Best Ideas for Day Tours & Excurstions in Senegal

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1- Excursion Dakar, Gorée Island – Pink Lake

An excursion at once historical, exotic and adventurous …After a visit to Dakar … where you may have the chance to witness the changing of the presidential guard.
The boat trip from Dakar offers a magnificent view of the colorful houses and flowers of the island of Gorée, steeped in history, a memorial of the slave trade. The visit of the House of Slaves is essential. Then to put down the strong emotions felt in it, go off to discover the island, a real haven of peace.
A short walk in the dunes of Paris-Dakar; Guaranteed thrills, plus you will see the salt collectors.
A detour to the beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean will give you the opportunity to face (with caution!) Some waves.
Arrival at Lake Rose (Lake Retba), swimming where you will have an extraordinary sensation of flotation !!!!

2- Excursion Desert of Lompoul – Pink Lake

This little trip will please you: it’s promised.

The exoticism of a night in the desert, the magic of the starry sky, the beauty of the sunset and the sunrise on the dunes.

Tucked away among the sand dunes of the Sahel is the sleepy village of Lompoul. Conveniently located on the coast half way between Dakar and St. Louis, Lompoul Village offers an escape into a desert oasis complete with Bedouin tents, camel rides, and nightly drum circles under the stars perfect for a romantic getaway or family excursion.

ACTIVITIES

Camel Rides

An excursion to the desert would not be complete without the chance to ride some camels. A local Pulaar man works with all the campements and will happily bring over his camels at the request of the campements for the guests to ride. Rides typically are taken in 15 minute

Departure by the beach, if the tide allows, you will have the chance to witness the return of the fishermen of Cayar.

But above all … do not forget your swimsuit! History of enjoying the swimming that will be offered to you.

A detour to the beach overlooking the Atlantic Ocean will give you the opportunity to face (with caution!) Some waves.

Arrival at Lake Rose (Lake Retba), swimming where you will have an extraordinary sensation of flotation. DIVIDE !!! A small walk in the dunes to feel the sensations of Paris-Dakar, from where we will see the salt collectors.

3- Excursion Bush Market, Island of the Saloum – Seashell Island

Through tracks in the bush, visit the bush market where bartering is in order, villagers come to buy, barter manufactured products, to sell their local products (millet, peanuts …) and livestock. Then discover the great Baobab: surprise!

Motorized pirogue ride in the mangrove: unforgettable for nature lovers, through the long mangrove shores in the middle of the Sine-Saloum reserve.The shellfish island (Fadiouth) is without context a village with undeniable charm, accessible by a wooden bridge (725 m) where you can stroll, before crossing another bridge to visit the mixed marine cemetery (Catholic & Muslim).

4- Excursion Saint Louis- Djoudj Park – Lompoul Desert on Camel Ride

Through tracks in the bush, visit the bush market where bartering is in order, villagers come to buy, barter manufactured products, to sell their local products (millet, peanuts …) and livestock. Then discover the great Baobab: surprise!

Motorized pirogue ride in the mangrove: unforgettable for nature lovers, through the long mangrove shores in the middle of the Sine-Saloum reserve.The shellfish island (Fadiouth) is without context a village with undeniable charm, accessible by a wooden bridge (725 m) where you can stroll, before crossing another bridge to visit the mixed marine cemetery (Catholic & Muslim).

4- Excursion MBour Fihermen’s Arrival and Fish Market – Saly Local Art Market:

Arrival of fihermen’s and local market – Excursion Bandia Nature Reserve-Excursion of Somone Lagoon – African Senegalese Daye Tour.

Organized Circuits and best Tours in Senegal

1- Circuit St Louis, Barbarie Park, Djoud Park, Loumpoul Desert and Pink Lake

Saint Louis, its history (it was the first capital of Senegal), its artists (one of the biggest Jazz festivals there), its colorful houses … Its river, which gave its name to the country!

