Things To Do
in Kerewan
Kerewan is a town located in the North Bank Region of The Gambia, situated along the Gambia River. It serves as a central trading hub for surrounding communities, providing access to various goods and services. The population is diverse, consisting of various ethnic groups, and the town features a mix of traditional and modern lifestyles.
Kerewan is also recognized for its rich cultural heritage and is close to numerous agricultural and natural resources, making it significant for local livelihoods.
- "What is your name?" - Ki sa gra?
- "How are you?" - Mbaa ngfa dio?
- "Thank you" - Jerejef
- "Good morning" - Njaa baa
- "Good evening" - Njaa bain
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Take a guided tour of Kerewan's local markets to experience the vibrant culture. Engage with friendly vendors and sample fresh local produce.
Visit the Kerewan Cultural Centre to learn about Gambian traditions and crafts. Participate in a workshop to make your own African crafts.
Enjoy a traditional Gambian meal at a local restaurant. Savor the flavors of jollof rice and groundnut stew while listening to live music.
Hike to the nearby River Gambia National Park for a morning of wildlife observation. Spot unique bird species and learn about the local ecosystem.
Go canoeing along the river to get up close to the natural beauty. Experience the tranquility of the water while searching for hippos and crocodiles.
Return to Kerewan for a sunset walk along the riverside. Reflect on the day's adventures while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Access to scenic landscapes and natural beauty, including rivers and greenery.
- Growing tourism sector with opportunities for local businesses.
- Community-oriented atmosphere with friendly locals.
- Cost of living is relatively low compared to urban areas.
- Limited access to healthcare and educational facilities.
- Infrastructure may be underdeveloped, leading to transportation challenges.
- Seasonal climate conditions can affect agriculture and daily life.
- Limited job opportunities outside of agriculture and tourism.
- Potential for political instability affecting daily living conditions.
Best Activities in Kerewan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Kerewan is home to diverse bird species. Visitors can enjoy bird watching in the surrounding wetlands and forests, making it a perfect activity for nature enthusiasts.
Take a boat tour along the Gambia River to see local wildlife and enjoy the scenic views. River cruises can also provide insights into the local fishing communities.
The surrounding areas of Kerewan offer trails for hiking and nature walks, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Gambia.
Explore the vibrant markets in Kerewan for a taste of local culture, crafts, and cuisine. Engaging with local vendors is a great way to experience Gambian life.
Fishing is a popular activity in Kerewan, with opportunities for both commercial and recreational fishing. Local guides can be hired for a day on the water.
Participate in guided tours that showcase the rich history and culture of Kerewan, including visits to traditional compounds and learning about local customs.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kerewan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kerewan
Visit one of these nice places.
A scenic spot providing panoramic views of the river, ideal for capturing sunset photographs and local fishing activities.
Vibrant market scenes with colorful stalls that offer excellent opportunities for street photography and cultural captures.
Transport yourself into nature with stunning riverside views, perfect for wildlife photography and tranquil landscapes.
Experience authentic Gambian life with traditional architecture and friendly locals, providing many candid snapshot opportunities.
Coastal areas offering beautiful beach views and sunsets, ideal for both daytime and twilight photography.
Explore nature reserves close to Kerewan, where the rich biodiversity can provide you with unique wildlife photography opportunities.
Food in Kerewan
Kerewan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A famous West African dish made with rice, tomatoes, and a blend of spices, often served with grilled chicken or fish. Must-try places include local restaurants like 'Binta's Kitchen' where it’s served with a delicious side of fried plantains.
Must-Try!
A rich groundnut stew made with peanuts, vegetables, and often meat or fish. Visit 'Kerewan Food Center' to taste authentic Domoda served with white rice.
A hearty rice dish cooked with a variety of vegetables and usually accompanied by fish, chicken, or lamb. Check out 'Mama's Eatery' for a flavorful serving of Benechin.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kerewan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is the heart of Kerewan, offering fresh produce, spices, and ready-to-eat meals. Street vendors sell everything from grilled meat skewers to sweet fritters, making it an ideal place to explore local flavors.
