Banjul International Airport (BJL): The Complete 2026 Arrival & Departure Guide
Let’s turn your dream trip into a real adventure.
Welcome to the gateway of the Smiling Coast! Your unforgettable African adventure begins the moment you touch down at Banjul International Airport. Also known as Yundum International.
Banjul Airport is a small, straightforward, and friendly airport that serves as the gateway to Gambia — just a short drive from capital Banjul and the country’s most popular beach resorts. Flying directly from the UK for a winter sun holiday, or leaving after lounging at your hotel?
Here is your ultimate insider’s guide to navigating Banjul International Airport, brought to you by the travel experts at Good Flights.
Arriving at Banjul Airport: Step-by-Step
British citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 28 days. Simply present your valid UK passport (with at least 6 months validity) to the friendly immigration officers, get your entry stamp, and proceed to baggage claim.
1. Baggage Claim & Porters
Banjul Airport has limited baggaAfter your 6-hour flight from the UK, you will find that getting through The Gambia is normally fairly straightforward. Here’s what you might need to know between the tarmac and your taxi:
2. The Airport Security Fee (Crucial Step!)
Before you reach passport control, you must pay the mandatory Immigration Security Tax.
- The Cost: £20, €20, $20 USD, or 1,000 GMD per person.
- Important Tip: This must be paid in cash. We would strongly advise bringing a crisp £20 note to hand over and avoid queuing at the currency exchange desk. (I should mention that you must pay this upon exiting again!).
3. Passport Control & Visa Check
get reclaim space. You will see airport porters dressed in yellow or green shirts who would be happy to assist you with your bags. If using their services, a small tip (approx. £1-£2 or 50-100 dalasi) is customary and very much appreciated.
British citizens do not need a visa for tourist stays of up to 28 days. To understand the exact passport validity rules and full entry details, read our complete guide on the Gambian visa requirements for British citizens
Airport Transfers: How Far Are the Beach Resorts?
One of the best things about flying into Banjul is the incredibly short transfer times to the major tourist hubs. You won’t spend hours on a coach!
- To Brufut Heights (Luxury Resorts): Approx. 25 minutes.
- To Kololi (Senegambia Strip): Approx. 30 minutes.
- To Kotu (Family Resorts): Approx. 35 minutes.
- To Cape Point / Bakau: Approx. 40 minutes.
- To Banjul City Centre: Approx. 45 minutes.
Getting to Your Hotel: There are official green tourist taxis waiting just outside the arrivals hall. They’re on a fixed-price board, so there’s no haggling. But for added peace of mind, when you book your Gambia Holiday Package with us, we advise pre-booking your airport transfer.
Departing Banjul: Facilities & The Pearl VIP Lounge
When it is time to say goodbye to the Smiling Coast, you will find departing just as easy as arriving.
- Check-In & Security Tax: Remember to keep your second £20 note handy! You must pay the departure security fee before heading to the check-in desks.
- Duty-Free & Shopping: The departure lounge has a small but well-stocked duty-free shop where you can pick up last-minute souvenirs, local Gambian crafts, spirits, and snacks.
- The Pearl Lounge (VIP): Want to wait for your flight in luxury? For a small fee (around £25), you can access the Pearl Executive Lounge. It offers comfortable air-conditioned seating, complimentary Wi-Fi, premium drinks, and a selection of hot and cold food. It is the perfect way to end your holiday.
Fly to Banjul with Good Flights
Perfect to discover the mystery of West Africa! Banjul International Airport is easier to get to than ever. Your tropical escape isn’t as far away as you might imagine—with winter direct flights from London Gatwick (LGW) and Manchester (MAN), it’s closer than you think.
Aladin also shows the cheapest, best flight times and easiest airport transfers in one place.