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1. Half-Day Somone Lagoon and Bandia Park Safari from Dakar

2. Private Bandia Wildlife Safari Day Trip. 2 for the reservation

3. FULL-DAY SAFARI AND PINK LAKE TOUR (minimum 2 pax)

4. 8 Days 7 Nights Senegal Highlights

5. Bandia with lagoon of somone. Minimum 2 people for reservation

6. bandia reserve Minimum 2 for the reservation

7. Senegal Highlights 7 Days - 6 Nights ( Minimum 2 Participants)

8. 10-Hour Private Tour to Fathala Game Reserve

9. Safari and walk with lions in fathala

10. 5 Hours of Private Safari at the Bandia Reserve

11. DAKAR, PINK LAKE AND BANDIA PARK SAFARI ( Minimum 2 Participants)

12. 3Days 2Nights Dakar, Pink Lake, St louis, Lompoul Desert Experience

13. 6 Days 5Nights Dakar, Pink Lake, Touba,Niokolo Koba, dindefello Falls Adventure

14. 14 Days 13 Nights Senegal Safari Tour

15. Senegal highlights 8 Days 7 Nights ( comfort plus)

16. Senegal highlights 8 Days 7 Nights (comfort)

17. 6-Days Private Tour Dakar, Wassadou, Niokolo Koba Park, Dindefello Falls Safari

What travelers are saying.

Half-Day Somone Lagoon and Bandia Park Safari from Dakar
Private Bandia Wildlife Safari Day Trip. 2 for the reservation
5 Hours of Private Safari at the Bandia Reserve
FULL-DAY SAFARI AND PINK LAKE TOUR (minimum 2 pax)
bandia reserve Minimum 2 for the reservation
Agsil Senegal Travel Tours
Amazing Teranga
Senegal Expeditions in Senegal, West Africa
Triptoursenegal
Sogui tours senegal

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Senegal Safari Tours & Holidays

Senegal, officially the Republic of Senegal, is a country in West Africa. Senegal is bordered by Mauritania in the north, Mali to the east, Guinea to the southeast, and Guinea-Bissau to the southwest.

Senegal is one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Africa, which is home to Dakar and Saint Louis, two dynamic cultural hubs. Senegal is also home to several diverse wildlife parks, including the Niokolo-Koba National Park, the Oiseaux du Djoudj National Park, and the Bandia Game Reserve. Senegal is known as the land of “teranga”, which is the Senegalese value of hospitality, respect, and community. Teranga is a Wolof word (one of the national languages) that encompasses the Senegalese spirit of warmth and friendliness to visitors. Visitors to Senegal are sure to experience a warm welcome on their arrival, as well as throughout their visit. The Senegalese beaches are beautiful and sandy, with rich populations of fish. Savory Senegalese food is sure to tempt your taste as well.

How to get to Senegal

Many international flights from the US and Europe flying into Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR) arrive in the middle of the night between 2:00 am and 4:00 am. Exhausted and jet-lagged, you’ll find it’s not a bad idea to have a driver waiting for you to avoid being accosted by locals offering taxi services and having to haggle over prices in French. Most hotels either have a pick-up included or can arrange one for you at an additional cost.

Passport, Visa, and Entry requirements for Senegal

To enter Senegal, a passport valid for at least six months from entry is required for most nationals ensure you check with your embassy, You may be refused entry if no evidence of return or onward travel or proof of accommodation can be produced, Visitors to Senegal require a visa unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries.

The health sector of Senegal

Senegal’s health system is pyramidal, with three main parts: a central level, a regional level, and a peripheral level. Health centers are at the top, with one to two medical doctors and 15-20 people as part of the health staff. Health posts are below these, with four or five health workers. But for foreign travelers may only have access to private hospitals so ensure you purchase travel insurance for traveling to Senegal in case of any emergencies

Malaria and Yellow fever vaccination for Senegal

Though a yellow fever vaccine isn’t required to enter Senegal, it’s recommended, as are malaria pills and a typhoid vaccine. Using good mosquito repellent, carrying tissues (as toilet paper can be scarce in public spots), and wearing sunblock are all essential. It can also be extremely dusty during the dry season, so having allergy pills on hand can also be helpful.

Currency of Senegal

The country uses the West African CFA franc as the legal tender. Senegal depends on economic aid from developed nations. The headquarters for the West African States’ Central Bank is based in Dakar, the capital city of Senegal. But ATM machines can be found in the major towns and foreign currency can be exchanged into west African francs but you should reframe from using your credit card a lot rather than take cash with you and they should be new banknotes.

Official Language of Senegal

In Senegal, English is taught as a second language. French is the official and colonial language used for administrative and academic purposes. However, there are several ethnic groups; therefore six different local languages are spoken in different parts of the country.

Best time to travel to Senegal

The best time of year to travel to Senegal is between November and May, during the dry season. Throughout this period, the temperature tends to be around 25 degrees Celsius. However, between June and October, precipitation is very frequent and the temperatures sometimes 30 degrees Celsius or above.

What to wear in Senegal

Senegalese women wear long sarongs; as a Western woman, it may be considered disrespectful for you to wear the native dress, so you’re better off in skirts or dresses that go to the ground. A woman may also pack long pants, as this garment is becoming more accepted for women. There is really no dressing code for men except if you’re going to visit government offices you may need to tuck in and dress more official but at the tourist sites there is really much concern

What to bring while traveling to Senegal

Pack long pants or long skirts. Choose pants that are loose-fitting and made from a lightweight fabric like cotton or linen blends, since temperatures in the inland cities can approach or surpass 100 degrees Fahrenheit. Pack two or three pairs of pants or skirts that you can wear multiple times during your trip.

Walking shoes or sandals
Medications
Copies of documents
Long pants or skirts
Long-sleeved tops

Car hire and driving in Senegal

As infrastructure and roads aren’t great and traffic is maddening (since there are few rules), it’s best to hire a driver rather than renting a car or hopping on an over-packed bus. Prices for both guides and drivers are extremely low, and you can always try to strike a bargain.

