Senegal Beach Experiences
From the pink waters of Lake Retba to the mangroves of the Saloum, discover the authentic faces of Sénégal.
Duration
12 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
Embark on a journey to Sénégal between salt lake, great dunes, natural reserves, mangrove, villages, Petite Côte and Gorée island. This itinerary takes you from Lac Retba to Saint-Louis, from Lompoul desert to Saloum delta, before reaching Somone, Dakar and Gorée.
Throughout the stages, you discover varied landscapes, between Atlantic coastline, desert spaces, wetlands and natural reserves rich in wildlife. The journey also allows you to share privileged moments with the inhabitants, particularly during an immersion with a Peulh family.
Discoveries follow one another between pirogue trips, 4x4 crossings, bird watching, camel rides and relaxing days. You also benefit from several cultural stages to discover Saint-Louis, Dakar and Gorée island, witnesses to the country's history.
A varied circuit, rhythmed by landscapes, wildlife, encounters and several landmark stages of Sénégal, while leaving an important place for the discovery of local life.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Sénégal!
Welcome at Dakar airport, then depart without delay towards the Lake Rose (Lac Retba), known for its purplish waters and high salt content.
Check-in at Chez Salim (or similar depending on availability), in the heart of the dunes and by a swimming pool.
Lake Retba, Dunes and Grande Côte
This day remains free at the guesthouse.
You then depart by 4x4 truck to cross the dunes of Dakar and reach the immense beach of the Grande Côte. A fish barbecue lunch is offered to you, with time for careful swimming in the ocean and relaxation on the beach.
Several activities are available 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 on trails or discovering the former lake bed
Quad biking (1h: €45; 1h30: €60; 3h: €100 / quad for 1 or 2 people), between shell tracks, dunes and Dakar beach, with three possible routes
In late afternoon, you enjoy an introduction to African percussion in the sunset atmosphere, before dinner and the night.
Crossing Lake Retba
The Lake Rose, actually called Lac 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 covered in shea butter. Your local guide also provides you with explanations about the origin of the lake and its economic functioning.
You will also have the possibility to try the floating experience by bathing in the lake.
Cheese Factory, Kayar and Road to Saint-Louis
Lunch is served at a bamboo restaurant, located on a shell mound that offers views over 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 fishermen's arrival, the unloading of buckets, the pirogues coming out of the water, negotiations on the sand, the loading of carts, as well as the stages of salting, smoking, drying of non-sellable species and the sale of the finest catches under the market hall.
You then continue on to Saint-Louis, where you check into the hotel. Dinner and overnight stay by the ocean.
Djoudj National Park and Saint-Louis Discovery
This day begins with a visit to the Djoudj National Bird Park, or with a free morning during low season, from mid-May to mid-October.
You then return to Saint-Louis to share a traditional lunch in a typical restaurant in the old town.
The discovery continues with a tour of the island by horse-drawn carriage accompanied by our local guide.
The oldest city founded by the French in West Africa, Saint Louis was also a stopover on the Aéropostale route of Mermoz.
Throughout the visit, you discover the emblematic places of its past, including the Governance, Place Faidherbe, the Cathedral, presented as the first church in West Africa, the hospital, the north mosque and Faidherbe Bridge. You also observe the numerous colonial-era houses that still mark the urban landscape.
The visit also includes the Guet Ndar district, a walk through the streets for some souvenirs, then the discovery of Sor market, in a colorful and warm African atmosphere, as well as the old railway station in New Orleans style.
At the end of the day, return to the hotel for dinner and the night.
Langue de Barbarie 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 along the bird island, where many species such as terns, gulls and pelicans come to nest.
You then step ashore on the sand spit, 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 opportunity to observe 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 take to the road again to reach the Lompoul Desert. A 4x4 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.
You then enjoy your first camel ride, in a landscape open to the desert and coast. At the bivouac, a welcome cocktail awaits you before a traditional meal consisting of goat couscous with vegetables accompanied by Moroccan wine, to the sound of djembes and local dances, followed by Senegalese tea.
The night is spent under khaïmas, traditional Moorish tents equipped with full bedding and an individual bathroom.
Share with a Fulani family
This day invites you to discover the daily life of a Peulh family. A short walk through the Sahelian bush, between dunes and acacias, leads you to a family compound.
After the customary Salam Alikoum greetings and a tour of the compound, Abdou invites you to join the women in the preparation of a traditional meal. They first head to the small local market to buy ingredients, then initiate you into the preparation of Thieb bou Yap, a Sénégal dish that you enjoy at lunch.
The meal is shared the Sénégal way, with 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 camp.
The day is extended by a camel ride through the great dunes, with an open view of the landscape.
From Lompoul to Saloum
After breakfast, you depart by 4x4 vehicle towards the village following cart tracks that wind around the dunes, through a Sahelian landscape dotted with acacias. Along the way, your guide introduces you to the agricultural techniques used to produce vegetables in the hollows of the dunes, as well as the workings of traditional goat and sheep herding.
