Discover Senegal: Top Outdoor Adventures Awaiting You

Situated just north of the equator, at the westernmost tip of Africa, Senegal is a fairly small, but incredible diverse place.

Hiking and nature discovery are among the most popular outdoor pastimes in Senegal, which boasts four active national parks (one is closed) and there are numerous other natural areas and wildlife sanctuaries to explore too.

Heading to Ferol, in the northwest of the country is another popular option. The combination of where the Sahel meets the Atlantic ocean created incredibly diverse and scenic landscapes.

Other popular hikes, along with safari options, are located farther on the opposite side of the country. One such option is Niokolo-Koba National Park, sits in the very southeast of the country and is poorly connected with the rest of Senegal. Thes more tropical and less arid grasslands are home to chimpanzees, lions and elephants, among various other iconic African species.

Stunning scenery

In spite of its relatively small size, Senegal has plenty of geographically stunning features. From the sandy Atlantic peninsula of Langue de Barbarie to the northerly grasslands of the Sahel and tropical rainforests in the center of the country, there are plenty of incredible landscapes to explore. Lake Retba, just outside of the capital is renowned for its pink waters.

Come for the culture

When you’re not our exploring the varied landscapes of Senegal, take some time to experience its rich culture and learn about its unique history. From the historic slave trading post of Goree Island and the European colonial town of Saint-Louis to the historic capital of Dakar, there is plenty to see and do and the cities as well. When it is time to eat, dry out a local delicacy, such as Cebbu Jën (Tiéboudienne) or Yassa.

Visit the national parks

In spite of its small size, Senegal has four operational national parks. Each park is located in a different part of the country and boasts a unique set of geographical and scenic features: one runs along the Atlantic Coast, one is located on a river delta. Heading to any of them on foot is the best way to explore their diverse terrains and see their iconic African wildlife.

From December to April is the dry season. During this time of year, you can expect hot winds to blow across the steppe. Toward the coast, expect average temperatures around 25 °C at this time of year with temperatures rising in the interior of the country.

Any trip to Senegal begins with a flight into Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR) in the capital, Dakar. Most guides will opt to meet you here and arrange transport to the start of the trip. DKR is easily reached by direct flights from Paris, Frankfurt, Buenos Aires and Istanbul.

French, Wolof

+221

West African CFA Franc (XOF)

December to April