Immersion in the Land of Teranga
From the rosy waters of Lake Retba to the mangroves of the Saloum, cross the authentic faces of Sénégal.
Duration
14 days
From
€1,220/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Nov, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
Set off on a trip to Sénégal between salt lakes, great dunes, nature reserves, mangrove, villages, Petite Côte and Gorée Island. This itinerary takes you from Lake Retba to Saint-Louis, from Lompoul desert to the Saloum delta, before heading to Somone, Dakar and Gorée.
Along the way, you discover varied landscapes, between Atlantic coastline, desert spaces, wetland zones and nature reserves rich in wildlife. The journey also allows you to share privileged moments with the inhabitants, notably during an immersion with a Peulh family.
Discoveries follow one another between pirogue rides, 4x4 crossings, bird watching, camel rides and days of relaxation. You also enjoy several cultural stops to discover Saint-Louis, Dakar and Gorée Island, witnesses to the country's history.
A varied circuit, punctuated by landscapes, wildlife, encounters and several landmark stages of Sénégal, while leaving an important place for discovering local life.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Sénégal!
Welcome at Dakar airport, then immediate departure towards Lac Rose, or more precisely Lac Retba, known for its violet waters and high salt content.
Installation at Gîte du Lac (or similar depending on availability), in the heart of the dunes and by a swimming pool.
The morning is dedicated to visiting the House of Slaves, commented with passion by the curator.
The discovery continues with a stroll through the flower-lined streets to the promontory, which offers a panorama of Dakar bay.
Also visit the church.
Early afternoon, return by boat to Dakar, then visit the city through several emblematic places: Independence Square, old colonial buildings, train station, cathedral, presidential palace and Kermel market. The corniche allows you to enjoy a beautiful panorama of the Madeleine Islands at sunset.
The program continues with a visit to the Ouakam mosque and then the African Renaissance Monument.
The road finally leads to Lac Retba for this first stage at the gates of Dakar.
Lake Retba, Dunes and Grande Côte
This day remains free at the lodge.
You then depart by 4x4 truck to cross the Dakar dunes and reach the immense beach of the Grande Côte. A fish barbecue lunch is offered to you, with time for safe swimming in the ocean and relaxation on the beach.
Several activities are offered as options:
Horse riding (1h30: €20; 3h: €30), along the lagoon to the beach with return through the dunes, or in the bush
Fat-bike ride (1h30: €20; 3h: €30), around the lake via trails or discovering the old lake bed
Quad biking (1h: €45; 1h30: €60; 3h: €100 / quad for 1 or 2 people), between shell trails, dunes and Dakar beach, with three possible routes
In late afternoon, you enjoy an introduction to African percussion in the atmosphere of the sunset, before dinner and the night.
Crossing Lake Retba
The Lake Rose, actually called Lake Retba, stands out for its color which can vary from pink to mauve depending on the sun and wind. Its high salinity, of 300 g/liter, brings it close to the Dead Sea.
During this day, you cross the lake aboard a salt pirogue to meet the salt collectors, who extract this natural resource while being coated with shea butter. Your English-speaking local guide also provides you with explanations about the origin of the lake and its economic functioning.
You will also have the opportunity to try the floating experience by bathing in the lake.
Cheese Factory, Kayar and Road to Saint-Louis
During this day, you can visit Moussa's cheese dairy and, depending on current activities, participate in milking the goats and then in cheese making within the pilot goat farm. This initiative is part of a process to better promote traditional livestock farming, while respecting the environment and Fulani ancestral culture. You will also have the opportunity to taste the cheese prepared on site.
Lunch is planned at a bamboo restaurant, set on a mound of shells that offers a view of the lake.
After lunch, you head towards Kayar, presented as the largest artisanal fishing center.
On site, our village guide accompanies you to observe the arrival of fishermen, the unloading of buckets, the removal of pirogues from the water, negotiations on the sand, the loading of carts, as well as the steps of salting, smoking, drying of non-saleable species and the sale of the finest catches under the market hall.
You then continue on to Saint-Louis, where you settle in at the hotel. Dinner and overnight by the ocean.
Djoudj National Park and Discovery of Saint-Louis
The departure is very early for a visit to the Djoudj National Park, presented as the world's third ornithological reserve and sanctuary to over 3 million birds, including pelicans, cormorants, whistling ducks and flamingos. You explore this UNESCO-listed site aboard a pirogue, in the heart of lake landscapes, vast reed beds and tangled waterways. This discovery also allows you to observe several reptiles on the banks, such as monitor lizards, pythons and crocodiles, as well as many mammals such as jackals, monkeys, hyenas, gazelles and warthogs.
Back in Saint-Louis, you enjoy a traditional lunch in a typical restaurant in the old town, before a tour of the island by horse-drawn carriage with our local guide.
