Where to Shop in The Gambia (2025 Travel Guide for Fashion Lovers)

I remember visiting The Gambia as a young girl and always being drawn to the craft markets in Banjul and Bakau. I could sit for hours just watching artisans create, taking an image in their mind and bringing it to life with their hands. That magic of craftsmanship has always stayed with me.

But what I also noticed, year after year, was the lack of growth. The same products, the same animal carvings, most of animals you wouldn’t even find in The Gambia. And I used to wonder… for tourists coming here to shop for souvenirs or gifts, how many elephants can one actually buy?

Fast forward to today and things have changed beautifully. A new wave of Gambian brands and designers have emerged, bringing fresh creativity, modern aesthetics, and fashion you actually want to take home with you. From luxury handbags to gowns and statement pieces, the shopping scene in The Gambia is finally reflecting the artistry and culture we have here.

So if you’re visiting The Gambia between November and April (our busy tourist season), and wondering where to shop, this list is for you. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifth, you’ll see growth, you’ll see authenticity, and you’ll find pieces worth keeping.

Here are my top 5 fashion brands to shop in The Gambia:

1. Tanna Studio

If you’re looking for contemporary African fashion with a strong identity, Tanna Studio is a must. A perfect stop for fashion lovers who want to carry a piece of The Gambia’s creativity with them.

2. Lilleo Design

Lilleo is a brand that embodies elegance and culture. Their gowns and dresses are absolutely stunning, often combining Gambian heritage with timeless design. Perfect for anyone attending a special event, or just looking for a unique wardrobe piece that speaks of The Gambia.

3. Labaado

Labadoo is playful, colorful, and authentic. Known for their use of vibrant textiles and fun silhouettes, this is where you’ll find everyday fashion with a unique Gambian twist. A stop here guarantees you’ll pick up something that stands out.

4. Youma

Youma is a trailblazer in sustainable fashion, transforming discarded fabrics and local materials into elegant, eco-conscious designs. They champion circularity, cultural craftsmanship, and ethical innovation, earning recognition as a creative force within and beyond the Gambian fashion scene.

5. Jarga

And of course, I couldn’t end this list without Jarga. Our brand is built around translating Gambian culture into world-class handbags. Each bag is handcrafted in The Gambia using the highest quality leather, designed for women who want both functionality and artistry. The Bajen bag and Bajen Bu Ndaw are perfect for anyone who loves timeless design with a story.

Final Thoughts

Shopping in The Gambia today is so much more than just souvenirs, it’s about fashion, culture, and identity. Whether you’re wandering through boutiques in Kololi, exploring Banjul, or connecting directly with Gambian designers, you’ll discover that this little country is full of creativity waiting to be taken home.

So when you come to The Gambia, skip the wooden elephants and instead, shop fashion that is authentic, handcrafted, and made to last.