Feedback on a 7-day itinerary in Senegal

Hi there, We’re heading to Senegal for the first time at the end of February as a group of four, and we’re eager to make the most of our 7 days. So, not much (if any) downtime—just a heads-up! ;) For such a short trip, we’ve had to make some tough choices. We’ve decided to skip Lompoul due to the 24/7 noise and light pollution from the mine. Casamance is too far for this time around. We love animals and birds (and it seems late February/early March is still a good time to spot migratory birds). We’re planning to rent a car. Putting all these factors together, here’s the rough itinerary we’ve come up with: - Day 1: Dakar, Gorée - Day 2: Kayar, Saint-Louis, Lac de Barbarie - Day 3: Makhana, Djoudj Bird Sanctuary, Lac de Barbarie - Day 4: Drive to Somone - Day 5: Bandia, Somone - Day 6: Saloum Delta - Day 7: Saloum Delta - Day 8: Return to Dakar Airport

What do you think? How much extra does it cost, roughly, to hire a guide compared to just renting a car on our own? Thanks so much for your insights—we really appreciate it! Christophe

Hi there, You’ve got a packed schedule—did you plan several stops for overnight stays by any chance?

Yes, the stops would be: Gorée, Barbarie, Somone, and the Delta.

Fast-paced program but doable... have a great trip!

Hi, it’s a bit rushed but doable. I’m in the Saloum at Ndangane. I recommend the camp "Cœur Phil Harmonie"—a small, friendly camp with great tips for exploring the area. You can visit Mar Lodje Island with Pierre Diouf from "Les Aventuriers du Saloum." Have a great trip!

Hi,

It's doable, but it's gonna be a rush, which I think is a shame. Personally, I'd skip something, like Somone. The Petite Côte is, in my opinion, the least interesting region in your itinerary. Others might disagree... it's up to you.

Have a great trip!

Annina

Hi there, Based on several tips, we’ve revised our itinerary. We’re now focusing on the Dakar–Saloum Delta stretch (Bandia, Baobab Forest, Somone, Jial Fadiouth). Two questions remain: - If we want to spend two full days in the Delta, what are the most interesting sights, the coolest unique activities, etc.? - We’re debating whether to hire a car with a driver for a week (not really useful to keep it for the 2 days we’ll spend in the Delta) or do everything with multiple taxis. Are there any systems like Uber, Yango, etc.? Thanks, and have a great day everyone.

Hi there, In the delta, you can embark from Ndangane to the Saloum Islands. Marlodj, for example. From Ndangane, there are plenty of options: pirogues with Pierre Diouf, bush cart rides with Zale Diallo, visits to salt wells, and checking out the hyenas near Palmarin. For accommodations, get in touch with Cœur Phil Harmonie. Have a great trip!

Hi there,

I’d recommend spending one day visiting Dakar, another for Gorée, two days for Saint-Louis and the Djoudj, and on the way back, if you still feel like driving, head down to Joal. Have a great trip... wherever you go!