The pretty African seaside city 'you need to visit' - 28C in May and a pint is £2.20

is home to some absolutely stunning cities that very few choose to visit, a world away from the chaotic crowds of Marrakesh or Cairo. One country that hardly ever gains the attention it deserves is , the smallest country in continental Africa.

Compared to the millions of tourists who descend on Egypt, Morocco and South Africa, this West African nation only welcomed 790,000 in 2023. However, the forecasts that this number will increase to over a million by 2028 as the demand for grows. So, now is the best time to explore The Gambia and its stunning seaside capital city, before the rest of the world does. According to Youtuber , the capital is among the African destinations "you need to visit".

Banjul is the capital of The Gambia and is home to around 400,000 residents, making it the country's largest and most densely populated metropolitan area. The city is actually located on St Mary's Island (also Banjul Island), at the point where the Gambia River enters the .

Banjul offers an impressive blend of cultural attractions, wildlife experience and historical sites. Visitors can explore Arch 22, a landmark with a textile museum and visit the African Heritage Museum. The city is also home to bustling markets, including Albert Market, perfect for picking up souvenirs. History enthusiasts can explore James Island, a historical site related to the transatlantic .

For nature lovers, the capital is a gateway to wildlife parks like Fathala and Abuko Nature Reserve, where monkeys, birds, and other wildlife can be observed. You can even hop aboard a boat and be guided through mangroves and past wildlife at the River Gambia National Park.

Finally, take a well-earned day at Banjul Beach, known for its soft sand, crystal-clear waters and surrounding greenery. Watersports like parasailing, banana boating and boat rentals are available, with sun loungers and parasols provided.

According to , in resort areas, value for money is excellent when eating out or purchasing handicrafts. As of October 2024, a regular cup of coffee in a cafe or bar is about D120 (around £1.30), while a local beer in a local bar can cost anything from D200 to D250 (around £2.20-2.70).

However, Julbrew is no longer brewed in The Gambia but imported from Senegal, so pricing may vary.

A three-course meal for two adults, meanwhile, costs around D2,500 to D4,000, roughly £35 to £55, not including drinks. A glass of house can cost as little as £3 per glass or £10.90 per bottle.

May is the perfect time to visit Banjul, as temperatures at Banjul Beach is hot, sunny and dry. Thanks to its topical climate, the waters of the Atlantic are warm at around 24C, but the tropical rains have not really begun. In May, rainfall averages at just 10mm and the occasional short shower can actually be quite refreshing, according to .

The average daytime high temperature is 33C, with a cool breeze from the Atlantic. When occasional clouds appear, this may drop to around 27C. Plenty of sunshine is a guarantee during your trip, with an average of 11 hours from 13 hours of daylight.

What's more, the sun doesn't set until nearly 7.30pm at the end of May, meaning you can pack a huge amount into even just a short break.

Brits can fly to Banjul Airport (BJL) from for just £620 with Royal Air Maroc (the Moroccan national carrier), with one stop in Casablanca. The stylish four-star Tamala Beach Resort in Serrekunda has premium garden-view rooms with a balcony available for as little as £86 per night, with breakfast included, or £129 for half board.