ST. LOUIS – ST. LOUIS

The city of Saint-Louis is located about 260km north of Dakar on the coast and spreads across the mainland (Sor), Île de N’Dar (the Island), and the Langue de Barbarie Peninsula. The mainland is connected to the historical island which is just 2km long and 400m wide via the Pont Faidherbe Bridge. The Île de N’Dar is linked to the Langue de Barbarie Peninsula via the Pont Mustapha Malick Gaye Bridge. The Langue de Barbarie Peninsula is home to the beautiful beaches of the Hydrobase as well as part of the Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie. Also the Parc National des Oiseaux du Djoudj and the Réserve Spéciale de Faune de Guembeuleasily are easily accessible from Saint-Louis.

Saint-Louis was once the capital of Senegal and the overall colonial capital of French Western Africa. The Island of Saint-Louis still echoes back to the colonial days as it retains much of its colorful, colonial architecture and plethora of historic buildings. On the mainland, the modern Senegal is evident everywhere, especially in the bustling market all along the Avenue Général de Gaulle. On the Langue de Barbarie Peninsula, check out the fishing community of Guet N’Dar or the beautiful beaches further south on the peninsula. Nature lovers are in for a treat with day adventures (or longer) to the Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie, Parc National des Oiseaux du Djoudj or the Réserve Spéciale de Faune de Guembeul, which are easily accessible from Saint-Louis.

THINGS TO SEE

Island of Saint-Louis

Saint-Louis was founded in 1659 and named after the French King Louis XIV in the 1700s. It is the oldest city to be created by Europeans on the western coast of Africa and served as the capital of Senegal from 1872 to 1957. It played an important cultural and economic role for the whole of West Africa and a stroll around the ville (as the cab drivers know) quickly reveals the French colonial influence. Many of the buildings hold their old character with bright colors and beautiful balconies. The Island was named a UNESCO world heritage site in 2000. Be sure to stop into the Syndicat d’Initiative of Saint Louis located in the Governance building opposite the bridge and pick up the “urban walk” they have mapped out.

Saint-Louis International Jazz Festival

This annual event generally occurs in May. The festival lasts about a week and is an internationally renowned event attracting jazz musicians and visitors from every corner of the world. It is, hands down, the most important jazz festival in Africa. The shows and other events of the festival take place at a variety of locations in St. Louis. Exact dates and programs can be found online at http://www.saintlouisjazz.org.

Langue de Barbarie Peninsula

On the Langue de Barbarie Peninsula you can check out the fishing village of Guet N’Dar where you can watch the bustling fish market and catch glimpses of the colorful pirogues that are used for fishing. Further down on the Guet N’Dar, there is a fisherman cemetery and past that is the Hydrobase, a great place to spend a day at the beach. Occupying the very south end of the Peninsula is part of the Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie, which is home to a variety of bird species.

Parc National des Oiseaux du Djoudj

Located in the Senegal River Delta, this bird sanctuary is an UNESCO World Heritage site. It is the third largest in the world, covering 16,000 hectares, and is home to roughly 1.5 million birds. It is easy for bird lovers to take a day trip to the park through an organized tour, that can be effortlessly arranged through one of the agencies listed under the “Activities” section.

Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie

Located just 11 miles south of Saint Louis in the region of Gandiol, the park is home to over 160 different species of bird as well as other animals. It is a great place for nature lovers, sightseers, photographers and bird watchers to visit. The park offers tours by boat, or one can explore on bike or foot. There is a monthly bird count that visitors to the park can participate in that happens towards the end of each month. Contact the park for details.

Coastal view of the Langue de Barbarie near the national park- Photo Credit: Melissa Echeverry

Bridge to the Langue de Barbarie National Park- Photo Credit: Ashley Hamilton

Réserve Spéciale de Faune de Guembeul

This natural reserve is home to many bird species, mammals and reptiles, including the African Spurred Tortoise. It is about 10km south of Saint-Louis.

ACTIVITIES

Guided Tours

There are daily tours include: a tour of the Island, the Parc National des Oiseaux du Djoudj, the Parc National de Langue de Barbarie, and a boat ride along the Senegal River to see mangrove trees. If you have enough time, there are longer trips available. Contact us for their more information on their specific tours. Another good resource is the Syndicat d’Initiative, they have several small tours for visitors.

