Things To Do
in Kerewan
Kerewan is a town located in the North Bank Region of The Gambia. It serves as the administrative center for the Lower Badibou District and is known for its vibrant local market and community life. The town is situated along the Gambia River, making it a significant location for fishing and agriculture in the region.
Kerewan is also characterized by its rich cultural heritage, with various ethnic groups contributing to the diverse traditions and practices of the area.
- "na bori" - I am fine
- "how far?" - How are you?
- "sukkaar walee" - Thank you very much
- "waaw" - Yes
- "noy" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $60
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $25
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the local market in Kerewan, where you can experience the vibrant culture and fresh produce. Don't forget to try some local pastries for breakfast!
In the afternoon, embark on a walking tour to learn about the history and customs of the village. You may also visit nearby historical sites or enjoy some downtime at a local café.
As evening falls, enjoy a traditional Gambian dish at a local restaurant. Reflect on your day while mingling with locals over a warm cup of attaya (tea).
Begin your day with a guided nature walk in the surrounding areas, observing local flora and fauna. Capture the beautiful landscapes with your camera.
Spot wildlife in nearby reserves, taking a boat tour along the river if available. It’s a great opportunity to enjoy the tranquility of nature.
Wind down with a picnic dinner while watching the sunset. Bring along some snacks from local shops to savor the flavors of Gambia.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant local traditions.
- Proximity to scenic natural landscapes and wildlife.
- Friendly and welcoming community atmosphere.
- Growing opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable practices.
- Access to the Gambia River, providing fishing and recreational activities.
- Limited access to modern healthcare facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including roads and utilities.
- Seasonal climatic challenges, including flooding during the rainy season.
- Economic reliance on agriculture and fishing, making it vulnerable to market fluctuations.
- Limited educational resources and opportunities for higher education.
Best Activities in Kerewan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture of Kerewan, where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and engage with friendly vendors.
Enjoy bird watching and wildlife spotting at the nearby River Gambia National Park, which is home to diverse species and beautiful scenery.
Join local fishermen for a day of fishing on the Gambia River, where you can learn traditional fishing techniques and enjoy the serene environment.
Rent a bicycle and explore the scenic routes around Kerewan, discovering the natural beauty and local villages along the way.
Take a guided hike through the lush forests surrounding Kerewan, where you can appreciate the rich biodiversity and enjoy nature.
Take a day trip to the coast, where you can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, and enjoy beachfront dining and activities.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kerewan with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kerewan
Visit one of these nice places.
A picturesque village offering traditional Gambian architecture and a glimpse into local life, perfect for capturing both landscape and cultural photography.
The river provides stunning views, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it an ideal location for tranquil water shots and reflections.
A vibrant location filled with colors and local activities. This market is perfect for candid photography, showcasing daily life and community interactions.
These iconic trees are striking features of the Gambian landscape, offering unique backgrounds for photographs especially during golden hour.
The center often holds events and gatherings that provide opportunities for capturing local culture and community spirit.
Various elevated areas in and around Kerewan offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, perfect for landscape photography.
Food in Kerewan
Kerewan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A one-pot meal made with rice cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, often accompanied by fish or chicken and a variety of vegetables. It is a staple dish in The Gambia and can be found at local eateries.
Must-Try!
A flavorful dish made from marinated chicken or fish grilled and served with a tangy onion-based sauce. Yassa can be sampled at many restaurants and is a must-try for visitors.
A rich groundnut stew made with peanut butter, assorted vegetables, and meat or fish, usually served with rice. It's a comforting dish that reflects the essence of Gambian home-cooking.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kerewan better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling local market where vendors sell fresh produce, spices, and street food. It's an excellent place to experience local flavors and try snacks like meat pies and kebabs.
Throughout Kerewan, you'll find various street vendors selling delicious snacks such as Chura (rice cakes) and Akara (bean cakes). These are perfect for a quick and tasty bite on the go.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Kerewan, greetings are of utmost importance. Always greet people when you meet them, using local expressions such as 'Njaamono' (hello) and 'Waaw!' (yes). It's polite to inquire about the health of their family as well.