The oldest town founded by the French in West Africa, Saint-Louis was also a stopover on the Aéropostale route of Mermoz. During the visit, you discover several landmarks from its past: the Governorate, Faidherbe Square, the Cathedral, the hospital, the northern mosque and Faidherbe Bridge. The tour also allows you to observe the many houses from the colonial period.
The discovery continues in the Guet Ndar district, with a moment of wandering through the streets for some souvenirs, then through the Sor market, in a colorful and warm African atmosphere, before heading to the old train station with New Orleans-style architecture.
Tongue of Barbary and Lompoul Desert
Saint-Louis → Désert de Lompoul
This day takes you first to the Gandiolais, a market gardening region, then to the Langue de Barbarie National Park. You board a pirogue to sail down the river alongside the Bird Island, where many species come to nest such as terns, gulls and pelicans.
You then set foot on the sand bar, between river and ocean, a territory frequented by sea turtles that come to lay their eggs. Navigation continues to the historic mouth of the Sénégal river, with perhaps the possibility of observing pink flamingos.
Lunch is planned at a lodge on the riverbank, followed by a time of relaxation and swimming, at the pool, in the river or in the ocean.
In the afternoon, you get back on the road to reach the Lompoul desert. A 4x4 truck is necessary to cross the dunes and reach this Saharan landscape.
Upon arrival, you settle into a charming bivouac, located in the heart of an oasis in the middle of the dunes.
At the bivouac, a welcome cocktail awaits you before a traditional meal accompanied by djembes, local dances and Sénégal tea.
The night takes place under khaïmas, traditional Moorish tents equipped with complete bedding and a private bathroom.
Share with a Fulani family
This day invites you to discover the daily life of a Peulh family. A short walk in the Sahel bush, between dunes and acacia trees, leads you to a family compound.
After the customary Salam Alikoum greetings and a visit of the compound, Abdou invites you to accompany the women in the preparation of the traditional meal. They first go to the small local market to buy ingredients, then introduce you to the preparation of Thieb bou Yap, a Sénégal dish that you taste at lunch.
The meal is shared in the Sénégal way, with the villagers, on a mat laid on the ground and around communal platters.
At the end of the day, you take your leave from your hosts before walking back to the camp.
The day continues with a camel ride in the great dunes, with an open view of the landscape.
From Lompoul to Saloum
Sokone → Les Barracudas
After breakfast, you depart by 4x4 vehicle towards the village by taking cart tracks that skirt the dunes, in a Sahelian landscape dotted with acacias. Along the way, your English-speaking guide presents the agricultural techniques used to produce vegetables in the hollows of the dunes, as well as the functioning of traditional goat and sheep herding.
You then pass through Mékhé, known as the shoe capital, with a stop to visit a few shops.
The road continues towards Fatick and its salt marshes, then to Foundiougne, a former colonial prefecture. Lunch is planned in the shade of a thatched hut on the riverbank.
You then continue to Sokone, gateway to the Saloum Delta Natural Park.
Upon arrival, you settle in at the Barracudas, an ecolodge built on a shell island and opening onto the mangrove.
The late afternoon remains free to enjoy the pool overlooking the mangrove or the terrace beach on the bolong. A welcome drink is offered to you on the panoramic terrace, before dinner prepared by Lamine, head chef, followed by a night on site.
Discovery of the Saloum Delta by pirogue
Les Barracudas → Les Barracudas
This day takes you by motorized canoe through the Saloum Delta Natural Park. You navigate through the heart of the mangrove and observe its diverse bird species.
You discover Sine Saloum, listed as a Unesco World Heritage site, recognized for the beauty of its natural habitats and the variety of its wildlife.
A grilled food picnic is planned on the bolong, with a moment of relaxation and swimming.
In the afternoon, return to the ecolodge to enjoy the peace and quiet of the place, the beach and the swimming pool.
At the end of the day, you set off on a walking tour to the perimeter of the village women.
Free day at Saloum
For this last day, you enjoy a free morning. You can choose to relax by the pool, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, sunbathe on the beach along the bolong or fish from the jetty.
Other activities are available, including a 2-hour walk or horse-drawn carriage ride through the surrounding nature with a local guide, or a walk in a small bolong at low tide searching for mongoose or hyena tracks, with the possibility of spotting small monkeys.
Certain excursions are available for an additional fee, such as kayaking (1.5h: €15; 3h: €25 / traveler; 6h: €40 / traveler). Accompanied by our eco-guide, you set off to discover the mangrove ecosystem, a refuge for numerous marine, terrestrial and aerial animals. After an initial passage through the main channel, you enter a winding bolong, accessible only to double or triple kayaks with child, which allow you to slip through narrow passages. This activity, accessible to all, offers a silent approach to the river and bolong.
