Albert Market
Banjul, Gambia
Gambia’s—and Banjul’s—biggest market, the Albert Market is a high-energy dive into West African life. An arts and crafts section caters to visiting travelers, whereas the colorful food zone serves up fresh produce to locals. Meanwhile, in the dry goods section, you’ll find everything from clothing to electronics.
The basics
Dynamic and bustling, the Albert Market is easy enough to wander through, whether you’re looking to pick up a souvenir or find refreshments at any of the food and drink stands. Many travelers opt to visit with a guide who can put names to the produce in the wet market and advise on what, if any, souvenirs to buy and how best to haggle for them. Most Banjul city tours include a stop at the market.
Things to know before you go
The Albert Market is a great choice for souvenir shoppers, people-watchers, photographers, street food fans—and anyone looking to get out of their resort and discover the real Gambia.
Head up to the bridge over the top of the market’s main gateway to get an overall view of the area.
Pickpockets operate within the market, and anyone who doesn’t look Gambian is a target. Wear purses across the body with the opening on the inside, keep an eye on your phone, and avoid carrying or displaying large sums of cash.
Narrow alleys, uneven surfaces, and crowds mean the Albert Market is not wheelchair friendly.
How to get there
The Albert Market is in the heart of downtown Banjul, less than a 15-minute walk north of the ferry terminal and a stone’s throw from July 22 Square. Banjul’s public transit system isn’t set up for foreigners and rideshares have yet to land here, so most travelers will find it easiest to take a green tourist taxi, charter a car, or join a tour.
When to get there
The market is open from early morning until evening between Monday and Friday, with shorter hours on weekends. If you want to avoid the worst of the crowds, visiting as early in the morning as possible generally makes for a quieter experience. This time of day will also help beat the heat.
Where to shop souvenirs in The Gambia
The Gambia can be a great place to shop traditional West African souvenirs, from musical instruments like kora lutes and djembe drums to hand-carved wooden masks or purses crafted by Gambian women from recycled plastic bags. The Brikama Craft Market is a great choice for finding wood carvings at affordable prices, while the Senegambia Craft Market has a wide range of souvenirs.
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