Modesty in clothing is highly valued in Gambian culture. When visiting Kerewan, it's advisable to dress conservatively, especially in rural areas. Women should consider wearing long skirts or dresses, while men should avoid shorts in social settings.
Show great respect for elders in the community. It's customary to stand up when an elder enters a room, and addressing them politely is essential. Listening attentively when they speak is a sign of respect and appreciation for their wisdom.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kerewan with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kerewan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kerewan, as in many parts of Gambia, tipping is not obligatory but is often practiced as a gesture of appreciation for good service. It is common to tip service workers, such as waitstaff in restaurants, taxi drivers, and hotel staff. The amount varies depending on the service provided and the customer's satisfaction, but rounding up the bill or adding a small percentage is typical.
Payment practices in Kerewan generally involve cash transactions, as many small businesses and market vendors may not accept credit or debit cards. The Gambian dalasi is the local currency, and while larger establishments may have card facilities, it’s advisable for visitors to carry sufficient cash. Mobile money services are also becoming more popular, enabling easy transfers and payments through mobile phones for those who are familiar with this technology.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is the best time to visit Kerewan as the weather is mostly dry and temperatures are moderate. Expect clear skies, warm temperatures during the day, and cooler nights. This season is perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of Gambia.
During the wet season, Kerewan experiences heavy rains and high humidity. Travel can be more challenging due to muddy roads and flooding in some areas. However, the landscape becomes lush and green, and birdwatching opportunities increase as migratory birds arrive. Expect occasional sunny breaks, but be prepared for rain.
The Harmattan season, which occurs within the dry season, brings cooler, dry winds from the Sahara. Expect cooler temperatures, especially in the mornings and evenings. This is a great time for sightseeing and cultural experiences, as the cooler weather makes outdoor exploration more comfortable.
Kerewan at Night
Hiking in Kerewan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic trail that winds through the lush landscape of Kerewan, offering beautiful views and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna.
Located a short drive from Kerewan, this park features several walking trails amidst dense forests, ideal for bird watching and nature exploration.
A coastal park a bit farther from Kerewan, offering trails along the beach and wetlands, with diverse wildlife and bird species.
An area known for its unique ecosystems, featuring hiking paths that allow visitors to experience the beauty of Gambia’s natural habitats.
Aiports
How to reach Kerewan by plane.
The main international airport in The Gambia, located approximately 24 kilometers from Kerewan.
An airport located in Ziguinchor, Senegal, which is about 86 kilometers from Kerewan, offering regional flights.
The main international airport in The Gambia, approximately 67 kilometers from Kerewan.
A smaller airport located in Lérène, Senegal, about 90 kilometers from Kerewan, primarily serving domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of the largest ethnic groups in The Gambia, known for their rich cultural heritage and agricultural practices.
A prominent ethnic group primarily found in the western region of The Gambia, known for their trade and vibrant culture.
A pastoral ethnic group known for herding cattle, with a strong presence in rural areas and a significant role in Gambian culture.
An indigenous ethnic group with a distinct culture and language, primarily based in the coastal regions.
An ethnic group predominantly found in the southern regions, known for agriculture and fishing.
Descendants of freed slaves and immigrant settlers from the UK, known for their unique blend of cultures and creole language.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Kerewan and throughout The Gambia, with many local teams and a strong community following.
Basketball has been growing in popularity, particularly among the youth, with local courts available for play.
Volleyball is enjoyed by both men and women, often played on beaches or in schools within the community.
Track and field events are popular, with local schools promoting athletics as part of physical education.
Cricket has a developing following, particularly among the younger generations, with some local clubs forming.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kerewan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Kerewan offers various vegetarian options, especially dishes like Domoda (peanut stew) and vegetable-based dishes found at many local restaurants.
While options may be limited, many restaurants can prepare meals without meat or dairy upon request, using fresh vegetables and local spices.
Gluten-free options are available, especially in dishes that are primarily rice or vegetable-based. However, it's advisable to discuss dietary restrictions directly with restaurant staff.