Journey through Senegal & Gambia

JOURNEY OVERVIEW

Embark on a captivating journey with us through Senegal and The Gambia, where rich history, vibrant cultures, and stunning landscapes await. Explore Dakar’s colonial charm, the poignant heritage of Gorée Island, and the wildlife of Bandia Reserve. Admire the serene beauty of the Saloum River, visit the iconic Kunta Kinteh Island, and so many more culturally immersive experiences.

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

Day 1

Upon arrival at Blaise Diagne International Airport in Diass, a Guest Experience Director will greet and assist you with your transfer to the hotel. In the evening, enjoy a thoughtfully prepared welcome dinner featuring the rich and diverse flavors of Senegalese cuisine.

After a relaxed breakfast, explore the vibrant city of Dakar with your personal Tour Director and Guest Experience Director. You’ll visit key historical and cultural landmarks that reflect the city’s colonial heritage. After lunch in the heart of the city, take a ferry to Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its colorful colonial architecture and deep historical significance in the transatlantic slave trade.

Day 2

MEALS: WELCOME DINNER

HOTEL: NOVOTEL DAKAR OR SIMILAR

Day 3

Today’s journey takes you to the Lion Ranch at Bandia, approximately 64 kilometers from Dakar. Experience a thrilling private wildlife safari in specially equipped 4x4 vehicles, offering close encounters with lions. Afterwards, continue to the Bandia Reserve, where you can observe other incredible wildlife in their natural habitat. Conclude your day in the serene town of Toubacouta.

MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: NOVOTEL DAKAR OR SIMILAR

MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: LES PALÉTUVIERS OR SIMILAR

WELCOME TO SENEGAL

DISCOVER DAKAR AND GORÉE ISLAND

LION RANCH AND BANDIA RESERVE ADVENTURE

Day 4

After breakfast, cross into The Gambia, with border formalities handled smoothly by our team. Visit the historic village of Juffureh, famously connected to Alex Haley a descendant of Kunta Kinteh. From here, take a guided tour of Kunta Kinteh Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history in the transatlantic slave trade. Afterwards, continue on to Banjul, the capital of The Gambia.

Day 5

MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: OCEAN BAY HOTEL OR SIMILAR

Day 6

Explore Banjul with a private and personalized city tour, including a visit to the National Museum and McCarthy Square. You’ll also have the chance to visit local markets for a glimpse of Gambian craftsmanship. After lunch, head to the Kachikally Crocodile Pool, a sacred site with over 500 years of history, and learn about its cultural importance from our local Tour Director.

MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: LES PALÉTUVIERS OR SIMILAR

MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: OCEAN BAY HOTEL OR SIMILAR

MISSIRAH VILLAGE AND THE SALOUM RIVER

JUFFUREH, KUNTA KINTEH ISLAND, AND CROSSING INTO THE GAMBIA

BANJUL CITY AND THE KACHIKALLY CROCODILE POOL

Begin your day with a visit to the charming village of Missirah, located near the Saloum Delta National Park. Here, you’ll experience the harmonious coexistence of diverse communities such as the Diola and Mandingo. In the afternoon, enjoy a tranquil motorized canoe trip along the Saloum River, perfect for birdwatching. As the sun sets, you’ll visit a secluded bird island for a peaceful end to the day.

Day 7

After breakfast, say goodbye to The Gambia and embark on a scenic comfortable drive back to Saly, Senegal. With border crossings and logistics taken care of, you can relax and enjoy the journey. Arrive in Saly, where you’ll be welcomed into a tranquil seaside retreat.

Today, enjoy a guided journey through the savannah to visit traditional Fulani and Serer villages. This immersive experience offers insights into local customs and ways of life, including a visit to the home of a local family and a lively weekly market. As the day winds down, gather for a special farewell dinner crowned by a surprise by our team.

Day 8

MEALS: BREAKFAST & DINNER

HOTEL: MÖVENPICK LAMANTIN BEACH OR SIMILAR

Day 9

On your final day, take some time to relax or explore on your own before your scheduled departure. Our team will assist with check-out and ensure a seamless transfer to the airport.

MEALS: BREAKFAST

HOTEL: MÖVENPICK LAMANTIN BEACH OR SIMILAR

MEALS: BREAKFAST & PRIVATE FAREWELL DINNER

HOTEL: MÖVENPICK LAMANTIN BEACH (UNTIL CHECK-OUT)

SCENIC DRIVE BACK TO SALY

CULTURAL IMMERSION IN FULANI AND SERER VILLAGES

JOURNEY BACK HOME