Accommodation in Senegal

Dakar is the capital of Senegal, in West Africa. It’s an Atlantic port on the Cap-Vert peninsula. Its traditional Médina quarter is home to the Grande Mosquée, marked by a towering minaret. The Musée Théodore Monod displays cultural artifacts including clothing, drums, carvings, and tools. The city’s vibrant nightlife is inspired by the local mbalax music and accommodation is pretty decent also in the beach sides and popular tourist attractions will have hotels in place however if you go Rural there may be no accommodation facilities available.

Local food of Senegal

The national dish of Senegal, this boldly flavored combination of fish, rice, and vegetables simmered in tomato sauce is a hearty one-pot meal. You can make it with any fish or vegetables you have on hand, including potatoes, cassava, squash or pumpkin, and plantains.

Tipping while Travelling in Senegal

Tipping is not a common practice in Senegal. Unless the service you receive deserves extra recognition, gratuities are not warranted but at the popular tourism destinations tipping is in place, and feel free to Tip the guides or the hotel staff.

Further information for Senegal

Is a country in western Africa that is south of the Senegal River. The Atlantic Ocean is to the west. Mauritania is to the north, Mali to the east, and Guinea-Bissau and Guinea to the south and it’s one of the most visited countries in West Africa.

Safety of Senegal

One of the most common questions we hear is if Senegal is safe for travelers – yes, Senegal is safe but like any other destinations, petty crime does happen in large crowds. Keep a lookout for pickpockets and bag snatchers. Once you get to know the locals, tourist destinations are pretty safe only travelers need to use common sense and keep their valuables with extra care.

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Réserve de Bandia

Un safari inoubliable lors de votre séjour au Sénégal dans la réserve de Bandia où vous pourrez rencontrer tous les grands mammifères d’Afrique dans 3.500 ha de nature grandiose : baobabs géants, buissons épineux, lianes capricieuses…

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Il est parfois possible de partager un véhicule sur place à condition que d’autres personnes soient dans le même cas. Pour cela faites-vous connaître à l’avance en téléphonant au 33 958 20 24 ou 77 556 59 27 en mentionnant le jour souhaité. Le départ se fait généralement à 9h30.

Et voila certainement le restaurant le plus charmant du Sénégal : nouvelle cuisine ultramoderne, nouveau chef, nouvelles constructions, et tout cela dans un cadre enchanteur au bord de l’eau avec ses crocodiles sournois, ses singes qui vous épient tandis que viennent boire les grands mammifères d’Afrique

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14 Days 13 Nights Senegal Safari Tour

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Introduction
Day 1 Arrival in Dakar, Senegal
Day 2 City tour Dakar - Goree Island
Day 3 Pink Lake and Lompoul Desert
Day 4 Lompoul – Saint Louis
Day 5 Saint Louis – Touba – Kaolack
Day 6 Kaolack – Wassadou (Gate of Niokolo Koba Park)
Day 7 Niokolo Koba Park – Kedougou
Day 8 Kedougou – Dindefello – Kedougou
Day 9 Kedougou – Toubacouta
Day 10 Toubacouta – Fathala
Day 11 Toubacouta – Joal Fadiouth – Saly
Day 12 Saly – Bandia Safari Game Reserve
Day 13 Saly
Day 14 Saly – Airport

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Reviews About This Operator

Tour Operator Across Africa Tours & Travel 4.3
Jennifer · 27th November 2023 Mr Lamp Fall (Mamadou Diagne) & his driver Doudou were both simply amazing guides. I felt very safe with them. The... Show more
Sabina · 11th November 2023 This was a lovely trip, off the beaten track, seeing some of the highlights of Senegal. A really interesting eye... Show more
Alexandra · 4th May 2024 Nach anfänglichen Startschwierigkeiten und einer falschen Info hatten wir eine schöne Tour mit unserem netten und... Show more Review collected by Across Africa Tours & Travel

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Thursday 16 May, 2024 Wednesday 29 May, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,512 Confirm Dates
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Sunday 19 May, 2024 Saturday 1 Jun, 2024 English Multiple Room Types €4,512 Confirm Dates
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Frequently Asked Questions

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Good to Know

Currency Fr CFA Franc BCEAO Senegal

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, D, M, K. As a traveller from South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F, K.

These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
Typhoid - Recommended for Senegal. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Hepatitis A - Recommended for Senegal. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Cholera - Recommended for Senegal. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
Tuberculosis - Recommended for Senegal. Ideally 3 months before travel.
Hepatitis B - Recommended for Senegal. Ideally 2 months before travel.
Rabies - Recommended for Senegal. Ideally 1 month before travel.
Meningococcal meningitis - Recommended for Senegal. Ideally 3 weeks before travel.
Yellow fever - Certificate of vaccination required if arriving from an area with a risk of yellow fever transmission for Senegal. Ideally 10 days before travel.
Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
For any tour departing before 12th July 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 12th July 2024, a minimum payment of 30% is required to confirm your booking with Across Africa Tours & Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
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The osprey, also known as a fish hawk, lives along rivers and large bodies of water where it hunts fish. They are rare to spot, but when they do appear, it’s a majestic sight.

LITTLE BEE EATER

The Little Bee Eater, is a common resident at Fathala. Feeding mainly on bees, hornets and wasps. One can see them rubbing hornets’ agonized branches to remove the sting before they are swallowed.

ROAN ANTELOPE

They form harem groups of five to 15 animals with a dominant male. Roan antelope commonly fight among themselves for dominance of their herd, brandishing their horns while both animals are on their knees. Named koba in Senegal.

WESTERN GIANT LORD DERBY ELAND

This sub species of the Giant Eland is only found in Senegal and Mali. Fathala is one of 3 places in the world where healthy wild populations exist.

Giraffes use their height to good advantage by browsing leaves and buds in treetops. The 21–inch (53 cm) tougue helps them pluck tasty morsels from branches. Giraffes eat most of the time, and like cows they regurgitate food and chew it as cud.

BURCHELL’S ZEBRA

The Zebra’s black and white stripes are a form of camouflage called Disruptive Coloration that breaks up the outline of the body. They inhabit savannas, from treeless grasslands to open woodlands.

RED COLOBUS MONKEY

The Red Colobus Monkey is the fastest runner among the primates. The adult females in the group initiate movement of the group with the male following their lead.