And how not to make a detour to Djoudj, its swamps, its game reserve and especially ornithological … Extraordinary photos to take in the park of Djoudj!

And finally … arrive at the desert to spend the night! Admire the sunset, savor this unique atmosphere and admire all the stars …

What wonders in the mirettes! What extraordinary, unforgettable sensations! What happiness to cut off daily life is still the ideal destination! It is true that we do not have every day the opportunity to spend a night in the desert … To enjoy its tranquility … the warmth of your hosts … a sky worthy to interest the greatest astronauts … and enjoy the sunset and the sunrise in the dunes. It does not tell, it lives!

The next morning, you will have the opportunity to get acquainted with the main inhabitants of the Lompoul desert: camels! They will take you on a ride and the change of scenery will be complete!

2- Circuit in Casamance and The Gambia:

KOLDA – CHECKING OUT THE CASAMANCE

4 Days / 3 nights

The Casamance, an area of Southern Senegal that stretches from Zinguinchor through Sedhiou to Kolda, is one of Senegal’s most important agricultural regions. The hot and humid climate is just perfect for a variety of different crops, including rice, cashews, peanuts, mangos, and bananas, among many others. There are even some fruits and vegetables you probably have never seen before. Ever tried a cashew apple?

With agriculture at the forefront, there have been only limited efforts to develop the region touristically despite the fact that tourists regularly travel through it to get from Zinguinchor to Kedougou, two of Senegal’s most popular tourist destinations. If you are one of the tourists, or if you are just looking for something off the beaten path, you should make a stop. Here’s an easy 4 day itinerary to do so.

DAY 1

Tambacounda to Velingara

Travel to Tambacounda to Velingara, the eastern most “city” of Kolda (about 1.5 hours). Check into either the Paillote or Najla Hotel, take a shower, and relax. In the evening, grab dinner at Kumba’s Table (she usually opens at 8 pm) for some great Senegalese food. All the volunteers rave about this place!

Hotel La Paillote - photo by Laura Delsa

Hotel Najla - photo by Laura Delsa

DAY 2

Velingara to Kolda

Leave Velingara in the late morning to travel to Kolda (about 2 hours). Check into the hotel and spend the afternoon at the pool. Grab dinner at “Le Couloir” or “Keur Coumba”, just remember to order ahead if you are going to Coumba’s.

The main road in Kolda - Photo by Laura Delsa

The bridge into Kolda from Tamba

DAY 3

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and then head out to explore the town. Visit the Kolda market, the Senegalese market experience does not get more real than that. Around the market you can buy some Senegalese fabric, if you like. Then take a taxi to the “Handicapped store” close to the Red Cross (“Croix Rouge”) for some souvenirs. The taxi will cost you 500 CFA (the same price anywhere within town). Head back to the hotel and enjoy the afternoon at the pool.

Photo by Laura Delsa

Photo by Laura Delsa

An alleyway in the market - photo by Laura Delsa

DAY 4

Zinguinchor

3- Circuit Eastern Southern Senegal: Bassari Country, Bedik Country,

12 Days / 10 nights

SOUTHERN SENEGAL BASSARY COUNTRY

Southern Senegal resembles the “stereotypical” portrait of “Africa” from the lush, jungle like greenery of Kedougou and Kolda to the diverse wildlife populations in the Niokolo-Koba National Park to the presence of numerous ethnic groups. This region is like a different country in comparison to the vast brown hues of desert scenery present throughout the northern and central regions.

The South a true experience for the senses. Come taste the juicy mangoes during hot season or hear the roaring cascades of the waterfalls in Kedougou or see the visual of dried thatch huts that dot the countryside of Kolda. Southern Senegal has a little something for everyone.

For the purpose of this guide, Southern Senegal encompasses the regions of Tambacounda, Kedougou, and Kolda. In future iterations, we hope to expand into Segou and Ziguinchor.

