We absolutely recommend getting out and about while you're in Senegal and experiencing the country and its people as they go about their daily business. We've put together a guide to help you decide how and what you might do whilst you're in this beautiful country.
As in any destination, we would not recommend walking in remote areas after dark.
Five interesting facts about Senegal
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Due to being a former colony of France, Senegal’s official language is French; it gained independence from France in 1960
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Several wildlife reserves exist where native animals have been reintroduced
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Senegal boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Sine Saloum Delta
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The name 'Senegal' comes from the Wolof phrase ‘Sunuu Gaal’, which translates as ‘Our Boat’; they are a nation of fishermen and a gentle, welcoming people
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Along with The Gambia, Senegal is considered one of the best birdwatching locations in the world
Sine Saloum, north of The Gambia
Our holidays allow you to explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Sine Saloum Delta, a 445,000-acre riverine area that encompasses the Saloum Delta National Park. Within the park lies the mesmerising Fathala Wildlife Reserve, home to the likes of rhino, giraffes and zebra.
Encompassing a region that sits to the north of The Gambia, just a short transfer across the River Gambia, this impression of Senegal is one of water-based adventure and thriving wildlife.
Casamance, south of The Gambia
The Casamance region of Senegal is another area of outstanding natural beauty.
As the destination specialist, we wanted to introduce this amazing region to our customers – it is perfect for hotel-based beach holidays, and for those with a sense of adventure. We feature hotels in two distinct areas of Casamance: Kafountine is a small fishing port and traditional Senegalese village, lying approximately two hours south of the border. Cap Skirring lies at the southernmost tip of Senegal and is already well known to the French; the town itself has little character but offers plenty of opportunities to witness African life.
Saly and La Somone
Reached by flying into Dakar, this area lies to the south of Senegal's capital and only a short 45 minute transfer from the new airport. Known as La Petite Côte, the area is well-established with European tourists and is great for beach holidays and water sports. With wildlife reserve on the doorstep and a lagoon at La Somone which attracts a whole host of birdlife, as well as plenty of historical interest, it offers a plethora of excursion opportunities.