Along the main road, you can find numerous street food stalls selling local snacks like meat pies and banana chips, perfect for a quick bite while exploring the area.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kerewan, it is customary to greet people you encounter with a smile and a polite 'Hello.' Handshakes are common, but be mindful of those who may prefer not to shake hands for cultural or personal reasons.
Respect for local customs is essential; dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. Women should consider wearing dresses or skirts that cover the knees, while men should wear long pants.
Show deference to elders in the community. When speaking with older individuals, use respectful terms and allow them to speak first. Listening attentively is a sign of respect in Gambian culture.
Safety
Tipping in Kerewan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kerewan, Gambia, tipping is generally not customary as many services do not include a tip expectation. However, in tourist areas or upscale restaurants, leaving a small tip for excellent service is appreciated. Amounts typically range from 5-10% of the bill, depending on the level of service received.
Payment methods in Kerewan primarily include cash, as many local businesses operate on a cash-only basis. The Gambian dalasi is the official currency. Mobile money services are also becoming popular, facilitating transactions without the need for physical cash. Some hotels and restaurants may accept credit cards, but this is less common in smaller local establishments.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Kerewan is during the dry season when the weather is warm and sunny, with little to no rainfall. Temperatures range from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F), making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and enjoying the beaches.
During the rainy season, Kerewan experiences heavy rainfall and higher humidity. Expect daily downpours, with temperatures ranging from 22°C to 30°C (72°F to 86°F). While it may not be ideal for beach outings, this season offers a lush, green landscape and is great for cultural experiences and fewer tourists.
Kerewan at Night
Hiking in Kerewan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene forest park located close to Kerewan, ideal for hiking amidst diverse flora and fauna.
Located a bit farther from Kerewan, this reserve offers scenic trails and opportunities to spot wildlife.
A well-known reserve that features walking trails and a chance to see a variety of birds and wildlife.
Offers coastal and forest trails, perfect for hiking and bird watching, located not too far from Kerewan.
A cultural site with walking paths around the crocodile pool, combining nature and local heritage.
Aiports
How to reach Kerewan by plane.
The main international airport in The Gambia, located approximately 30 km from Kerewan.
An international airport in Senegal, around 50 km from Kerewan.
Located in Cap Skirring, Senegal, this airport is approximately 80 km from Kerewan.
Located in Mauritania, about 550 km from Kerewan, it serves as an international gateway to the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Mandinka are one of the largest ethnic groups in The Gambia, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
The Wolof are a prominent ethnic group in The Gambia, known for their language and significant influence on Gambian culture.
The Fula people are known for their nomadic lifestyle and cattle herding, playing a key role in the country's agricultural economy.
The Jola community is primarily located in the western regions of The Gambia and is known for their unique customs and traditional practices.
The Serer people are known for their agricultural expertise and distinct cultural identities within Gambian society.
Other smaller ethnic groups that contribute to the diversity of the region, including the Aku, Manjago, and others.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kerewan, played by both men and women at various levels, including local leagues and community tournaments.
Basketball has gained popularity among the youth in Kerewan, with several courts available for practice and competitions.
Volleyball is played widely in Kerewan, especially among school children and community groups, often in sand or indoor settings.
Athletics, particularly running events, are popular in Kerewan, with local schools often participating in competitions.
Cycling is a common activity in Kerewan, with many locals using bicycles for transportation and leisure.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kerewan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are generally available at most restaurants, particularly dishes like vegetable stew or rice and beans. Be sure to ask for meals without meat or fish.
While strict vegan options may be limited, many local dishes can be modified by omitting meat or dairy. Local markets offer plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables for a vegan diet.
Gluten-free options are quite feasible since many local foods like rice and vegetables do not contain gluten. Just be cautious with bread products and fried foods, as they may contain wheat.