1- TAMBACOUNDA – BAKEL

A quaint patchwork of narrow streets and colonial architecture built on the banks of the Senegal River and surrounded by rugged hills of ancient, weathered rock, the town of Bakel is one of the more scenic and historic locales along Senegal’s northern border. Distinguished by its Soninke cultural heritage and proximity to Mauritania and Mali, Bakel … Continue readingTambacounda – Bakel

2- KOLDA – KOLDA

Welcome to Kolda, center of the Fouladou, biggest trading center in the Upper Casamance, land of the young, talented, and fruitful. Kolda is the capital city of the region of the same name. It has a population of about 70,000 and is located on the west bank of the Casamance river. Kolda’s population is young, … Continue readingKolda – Kolda

3- KOLDA – VELINGARA

Velingara is Pulaar for a beautiful place to come. In fact, there are several Velingaras around the country, but the one in Kolda is the best. The city also bears geographic and historical significance. It is a central location halfway between the regional capitals of Tambacounda and Kolda, as well as being easily accessible from … Continue readingKolda – Velingara

4- KEDOUGOU – BANDAFASSI

Bandafassi is a picturesque village at the base of a mountain of a Bedik village. Bandafassi is located 15 km from Kedougou on the main road to Salemata. WHY COME? Bandafassi is at the base of a beautiful mountain, Echewar, where the Bedik people live. This site offers a window into their unique and distinctive … Continue readingKedougou – Bandafassi

5- KEDOUGOU – DANDE

Dandé is a small village at the top of the Guinean plateau, a vertical climb from the village of Dindefelo. It is the largest of the few villages at the top of the plateau where locals are primarily engaged in agriculture, making the descent with their produce once a week to sell at the weekly … Continue readingKedougou – Dande

6- KEDOUGOU-DINDEFELO

Dindefelo is located about 35k south of Kedougou at the base of the Guinean plateau. It is a relatively small but well-equipped Pulaar village with a middle school, health post, and a weekly luumo market that functions as the economic and social center of this rural, mountainous region. Nestled into the mountains that form the … Continue readingKedougou-Dindefelo

7- KEDOUGOU -ETHIOLO

Ethiolo is a picturesque village surrounded by rolling hills in southeastern Senegal. It is 7km to the north of Guinea Conakry, 90km to the southwest of Kedougou and 9km southeast of Salemata. WHY COME? Ethiolo is world renowned for its unique animist culture; visitors come from all over the world to witness these unique African … Continue readingKedougou -Ethiolo

8- KEDOUGOU – KEDOUGOU

Located in the southeastern corner of Senegal lies a mystical world of waterfalls, wild animals, red earthen trails, and so much more. Long isolated from the rest of the country, Kedougou is quickly becoming a bustling city, having become the regional capital when Kédougou separated from Tambacounda in 2008. Now, the recently completed road that links … Continue readingKedougou – Kedougou

9- NIOKOLO-KOBA NATIONAL PARK

Niokolo-Koba National Park is one of the oldest and largest national parks in Senegal. Niokolo-Koba National Park boasts quite the biodiversity of plants and animals, including potentially home to one of the last remaining lion prides in Senegal. Additionally, this national treasure has been identified as a prestigious UNESCO World Heritage Site. THINGS TO SEE … Continue readingNiokolo-Koba National Park

10- KEDOUGOU – SALEMATA

Salemata is located approximately 80 kilometers west of Kedougou. It is located in the heart of Bassari country. The village is surrounded by rolling hills and offers excellent hiking and mountain biking opportunities. There is also a wide variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees! WHY COME? Salemata and the surrounding Bassari villages attract tourists interested … Continue readingKedougou – Salemata

11- KEDOUGOU – SEGOU

Segou is a small village situated close the Guinean border in Southeastern Senegal. The village is 25km from the regional capital of Kédougou, in the foothills of the Guinea mountains. Segou hosts a beautiful waterfall and ravine hike which rivals than that of Dindefello, the better known tourist destination. The surrounding area, including the waterfall … Continue readingKedougou – Segou