WHITE RHINOCEROS

The White Rhinoceros or Square-lipped Rhinoceros is the largest extant species of Rhinoceros. It has a wide mouth used for grazing and is the most social of all Rhino species.

HOODED VULTURE

It has a lack of feathers on its neck for hygiene reasons, so it’s easier to clean after feeding on dead rotting animals.

PINK BACKED PELICAN

The Pink-Backed Pelican is the smaller of the two Pelican species that can be seen at Fathala, the bigger Great White pelican can also be seen in the Saloum Delta. The pink backed pelican can have a wingspan of almost 3 meters and weigh 7kg and they feed on fish especially tilapia. Here they like to roost in big baobab trees that grows alongside the river.

WEST AFRICAN FOREST BUFFALO

Although a different species to the Cape buffalo it is also part of the African Big 5. This terminology does not refer to size but to species that were grouped together by the old colonial hunter, that were the most dangerous animals to hunt. They may slightly resemble domestic cattle, however are very dangerous and will not tolerate an intrusion into their personal space.

WESTERN REEF HERRON

The Western Reef Herron is a medium sized Herron that hunts in the shallow waters. It will hunt almost anything that will fit in its mouth, from fish, crustaceans, crabs, rodents and mollusks. They nest communally, where they all gather in the evenings, called a Heronry.

WEST AFRICAN CROCODILE

West African Crocodile, also known as the Desert Crocodile in Mauritania. Until recently thought to be a synonym for the Nile Crocodile, however recent studies showed that they are in fact a different species.

Warthogs like to wallow in mud. It’s a multipurpose habit as it helps to cool them down and protects them from the sun. Wallowing in the mud also gets rid of parasites and is a barrier that protects them from the bites of the ever present tsetse fly.

HELMETED GUINEAFOWL

The best known of the guineafowl bird family. The helmeted guineafowl is quite a large bird, with a round body and small head. (Weighing in at about 1.3kg)The body plumage is grey-black spotted with white Their head is un-feathered with a reddish bony knob. They have short winged and a short tail. They are normally in flocks of 10-40, and forages on the ground in open areas

ROSE-RINGED PARAKEET

This is a noisy species with an unmistakable squawking call. Rose-ringed parakeets are herbivores, and usually eat buds, fruits, vegetables, nuts, berries, and seeds. They do not keep one mate for life and often breed with a different partner every breeding season

SENEGAL COUCAL

The most common Coucal, a member of the cuckoo order of birds. The Senegal Coucal are a medium-sized species. Its head, neck, bill, legs and long tail are black. The eyes are red and wings light brown in colour. The underpart is a creamy white. The sexes are similar, but the younger ones are a darker brown

WOODLAND KINGFISHER

Common wet season breeding visitor. Mainly found perching on high branches, often exposed, vantage point, hunting insects and small vertebrae. These birds flick there wings open while singing, revealing contrasting underwing pattern. They are known to be quite aggressive with other birds

ABYSSINIAN ROLLER

Very brightly coloured bird, mainly bright turquoise blue with a brown mantle and deep violet wings. They are very noisy and visible birds – they like to perch on exposed vantage point. They are mainly seen alone or in pairs. They are also known as the Senegal Roller.

SENEGAL PARROT

The Senegal Parrot, about 9 inches long, isn’t a “flashy” bird, like some other companion parrots of the same size. They are mostly dark green and brownish-gray with an iridescent green throat, orange thighs, with a yellow chest

BROWN SNAKE EAGLE

This species is an almost obligate predator of a variety of snakes. A very solitary bird, the brown snake eagle has a prolonged breeding cycle and raises a single eaglet.

PALM NUT VULTURE

Identified by black and white plumage, with a bare reddish-pink face. Often seen near water, they eat nuts of oil and Raphia palms, but also feed on various small animals (fish, amphibians and crabs). They are usually a silent bird, and is quite approachable, like many African vultures, and can be seen near habitation, even on large hotel lawns in the tourist areas

YELLOW-BILLED OXPECKER

The bird you always see perched on herbivores, eating the small insects off their skins. A slender brown bird with orange eyes. They are usually seen in small groups and have a hard rasping and hissing sound. Even though the yellow-billed oxpecker eats insects and ticks their preferred food is blood, and while they take ticks bloated with blood, they also feed on it directly. They also peck at the mammal’s wounds until blood flows. These mammals generally tolerate oxpeckers.

LONG-TAILED GLOSSY STARLING

Easiest way to identify these birds are from their very long, strongly graduated, supple tail. They live in lively and vocal flocks and forage on the ground, and their diets mainly consists on fruits and insects. This bird is sociable and noisy, with a harsh strident call

DEFASSA WATERBUCK

The defassa waterbuck is a large, robust animal with long, shaggy hair and a brown-grey. The common waterbuck has a conspicuous white ring encircling a dark rump, while the defassa has wide white patches on either side of the rump.

A species of medium-sized buck with a red coat bearing a varying number of stripes and white spots on the flanks. It lives in forests and shrub territories.

SPOTTED HYENA

Is also known as the laughing hyena, it is the largest known member of the Hyaenidae, and is further physically distinguished from other species by its vaguely bear-like build and its rounded ears.

Manatees are large, fully aquatic, mostly herbivorous marine mammals sometimes known as sea cows. They measure up to 4.0 metres (13 ft 1 in) long, weigh as much as 590 kilograms and have paddle-like flippers.

RED PATAS MONKEY

The patas monkey, also known as the wadi monkey or hussar monkey, is a ground-dwelling monkey distributed over semi-arid areas of West Africa, and into East Africa.

GREEN VERVET MONKEY

These mostly herbivorous monkeys have black faces and grey body hair colour, ranging in body length from about 40 cm for females, to about 50 cm for males.

GABOON VIPER

Like all vipers, it is venomous and has the longest fangs of any venomous snake – up to 5 cm in length – and the second-highest venom yield of any snake after the king cobra.

AFRICAN ROCK PYTHON

Africa's largest snake and one of the six largest snake species in the world.Specimens may approach or exceed 6 m. The southern subspecies is generally smaller than its northern relative. The snake is found in a variety of habitats, from forests to near deserts, although usually near sources of water.