It is also possible to take a carriage ride or walk to see the great baobab.
Lunch is planned at the Barracudas. In late afternoon, you enjoy an aperitif at the top of the shell mound located next to the Barracudas.
From Saloum to Petite Côte
Les Barracudas → Sokone
You leave Sokone to reach the Petite Côte. Lunch is scheduled at the Barracudas or included in your optional excursion.
We offer you, as an option, a safari in the Bandia wildlife reserve (option €55 – based on 4 people). Aboard a 4x4 pickup accompanied by a wildlife guide, you set off to discover numerous species, including white rhinoceros, greater kudus, oryx, Cape eland, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, buffalo, kobus, impalas, warthogs and monkeys. A stop is also planned at the crocodile pond.
After lunch on the Petite Côte, you head to Somone for your arrival and check-in at the hotel.
Free day between Fadiouth and Accrobaobab
This day is left free, with several optional excursions available.
We particularly offer you a discovery of the Fadiouth shellfish island (option €35 – minimum 4 people). You travel to Joal, the birthplace of President Léopold Sédar Senghor. Located opposite Joal, Fadiouth is an island formed of layers of century-old shells. You then board a small poled pirogue that skirts the oyster parks and mangroves until reaching the millet granaries and cemetery. The visit continues on foot across a wooden bridge, then through the streets of Fadiouth and to its church. To return to Joal, you walk across the 800-meter wooden bridge that connects the island to the mainland.
Another option: Accrobaobab, with a route to choose and pay for on site. Located in the heart of a baobab forest, this site offers a rope park and various outdoor leisure activities. The site also includes Aquabaobab, a space focused on water, nature and baobabs, designed for both young and old.
Gorée Island
Upon your arrival at the port, you board the Gorée shuttle at the end of the day.
The approach to Gorée Island reveals beautiful views of the cliffs, colonial houses and flower-lined streets. Upon arrival, you settle into a colonial-style inn.
The day ends with dinner at the restaurant followed by an overnight stay.
Gorée and Dakar, between memory and city
The day begins on Gorée Island with a visit to the House of Slaves, guided by the curator. A well-documented exhibition retraces the history of slavery. You then continue with a stroll through the flower-lined streets of the historic town, before discovering the church.
Lunch is scheduled on Gorée Island.
In the early afternoon, you head to Dakar by boat to discover several locations in the city: Independence Square, former colonial buildings, the train station, the cathedral, the presidential palace and Kermel market. From the corniche, you enjoy a panoramic view of the Madeleine Islands at sunset. The tour also passes by the Ouakam Mosque and the African Renaissance Monument.
The day ends with a final dinner at a restaurant in Dakar.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland, and Canada traveling to Senegal for a tourist stay. Since entry rules may change, we recommend verifying the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Senegal, your passport must be valid for a minimum of six months after the date of entry into the country and must have at least one blank page for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn, or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland, and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in Senegal.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days from the date of entry into the country. Beyond this period, an extension or residence permit must be requested from the competent Senegalese authorities.
The authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the country (return flight or onward connection),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of the stay,
an accommodation address in Senegal.
Vaccination record – Yellow fever
Presentation of a valid international vaccination certificate is mandatory upon entry to Senegal. Yellow fever vaccination is required for all travelers over 9 months of age, regardless of their origin.
This official WHO document must be presented to immigration services on arrival. If not provided, the authorities may refuse entry to the country or require vaccination on-site.
Furthermore, it is strongly recommended to consult a doctor or international vaccination center before departure to assess the need for other vaccinations (hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis, rabies) and antimalarial prophylaxis, as malaria is present throughout Senegal.
Traveling with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
In some European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, an authorization to leave the country may be required according to the regulations of the country of residence. It is advisable to carry this document as well as the child's birth certificate.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire at the embassy or consulate of Senegal in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be covered for emergency repatriation and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits your needs:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend purchasing one of these plans.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these formulas, the policy detailing all coverage and procedures for claim declaration are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim declaration procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
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Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
You can stay in Senegal without a visa. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after your entry into the country. Entry requirements may change. Check with the Senegal consulate in your country of nationality before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a quality tailor-made trip, expect between €130 and €230 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and English-speaking guide. International flights (€450–800 return) are additional. Senegal combines culture, beaches, desert (Lompoul) and safari (Bandia, Niokolo-Koba).
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt each itinerary to our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed pacing, family-friendly accommodations, engaging and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, budget and dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until it's perfect. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Cape Verde Peninsula
Creator of Senegalese Encounters, based in Mbour
Senegal is a country you experience as much as you discover. It's often the encounters, conversations, and shared moments that leave the deepest impression on travelers.
— Didier