You then pass through Mékhé, known as the shoe capital, with a stop to visit a few shops.
We continue on a road offering an exceptional panorama of the baobab forest of Sindia.
Lunch at Somone, at Rasta, in a friendly atmosphere, with discovery of local flavors.
We then arrive at your hotel, the Yuma Lodge or similar establishment, depending on availability.
Free afternoon: relaxation, beach, swimming pool or optional excursions.
Dinner, entertainment and overnight at the hotel.
Sokone → Les Barracudas
Upon arrival, you settle in at the Barracudas, an ecolodge built on a shell island and opening onto the mangrove.
The late afternoon is free for you to enjoy the pool overlooking the mangrove or the beach terrace by the bolong. A welcome drink is offered to you on the panoramic terrace, before dinner prepared by Lamine, the head chef, followed by an overnight stay.
Discovery of the Saloum Delta by Canoe
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 diversity of birds.
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 picnic is planned on the bolong, with a moment of relaxation and swimming.
In the afternoon, return to the ecolodge to enjoy the calm of the place, the beach and the pool.
At the end of the day, you set off on a walking tour to the perimeter of the village women.
Free day in the 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 overlooking 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 through a small bolong at low tide in search of mongoose or hyena tracks, with the possibility of spotting small monkeys.
Some excursions are available for an additional fee, such as kayaking (1h30: €15; 3h: €25 / traveler; 6h: €40 / traveler). Accompanied by our eco-guide, you set off to discover the mangrove ecosystem, a refuge for many 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 a child, which allow you to navigate 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 the late afternoon, you enjoy an aperitif at the top of the shell mound located next to the Barracudas.
From Saloum to the Small Coast
Les Barracudas → Sokone
You leave Sokone to reach the Petite Côte. Lunch is planned at 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 pick-up accompanied by a wildlife guide, you set off to discover numerous species, including white rhinoceros, greater kudus, oryx, Cape buffalo, giraffes, ostriches, zebras, buffalo, kobs, impalas, warthogs and monkeys. A stop is also planned at the crocodile pond.
After lunch on the Petite Côte, you rejoin the Petite Côte for your arrival and check-in at the keur Noël hotel.
You have only one dinner at this accommodation, dinner on day 11 at your own expense. This allows you to enjoy taking small walks to discover local life in the surrounding area. You also have everything available on foot from your accommodation (restaurants, supermarkets, shops...).
Free day between Fadiouth and Accrobaobab
This day is left free, with several excursions offered as options.
We notably offer you a discovery of the Fadiouth shellfish island (option €35 – minimum 4 people). You take the road towards Joal, birthplace of President Léopold Sédar Senghor. Located across from Joal, Fadiouth is an island formed by layers of century-old shells. You then board a small poled canoe that skirts the oyster parks and mangroves to the millet granaries and cemetery. The visit continues on foot over a wooden bridge, then through the streets of Fadiouth and to its church. To return to Joal, you cross on foot the 800-meter wooden bridge that connects the island to the mainland.
Another option: Accrobaobab, with a course to choose and pay for on site. Installed in the heart of a baobab forest, this site offers a tree-top adventure park and various outdoor leisure activities. The site also includes Aquabaobab, a space centered on water, nature and baobabs, designed for both young and old.
Gorée Island
Upon arrival at the port, you board the Gorée shuttle at the end of the day.
The approach to the Gorée Island reveals beautiful views of the cliffs, colonial houses and flower-lined streets. Upon arrival, you settle into an inn with colonial charm.
The day ends with dinner at the restaurant and an overnight stay.
Goree and Dakar, between memory and city
The day begins on Gorée island with a visit to the House of Slaves, commented by the curator. A well-documented exhibition there recalls the history of slavery. You then continue with a walk through the flowery streets of the historic city, before discovering the church.
Lunch is planned on Gorée island.
Early afternoon, you head to Dakar by boat to discover several places 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 panorama of the Madeleine islands at sunset. The route also passes through the Ouakam mosque and then the African Renaissance monument.
The day ends with a final dinner in 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.
Not included
- International flights
- Tips and personal expenses
- Lunches J1- J12 - J13 and 14, Dinner J14
- Beverages, tips, extras
- Insurance
- Everything not mentioned in the inclusions
Included
- The accommodations mentioned or similar in double room
- Full board as described in the itinerary
- All the visits mentioned (excluding options)
- Transport by 4x4 vehicle and Internal Flight CAP-DAKAR included.
- Our agency's 24/7 assistance
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
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
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
Advisor, based in M'bour
Le Sénégal est un pays que l’on ressent autant qu’on le découvre. Ce sont souvent les rencontres, les discussions et les moments partagés qui marquent le plus les voyageurs.
— Thiendou