It is responsible for causing the most snakebite fatalities in Africa owing to various factors, such as its wide distribution, frequent occurrence in highly populated regions, and aggressive disposition.

BLACK MAMBA

It is the second-longest venomous snake after the king cobra; mature specimens generally exceed 2 m and commonly grow to 3 m (9 ft 10 in). Its skin colour varies from grey to dark brown.

The boomslang has excellent eyesight and often moves its head from side to side to get a better view of objects directly in front. The body is slightly compressed and the tail is long.

WESTERN GREEN MAMBA

The western green mamba is a fairly large is capable of navigating through trees swiftly and gracefully. It will also descend to ground level to pursue prey such as rodents and other small mammals.

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West Africa's wonders: a safari along Senegal's wildlife-rich coast

Africa’s vibrant west coast offers unique wildlife wonders, from sea turtles and coral reefs to encounters with Senegal’s brilliant birds.

I’ve seen plenty of vultures on safari, but I’ve never seen a pair of hooded vultures squabbling over a find on a beach. The prize at stake is a puffer fish, delivered by the tide. Bloated and covered with spines, it’s gruesome, even by vultures’ bloody tastes. But the twosome are so engrossed, they barely register me as I approach. I settle down to watch, while gulls and terns swoop and dive over the surf in the background. “Pretty impressive, don’t you think?” says a passing boat-builder, heading for the spot where fishing pirogues are crafted and painted, further down the sands. “They’re our clean-up squad. We often see them here. Turtles and dolphins get washed up from time to time. Sometimes even whales, too.” Had I been scouring an East African savannah in a four-wheel-drive, I probably wouldn’t have stopped for such a sight. I’d have urged my guide on in search of wise-eyed elephants, or stiff-tailed warthogs, or a leopard kill draped over a branch in a tree. But I’m in West Africa — and because gulls, terns and these pink-faced, chestnut-backed scavengers are as emblematic of Senegal’s wild and beautiful Atlantic coastline as The Jungle Book’s lugubrious vultures are of their skeleton trees, this little scene has me hooked. It was only in 2021 that the first scientific paper describing beach-feeding Senegalese vultures was published. Finding these ones all by myself has made my day. I’m on a do-it-yourself nature walk in Casamance, wandering along the beach before heading into the swathe of wetlands and gardens slightly inland. Ethnically and geologically a single region, Casamance and southern Gambia are rightly famous among birdwatchers in the know. They’re bounded by the mighty West African Gambia and the Casamance rivers that create a rich web of tidal and freshwater habitats, supporting hundreds of local species and reviving migrants after their long, perilous journey across North Africa and the Sahel. But while in The Gambia it’s easy to hire a bird guide, here in Casamance, they’re thin on the ground, and the official bird sanctuary, Kalissaye Avifaunal Reserve, is barely visited at all. With the separatist troubles that have been simmering in the background since the 1980s never quite resolved, the Casamance safari industry, once promising, never really stood a chance. But with hope in the air that the troubles may soon be over, southern Senegal’s prospects as an ecotourism destination are finally looking bright. In the meantime, an independent trip is the way to go. Invaluable though specialist guides and lodges can be, it’s perfectly possible to make do without: I’ve simply booked a room at a quiet, rustic guesthouse on the blissfully sunny coast, and set out with eyes and ears peeled. I’d hesitate to call myself a bird nerd; much less, a twitcher. At home in England, I have less patience with the whole thing — our birds are too familiar, perhaps, or too elusive, or too drab, and we don’t always have the best weather. But in Africa, birdwatching has delivered some of my happiest moments. And in Senegal, so many birds are large, colourful, musical or just cute, the rewards seem that much greater; and with the country home to 691 species of bird there’s a great chance of spotting plenty, too. When you’re exploring a habitat that’s ultra-biodiverse, it’s easy to get hung up on identification. But instead of obsessing over whether one fabulous creature is called a beautiful or splendid sunbird, and whether the call I’m hearing is a yellow-throated leaflove or a yellow-billed shrike, I try to enjoy each sight and sound as it comes. I’ve learned enough about birdwatching to know that it’s when you put the ticklist away that the fun stuff really starts.

How to do it

The Gambia Experience offers seven-night stays at Esperanto Lodge in Casamance in Senegal, from £899, including B & B, flights from Gatwick to Banjul in The Gambia and onward road transfers. Visit in Senegal’s rainy season, June to September, and between thunderstorms, you’ll see hear birds singing their loudest, resplendent in their breeding plumage.

Published in the Jul/Aug 2022 issue of National Geographic Traveller (UK)

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Safaris in senegal: are they worth it.

I did a few safaris in Senegal on my recent trip to the country. Here’s what I made out of them and what to expect if you go on one!

“We have one rhino, I named him Kevin”, Mamadou, our safari guide, informed us. “Hopefully we’ll see him today!”

We were on a bush drive in Fathala Wildlife Reserve, one of the most renowned safari parks in West Africa.

But, before visiting Senegal, I didn’t know that such a place existed. Aren’t safaris more of an East or Southern Africa thing?

Well, yes, they are – but a few nature reserves across Senegal (and in other places in West Africa) are opening up, some focusing on their own native nature, others introducing or re-introducing animals.

Does Senegal have safaris?

Yes, Senegal has safaris.

To clear up any confusion, let’s look at the definition of a safari.

The Cambridge dictionary says it’s : an organized journey to look at, or sometimes hunt, wild animals, especially in Africa.

Note: especially in Africa, not exclusively !

Technically, we have “sea safaris” near where we live on the North Cornwall coast (to look out for seals and birds, rather than giraffes and rhinos!).

What are safaris in Senegal like?

While Senegal does have safaris, they aren’t as “wild” as those in East Africa.

You don’t have a vast savannah where giraffes and lions wander over – don’t expect the Great Migration!

But what it does have are reserves of various sizes where they have re-introduced animals (rhinos, giraffe, zebra and antelope all used to live in Senegal, but they became extinct).

