Banjul in July

July weather, activities, events & insider tips

July Weather in Banjul

32°C (89°F) High Temp

23°C (74°F) Low Temp

175 mm (6.9 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is July Right for You?

Advantages

Green season brings lush landscapes and the Gambia River at its fullest - boat trips to Gambia see 40% more bird species active during July rains
Tourist numbers drop 60% compared to December peak, meaning Kachikally Crocodile Pool and Arch 22 visits without crowds and genuine interaction with locals
Mango and cashew season peaks in July - street vendors sell fresh mangoes for D5-10 (₩0.08-0.15) and local markets overflow with seasonal produce
Afternoon thunderstorms create dramatic 20-30 minute spectacles, followed by cooler evening temperatures perfect for exploring Gambia Market after 6pm

Considerations

Rainy season means 40% of rural roads become impassable - day trips to Janjangbureh or Basse require 4WD vehicles and flexible timing
High humidity (70%) makes midday walking uncomfortable - most outdoor sightseeing needs to happen before 11am or after 4pm
Some beach activities at Gambia and Cape Point limited by afternoon storms and rougher Atlantic conditions compared to dry season

Best Activities in July

River Gambia National Park Wildlife Cruises

July's rains bring peak wildlife activity to the river islands. Hippos are most active in cooler weather, and over 280 bird species including African fish eagles and kingfishers are easier to spot. Morning departures (8am-12pm) avoid afternoon storms while catching animals at watering holes.

Booking Tip: Book river cruises 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators at Banjul ferry terminal. Trips typically cost D1,200-1,800 (₩18-27) including guide and lunch. Choose morning departures and operators with covered boats for weather protection. See current tour options in booking section below.

Banjul Historical Walking Tours

July's lower tourist numbers mean real feels at Albert Market, Lome, and Colonial architecture around McCarthy Square. Morning tours (7am-11am) use cooler temperatures before humidity peaks. Local guides share stories without competing with large groups.

Booking Tip: Walking tours work best early morning when temperatures are 23-26°C (73-79°F). Local guides available at Lome charge D300-500 (₩4.50-7.50) for 3-hour tours. Book through hotel concierge or see current guided options in booking section below.

Abuko Nature Reserve Forest Walks

The 105-hectare reserve comes alive during rainy season with over 250 bird species active and gallery forest at its most lush. Elevated walkways stay dry during light rains, and early morning visits (7am-10am) offer excellent primate watching when temperatures are coolest.

Booking Tip: Entry costs D25 (₩0.37) for individuals, but guided nature walks cost D200-400 (₩3-6) extra. Reserve opens 7am daily - arrive early before heat builds. Transport from Banjul takes 45 minutes (23 km/14 miles). Check current tour packages in booking section below.

Traditional Craft Village Visits

July is peak production season in villages like Tanje and Gambia as artisans work indoors during rains. Witness traditional tie-dye, woodcarving, and pottery without the intense dry season heat. Indoor workshops provide natural cultural experiences during afternoon storm periods.

Booking Tip: Village cultural tours typically cost D800-1,200 (₩12-18) including transportation and craft demonstrations. Book through community tourism offices or see current cultural tour options in booking section below. Half-day trips work best to avoid afternoon weather.

Serrekunda Market Food Adventures

July brings seasonal fruits and vegetables to West Africa's largest market. Mango season peaks with varieties like kent and keitt at D5-15 (₩0.08-0.23) per fruit. Covered market areas provide shelter during brief afternoon storms while sampling benachin, domoda, and fresh palm wine.

Booking Tip: Food market tours with local guides cost D400-600 (₩6-9) for 2-3 hours including tastings. Best visited 9am-11am or 4pm-6pm to avoid midday heat and storm periods. See current food tour options in booking section below.

Kachikally Sacred Crocodile Pool Visits

The sacred pool in Gambia becomes more active during July's cooler, wetter weather as crocodiles are less lethargic. Fertility ceremonies continue year-round, and the lush surrounding vegetation creates better photographic conditions than dry season visits.

Booking Tip: Entry fee D50 (₩0.75) plus D100-200 (₩1.50-3) optional guide fee. Open daily 8am-6pm, best visited morning or late afternoon. Located 12 km (7.5 miles) from Banjul center. See current tour combinations in booking section below.

July Events & Festivals

Mid July

Roots Festival Heritage Celebrations

Occasional cultural performances and storytelling sessions at Gambia commemorate African diaspora heritage. Features traditional Kora music, drumming workshops, and historical reenactments focusing on pre-colonial Gambian kingdoms.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Quick-dry rain jacket or poncho - afternoon storms arrive suddenly and last 20-30 minutes with little warning

Lightweight cotton or linen shirts - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity conditions

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - humidity and sudden downpours can damage electronics instantly

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days due to equatorial location

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - wet laterite soil becomes extremely slippery during and after rains

Insect repellent containing DEET - standing water after rains increases mosquito activity in evening hours

Small daypack with waterproof compartment - essential for protecting documents and valuables during sudden weather changes

Light cardigan for air-conditioned spaces - restaurants and hotels can feel cold after outdoor humidity

Electrolyte supplements or rehydration salts - high humidity and sweating require extra mineral replacement

Cash in small Gambian dalasi notes - many local vendors cannot change large bills, especially in rural areas

Insider Knowledge

Local Gambians take afternoon rest (2pm-4pm) during peak heat and humidity - shops and offices often close, so plan accordingly

Taxi fares increase by 25-30% during heavy rain periods as drivers become scarce - negotiate prices before storms hit

Banjul ferry runs reduced schedules during July storms - check morning departure times and have backup transport plans

Hotel rates drop 40-50% in July compared to December peak season - book accommodations 2-3 weeks ahead for best selection rather than price concerns

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor activities between 12pm-4pm when humidity peaks at 80%+ and afternoon storms are most likely

Wearing dark colors that show sweat stains and absorb heat - light colors reflect sun and hide moisture better

Expecting Western-style storm warnings - Gambian thunderstorms arrive within 15-20 minutes of first cloud formation