About this Experience

Tabanani is an exciting village experience offering guests the opportuni- ty to see and join in with Mandinka greetings, dances and other cultural practices� Upon arrival guests are welcomed by a Kankurang welcoming ceremony – the Kankurang being an initiatory rite practiced by Mandinka communities associated with the transition to manhood and full member- ship of the community. The Kankurang and other regional masquerades are now on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Her- itage of Humanity. The cultural experience then continues with a guided walk in the village where guests learn to cook delicious Gambian local foods, meet local ar- tisans, have a go at making a palm leaf fan and then the chance to dance with the Kanyaleng women’s group. The Kanyaleng is a very special group of women who take part in spiritual or ritual activities for barren women, as well as provide unique cultural entertainment at wedding, naming and other local ceremonies.