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A Detailed Information & Itinerary Wild Junket Journey Journey Weblog

senegal travel guide itinerary

senegal travel guide itinerary

Perched on the westernmost tip of Africa, Senegal beats to a distinct rhythm as its neighbors. The nation is lined with seashores in style with surfers and dotted with islands which can be dwelling to crumbling however charming French colonial buildings.

The Senegalese pleasure themselves on the teranga, or heat hospitality in Wolof language. It’s one of many many causes that makes Senegal so particular in my eyes and is on the core of their tradition.

As one of the steady international locations in West Africa, Senegal is well the most effective place to go for an introduction to the area. Whether or not it’s your first or 10th time in Africa, a visit to Senegal is rarely uninteresting.

Right here’s my detailed information with all the things it’s good to learn about Senegal journey.

senegal travel - village of ngor

senegal travel - village of ngor

How one can Get to Senegal

By Aircraft

The Blaise Diagne Worldwide Worldwide Airport is the primary gateway to Senegal. The airport is model new, opened in December 2017, and it’s amazingly environment friendly. However it’s situated 27 miles (43km) from downtown Dakar (1-hour automotive journey).

Dakar Airport is well accessible by direct flight from main cities in Europe, together with Lisbon and Paris. Main airways that serve this airport embrace Emirates, Air France, TAP Air Portugal and Turkish Airways.

The most affordable approach to fly to Dakar is from Lisbon on TAP Portugal. Flights from Lisbon to Dakar normally value round $500 return. However I received an important deal: my flight from Amsterdam to Dakar value solely US$280 return!

These flying from the US should fly by way of Europe. Flights from New York to Dakar value round US$850 return (16-hour journey). Flights from Los Angeles to Dakar value round $1000 return with stopovers in Chicago or Toronto.

Seek for Flights to Senegal

senegal travel - dakar airport

senegal travel - dakar airport

By Street

Senegal has borders with Mauritania, Mali, Guinea , Guinea-Bissau, and Gambia. Probably the most infamous border crossing is the Senegal-Mauritania border at Rosso. It’s simply two hours from Saint Louis and there’s a free ferry crossing to get you throughout the Senegal River. Some vacationers have reported assaults on the border crossing. Learn this weblog submit for particulars. 

One other border crossing that’s open is the Senegal-Gambia border in Karang/Amdallai. This border has frequent protests and closures. Karang is a couple of 5-hour journey from Dakar. After crossing the border, you’ll have to catch a taxi to Barra and from there, a ferry to Banjul, capital of Gambia.

Overland journey in Senegal is barely beneficial for individuals who have traveled Africa and who can deal with tough conditions.

senegal travel - sept place to travel overland

senegal travel - sept place to travel overland


When to Journey Senegal

The very best time to go to Senegal is throughout the dry season from November to February. These are the good months and the most effective time to see wildlife.

It’s greatest to keep away from the wet season from late June to September. Some nationwide parks can turn out to be inaccessible and even closed. The warmth and humidity might be excessive and malaria is a significant issue.

I visited Senegal in early June and the climate was excellent. It wasn’t too sizzling or chilly. The typical temperature throughout the day was round 75 deg F (24 deg C) and it was dusty however not wet.

When you’re planning to journey solely round Dakar, you received’t have to fret about malaria.

senegal travel - senegal river at saint-louis

senegal travel - senegal river at saint-louis


How Lengthy to Journey Senegal?

I spent one week in Senegal and received to discover three areas: Dakar, Saint-Louis and the Langue du Barbarie Nationwide Park. It gave me a very good sense of the nation, although I needed I had extra time to go down south.

The very best factor about touring Senegal is that it’s simply accessible from Europe the place I’m based mostly. Flights from Europe are brief (3.5 hours) and low-cost (mine value $350 return). So I can simply come again anytime!

You probably have the time although, I like to recommend having no less than two weeks in Senegal. This gives you sufficient time to go to the desert and wildlife parks.

See my Senegal itinerary on the backside of the submit.

senegal travel - goree island

senegal travel - goree island


How one can Get Round Senegal

By Automobile

It’s potential to hire a automotive in Dakar and drive round by yourself. Roads in Senegal are literally not too dangerous, particularly these connecting Dakar with main cities/sights.