This is a similar set-up to national parks in South Africa, although admittedly, the South African equivalents are a lot bigger (Kruger is over 19000 km² compared to Fathala in Senegal which is 60km² – although the lesser-visited Senegalese Nikolo-Koba National Park is 9000 km²).

I haven’t done an East African safari, so I cannot compare the two.

But I will say that Bandia reserve, with limited tracks, felt a little more claustrophobic and “zoo-like”, whereas Fathala didn’t – it seemed like there was much more space and it felt like we were going deep into the bush on gnarly roads before we spotted some animals.

Where to go on safari in Senegal

The three main places to go on safari in Senegal are: Bandia Wildlife Reserve, Fathala Wildlife Reserve and Nikolo-Koba National Park.

Bandia Wildlife Reserve

Sitting equidistant from Dakar and the beaches of Senegal’s Petite Cote , Bandia Wildlife Reserve is certainly convenient.

If you drive to the park independently, you can hop in a safari jeep for just 18, or drive your own vehicle (if it’s appropriate for the terrain) with a guide for even cheaper.

The park is famous for its guaranteed sightings of zebra, giraffe, antelope and monkeys – and almost guaranteed rhino sightings.

But of course, this is because the safari reserve is really quite small – the smaller the area, the more likelihood you have of finding animals on safari.

They also keep the hyenas in enclosures, as they are a natural predator. This felt quite unnatural, although as it means that the other animals in the nature reserve don’t have any natural predators, they must have quite a relaxed life!

All that said, I did very much enjoy my safari here. It was my first experience of this type of safari, I adored seeing the elegant giraffes and graceful antelope.

If you regularly do safaris in the Kenyan savannah, you might be disappointed, but if not, I do think it’s well worth visiting the Bandia Wildlife Reserve.

Fathala Wildlife Reserve

That said, if you only want to visit one wildlife reserve on your trip to Senegal , I’d make it Fathala .

Fathala has everything Bandia has, but better. The tracks are more rugged, nature more raw, the animals (when you find them) more at home.

Like in Bandia, wild animals were re-introduced to Fathala after being made extinct centuries ago.

The land is Senegalese-owned, but the lodge is run by a South African company, who transported animals from their native country to repopulate the park.

Things to do at Fathala

Nowadays, day visitors usually embark on a two-hour game drive, trundling deep into the park to see as many animals as possible. It’s usual to see most of the large animals – although Kevin the rhino can be a little elusive (we didn’t see him on our game drive, but he was waiting for us when we got back to the lodge!).

Lodge guests can also enjoy bush walks and mangrove boat tours.

Then there’s also the opportunity to walk with lions. We didn’t do this for a couple of reasons.

I don’t agree with keeping lions like this; apparently, they were looked after by humans from a young age which is why they are docile. But in my opinion, they’re still wild animals, and I’d a) be too concerned about walking with them myself and b) don’t wish to support having them in captivity.

Fathala Wildlife Reserve Lodge

We stayed at the Fathala Wildlife Reserve Lodge for two nights, and it was easily one of the best hotels I’ve ever stayed in.

Accommodation is in a traditional safari tent, with a ridiculous amount of mod-cons (air conditioning, free-standing bath, fridge and an uber-comfy bed to name but a few!).

As soon as I unzipped my tent, I was right in the heart of nature, with monkeys outside on the terrace and the sound of birdsong in the air.

The tents are centered around an airy reception area, with a swimming pool, bar and restaurant. The food was top-notch; everything was prepared to perfection, with decent vegetarian options.

Service was top-tier as well.

Nikolo-Koba National Park

I didn’t get a chance to visit Nikolo-Koba National Park , which is right in the southeastern corner of Senegal, but it’s supposed to be the “wildest” safari experience you can get in the region. There are even lions here!

However, it’s difficult to visit without a tour. If you do want to go, I’d recommend contacting my friend Omar from OmiTours ; he’s based in The Gambia offers tours all over West Africa and would definitely be able to help you out.

Animals you might see on a Senegalese safari

So, what can you expect to see on a safari in Senegal? Look out for the following:

We saw a few of these towering in both Bandia and Fathala. They’re incredibly graceful!

Zebra usually move in packs, and we saw a collection of them on our game drives in both reserves. They were a little skittish of the cars, but I got some good photos.

A few different types of antelope live on the safari parks in Senegal.

Western Giant Lord Derby Eland

This animal’s only found in Senegal and Mali! Fathala is one of only three places where they exist in the wild.

Warthog

We saw plenty of warthogs (aka Pumba from The Lion King) in Fathala. They’re much smaller in real life!

West African Crocodile

There are lots of West African crocodiles in the river in Bandia Wildlife Reserve – the viewpoint is far above – and we also saw one on our mangroves tour of Fathala.

Unless you do the walking with lions experience, you won’t see these creatures in Bandia or Fathala. However, you might locate them in Nikolo-Koba, if you’re lucky!

Hyenas

Hyenas are enclosed in Bandia Wildlife Reserve and there aren’t any in Fathala.

How to book your Senegal safari experience

Most tourists do Senegal safaris as part of a guided tour.

There are some tours available on Viator and Get Your Guide, but they’re pricey.

The cheapest option by far is to join a group tour from the major hotels on the Petite Cote. For example, if you stay at a TUI hotel like the Hotel RIU Baobab, you can book this tour .

If you aren’t staying at a TUI hotel, you can book with Nouvelles Frontieres who offer pick-up from other parts of the coast .

To see Fathala, most tourists actually do day trips from The Gambia. However, I’d highly recommend spending a couple of days at the lodge ( bookable on their website ) and enjoying activities from there.

To reach the lodge, you can take taxis, or catch various buses and sept-places to Kaolack and then connect to Toubakouta, then take a taxi to Fathala – this is what we did and it wasn’t too challenging!

Are you ready for a Senegalese safari?

It’s not quite the same as an East African safari, but provided you manage expectations, it’s entirely possible to see wild animals in Senegal!

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One-Week Senegal Itinerary: Dakar, Pink Lake & Beaches

One-Week Senegal Itinerary: Dakar, Beaches & Pink Lake • Winetraveler

Senegal Itinerary: Top Things to Do in Senegal This Year

If you’re searching for a new adventure, West Africa is it. Senegal, a French-speaking country bordered by Mauritania, Mali, Guinea Bissau with The Gambia sandwiched between has white sand beaches, an up-and-coming music scene and even a Pink Lake.

