Highlights
Vibrant culture - Visit St Louis, Dakar and Banjul where ancient traditions and bustling markets sit in harmony with a thriving modern capital. Gambia River - Sleep aboard a boat on the mighty Gambia River and sail past tropical forests, bamboo groves and rice paddies. Djoudj and Saloum Delta - Explore the river delta by traditional pirogue boat, passing through mangroves, looking for a range of aquatic birds.
Itinerary
West Africa’s rhythm pulses through every moment of the Senegal and The Gambia trip. Over 13 days, experienced travelers will uncover Dakar’s vibrant music scene, colonial towns, and the stunning birdlife along the Gambia River. Sleep aboard a boat, glide through the Saloum Delta’s mangroves by traditional pirogue, and spot herons and pelicans at Djoudj Sanctuary. This easy-paced adventure’s unique allure? Up-close encounters with wildlife and West Africa’s living culture—delivered through immersive activities and expert local guidance.
day 1Join trip in Saly, south of Dakar
Our tour starts today in Saly, located on the coast south of the capital Dakar, the gateway to the country. There are no activities planned today, so you're free to arrive in Senegal at any time. If you'd like an airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), which is around a 40-minute drive from the hotel. Our welcome meeting will take place on the morning of day two at 8.30am. Our joining hotel features a swimming pool set in landscaped gardens and well-appointed, modern rooms, there is a restaurant, a bar and room service. Should you wish to head to the beach in Saly a taxi costs around 2,500 West African francs (CFA) around £3/$4 USD and takes less than ten minutes.
day 2Drive into Dakar, ferry to Goree. Explore the historic Goree Island
day 3Drive to the old French capital of West Africa, St. Louis
day 4Visit Djoudj bird reserve and Langue de Barbarie National Park by motorised pirogue
day 5Drive to Kaolack, visiting the majestic mosque in Touba
day 6Travel to Janjanbureh (Gambia), visit the Wassau Stone Circles
day 7Full day cruising along the Gambia River looking out for wildlife
day 8Bird and wildlife spotting as we continue to cruise down the Gambia River; mid afternoon drive to Bintang Bolong
day 9Full day exploring the the Bintang Bolong river basin
day 10Travel to the Gambia coast. Visit the capital of The Gambia, Banjul.
day 11Travel by ferry and bus to Saloum Delta (Senegal)
day 12Saolum Delta National Park; boat trip through the Delta to Ndagane
day 13Visit Senegal's giant Baobab tree, explore Fadiout Island and return to Saly
day 14Trip ends in Saly
What's Included
Customer Reviews
This trip was mainly about bird watching and there were many boat trips. Highlights included seeing the roosting tree on the optional boat trip (I recommend you go on that), a carriage ride around St Louis, the giant boabab tree, the markets. The guide Assan was amazing. Any discomfort is indicated in the trip notes - public toilets not to Western standards, some hotels with no aircon nor hot water but this shouldn't impact on the overall trip.
Overall excellent. One comment re. Georgetown. Super hot, 45 degrees. My body began to heat up at Wassau stone circles. compounded by heat within the rondavel ,where the fan only operated by the door. On the boat L developed heat stroke which was treated promptly by Asan and group members. Thanks to all.
We had a wonderful team leader and driver, namely Assan and Ousman, both of whom shared their knowledge and passion for their country so generously. This trip was great.
Had a great time. But think the last trip of the year isnt the best time yo go.
Terrible journey, seats given to someone else after checking in, alternative arrangements a series of disasters. No useful support from Explore. The River Trip which we thought was to be the highlight was very disappointing.
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