However there are fairly just a few unpaved roads so it’s greatest to rent a 4×4. I’d advise driving provided that you’re an skilled driver and might navigate unpaved roads and loopy drivers. A 1-week automotive rental from Dakar Airport value round $285 for a compact automotive and $1000 for a 4×4.

Hire a Automobile in Senegal

senegal travel - taxi in dakar

senegal travel - taxi in dakar

By Bus

A well-liked method of getting round cities is by Ndiaga Ndiayes (colourful 30-seater minibuses). These buses aren’t probably the most comfy approach to get by however offer you an fascinating native expertise.

To get from one metropolis to a different, one of the simplest ways is by sept-place (Peugeot automobiles transformed into 7-seaters). These automobiles depart from the primary taxi station of every metropolis and depart solely once they’re full. Be ready to be squashed!

senegal travel - bus in dakar

senegal travel - bus in dakar

By Taxi

Taxis are frequent and simple to get all over the place, however you should definitely cut price. Costs to get across the downtown space are round 1000 CFA.

From downtown Dakar to Ngor shouldn’t value greater than 3000 CFA every method. And a taxi from Dakar to the airport is priced at 25,000 – 30,000 CFA every method.

senegal travel - taxi in saint-louis

senegal travel - taxi in saint-louis


Journey Senegal Independently or on Guided Excursions?

It’s frequent to be hassled by touts when touring in West Africa. Touring as a solo feminine, I used to be hassled by normally 3-Four males (and girls) every day.

West Africa tends to be more difficult than different components of Africa for individuals who don’t communicate French. Touring with a information will make sure you received’t be hassled an excessive amount of. I traveled independently in and round Dakar after which employed a information to discover the north as I needed to see the nationwide parks.

I traveled with Moctar, founding father of From Dakar, that focuses on immersion journeys. He’s multi-talented man who’s not only a tour operator, but additionally a photographer and media firm proprietor. He’s additionally very trustworthy and knowledgable. Because of him, I had nice insights to Senegalese tradition and life.

When you want to journey with a bunch, try this 10-day Senegal and Gambia journey with small-group operator G Adventures. I’ve traveled with them many instances and might extremely suggest them.

senegal travel - african renaissance monument

senegal travel - african renaissance monument


The place to Keep in Senegal

Blaise Diagne Airport: Radisson Lodge Dakar Diamniadio

When you’re arriving late into Dakar, I like to recommend reserving a lodge close to the airport as Dakar is an hour away by taxi. That is the one airport lodge (albeit round 20 minutes away) with a free airport shuttle. It’s a correct 5-star lodge with a wonderful pool and restaurant. Test the newest charges.

Dakar: Villa Renaissance

This was the most effective place I stayed at in Senegal. The personal mansion has been transformed into a snug boutique lodge with clear and classy rooms and a swimming pool. Rooms are air-conditioned and have 4-poster beds and a turquoise seashore theme. It’s only a 10-minute stroll from the seashore in Ngor. Test the newest charges.

Dakar: Lodge du Plateau

I additionally stayed at this clear and nice lodge situated proper within the coronary heart of downtown Dakar. This space is the place all of the colonial buildings stand and there’s quite a bit to see right here. However it’s a gritty space, so be ready for some hassling. The lodge is a superb escape from the chaos of the town although, with comfy air-conditioned rooms. Test the newest charges.

Saint-Louis: Lodge La Residence

That is one among Saint-Louis’ oldest motels, situated proper within the coronary heart of the island. The homeowners (an historic Saint-Louisian household) have performed an important job in evoking the sense of historical past. The heritage lodge is properly situated and undoubtedly the most effective place to remain on the town. Test the newest charges. Test the newest charges.

Langue du Barbarie: Zebra Bar

Situated on the sting of the Senegal River, this campsite has superior views and entry to the chook reserve of Langue du Barberie. The spacious kid-friendly camp has lodging in easy huts and massive bungalows. Test the newest charges.

senegal travel - villa renaissance in dakar

senegal travel - villa renaissance in dakar


What to Eat in Senegal

Senegalese meals took me unexpectedly: it’s hearty, spicy and comforting. Conventional Senegalese dishes typically include rice and a dollop of chili or mustard.

