Kairaba

The Gambia, Africa

Kairaba, located in The Gambia, is a vibrant coastal destination renowned for its stunning beaches, rich culture, and warm-hearted locals. It offers a blend of relaxation and adventure, with stunning beachfront resorts, bustling markets, and proximity to natural attractions like the River Gambia National Park. Visitors can indulge in delicious local cuisine, participate in exciting water sports, or explore the lively nightlife, making it a perfect getaway for both relaxation and adventure seekers.

Quick facts

Target stay

5-7 days

Type

Town

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Banjul

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

11 Best Things to Do in Kairaba

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on Kairaba Beach

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at this beautiful beach.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Kachikally Crocodile Pool

Experience a sacred pool with friendly crocodiles.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Bijilo Forest Park

Wander through lush forests and spot wildlife.

No booking required
4

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Gambia National Museum

Discover Gambian culture and history at this museum.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Experience the Tanji Fishing Village

Witness local fishermen at work and sample fresh seafood.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Shop at the Albert Market

Explore a vibrant market for local goods and souvenirs.

No booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Participate in a local drum circle

Join locals for an unforgettable drumming experience.

Booking required
8

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Abuko Nature Reserve

Explore diverse wildlife in this serene nature reserve.

No booking required
9

Est. 2.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Enjoy a sunset cruise on the River Gambia

Take in stunning views while cruising the river.

Booking required
10

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Juffureh and Kunta Kinteh Island

Learn about the history of the slave trade.

Booking required
11

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Taste local dishes at a Gambian restaurant

Savor traditional Gambian cuisine like domoda and benachin.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~7.5%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-11 (#162 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Dalasi

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Mandinka

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Domoda

Peanut stew with meat or fish (National dish)

Benachin

Jollof rice with fish or meat

Chicken Yassa

Marinated chicken in lemon and onions

Plasas

Vegetable stew with meat or fish

Chere

V

Sweet rice pudding with milk and sugar

Phrases to learn

English

Mandinka

Hello

I ni ce

(Ee nee che)

Yes/No

Haani / Hani

(Hah-nee / Hah-nee)

Thank you

Abaraka

(Ah-bar-rah-kah)

Excuse me

HakÉ›

(Hah-keh)

How much?

Nye namutoo?

(Nye nah-moo-too)