Family Travel in Senegal: An Unforgettable Adventure

Travelling as a family is an enriching experience that creates lasting memories and strengthens the bonds between parents and children. Senegal, with its cultural diversity, magnificent landscapes and legendary hospitality, is an ideal destination for families looking for a unique adventure. In this first part of our guide to family travel in Senegal, we'll explore the best destinations, child-friendly activities, and practical tips for making the most of your stay.

1. Discovery of Dakar: A Cosmopolitan and Welcoming City

Dakar, the dynamic capital of Senegal, is an excellent starting point for your family trip. This coastal city offers a multitude of activities and sites to discover, perfect for families with children of all ages.

Hann Park

Parc de Hann, located in the heart of Dakar, is an oasis of greenery and an ideal place for families. The park houses a zoo where children can observe local and exotic animals, as well as a botanical garden. Picnic areas and playgrounds make for a pleasant day out.

Museum of Black Civilizations

Inaugurated in 2018, the Musée des Civilisations Noires is a must-see for families interested in African culture and history. The museum offers interactive exhibits and varied collections that will captivate the attention of children and adults alike. It's an excellent opportunity to discover African cultural heritage through art objects, artifacts and modern installations.

2. The Beaches of Saly: Relaxation and Leisure by the Sea

Located some 80 kilometers south of Dakar, the seaside resort of Saly is a popular destination for family vacations. With its fine sandy beaches, calm waters and numerous activities, Saly offers an idyllic setting for relaxation and fun.

Water activities

The beaches of Saly are perfect for family water activities. You can practice swimming, snorkeling, or even rent a boat for a sea excursion. For thrill-seekers, jet-skiing and kite-surfing are also available. Beach clubs often offer child-friendly equipment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience.

Clubs and Activities for Children

Many hotels and resorts in Saly offer children's clubs where youngsters can take part in fun and educational activities. Games, craft workshops, dance classes and mini-discos are all on the program, allowing parents to enjoy a little free time while their children have fun under the supervision of qualified entertainers.

Excursions and Discoveries

Beyond the beaches, Saly also offers a number of interesting excursions. A visit to the Bandia nature reserve is an unforgettable experience. This reserve is home to giraffes, rhinos, zebras and many other animal species in a semi-wild setting. Safaris in 4×4 allow you to see these animals up close, delighting young and old alike.

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3. Casamance: An Escape into Nature

For a total immersion in nature, the Casamance region, located in the south of Senegal, is an ideal destination. Known for its lush landscapes, winding rivers and picturesque villages, Casamance offers an authentic and peaceful experience.

Village of Cap Skirring

Cap Skirring, a coastal village in Casamance, is renowned for its heavenly beaches and relaxed atmosphere. Families can enjoy long walks on the beach, swimming in the Atlantic Ocean and delicious fresh seafood meals. Local markets and artisans offer unique souvenirs and handcrafted products to take home.

Canoe trips

The rivers and mangrove swamps of Casamance are perfect for pirogue trips. These excursions allow you to discover the local flora and fauna, as well as visiting villages accessible only by water. Children will particularly enjoy observing birds and monkeys in their natural habitat.

Culture Diola

The Casamance region is inhabited by the Diolas, an ethnic group with a rich and distinctive culture. Families can visit traditional villages, attend local ceremonies and learn about Diola customs and beliefs. These cultural interactions provide a valuable and educational perspective for children.

4. Saint-Louis: A Historic City Full of Charm

Located in northern Senegal, Saint-Louis is a city with a rich historical and cultural heritage. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this former French colonial capital is a real gem for families interested in history and culture.

Carriage rides

One of the best ways to discover Saint-Louis is to take a horse-drawn carriage ride through its picturesque streets. This activity is particularly appealing to children, while offering parents a bird's eye view of the city's colonial buildings, iconic bridges and colorful markets. Local guides tell fascinating stories about the city's history, adding an educational dimension to the ride.

Les voyages en famille au Sénégal

Langue de Barbarie National Park

Just a few kilometers from Saint-Louis lies the Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie, a paradise for nature and wildlife lovers. The park is famous for its migratory bird colonies, deserted beaches and calm waters. A boat trip in the park allows you to observe birds, sea turtles and sometimes even dolphins up close. It's an unforgettable experience for children and adults alike.

The International Jazz Festival

If you visit Saint-Louis in May, don't miss the Festival International de Jazz. This annual event attracts world-renowned musicians and offers free concerts throughout the city. It's a great opportunity to introduce children to jazz music in a festive, friendly atmosphere.