Fish and seafood are staples of Senegalese delicacies. You’ll discover grilled sole, dorade and calamari in lots of eating places. In any other case, rooster and goat are all the time obtainable. Vegetarians might need some issue discovering choices in Senegal as meat is present in nearly each dish right here.

There are the three essential Senegalese dishes it’s good to strive:

  • Thieboudienne (pronounced Chebu Jen) actually means “fish and rice” within the native Wolof language.
  • Yassa is a sauce of onions, lemons and garlic. It’s used to garnish rooster and fish.
  • Mafé is a succulent peanut butter-based sauce that’s normally served in curry kind with beef, pork, goat, or rooster.

senegal travel - thieboudienne

senegal travel - thieboudienne


The place to Eat in Senegal

There are many low-cost eateries and patisseries everywhere in the essential cities. Meals hygiene could also be an issue at street-side stalls and a few dibuterie (barbecue meat stands), so watch out.

Listed below are among the greatest locations I ate at:

  • Keur N’Dya, Dakar — That is undoubtedly probably the greatest locations to strive thieboudienne in Dakar. They serve conventional Senegalese dishes which can be typically accompanied by the kora (West African harp-like instrument).
  • Chez Katia, Ngor — This hip restaurant in Ngor is especially in style with Senegalese. It’s received an reasonably priced menu that features wonderful pastries, grilled meat, and pizza.
  • Le Reveil, Saint-Louis — This humble restaurant/bar within the coronary heart of Saint-Louis serves up wonderful mafé with goat meat. My information stated it’s the most effective place to eat in Saint-Louis.

senegal travel - ngor island

senegal travel - ngor island


Value of Journey in Senegal

The forex utilized in Senegal is West African Franc (CFA). The trade fee is roughly US$1=580 CFA. You may get an honest trade fee on the airport, so altering cash on the change bureau close to baggage declare is unquestionably value it.

Senegal is mostly low-cost with regards to lodging and transport. You may get a room at a guesthouse/campsite for round $20/night time and a snug air-conditioned room in Dakar for $50-70/night time.

Meals isn’t as low-cost as you’d suppose. A dish of thieboudienne in an area eatery normally prices 2000-3000 CFA, and grilled fish or calamar in a vacationer city prices round 4000-6000 CFA.

senegal travel - chambre de commerce

senegal travel - chambre de commerce


Faith in Senegal

The vast majority of Senegalese are Muslims, however they are usually much less conservative than their counterparts elsewhere in Africa.

Most Senegalese are understanding of western cultures, with many adopting western-style gown themselves.

It’s acceptable to decorate in singlets and clothes, however it’s best to nonetheless be conscious of native cultural practices and beliefs. Cowl up when getting into non secular buildings.

Specifically, take additional warning throughout non secular festivals. Throughout Ramadan, it’s not well mannered to eat and drink on the road throughout daytime, whereas most are abstaining.

senegal travel - divinity mosque in dakar

senegal travel - divinity mosque in dakar


Folks of Senegal

The Senegalese take pleasure in “teranga”, a Wolof phrase for hospitality.  You’ll hear that rather a lot throughout your Senegal journey.

Folks are usually open and welcoming in the direction of guests. I misplaced depend of the variety of locals who approached me to strike up a dialog. The hassling might be annoying, however keep agency and calm.

More often than not, they need to present you their store or be your information. I normally reply with a agency “no”. But when I sense that the person is making an attempt to make an trustworthy dwelling, I might rent him for a brief tour and pay 2000 CFA for his time.

senegal travel - people on the beach

senegal travel - people on the beach


Language in Senegal

The primary languages spoken in Senegal are Wolof and French. However I’ve discovered fairly just a few individuals who communicate English, notably the younger Senegalese who’re always hassling vacationers.

Don’t count on taxi drivers or waiters to talk English. Figuring out just a few key phrases in French or Wolof might be very helpful. Begin with a pleasant  “Bonjour” (Whats up) and “Ça va? Bien?” (How are you? Good?) in French. Even higher, say “Salaam Alaykum” to greet locals and “Jërejëf” (Thanks in Wolof).

