Bassari Country + Saloum Delta: 10 Day Tour

The enchanting landscapes of West Africa beckon travelers from the outset. Experience this firsthand during our comprehensive 10-day journey through Senegal, commencing in Dakar and exploring remarkable locales such as the Bassari Country and Saloum River delta.

Bassari Country + Saloum Delta: 10 Day Tour

Day 1: Arrival in Dakar - Pink Lake

Welcome to Senegal's vibrant capital! Upon arrival at Dakar airport, our team will escort you to Lac Rose. You'll have the remainder of the day to unwind and enjoy dinner at the hotel.

Day 2: Pink Lake - Kaolack

Following breakfast at the hotel in Lac Rose, our exploration of this stunning region will begin. A leisurely walk through the scenic landscapes characterized by dunes, palm trees, and baobabs will allow you to soak in the natural beauty. The lake's unique hue is a fascinating result of its high salt content.

After some free time for lunch at a local eatery, we’ll make our way to Kaolack, where you'll have the chance to visit its renowned market filled with diverse offerings.

We will conclude our day at a centrally located hotel in Kaolack for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: Kaolack - Tambacounda - Mako

After breakfast in Kaolack, we set off towards Tambacounda, the heart of Eastern Senegal. Lunch will be on your own during our stay in this town, followed by a journey through the breathtaking Niokolo Koba National Park. This protected area is home to a variety of wildlife, including antelopes, wild boars, and monkeys.

After wildlife watching, we'll travel to the Gambia River to settle at a Mako camp. Here, you'll have a brief moment to relax before embarking on a short hiking expedition to potentially spot hippos, given favorable weather. We'll wrap up the day back at camp, where a delightful dinner awaits.

Day 4: Mako - Bassari Country - Kedougou

Beginning the day with breakfast at Mako camp, we will journey through the Kedougou region to reach the remote Bassari Country. This area is known for its traditional lifestyles of the local inhabitants.

We'll pause at a hotel in Bedick to drop off your luggage and refresh yourself. After lunch, a one-hour hiking adventure to explore the Bassari villages awaits, where indigenous tribes will share insights into their customs and traditions.

We conclude the day with an overnight stay at the hotel in Bedick, with dinner included.

Day 5: Kedougou - Dindefelo - Dande - Tambacounda

On the fifth day, we will focus on the captivating areas of Dindefelo and Dande, both home to the Peul ethnic group in the Bassari Country. Our adventure starts with a visit to the stunning Dindefelo waterfall, which cascades majestically from a height of 115 meters (377 feet). We will then embark on a two-and-a-half-hour trek to Dande, ascending the Futa Yallon range, the tallest mountain range in West Africa.

A visit to the Dande waterfall offers an opportunity for a refreshing swim. A picnic lunch in nature is recommended for this day's journey. After replenishing our energy, we'll head to a central hotel in Tambacounda for dinner.

Note: The hike is optional. If you choose not to participate, the only missed part will be Dande; the rest of the itinerary remains unchanged.

Day 6: Tambacounda - Toubacouta - Faoye

Post breakfast at the hotel in Tambacounda, we will navigate through Toubacouta to enter the astounding Saloum Delta National Park, a natural wonder recognized as a World Heritage Site.

A stop will be made in Soukouta village, followed by a scenic boat ride along the Saloum River to Faoye. Upon arrival, we’ll trek to the camp where you'll stay for the upcoming two nights. Lunch and dinner at the camp will be on your own.

Day 7: Faoye - Joal Fadiouth - Marfafaco

After breakfast at the Faoye lodge, proceeds to the shell cemetery on Joal-Fadiouth island, a unique burial site where both Muslims and Catholics reside.

After exploring, we will return to the Saloum Delta, heading to Marfafaco, where the afternoon will be yours to swim in the river and relax.

Day 8: Marfafaco

Following breakfast at the Marfafaco camp, we will embark on a boat tour of the Saloum Delta. After enjoying lunch at a local restaurant, we will continue our visit to the village of Marfafaco.

This part of the trip includes delving into the customs and traditions of the local community, culminating in rest at a local camp, with dinner provided.

Day 9: Marfafaco - Somone

Early in the morning, after breakfast at the Marfafaco camp, we proceed to the breathtaking Somone lagoon, formed by the river meeting the Atlantic Ocean. This region supports one of Senegal's richest ecosystems, a true haven for birdwatchers.

We'll conclude our day at our accommodation in Somone, where you'll rest until the following morning.

Day 10: Somone - Dakar Airport

Enjoy breakfast with views of the Somone lagoon. After a revitalizing meal at the hotel, you’ll have leisure time to take a swim and complete any last-minute shopping.

Finally, we’ll make our way back to Dakar, where we'll drop you off at the airport. Safe travels!

Accommodation

This journey includes 9 nights of lodging with breakfast at three-star accommodations:

Lac Rose (1 night): Hotel Chez Salim or similarKaolack (1 night): Hotel Relais or similarMako (1 night): Badian Camp or similarKedougou (1 night): Bedick Hotel or similarTambacounda (1 night): Hotel Relais Tamba or similarMafafaco (2 nights): Mafafaco Camp or similarFaoye (1 night): Faoye Solidarity Camp or similarSomone (1 night): Hotel Les Pieds dans l'eau or similar