically cost 2,000-3,500 GMD (£25-45). Book through government-approved operators only. Allow full day including 3-hour round-trip boat journey. See current options in booking section below.

Makasutu Cultural Forest Walks

The dry season transforms this sacred forest into an accessible walking great destination. February's low humidity (70% vs 90% in rainy season) makes the 2-3 hour forest walks comfortable, while clear weather ensures you can enjoy the canopy walkway and traditional music performances. Wildlife spotting is excellent as animals congregate around permanent water sources.

Booking Tip: Entry fees range 800-1,200 GMD (£10-15) for guided walks. Book cultural performances in advance - they're held Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday afternoons. Transport from Banjul adds 1,500-2,000 GMD (£20-25). Check booking widget for combination packages.

Bijilo Forest Park Monkey Watching

February's dry weather makes forest paths easily walkable and wildlife viewing predictable. Red colobus monkeys and green vervet monkeys are most active during cooler morning and evening temperatures. The 1.5 km (0.9 mile) walking trails are dust-free compared to Harmattan peak season, and the forest provides natural shade from the intense UV index of 8.

Booking Tip: Entry costs 25 GMD (£0.30) plus 200 GMD (£2.50) guide fee. Best visited early morning (7-9am) or late afternoon (4-6pm) when temperatures drop to 25°C (77°F). Combine with nearby beach visits. No advance booking required.

Banjul Market and Colonial Architecture Tours

February's comfortable evening temperatures of 18°C (65°F) make sunset walking tours through Banjul's colonial district perfect. The dry weather ensures all streets are accessible, and lower humidity makes the bustling Albert Market experience more pleasant. Visit during late afternoon when harsh midday sun subsides.

Booking Tip: Self-guided walks are free, but local guides cost 500-800 GMD (£6-10) for 2-hour tours. Market vendors expect small purchases if photographing. Avoid midday tours due to 33°C (91°F) heat. Start at Arch 22 for city overview, then walk to colonial buildings.

Tanji Fishing Village Cultural Experiences

February's calm Atlantic conditions mean daily fishing boat returns are reliable, offering authentic cultural encounters with local fishermen. The dry season ensures the fish smoking areas are fully operational, and cooler temperatures make walking through the village markets comfortable. This is peak fishing season with largest catches.

Booking Tip: Village visits cost 200-400 GMD (£2.50-5) including guide explanations of smoking processes. Fishing boat arrivals are typically 2-4pm. Combine with nearby Gambia Bird Reserve visits. Transport from Banjul costs 800-1,200 GMD (£10-15) by taxi.

February Events & Festivals

Mid to Late February

International Roots Festival

This heritage celebration includes traditional music performances, storytelling sessions about Gambia's role in the slave trade, and cultural workshops. Features local and international artists performing kora music and traditional dances. Perfect timing with February's dry weather for outdoor events.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight long-sleeve shirts in light colors - essential for protection from UV index 8 while staying cool in 33°C (91°F) heat and 70% humidity

Dust mask or bandana - February's Harmattan winds carry Saharan dust that can irritate airways, especially during morning hours

SPF 50+ sunscreen with zinc oxide - the intense equatorial sun at 13°N latitude causes severe burns within 20 minutes even in 'winter'

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - crucial for UV protection during boat trips and market walks, with strap for windy river conditions

Lightweight rain jacket - despite minimal rainfall, brief 20-30 minute afternoon showers occur on about 30% of February days

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which traps sweat in 70% humidity conditions

Comfortable walking shoes with ankle support - for forest walks and uneven colonial-era streets in Banjul

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes remain active around river areas despite dry conditions

Light sweater for evenings - temperatures drop to 18°C (65°F) during river cruises and outdoor dining

Binoculars - essential for February's peak birdwatching season with over 400 species present

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by December 15th - February is peak season and many guesthouses fill up, especially during International Roots Festival weeks in late February

Schedule river activities for early morning (7-9am) - birds are most active, temperatures are coolest at 22°C (72°F), and Harmattan dust haze is minimal

Carry small denomination dalasi notes (5, 10, 25 GMD) - essential for market purchases, photo permissions, and guide tips; many vendors cannot change large bills

Learn basic Wolof greetings ('Nanga def' for hello) - locals appreciate the effort and it significantly improves market experiences and cultural interactions

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating sun intensity - many visitors assume February 'winter' means mild sun, but UV index 8 at 13°N latitude causes severe burns in under 30 minutes

Overpacking warm clothes - while evenings drop to 18°C (65°F), daytime heat of 33°C (91°F) means heavy clothing is unnecessary except for one light layer

Not booking river tours in advance - February is peak season for birdwatching and many operators are fully booked, especially for morning departures