Banjul in June

June weather, activities, events & insider tips

June Weather in Banjul

32°C (90°F) High Temp

22°C (72°F) Low Temp

56 mm (2.2 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is June Right for You?

Advantages

Post-rainy season clarity - River Gambia tours offer exceptional wildlife viewing as animals gather at remaining water sources, and morning temperatures around 22°C (72°F) are perfect for 3-hour river excursions before midday heat
Mango harvest season peaks in June - local markets overflow with 15+ varieties at D5-10 per kilogram, and traditional mango festivals happen in rural areas accessible via day trips from Banjul
Tourist low season means 30-40% lower accommodation rates and uncrowded access to key sites like Arch 22 and Albert Market without the December-March crowds that can triple waiting times
Optimal bird migration timing - over 200 species present including rare Abyssinian rollers and carmine bee-eaters that arrive specifically in June before moving south, making this the year's best month for serious birding

Considerations

Afternoon humidity peaks at 85-90% between 2-5pm daily, making outdoor walking tours uncomfortable - most locals retreat indoors during these hours and visitors should plan accordingly
Unpredictable rainfall patterns with 40% chance of sudden downpours that can last 30-90 minutes, potentially disrupting half-day island excursions to Gambia without much warning
Many beachside restaurants reduce operating hours or close entirely during weekday afternoons due to low tourist season, limiting dining options between 2-6pm outside central Banjul

Best Activities in June

River Gambia Wildlife Boat Tours

June's post-wet season water levels create perfect conditions for spotting hippos, crocodiles, and over 150 bird species along the river. Morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) make 3-4 hour excursions comfortable, and low tourist season means boats carry half capacity for better viewing and photography opportunities.

Booking Tip: Book morning departures (7am-11am) to avoid afternoon heat and humidity. Tours typically cost D2,500-3,500 per person. Reserve 5-7 days ahead through licensed operators with life jackets and experienced local guides. See current tour options in the booking section below.

Bijilo Forest Park Nature Walks

June's lush vegetation from recent rains creates ideal conditions for spotting red colobus monkeys and forest birds. The 2.5 km (1.6 mile) trail network is passable but not muddy, and early morning walks at 22°C (72°F) are comfortable before humidity rises. Monkey activity peaks in June as fruit becomes abundant.

Booking Tip: Entry costs D150 per person, guides D500 for 2-3 hours. Start by 8am to avoid heat and maximize wildlife sightings. Self-guided possible but local guides spot 3x more animals. Park is 15 km (9.3 miles) from central Banjul.

James Island Historical Tours

June's clear post-rainy season visibility offers impressive views across the river to the UNESCO World Heritage slave fort ruins. Lower water levels make boat access easier, and sparse tourist crowds mean uninterrupted exploration of this crucial historical site. Morning tours avoid the intense UV index of 8.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours including boat transport cost D3,000-4,500 per person. Book through operators with historical guides, not just boat drivers. Tours run weather permitting - 15% cancellation rate in June due to sudden storms. Reserve 3-5 days ahead.

Local Market and Cooking Experiences

June is mango season with Albert Market showcasing 15+ local varieties alongside seasonal vegetables. Cooking classes feature traditional recipes using fresh June produce, and market tours at 7-9am avoid peak heat while experiencing authentic local commerce when vendors are most active and produce is freshest.

Booking Tip: Market tours with cooking class cost D2,000-3,000 per person for 4-5 hours. Morning sessions (7am start) are essential to beat heat and humidity. Look for experiences including transport from central Banjul hotels. Book 2-3 days ahead.

Tanji Fishing Village Cultural Tours

June marks peak fishing season with daily catches of barracuda and red snapper. Village tours at 6-8am witness boats returning with overnight catches, fish processing, and net repairs. The 45-minute drive from Banjul offers rural scenery enhanced by June's green vegetation, and tourist-free authentic cultural interaction.

Booking Tip: Half-day tours cost D2,500-3,500 including transport and guide. Must start early (6am) to see fishing activity before boats depart again. Photography fees D200 extra. Some operators combine with nearby pottery villages for full cultural immersion.

Mangrove Creek Kayaking

June water levels in mangrove creeks south of Banjul are ideal for kayaking - deep enough for passage but not overwhelming currents. Wildlife activity peaks as birds feed during low tide times. Morning paddling at 22-25°C (72-77°F) is comfortable, and the 70% humidity hasn't yet reached daily peak levels.

Booking Tip: 3-4 hour kayak tours cost D3,500-4,500 per person including equipment and guide. Essential to check tide times - best 2 hours before to 1 hour after low tide. Weight limit 100 kg (220 lbs) for stable kayaks. Book 1 week ahead as only 2-3 operators offer this.

June Events & Festivals

Mid to Late June

Kankurang Cultural Festival

Traditional masked dance ceremonies marking the end of circumcision season take place in villages around Banjul. Local communities welcome respectful visitors to witness ancient Mandinka traditions with drumming, storytelling, and ceremonial masks. Transport arranged through cultural centers in Banjul.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - afternoon showers occur 40% of June days lasting 30-90 minutes with little warning

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes unbearable in 70-85% humidity, especially after 2pm daily

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 daily and reflects off water during river tours

Quick-dry pants and shirts for morning activities - dew and overnight moisture means everything stays damp until 10am

Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - paths can be slippery from overnight moisture even without rain

Insect repellent with DEET 25%+ - mosquito activity increases with June humidity, especially near water sources

Electrolyte supplements or rehydration salts - 32°C (90°F) highs with humidity cause rapid dehydration during outdoor activities

Waterproof phone case and camera protection - sudden rain can damage electronics, and river spray during boat tours is common

Light cotton scarf or bandana - useful for temple visits, dust protection, and sweat management during market tours

Flip-flops or water sandals - for beach areas and easy removal when entering homes or religious sites during cultural tours

Insider Knowledge

Most locals take afternoon rest from 2-5pm when humidity peaks - schedule indoor activities like museums or shopping during these hours, and you'll find better service at restaurants that remain open

Dalasi exchange rates fluctuate 10-15% during June due to low tourism - bring US dollars or Euros in small denominations and change money gradually at forex bureaus rather than all at once

Public transport (gele-gele minibuses) reduces frequency after 6pm in June due to fewer tourists - arrange hotel pickup for evening activities or dine within walking distance of accommodation

Mango trees throughout Banjul drop fruit unpredictably in June - locals know which streets to avoid parking under, and visitors should watch for falling fruit especially near Albert Market and July 22nd Drive

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning outdoor walking tours after 1pm - humidity becomes oppressive and locals retreat indoors, making cultural interaction difficult and heat exhaustion likely

Assuming all restaurants maintain full hours - many beachside and tourist-oriented places close 2-6pm weekdays in low season, leaving limited dining options outside central Banjul

Booking accommodation without air conditioning to save money - June humidity makes sleeping impossible without AC, and budget places with just fans become unbearable after midnight