I can perceive a little bit of French (however can’t actually communicate it), and didn’t discover it tough to get by. You may all the time discover assist at your lodge or use Google Translator.

senegal travel - Afrika Couture

senegal travel - Afrika Couture


Security in Senegal

Senegal is named one of many most secure international locations in West Africa. With comparatively low ranges of crime and illness, plus a steady democracy, Senegal is kind of a secure journey vacation spot.

As a solo feminine traveler, I felt moderately secure when touring round Senegal. I received hassled rather a lot although, with normally 3-Four males (and girls) approaching me every day. Thoughts you, I’ve been to many components of Africa so I’m accustomed to it.

That stated, it may be overwhelming to journey Senegal alone if that is your first time in Africa. West Africa tends to be more difficult than different components of Africa for individuals who don’t communicate French.

I like to recommend hiring a information in the event you’re not assured being alone. I traveled independently in and round Dakar after which employed a information to discover Saint-Louis and a close-by nationwide park. I didn’t get hassled one bit with him round me.

senegal travel - goree island

senegal travel - goree island


Well being Dangers in Senegal

Lately, Senegal has made huge strides within the battle in opposition to malaria, with instances falling from over 30% within the early 2000s to lower than 5% in 2015.

Lots of the essential cities, comparable to Dakar and Saint-Louis might be visited with out malaria remedy. However it’s best to take precautions throughout the wet season (late June – September) and if heading inland (particularly the southeast).

I visited in early June and didn’t take any malaria remedy. It didn’t rain on the all after I was there and mosquitoes have been only a few.

Although a yellow fever vaccine isn’t required to enter Senegal, it’s beneficial. When you get one, it’s efficient for all times. Bear in mind to convey a very good mosquito repellent, tissue and sunblock.

senegal travel - west african masks

senegal travel - west african masks


1-Week Senegal Itinerary

Here’s a transient Senegal itinerary. For extra particulars on the right way to get to every spot, try my submit on greatest issues to do in Senegal.

Day 1: Discover Downtown Dakar & Ouakam

Downtown Dakar is the place many of the previous colonial buildings are discovered. It’s fairly tough, be ready for some hassling.

Among the factors of curiosity in downtown Dakar value trying out are Le Musée des Civilisations Noires, Gare du Dakar, Lodge du Ville and Marche Kermel (avenue market).

Proceed to the Ouakam fishing village that’s dwelling to 2 main sights: Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (tallest statue in Africa) and Mosquée de la Divinité.

senegal travel - dakar train station

senegal travel - dakar train station

senegal travel - fishing boats at divinity mosque

senegal travel - fishing boats at divinity mosque

Day 2: Go to Goree Island

Île de Gorée (or Goree Island) is a beautiful island and UNESCO website simply 1.eight miles (3km) from downtown Dakar. The tiny island makes for a really perfect day journey, because it’s only a 20-minute ferry trip from the Gare du Dakar.

The island’s sandy car-free lanes and pastel-colored colonial buildings flanked by lush bougainvillea flowers and baobab bushes are undeniably alluring.

However don’t let the intense colours right here idiot you — the island bears witness to among the worst brutalities in human historical past. From the 15th to the 19th century, it was the biggest slave-trading centre on the Senegalese coast.

senegal travel - colonial buildings

senegal travel - colonial buildings

senegal travel - maison des eclaves

senegal travel - maison des eclaves

Day 3: Discover the Neighborhood of Ngor and Ngor Island

Subsequent morning, head to Ngor, a fishing village that’s one among Dakar’s most tasty neighborhoods. A taxi trip from downtown Dakar to Ngor prices round 3000 CFA ($5).

Ngor itself has a pleasant seashore with plenty of colourful boats lined up on the sand and children frolicking within the water. Subsequent to the seafront is an fascinating labyrinth-like residential space the place locals stay.

Then head out on a pirogue (leaves at any time when it’s full) to Ngor island or Île de N’Gor, simply off the shore. The peaceable islet has just a few calm seashores with some legendary surf on the norther finish. The sandy walkways are flanked by surf camps, eclectic artwork galleries and inventive homes.

senegal travel - ngor island

senegal travel - ngor island

senegal travel -eclectic designs on ngor island

senegal travel -eclectic designs on ngor island

Day 4: Head to Saint-Louis

It’s time to move out to discover the countryside of Senegal. Saint-Louis is a 4-hour journey from Dakar on the sept-place (7-seater). Catch a sept-place from the Gare Routiere Pompiers.

