Banjul in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Banjul

91°F (33°C) High Temp

67°F (19°C) Low Temp

0.0 inches (0 mm) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season with 0.0 inches (0 mm) average rainfall - perfect for river excursions and outdoor markets without muddy conditions that plague wet season months
Comfortable temperatures of 67-91°F (19-33°C) with cooling Harmattan winds from the Sahara making afternoon activities bearable, unlike the sweltering heat of April-May
Prime bird migration season along the Gambia River - over 200 species pass through including European bee-eaters and swallows, with morning visibility at 10+ km (6+ miles)
Local mango season begins with early varieties like Julie and Kent ripening, plus groundnut harvest celebrations in rural communities create authentic cultural experiences

Considerations

Tourist high season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to wet season rates, with beachfront properties booking solid by January
Harmattan dust from Sahara creates hazy conditions reducing photography quality and requiring daily cleaning of cameras and electronics
Extreme UV index of 8 combined with 70% humidity creates deceptive burn risk - many visitors underestimate sun intensity due to coastal breeze

Best Activities in March

Gambia River Boat Excursions

March offers ideal river conditions with low water levels exposing sandbanks where hippos congregate, and minimal rainfall ensuring clear wildlife photography. Morning temperatures of 67°F (19°C) make 6am departures comfortable, while dry season concentrates animals at remaining water sources. Manatee sightings peak during this period as they move to deeper channels.

Booking Tip: Reserve 14-21 days ahead as dry season is peak time. Full-day excursions typically cost 2,500-4,000 dalasi ($47-75). Look for operators with life jackets and radio communication. See current tour options in booking section below.

Banjul Market and Cultural Walking Tours

March brings perfect conditions for exploring Albert Market and surrounding neighborhoods with comfortable morning temperatures and no rain disrupting outdoor stalls. Local produce is at its peak with early mangoes, fresh groundnuts, and dry season fish catches. The 70% humidity is manageable during morning hours before 11am.

Booking Tip: Early morning tours (7-10am) avoid peak heat and crowds. Cultural walks typically cost 800-1,500 dalasi ($15-28) for 3-4 hours. Choose guides registered with Gambia Tourism Authority. See current cultural tours in booking section below.

Bijilo Forest Park Bird Watching

Prime migration season makes March exceptional for birding with over 200 species including European migrants preparing for northward journey. Dry conditions mean clear trails through the 2.5 km (1.6 miles) of paths, and morning mist creates dramatic photography opportunities. Red colobus monkeys are most active in cooler morning temperatures.

Booking Tip: Dawn walks (6:30-9:30am) offer best wildlife activity and comfortable temperatures. Guided walks cost 1,200-2,000 dalasi ($22-37). Bring binoculars or rent from visitor center. Book through certified nature guides - see current options in booking section below.

Stone Circles of Senegambia Day Trips

March's clear, dry conditions provide perfect visibility for exploring these UNESCO World Heritage megalithic sites at Wassu and Ker Batch. The 91°F (33°C) afternoon heat is offset by low humidity compared to wet season, and dust-free roads make the 180 km (112 miles) journey comfortable.

Booking Tip: Full-day trips typically cost 3,500-5,500 dalasi ($66-103) including transport and guide. Book with air-conditioned vehicles during dry season heat. Departure before 8am recommended to avoid peak afternoon temperatures. See current archaeological tours in booking section below.

Tanji Fishing Village and Museum Experience

March coincides with peak fishing season as calm seas and favorable winds bring excellent catches. Witness traditional smoking techniques for preserving fish during dry season, and experience authentic Gambian coastal culture. The 19 km (12 miles) coastal drive offers clear Atlantic views without rainy season haze.

Booking Tip: Visit during morning fish market hours (6-10am) for most activity. Half-day cultural experiences cost 1,800-2,800 dalasi ($34-53). Include Gambia Bird Reserve for additional wildlife viewing. See current coastal village tours in booking section below.

Kunta Kinteh Island Historical Tours

Low river levels in March make boat access to Gambia easier, while dry conditions preserve the UNESCO World Heritage fort ruins optimally for exploration. Clear skies provide excellent photography of this crucial slave trade historical site, and comfortable temperatures make the educational experience less physically demanding.

Booking Tip: Combine with river wildlife viewing for full-day value. Historical boat tours cost 2,800-4,200 dalasi ($53-79) including island access fees. Book with operators providing historical context and certified guides. See current historical tours in booking section below.

March Events & Festivals

Mid March

Kanilai International Cultural Festival

Annual celebration featuring traditional Mandinka music, dance competitions, and craft exhibitions. Local groundnut harvest celebrations coincide with cultural performances showcasing Gambian heritage through food, art, and storytelling.

Late March

Banjul Regatta

Traditional boat racing along the Gambia River featuring colorful local fishing boats and ceremonial vessels. Combines maritime heritage with community celebration including local food vendors and music performances along the waterfront.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

SPF 50+ sunscreen and zinc stick - UV index reaches 8 and coastal reflection intensifies exposure, reapply every 90 minutes

Lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirts - protect from UV while allowing airflow in 70% humidity, avoid synthetic fabrics that trap sweat

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - Harmattan winds can be strong, especially during river excursions

Dust-proof camera bag and lens wipes - Saharan dust settles on electronics daily, clean equipment each evening

Comfortable walking shoes with good grip - dry season hardens clay paths making them slippery, avoid sandals for forest walks

Light rain jacket or poncho - despite dry season average, 10 rainy days means occasional afternoon showers lasting 20-30 minutes

Insect repellent with 20% DEET - dry season concentrates mosquitoes around remaining water sources, especially at dawn/dusk

Reusable water bottle with 2+ liter capacity - high temperatures and low humidity increase dehydration risk, refill stations common

Power bank and universal adapter - frequent power fluctuations during dry season peak demand, Type G (UK) plugs standard

Cash in small denominations - many rural sites and markets don't accept cards, ATMs can be 50+ km (31+ miles) apart outside Banjul

Insider Knowledge

Book accommodations by December - March is peak European escape season and quality beachfront properties fill completely, with walk-ins paying 80% premium rates

Start outdoor activities before 7am - locals avoid midday heat even in dry season, and wildlife viewing is dramatically better in first three hours after sunrise

Bring empty stomach space for mangoes - early varieties like Julie ripen in March at 30% the price of imported fruit, vendors offer taste-tests along coastal roads

Download offline maps before river trips - mobile coverage drops significantly beyond 15 km (9 miles) from Banjul, and GPS is essential for remote historical sites

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating sun intensity due to coastal breeze - many visitors get severe burns thinking wind means lower UV, when index actually peaks at 8 in March

Booking accommodations in Serekunda instead of coastal areas - 45-minute daily commutes to beaches and river access points waste precious daylight hours

Overpacking for rain - March averages 0.0 inches but tourists bring full wet season gear, while underpacking sun protection