12- TAMBACOUNDA – TAMBACOUNDA (TAMBA)

The region of Tambacounda accounts for a vast territory that reaches from the Senegalese river in Bakel to the peanut basin near Koumpentoum to the lush protected forests of the Niokolo-Koba Park. Its regional capital, just as expansive, is the largest city in eastern Senegal with a population of approximately 115,000. It is also a major national …

4 – Circuit Tour Niokolo Koba Park and Dindefelo Waterfall

3 Days / 2 nights

5- Circuit Tourisme Solidaire Dispensaire Pouponnière

2 Days / 1 nights

KEDOUGOU – MINORITY CULTURES CIRCUIT

5 Days / 4 nights

Kedougou is home to several minority ethnic groups, perhaps most notably the Bedik and the Bassari. Both groups are Christian with a blend of strong animist traditions, and have notably distinct cultures from the Muslim majority Pulaars and Jaxanke/Malinke in the area. Take the opportunity to learn first-hand about their unique cultural practices and ceremonies. Spending time with these ethnic groups is also a rare opportunity to experience truly local drinking culture in Senegal! Be sure to try some local palm wine or mead while you’re there.

This circuit is best taken with a guide or guides who are knowledgeable about these cultures and can explain certain practices as well as serve as a translator. They will also best know the dates of the important cultural ceremonies if you’re trying to catch them – for example the Bassari initiations typically take place in May and the Bedik’s in April but the dates and location is only set about one or two weeks before. For info about guides, check out the Bandafassi, Ethiolo, Salemata and Kedougou pages.

DAY 1

Arrive in Kedougou

Either check into a hotel/campement in Kedougou and get some rest, or stock up on some provisions and head out to your first stop – Bandafassi – to spend the night.

DAY 2

Bandafassi/Echewar

Photo Credit: Zola Collins - Grass Bedik Hut in Echewar

Photo Credit: Zola Collins - View from the Bedik Village of Echewar

bandafassi-3

If you didn’t spend the night in Bandafassi, make your way out there either via sept-place, motorcycle, moto-taxi, or by hitching a ride on one of the many cars heading that direction. Leave your big bags in town pack the necessities to hike up the mountain to the Bedik village of Echewar. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can spend the day up on the mountain and hike to another nearby village such as Iwol. Alternatively, you could take a few days to explore the Bedik villages on top of the mountain with the help of a guide. Get dinner and spend the night in Bandafassi.

DAY 3

Bandafassi to Salemata/Ethiolo

Get an early start to make your way down the road to Bassari country. To get to Salemata you can either try your luck hitching a ride on the road, or travel back to Kedougou to get a sept-place. If you’re pressed for time or trying to keep a schedule your best bet is to hire a car through a guide. Once in Salemata, you can hire a moto or catch a bush taxi to Ethiolo, or simply go there directly with your own hired transport. Spend the day exploring the best of Bassari culture, maybe hiking up the hill from Salemata to check out some other Bassari villages. Spend the night either in Ethiolo or Salemata.

The village chief's compound in a Bassari village outside Salemata - Photo by Jessica Kroenert

Initiates dancing in Ethiolo

bassari-artisan-crafts

DAY 4

Salemata to Kedougou

Travel back to Kedougou via Salemata. If you don’t have private transport, it’s best to head to the small local garage early to try to reserve a spot in a sept-place.

PRO-TIP

If you’re thinking of heading down to the region Kedougou to learn more about some of the ethnic minorities, it is definitely worth trying to coordinate your trip with one of the local initiation ceremonies – they’re a completely unique cultural experience and a lot of fun! For information about our local guides who can help you plan your visit appropriately, consult the Kedougou, Salemata, and Bandafassi and contact us.

Some intricate Bassari beadwork - Photo by Jessica Kroenert

Bassari wearing traditional masks at initation - Photo by Jessica Kroenert

Bassari initiates (left) dancing with already initiated men (right) - photo by Jessica Kroenert

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