Follow this perfect seven-day Senegal itinerary for those wanting equal parts of culture, adventure, beach and exploring.

Day 4: African Renaissance Monument and Beach Day

Day 7: Safari

Travel Tips & Practicalities

Senegal can be easily tacked on to a European itinerary especially if you’d like to get some warm African sunshine during the winter (the dry season is November to May) . You can fly from many European cities like Madrid , Lisbon , London or Istanbul . Delta also offers a nonstop flight from New York’s JFK to Dakar (DSS). Search for flight deals as they come up here .

Although a majority of Senegal’s population is Muslim, you’ll find locals are fairly relaxed and often don’t cover up as much as in more traditional countries. Female visitors shouldn’t worry about covering their hair, and you’ll spot some local women in shorts and tank tops. Some will be in traditional dress, but really, anything goes.

A Note on Senegal Cuisine

You won’t see much pork on restaurant menus but many restaurants will serve alcohol. Make sure to try palm wine , a locally produced drink that comes from fermented palms. Pair it with the traditional Senegalese dish thieboudienne — fish, rice, stewed tomatoes drenched in seasoning.

Is Senegal Safe?

Most areas of the country are quite safe, but be prepared for chatty locals hawking goods, and it’s best to leave flashy items at home. Guard your personal items in crowded spaces such as Dakar’s markets as you would in any major city.

Although many locals speak Wolof, French is the official language, so consider learning a few phrases, or come prepared with a translation app.

West African CFA Franc in Senegal Currency

Stop 1: Dakar | 4 days

Top things to do in dakar senegal.

Some of Dakar’s best hotel options are the Radisson Blu Dakar or the Pullman Dakar . However, many affordable guesthouses and home rentals can be found throughout the city. The best (or most modern) area to stay in would be the city center , with attractions such as the IFAN museum nearby. For a quieter, beachy stay, consider the Yoff area.

We highly recommend booking a private guide and driver ahead of time with Senegal Odyssey Tours . Private guides are affordable, and it’s worth having a local by your side to show you the ropes.

Day 1: Enjoy Dakar’s Markets, Museums & Music

Dakar has an energetic and lively vibe. The hot, dusty streets filled with movement may seem hectic at first, but you’ll be happily ensconced in Dakar’s fervor in no time. Start with one of the bustling markets like Sandanga. Be ready for assertive hawkers and make sure to bargain. If you’re shopping for local goods, confirm they were made in Africa, not in China.

Next stop is the IFAN Museum of African Arts. It’s one of the oldest museums in West Africa. Later in the evening, catch the sunset and enjoy dinner at the trendy Bayékou, followed by some live Mbalax music (a mix of African drumming, soul, rock and jazz) at Le Thiossane.

Day 2: Île de Gorée

This picturesque, car-free island just a short ferry ride from Dakar has a sordid history. Now a UNESCO Heritage site, the island was once one of the largest slave-trading points on the African coast. The juxtaposition between the slave quarters and the traders’ estates is immense, but now, the island is a memorial, and definitely warrants a day trip.

Ferries run all day from Dakar’s main port, and you can hire a guide after disembarking from the boat in Gorée. You can also schedule a day trip in advance with Visit Senegal to be guided by a local.

Day 3: Senegal Pink Lake (Lac Rose )

Lake Retba (Lac Rose) - Senegal Pink Lake

One of Senegal’s most famous attractions is the Pink Lake, just over an hour from Dakar. You can hire a private driver for the day in a comfortable vehicle to bring you out. The water actually appears pink thanks to its high saline content and an excess of Dunaliella salina bacteria. Float in the lake Dead Sea-style or pay a fisherman to lap you around in a rowboat. Make sure to admire the locals cultivating the salt from the lake, and the wandering goats that watch them. You can also rent quads and drive over the beaches and banks of the lake.

Take a Full-Day Private Senegal Pink Lake Tour & Safari

Take a captivating one-day private safari to visit Lake Retba, the renowned “pink lake” of Senegal with Senegal Odyssey Tours . Your journey will begin with an adventurous excursion into the wilderness aboard a 4WD vehicle, offering a chance to spot exotic wildlife such as rhinos, zebras, and giraffes. Following this, witness the local tradition of salt harvesting at the mesmerizing pink lake before returning to Dakar. Enjoy the journey in the relaxing ambiance of an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring your comfort throughout the tour. A delightful lunch is incorporated within the tour cost. Furthermore, we provide convenient round-trip transfers from your hotel, making your experience hassle-free. This tour offers an exclusive private experience, tailored for you and your group.

Start by visiting the African Renaissance Monument , a towering statue on a hill depicting a man, woman and child. The monument, which was created as a tribute to the African people has been controversial, so make sure to check it out and decide for yourself if you love it, hate it or perhaps both.

Spend the rest of the day relaxing at Chez Max , a popular boho beach bar on the sands of the Plage des Mamelles . Or, for a longer stretch of sand, visit the Plage de Yoff .

Stop 2: Saly | 3 days

Stay in a beach hotel with all the amenities if you’d prefer to relax. Or, consider a home rental, which can range from a cozy African bungalow to a luxury beachfront villa.

Day 5: Beaches of Saly and M’Bour

Today it’s time to relax on the empty sands of Saly, where you can swim in the warm sea and watch kids play beach soccer at sunset. When you’ve had enough, head to check out one of the craft markets or walk the beaches of the nearby fishing town M’Bour to admire the painted boats.

Day 6: Somone Lagoon Wildlife Reserve

Somone Lagoon Wildlife Reserve in in Saly, Senegal

A 30-minute drive from Saly, the Somone Lagoon is a wildlife reserve where you can spot many local birds including flamingos. Take a boat ride to explore the lagoon, and stroll around the sandy shores. Enjoy fresh seafood for lunch and a shady nap in one of the hammocks at Paradise Rasta when the heat of the day hits.

