Jun 4, 2024
Lovely get-away! - I now know why this is SUCH a popular excursion!
Thanks to other travelers who wrote reviews on what a lovely time they had I booked this.
I may still have under-appreciated just how much I'd enjoy NOT having to to negotiate and haggle my way to the different parts of the trip.
Having a great driver and (english-speaking) guide who shared so much about language and culture of Senegal, the different ethnic groups, religion and society and took care of everything from getting us water to meals and seamlessly getting us in and out of activities just made for a really wonderful time!
Mostly though: the desert is magical ever-windswept and beautiful. Yes, the wind means I even found sand between my teeth when flossing, but it also keeps you surprisingly cool.
And while simple, there were way more creature-comforts than I expected. Not only did our tent have a real bed with a mosquito-net, linens pillows and blankets, it had a real sit down-flush toilet and running water to wash hands! There's even cell-phone reception and one tent had an outlet where one could charge a phone. Ie I could even bring my Mom here!
I got what I had most hoped for: an amazing starry night in the endless darkness and quiet of the desert. I'm taking the pictures and the feeling home with me.
GO NOW while you can, this entire desert and the lovely Ecolodge will make space for a large rare-earth mine in the coming two years and this desert and its way of life for this group of people will be gone from Senegal.
Review provided by Viator
Apr 23, 2024
the sun of dreams - As the sun slowly rises above the horizon, illuminating the calm waters of the Atlantic Ocean, I find myself on Petite Côte beach, bathed in the golden light of dawn. This is the start of an unforgettable adventure through Senegal, a country steeped in cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes and traditions rich in history.
My first stop takes me to Saint-Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage city, where the cobbled streets still resonate with echoes of the colonial past. I stroll through the historic district of the island of Saint-Louis, admiring the colorful architecture of French colonial houses and listening to the melodious sound of djembes coming from busy street corners.
From there, I head to the Delta du Saloum National Park, a biodiversity sanctuary where mangroves stretch as far as the eye can see and exotic birds soar above the tranquil marshes. I take a boat to explore the uninhabited islands, discovering picturesque fishing villages and tasting fresh seafood prepared by the hospitable locals.
My journey continues into the Lompoul Desert, where golden sand dunes stretch as far as the eye can see, offering a breathtaking landscape. I ride a camel for an excursion through the dunes, admiring the spectacular sunset that paints the sky in warm, vibrant hues.
After exploring the dry desert lands, I travel to the verdant Casamance region, where meandering rivers meander through lush forests and palm plantations. I wander through traditional villages, exchanging smiles and stories with the welcoming locals, and tasting the region's culinary delights, like delicious fish rice and spicy peanut sauce.
My trip culminates in Langue de Barbarie National Park, where sand dunes blend seamlessly with coastal mangroves and pristine stretches of beach. I walk along nature trails, watching sea turtles nesting on beaches and listening to the soothing rustle of waves crashing against the shore.
As my trip comes to an end, I realize that Senegal is much more than just a travel destination; it is a country where unforgettable encounters, breathtaking landscapes and enriching experiences come together to create memories that will last a lifetime.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Apr 14, 2024
Very nice experience, nothing to complain about - We made several excursions with Senegal Excursions (Dakar and the island of Goree. The reserve and the Bandia ranch. Saint Louis and Djoujd as well as the arrival of the fisherman at MBour as well as the craft market) and had a pleasant time with djibril max and hibou thank you to them and if I come back to Senegal I would go through them again they are very kind thank you again to you and I hope to see you soon
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Sep 30, 2023
Exceptional - A big thank you to Sénégal Excursions and particularly to our guide Modou who made us love his country. We went from discovery to discovery thanks to him. A competent, exceptional, human guide for whom every problem finds its solution. If we ever return to Senegal, we will use Sénégal Excursions and Modou again. Thank you for everything. Jërëjëf
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jul 31, 2022
Amazing and absolutely worth it! - Amazing trip to get out of the city and see some great parts of Senegal. Our guide Moussa and driver Omar were amazing. The desert was a personal favourite and was super peaceful, had amazing food, and surprisingly good accommodation. Absolutely worth the price!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Feb 19, 2022
incredible - I loved it!
The lompoul desert has incredible colours and textures. If you like deserts you have to go.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jan 8, 2020
Recommended - This tour was just perfect. If you are planning to do this trip, I recommend that you just book and let the guides handle the rest. The activities included in this tour were simply amazing and it was a good balance. We're are normally used to having hectic days when in holiday but this tour gives you the opportunity to disconnect and simply enjoy the beauty of the tour as well. We had no issues understanding each other and the tour guide spoke very good English. The desert area was heaven!! Don't miss this opportunity, its one in a life time experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Feb 9, 2020
Senegal Excursions unreliable as they cancelled within seconds of booking - I spent hours looking for the appropriate experience, booked this and a couple of seconds after booking I received a cancellation email from the operator without an explanation for the cancellation. This means that my money will be blocked while the refund is processed, never mind the time spent exploring their adds, and some money (not much, but some) will be lost on currency conversions. Senegal Excursions strikes me as an unreliable experience provider, whimsical in their business organisation, and providing uncertainty rather than the safety of trust.
Review provided by Tripadvisor