Saint-Louis was the primary French settlement in Africa, based in 1659. It grew to become a thriving buying and selling centre, and finally the capital of the French colonial empire.

The previous city stands on an island in the course of Senegal River. As we speak it’s a shadow of its former self, present as a sprawl of dilapidated colonial buildings which trace at former glory. A few of the gorgeous buildings have been splendidly restored such because the Museum of Pictures and Keur Fall Artisan store.

senegal travel - hotel du palais in saint-louis

senegal travel - hotel du palais in saint-louis

senegal travel - museum of photography

senegal travel - museum of photography

senegal travel - saint-louis

senegal travel - saint-louis

Day 5: Discover extra of Saint Louis

There’s a lot to Saint-Louis so I like to recommend spending one other day wandering its dusty roads and trying out the fascinating retailers and museums.

One of the simplest ways to discover each nook of Saint-Louis is by horse-drawn carriage, the unique mode of transport right here. Make a cease on the Faidherbe Bridge, the town’s most important landmark. It was designed by Gustav Eiffel, the well-known engineer behind Eiffel Tower.

Cross the bridge and also you’ll discover a very totally different facet to Saint Louis. The fishing district of Guet Ndar is an especially full of life space with 1000’s of pirogues parked on the seashore and gritty homes lining the dusty roads.

senegal travel - streets of saint-louis

senegal travel - streets of saint-louis

senegal travel - faidbere bridge

senegal travel - faidbere bridge

Day 6: See Wildlife at Langue du Barbarie Nationwide Park

Situated round a 30-minute taxi trip from Saint-Louis, the Langue du Barbarie Nationwide Park is a protected space across the estuary the place the Senegal River and the Atlantic Ocean meet.

It’s dwelling to many chook species, together with the flamingo, pelican, cormorant heron and egret. Catch a pirogue and also you’ll see them in massive flocks, particularly from November to April. 

There are additionally plenty of small villages throughout the nationwide park. We took a stroll to a village simply exterior Zebra Bar and it was fascinating to go to the market and see how locals stay within the rural space.

senegal travel - langue du barbarie national park

senegal travel - langue du barbarie national park

senegal travel - langue du barbarie national park

senegal travel - langue du barbarie national park

senegal travel - langue du barbarie national park crabbie

senegal travel - langue du barbarie national park crabbie

Day 7: Return to Dakar

It’s time to move again to Dakar. Spend a while within the morning wandering round Saint Louis (plenty of markets, fascinating retailers and boutiques) earlier than catching a sept-place again to Dakar.

I’d advise staying close to the Blaise Diagne airport when you have a morning flight to catch as Dakar is an hour away. There’s not rather a lot happening across the airport and the one lodge that’s close to is the Radisson Lodge Dakar Diamniadio.

senegal travel - back to dakar

senegal travel - back to dakar


Different Issues to Do in Senegal

  • Lac Rose — A pink lake that shimmers below the solar as a result of cyanobacteria that flourish within the water.The diploma of pinkness depends upon the season.
  • Toubab Dialow — My native information’s favourite browsing spot in Senegal. The cliffs drop off to the Atlantic Ocean beneath. This fishing city is dwelling to a hippy campsite and backpackers’ favourite, Sobo Bade.
  • Sine-Saloum Delta — You probably have greater than 1 week in Senegal, I extremely suggest visiting this delta. About three hours from Dakar, Sine-Saloum is a ravishing space of shimmering flat plains, palm groves, salt marshes and lagoons.
  • Desert du Lompoul — Close to the Grand Cote lies big dunes that stretch from the coast far into the nation’s inside. You may keep in Mauritanian desert tents proper in the course of the dunes.
  • Bandia Wildlife Reserve — If it’s your first time in Africa and also you’re dying to see massive animals, head to Bandia Reserve simply exterior Dakar.

senegal travel

senegal travel

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senegal travel guide itinerary

senegal travel guide itinerary

The post A Detailed Information & Itinerary – Wild Junket Journey Journey Weblog appeared first on travelrecomends.com .

The post A Detailed Information & Itinerary – Wild Junket Journey Journey Weblog appeared first on travelers abroad.


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