ARRIVAL

Senegal - After a delightful breakfast, embark on a horse carriage tour to explore the narrow streets of the Kingdom of the Signars, established in the mid-17th century. The Signars are mixed-race women, descendants of black African mothers who were enslaved and European fathers who were slave owners. Visit the Governor’s Palace, an 18th-century fortress. Explore the Nguet Ndar area, a renowned fishing village situated between the river and the Atlantic Ocean.

Following lunch, travel to the Lompoul Desert, located between the vast coast and the eucalyptus forest. This desert is known for its pink and orange sand dunes. Enjoy a camel ride and pause at the top of the dunes for a stunning view of the coastline and sunset. Dance into the night with Djembe dance entertainment or savor a Senegalese tea tasting around a bonfire. Spend the night in tents, feeling like nomads under the moon or stars.

Dakar – Goree Island

Pink Lake

St. Louis – Lompoul

Kedougou - After breakfast, begin a tour in this remote area where communities live away from modern civilization in a breathtaking countryside. The Bediks and the Bassaries reside in mountain villages with magnificent and endless landscapes. These animist communities revolve around ritual ceremonies and traditional initiations. They have chosen exile in these lands to preserve their ancestral beliefs and resist foreign religions.

These captivating and intriguing villages are located on the foothills of the Fouta Djallon, where tradition is a way of life. Continue to Dindefelo waterfalls, which, at 80 meters high, offer a unique natural swimming pool in Senegal. Enjoy a refreshing shower and meet the locals, perhaps even have a picnic in this jungle setting before returning to the hotel.

Day 5: Lompoul – Touba – Kaolack

Toubacouta - After witnessing the sunrise in the desert and having breakfast, proceed to the holy city of Touba. Visit the main Mosque, the largest and most magnificent mosque in West Africa. Learn about Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, the spiritual founder of Mouridism, the only brotherhood originating in Senegal. Spend some time in the large library, which houses thousands of volumes, all hand-written by the mystic founder. Discover the history of Touba, an autonomous city that functions similarly to the Vatican and is recognized as one of the most important cities in Senegal.

Continue to Kaolack in the south, stopping at various villages along the way. Meet the locals and learn about their daily lives and culture. Upon arrival in Kaolack, visit the local open-air market if time allows.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Ajana

Kaolack – Sine Ngayene – Jame Island – Banjul

Senegal - Depart early to visit the Sine Ngayene stone circles, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring 52 stone circles and 1,102 carved stones. Nearby is the quarry where these monoliths were extracted. Continue to Gambia, crossing the border east of Banjul. After immigration, proceed to the twin villages of Juffureh and Albreda on the North Bank of the River Gambia, about 25km upriver from Banjul. Juffureh, featured in Alex Haley’s Roots, and Albreda, a significant slave trade post, are rich in history.

Observe the ruins of Kunta Kinteh Island in the Gambia River, once contested by various European powers. Sail back to Juffureh to visit the Kinteh family home, still occupied by the family. After lunch, head to Bara, cross by ferry to Banjul, and check into your hotel.

Lamin Lodge – Banjul – Serrekunda

Saly - This morning, explore the south bank of the Gambia River by dugout canoe. Navigate through a vast network of creeks within the mangrove forest and visit the village of the Socè tribes hidden behind the wetlands. Row back to Banjul and embark on a city tour. Start at the National Museum, which showcases the history of The Gambia, highlighting the blend of African culture and European colonialism. Take a short drive through Banjul to “see the sights,” stopping at Albert Market with its bustling activity, where anything from live chickens and vegetables to herbs and hair extensions can be purchased. Alternatively, visit Serrekunda, the most densely populated town in The Gambia, where you can see displays of “Tie & Dye” fabrics and beautiful Batik cottons. Return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: African Princess

Banjul – Joal and Bush – Fishermen Arrival

Dakar - After breakfast, cross the ferry back into Senegal towards Joal at the mouth of the Saloum River. En route, visit the oldest baobab tree in West Africa, which is 1500 years old, followed by a visit to typical villages of the Serere farmers, the second largest ethnic group in Senegal. Alternatively, stop at a Fulani nomadic camp, the third largest ethnic group. After lunch, visit the shell island of Fadiouth, a symbol of tolerance where Muslims, Christians, and animists coexist peacefully and share a cemetery where they bury their dead side by side. In the late afternoon, drive to the Mbour fishing port to observe the return of the fishermen, with intense trade activity creating a unique atmosphere of sensation and smell. Continue to Saly for your overnight stay.

Meals included: Breakfast, Dinner

Hotel: Royam Beach

Saly – Bandia Reserve – Somone Delta

Departure

Senegal - Enjoy a leisurely morning, whether shopping or exploring any remaining excursions. Later, transfer to the airport in time for your onward flight.

• Assistance with visa application
• Hotel accommodation in the indicated properties
• Meeting and assistance upon arrival and departure
• Lunch
• Transportation in private vehicle
• Round-trip airport/hotel transfers
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• Experienced cultural tour guide
• Admission to listed sites

• Visas and international Flights
• Travel insurance
• Meals not listed
• Personal expenses

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.