Day 7: Safari

The Foret de Bandia is a protected park in Senegal where you can see African wildlife. Visit first thing in the morning to spot the most animals (and to beat the heat). Although you won’t spot the big five in Senegal, you can still see giraffes, rhinos, zebra, crocodiles, hyenas, and monkeys. Don’t forget to admire the famous African Baobab trees too. Just hang on to your snacks, as the park’s mischievous monkeys are food-stealers.

RELATED: See the “Big Five” with this Tanzania Safari Itinerary

After your safari, head back to Dakar to catch your flight home .

Frequently Asked Questions about Visiting Senegal

What are the must-visit attractions in senegal.

The bustling capital city, Dakar , is a must-visit with its lively markets like Marché Sandaga and historic sites such as the African Renaissance Monument . Just off Dakar’s coast, the UNESCO-listed Île de Gorée , serves as a poignant reminder of the Atlantic slave trade. Venture further afield to the Saloum Delta National Park , an incredible haven for wildlife and a paradise for bird watchers. Don’t miss out on Lac Rose , or the Pink Lake , named for its unique pinkish hue due to a type of bacteria in the water. If you’re seeking culture, the Casamance region is teeming with traditional villages, vibrant ceremonies, and lush landscapes. Lastly, the awe-inspiring Stone Circles of Senegambia , a UNESCO World Heritage Site, display the rich prehistoric culture of the region.

What is the Pink Lake in Senegal?

Lac Rose, also known as the Pink Lake or Lake Retba, is one of Senegal’s most unique attractions. Located northeast of Dakar, the capital city, the lake gets its distinctive pink hue from a type of halophilic bacteria, Dunaliella salina, which thrives in the lake’s high-salinity waters. These bacteria produce a red pigment to absorb sunlight, thereby giving the lake its pink color. The lake’s color is most vibrant during the dry season (November to June), particularly during mid-day when the sun is at its highest. However, the color can also vary depending on the time of day and viewing angle, and ranges from a light pink to a deep scarlet. In addition to its unique color, Lac Rose is also known for its high salt content, which can be compared to the Dead Sea. This makes swimming a buoyant and relaxing experience. Local workers also harvest salt from the lake, often seen wading in the shallow waters to collect the precious mineral.

Can you swim in the Pink Lake Senegal?

Yes, you can swim in the Pink Lake, also known as Lac Rose, in Senegal. Due to the lake’s high salt content, much like the Dead Sea, it enables swimmers to float effortlessly. However, it’s advised to avoid getting the water in your eyes or mouth due to the high salt concentration.

How many days should you spend in Senegal?

The ideal length for a trip to Senegal really depends on your interests and what you want to get out of your visit. If you want a comprehensive experience and to visit most of the main attractions without feeling rushed, plan for about 10 to 14 days. This gives you ample time to explore Dakar, visit historical sites such as the Île de Gorée, spend a few days at the beach, explore the national parks, and even venture to more remote areas like the Casamance region. If your time is limited, one week in Senegal can still cover a lot of ground, including Dakar, Île de Gorée, the Pink Lake, and one of the national parks.

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Leave a comment, ask a question or share a review cancel reply, comments ( 2 ).

Wow, what a fantastic-sounding week! So many layers to explore. I love the sounds of the pink lake, food and palm wine…

It’s such a special spot, I know you would love it! And the pink lake is truly epic 🙂

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Pictus Safaris

32104519_1772657909464021_38566002133932

Niokolo-Koba NP and Pointe-Saint-Georges, Senegal

Sensational Senegal

£4,095 per person sharing

At a Glance

Dates : April 5th - April 17th, 2024

March 1st - March 13th, 2025

Extension : No extensions currently available

Prices : This tour is available for £4,095 per person sharing. There is a single supplement of £250.

In a sentence : A novel safari offering species as diverse as Giant Eland and African Manatee, this is a truly unique trip and one that any serious mammal-watcher shouldn't miss!

Senegal is rarely on a list of top safari destinations but it has a huge amount to offer committed wildlife-watchers. The country's rich coastline offers opportunities to encounter the rare Atlantic Humpback Dolphin and African Manatee, the latter being essentially guaranteed. Inland, the arid north is a good bet for the shy Pale Fox, with the estuarine environment of Djoudj offering great birding opportunities. The highlight of any visit, however, must be the beautiful Niokolo-Koba National Park. Here, with a slice of luck, Lion, Leopard and even African Wild Dog can be encountered, and the remote Mount Assirik holds populations of Bush Elephant, Forest Elephant, Lord Derby's Eland and Chimpanzee.

Dakar/Kaolack

On arrival into Dakar, you will be met by your tour leader and the remainder of your group. From here, you will transfer by road the three hours' drive to Kaolack and your comfortable local hotel. After a chance to settle in, this evening we will make the short drive to the famed Kousmar Island, a haven for birders. This small island, between two branches of the Saloum River, plays host to an astonishing roost of scissor-tailed kites and lesser kestrels, often numbering over 60,000 in total. Our evening visit is planned to coincide with the impressive spectacle as these birds return to their nocturnal roosts, and the sights and sounds of this can be remarkable.

After an enjoyable evening at Kousmar, we return to our hotel for dinner and some rest.

After breakfast today, we embark on a full day's drive, taking us first east to Tambacounda and then south as we drive around the Gambia. In total, the drive today tends to take around seven hours, over very good roads, and we may spy our first mammals of the trip in Patas monkeys. Eventually, we will reach the unassuming turn off the road to Campement Wassadou, where we spend the night outside the park. As we arrive, don't be surprised to spy your first green monkeys and Guinea baboons of the tour hanging out around camp, and we may be lucky enough to spot hippo in the river below. The birding is here is superb, and African finfoot is particularly well-seen. After dinner, a night walk along the access road generally produces common genet, civet and Senegal galago, after which we return to camp.

Niokolo-Koba

This morning begins with a boat trip on the Gambia River from camp. This stretch of river not only affords good views of green monkey and Guinea baboon, but is also a birding highlight. African finfoot, Pel's fishing owl, blue-bellied roller and yellow-crowned gonolek are all possible on this relaxed sojourn on this iconic and life-giving river. After an excursion of two hours or so, we return to camp, and make the short transfer by road to the entry gate of Niokolo-Koba. Here, we will meet our local guide and open vehicle and transfer into the park.

