Souvenirs can be bought in Banjul’s Albert
Market and the various
bengdulas (craft markets) in the resort areas. Popular purchases include brightly colored batik clothing, woodcarvings and handmade jewelry. Some of the souvenirs are gaudy, others exceedingly attractive. Drums, beaded belts and ladies’ handbags are also popular items. Other West African
handicrafts made of straw, beads, leather, cloth or metal can be purchased here.
Shopping hoursMon-Thurs 0900-1200 and 1430-1800, Fri-Sat 0900-1300. Some shops may stay open until
2200.
Currency Information:CurrencyGambian Dalasi (GMD; symbol D) = 100 bututs. Notes are in denominations of D100, 50, 25, 10 and 5. Coins are in denominations of D1, and 50, 25, 10, 5 and 1 bututs.
Currency ExchangeThere is a bank/bureau de change (Trust Bank) at the airport (Mon-Fri 0900-1600, Fri 0900-1230). The capital, Banjul, and the nearby towns of Serrekunda, Bakau, Fajara and Kololi have a number of banks where foreign currencies can be exchanged. Exchange bureaux are found in all the main tourist resorts. Some hotels also offer foreign exchange facilities, but tend to charge high commissions. As The Gambia is a cash economy travelers are advised to carry sufficient currency to cover expenses of a planned visit.
Credit/Debit Cards and ATMsWhile some hotels will accept American Express, MasterCard and Visa if arranged at the beginning of the stay, many local businesses only accept payment by cash or traveller's cheques. ATMs are available in large urban areas, but are few in number and not always reliable. Due to credit card and bank fraud, caution is advised when using credit cards and ATMs.
Traveller's ChequesTo avoid additional exchange rate charges, travelers are advised to take traveller's cheques in Pounds Sterling or Euros.
Currency RestrictionsRestrictions apply.
Banking HoursMon-Thurs 0800-1330, Fri 0800-1100 (banks in Banjul); Mon-Fri 0800-1200 and 1600-1800, Sat 0800-1300 (banks elsewhere).
Exchange Rate Indicators| Date | Jan 09 |
| £1.00= | D39.74 |
| $1.00= | D27.02 |
| €1.00= | D36.20 |
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