Birds, Sand and Memory: Between Mangroves and Dunes
Overview
This ten-day expedition is a deep dive into the soul of Senegal, a country that captivates with its duality between moving history and wildest nature. Throughout this journey, travelers will discover 4 sites declared World Heritage by UNESCO, treasures that guard the identity of West Africa. The trip begins by immersing ourselves in the historical memory of Gorée Island, where its multicolored streets guard the legacy of the House of Slaves. The adventure continues towards the visual spectacle of Lake Retba, whose changing tone under the sun serves as a prelude to a magical night under the starry sky of the Lompoul desert, among orange dunes and Saharan tents. Nature in its purest form takes center stage in the Djoudj National Park —the third ornithological reserve in the world—, where we will navigate between pelicans and flamingos before being seduced by the colonial elegance of Saint-Louis. The experience culminates with the intensity of a safari in the Fathala Reserve, where it will be possible to observe giraffes and zebras in freedom, and even participate in an optional walk with lions to seal an unforgettable journey.
Highlights
Legacy and Colonial History
Nature Shows
Spiritual Immersion
Wild Sanctuaries
Life in the Saloum Delta
Day by Day Itinerary
Included / Not Included
What's Included
- Ferry transfer and guided tour of Gorée Island, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including the House of Slaves
- Visit to Pink Lake
- Experience in the Lompoul Desert
- Boat excursion through the Djoudj National Park (UNESCO Site): birdwatching in their natural habitat.
- Gemini has said Cultural visit to Saint-Louis (UNESCO Site): tour of its emblematic colonial architecture and the historic Faidherbe bridge
- Immersion in the holy city of Touba (Great Mosque and Mausoleum)
- Joal Fadiouth Island.
- Visit to the salt wells of Palmarin
- Navigation by pirogue through the mangroves of Palmarin
- Visit to the Great Baobab of Fadial
- Light safari in the Palmarin Natural Reserve
- Gemini has said Navigation by pirogue through the Saloum Delta (UNESCO Site): tour by calèche through Mar Lodj Island.
- Walk through Mar Nian Island. (UNESCO Site)
- Deep crossing of the Saloum bolongs for approx 4h (UNESCO Site)
- Visit to the village of Sipo and stop at the bird rest area
- Fathala Expedition: 4x4 Safari and Lion Walk
- Spanish, English or French speaking guide
- Professional driver
What's NOT Included
- International and/or national flight tickets
- Travel insurance, medical or cancellation.
- Additional services: Extra nights or optional activities not included in the base program
- Unspecified meals: Dinners and lunches not explicitly detailed in the itinerary
- Documentation: Visasand administrative procedures.
- Personal expenses: Extra drinks, tips, laundry, phone calls or personal purchases
Additional Services
(You can add them later)
Enhance your experience with these optional services
Hotel Neptune
Discover the Hotel Neptune, a sanctuary of serenity where African elegance meets high-end comfort. Located in the heart of lush tropical gardens on the outskirts of Mbour, this complex offers an absolute disconnection experience just a few steps from your own private beach. A Wellness and Design Oasis Spectacular Pool: Dive into our 400 m² outdoor pool, the hotel's relaxation epicenter, surrounded by palm trees and sun. Charming Architecture: Stay in exclusive individual structures with thatched roofs, combining local tradition with contemporary luxury in a totally private setting. Temple of Relaxation: Pamper yourself in our world-class Spa, where massage services and personalized treatments will renew your body and mind.
Hotel Terra Lodge
Terra Lodge Sénégal is located in Mbour and offers garden views, outdoor pool, garden, private beach area, terrace and restaurant. The lodge offers wifi and private parking, both free. Each unit has a private bathroom, shower, air conditioning, flat-screen TV and fridge. Some units have a seating area and/or balcony. Mbour Beach is a few steps from the accommodation, and Golf De Saly is 6.6 km away. The airport is 28 km away, and the accommodation offers paid airport shuttle service to and from the airport.
Hotel Royam
The Hotel Royam, in Saly Portudal, offers a tropical garden with outdoor pool and private beach. It also features a shaded terrace, equipped with sun loungers, a cocktail bar and organizes tourist visits and animation activities. The rooms are located in bungalows decorated in traditional African style. They are air-conditioned. They have a private bathroom and a private terrace with views of the pool or garden. Some rooms also have a minibar, TV and sea views. The buffet breakfast includes a wide variety of pastries, crepes, fresh fruit, eggs, cereals and cheese. The restaurant, with views of the garden and the sea, prepares traditional local cuisine. There is also a bar. The establishment has free private parking and free Wi-Fi in the common areas. There is a massage service. Water sports can also be practiced, such as windsurfing, jet-skiing or pedal boating and it is possible to fish in the sea, in the surroundings.
* Price per person