Niokolo-Koba is a beautiful park, but it has long been neglected and poorly managed. Sadly, as a result, game densities are much lower here than in parks elsewhere on the continent, and local guiding standards are extremely low. However, some species have clung on, against all odds, and on the long drive to our stunning accommodation, which sits about two hours' drive into the park. The vast majority of this drive is through extremely arid terrain, although we may spy Defassa waterbuck, roan, warthog, red-flanked duiker, common duiker and bushbuck as we drive. The birding is also excellent, with yellow-billed shrike, stone partridge and Abyssinian ground hornbill all possible.

On arrival at the lodge, there will be a chance to settle in and, if time permits, an afternoon game drive will follow. Whilst our lodge offers unparalleled comfort by Senegalese standards, and a wonderful vista, its location sometimes does not lend itself to game-viewing, and we may have to drive some distance to the central game-viewing area of Simenti to give ourselves a chance of spotting lion, leopard and more. Lion are doing poorly here, with just half a dozen or so in this core area, so sightings are far from guaranteed - by contrast, this is the best spot for leopard in West Africa, although these secretive cats are always hard to find. Buffalo and even wild dog can be seen here too, although more common are western hartebeest, kob, waterbuck, bushbuck, warthog, Patas monkey, roan, green monkey, Guinea baboon, Gambian mongoose, common duiker and red-flanked duiker.

Sadly, park rules mean we will have to be back at the lodge an hour before sunset this evening. We have long lobbied park management to change this bizarre rule, and are actively working with Panthera to secure night drives as soon as possible - we cannot guarantee that permission will be granted in advance of this tour. Our lodge does have access to a nocturnal hide, but access is limited to two people for one hour each night, and sightings from this hide are limited.

Days Four to Nine

The next six full days are dedicated to exploring this park, our favourite in Africa. Game-viewing here can be bruisingly unrewarding, and we have spent months here in the past without seeing any big game. However, with our wealth of experience in this park, we will be sure to target key areas known to produce encounters with lion, leopard, buffalo and wild dog. There can be no guarantees, but morning and afternoon drives to the key watering points around Simenti, including the Gambia River, will give us our best chance of encountering these elusive mammals, as well as the diverse birdlife of the park.

With such an extended stay, we have the opportunity to explore areas of the park not ordinarily visited. We will make a day-trip to the remote south of the park and the area around Mt Assirik. This area is particularly dry and inaccessible, and protects the very few remaining bush elephant, giant eland and chimpanzee in the park. Our chances of encountering giant eland will be greatly increased if rare permission to bivouac here is granted, and we will seek this permission immediately prior to our visit (which is the soonest we are allowed to ask!).

Each evening, we will access the nocturnal hide, and time will be set aside on most days to relax and soak in the creature comforts of our superb lodge. If clients desire, we may de-camp to the much more basic campsite on one night, where honey badger, civet and spotted hyena are commonly seen.

After a final morning game drive near the lodge, we will exit the park and return to Campement Wassadou where we overnight.

Pointe-Saint-Georges

We spend today on the road, embarking on the long drive westwards to the tiny village of Pointe Saint Georges on the Casamance River. We will arrive by late afternoon and will have time to settle in to our basic accommodation before dinner this evening.

Pointe St Georges

The full day today will be spent on the nearby beach, watching African manatee at the nearby spring. This is probably the best place to see these manatee anywhere, although the choppy and dirty water can make clear sightings difficult - the best view is usually granted when the manatees break the surface with their calves. Keep an eye out also for dolphins, both common bottlenose and Atlantic humpback, as we stake out the manatees before returning the short distance to camp.

Day Thirteen

Cap Skirring/Dakar

This morning we transfer to Cap Skirring for our hour-long flight to Dakar, where the tour ends.

Please be aware that whilst we make every effort to follow the above itinerary as closely as possible, circumstances may occasionally arise that mean the tour deviates from the itinerary.

Dates and Prices

This tour will run from March 1st to M<arch 13th, 2025. The tour is timed to maximise our chances of encountering African Manatees and the big game of Niokolo-Koba, but the weather is extremely hot.

The cost of this trip is £4,095 per person sharing, with a single supplement of £250. This excludes all drinks and lunches, but includes breakfasts and dinners. To secure a place on this tour, a deposit of £1,250 plus any single supplement must be paid.

Flights and Visas

Pictus Safaris do not offer flight booking services. However, we do recommend the use of travel comparison websites such as skyscanner.net or momondo.com to identify the best fares, and then booking with the airline directly where possible. This will reduce the likelihood of complications and fees should any issues with your booking arise.

British nationals do not require a visa to enter Senegal. Clients of other nationalities are advised to check well before travel whether they require an entry visa.

Weather and What to Bring

The weather in Senegal in March is very hot, with little rain and maximum temperatures of around 39 degrees Celsius. At night, temperatures will drop to around 24 degrees Celsius.

A full packing list will be circulated at least two months prior to departure. Pictus Safaris will be able to provide one extra set of binoculars and two spotlights per group, and clients are welcome to bring additional camera, videography and scope equipment should they wish to. Please note that the use of drones is not permitted in many protected areas.

Do also remember to budget for any expenses not included in the cost of the trip, including for gratuities and additional activities. All major currencies can be exchanged in Dakar.

Safety and Security

There are currently no security issues in any of the areas visited by this tour.

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Brian Hutchinson

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https://www.barrons.com/news/dakar-airport-reopens-after-jet-leaves-runway-11-hurt-operator-dd344ad7

FROM AFP NEWS

Dakar Airport Reopens After Jet Leaves Runway, 11 Hurt: Operator

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Senegal's Blaise Diagne airport outside Dakar reopened Thursday, hours after 11 people were injured when a Boeing plane headed for Malian capital Bamako left the runway, airport operator LAS said.

"We inform you that Blaise Diagne international airport has reopened. Airport operations have resumed as normal," LAS stated after the B737/300 aircraft, an Air Senegal flight chartered by privately-owned Transair, came off the runway during takeoff, leaving four passengers seriously hurt.

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