Private Market Tour & Gambian Cooking Class with Hotel Transfers
Active
4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This intimate experience in a local home offers a deep dive into Gambian cuisine, culture, and hospitality, perfect for food lovers and curious travelers alike.
Discover Gambian culture through a hands-on cooking class in a local family home. Visit the lively Tanji Fishing Market to shop for fresh fish and produce like a local. Dress in traditional Gambian clothing and learn the stories behind the dishes. Cook authentic dishes like domoda, benachin, or yassa using traditional methods. Enjoy your homemade meal and herbal tea in a peaceful garden with your hosts.
Available options
Market + cook + lunch + RTT
Pickup included
Market + cook + dinner + RTT
Pickup included
What's included
A traditional Gambian meal
Hands-on Gambian cooking class
Pick up and drop off from your hotel in Tujereng or Banjul
Guided tour of Tanji Fishing Market to buy fresh produce
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Menu is subject to change, if you have any preference please let your host know in advance
Dietary accommodations are available for lactose-free, gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan diets, if informed in advance
This experience includes pick-up and drop-off from hotels in Tujereng or Banjul, please provide your hotel name and address when booking online
Important notes
Host Name: Ida, Haddy and Aicha
Host Email: chaamidaa@gmail.com or aichasecknjai@gmail.com
Host Phone: + 220 772 72 72
Meeting Instructions: Your host will pick you up from the concierge desk of your Tujereng/Banjul hotel and drop you back after your experience is over.
Please contact your host directly if you have dietary requests or need help with directions.
--
Traveling Spoon is a supplier of Viator and TripAdvisor. We offer travelers authentic food experiences with locals, in their homes. Founded by two travelers and food lovers, Traveling Spoon helps others make meaningful cultural connections through food. Contact us at reservations@travelingspoon.com if you have general questions about our services. For specific questions related to your booking please contact your host directly with the contact information provided above.
We hope you have a meaningful experience and look forward to hearing about it!
About Banjul
Banjul, the capital of Gambia, is a vibrant coastal city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and strategic location at the mouth of the Gambia River. As the smallest capital in mainland Africa, it offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and serene beaches, making it an appealing destination for both history enthusiasts and beach lovers.
Top Attractions
Arch 22
Arch 22 is a prominent landmark in Banjul, originally built to commemorate the 22nd anniversary of President Dawda Jawara's rule. It offers panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
Historical
30-60 minutes
Free
Albert Market
Albert Market is the largest market in Banjul, offering a vibrant and colorful shopping experience. Visitors can find a variety of local goods, including fresh produce, textiles, and handicrafts.
Market
1-2 hours
Free to enter, prices vary for purchases
Banjul Beach
Banjul Beach is a popular spot for relaxation and water activities. The beach offers a mix of sandy shores and rocky areas, with clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
Beach
2-3 hours
Free
Gambia National Museum
The Gambia National Museum showcases the rich history and culture of Gambia, with exhibits on its colonial past, traditional crafts, and natural history.
Museum
1-2 hours
50 GMD (0.50 USD)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Domoda
A peanut-based stew made with meat (usually beef, chicken, or fish) and served with rice or fufu (a dough-like dish made from cassava and plantains).
Main dish
Vegetarian versions are available, but traditional recipes include meat.
Superkanja
A spicy okra soup made with fish or meat, tomatoes, and various spices. It is typically served with rice or fufu.
Soup
Can be made vegetarian, but traditional recipes include meat.
Benachin
A fragrant one-pot rice dish cooked with vegetables, meat, and spices. It is similar to jollof rice but has a unique Gambian twist.
Rice dish
Vegetarian versions are available, but traditional recipes include meat.
Popular Activities
Nature walks in Abuko Nature Reserve
Birdwatching
Wildlife spotting
Sunbathing at Banjul Beach
Swimming
Spa treatments
Visiting the Gambia National Museum
Exploring Albert Market
Best Time to Visit
November to May
This is the dry season, offering sunny weather, lower humidity, and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
23°C to 30°C
73°F to 86°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Mandinka, Wolof, Fula
- English: Widely spoken, especially in urban areas and among younger generations
Currency
Gambian Dalasi (GMD)
Time Zone
GMT
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
Banjul is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime, such as pickpocketing and scams, can occur. Exercise caution, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Important Precautions:
- • Be cautious of strangers offering help or services
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Banjul International Airport • 16 km (10 miles) from city center
By bus
Banjul Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Banjul. They are affordable and cover most areas of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Kairaba Avenue
Serekunda
Day trips
Abuko Nature Reserve
15 km (9 miles) from Banjul • Half day
Abuko Nature Reserve is a protected area known for its diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy nature walks, birdwatching, and learning about the local ecosystem.
Brikama
25 km (15 miles) from Banjul • Full day
Brikama is a town known for its rich cultural heritage and traditional crafts. Visitors can explore local markets, artisan workshops, and historical sites.
Juffureh and Albreda
120 km (75 miles) from Banjul • Full day
Juffureh and Albreda are historical villages with ties to the transatlantic slave trade. Visitors can explore museums, historical sites, and learn about the region's history.
Festivals
Independence Day • February 18
International Roots Festival • October (annual, dates vary)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in local languages, such as Mandinka or Wolof, to enhance your cultural experience and connect with locals.
- Hire a local guide for a more in-depth and authentic experience, as they can provide valuable insights into the city's history, culture, and hidden gems.
- Visit local markets, such as Albert Market, for a vibrant and colorful shopping experience, and don't forget to bargain for the best prices.
- Explore Banjul's beaches, such as Banjul Beach and Kairaba Beach, for a relaxing and enjoyable time by the ocean.
- Try local dishes, such as domoda, superkanja, and benachin, to experience the rich and diverse flavors of Gambian cuisine.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