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5. The Saloum Delta: Adventure and Discovery

The Saloum Delta, located between Dakar and Casamance, is a region of mangroves, rivers and islands offering a multitude of activities for families. This unique ecosystem is perfect for outdoor adventures and cultural discoveries.

Pirogue Cruises

As in Casamance, pirogue trips are a must in the Saloum Delta. These excursions explore winding canals and mangrove forests, offering spectacular views and encounters with local wildlife, including birds, monkeys and dolphins. Children will love the experience of gliding through the water while discovering the wilderness.

Stay in an Ecological Camp

Numerous ecological camps in the Saloum Delta offer eco-friendly accommodation, perfect for families wishing to reconnect with nature. These camps offer activities such as fishing, hiking and workshops to discover the local ecosystem. Evenings around the campfire, with local tales and stories, will create unforgettable memories for children.

Visit to the Serer Villages

The Sérère villages of the Saloum Delta offer an insight into local culture and traditions. Families can participate in traditional ceremonies, visit artisanal markets and learn about local fishing techniques. These immersive experiences help children understand and appreciate Senegal's rich culture.

6. Siné-Saloum: An Eden for Adventure Families

The Siné-Saloum is another magnificent region of Senegal, characterized by inlets, islands and mangrove forests. It's an ideal destination for families looking for outdoor adventure.

Hiking and Wildlife Observation

The hiking trails of Siné-Saloum offer exceptional opportunities to observe the local flora and fauna. Families can stroll through mangrove forests, observe migratory birds and even spot monkeys and antelopes. Local guides are often available for educational tours, explaining the ecosystem and conservation efforts.

Traditional Fishing

Fishing is a popular activity in Siné-Saloum, and many excursions allow families to participate in traditional fishing with locals. Children will particularly enjoy this interactive activity, which combines learning and fun. Additionally, freshly caught fish can often be prepared and enjoyed on site, providing an authentic dining experience.

ATV and Kayak Excursions

For active families, the Siné-Saloum offers mountain bike and kayak excursions. Mountain bike trails allow you to explore the region's varied landscapes, from sandy beaches to verdant forests. Kayaking, meanwhile, offers a peaceful way of navigating through mangroves and canals, allowing you to get close to wildlife in a discreet and respectful way.

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7. The Pink Lake: A Fascinating Natural Spectacular

Lac Rose, also known as Lac Retba, is one of Senegal's most famous natural attractions. Located about an hour from Dakar, this salt lake is known for its distinctive pink color, due to the high concentration of salt and the micro-organisms that live there.

Flotation and Salt Harvesting

The high salt content of Lac Rose allows visitors to float easily on the surface of the water, a fun and unique experience for children and adults alike. Families can also watch local workers harvest salt, a fascinating traditional activity. Some sites even offer interactive demonstrations where children can try their hand at harvesting salt themselves.

Quad excursions

For a dose of adventure, quad bike excursions around Lac Rose are very popular. These excursions take in the surrounding scenery, including sand dunes and local villages. Children will love the sense of freedom and excitement this activity provides.

8. Practical Tips for Traveling with Family in Senegal

Traveling to Senegal with children can be a wonderful experience, but it is important to prepare well to ensure a pleasant and worry-free stay.

Health and security

  • Vaccinations : Make sure the entire family is up to date with recommended vaccinations, including those for yellow fever and typhoid. Consult a doctor for specific advice.
  • Water and Food Always drink bottled water and avoid raw or uncooked food. Reputable restaurants and hotels are generally safe, but it's always a good idea to take precautions.

Transportation and Travel

  • Public transport : Taxis and buses are commonly used in Senegal. For added comfort and safety, it is advisable to book private taxis or transportation services through your hotel.
  • Car rental : Rent a car in Dakar can be a good option for families wishing to explore at their own pace. Be sure to choose a reputable rental agency and check the condition of the vehicle before you leave.

Accommodation

  • Advance booking : You can rent a furnished apartment from Visit Senegal. Click here to make your reservation and start your family adventure now!
  • Family Equipment : Choose accommodations that offer family-friendly amenities, such as cots, high chairs and children's activities.

Conclusion

Senegal is a rich and diverse destination, offering a multitude of activities and experiences for families. Whether you're drawn to the history of Dakar, the beaches of Saly, the natural landscapes of Casamance or the wonders of the Siné-Saloum, each region offers unique opportunities to create unforgettable memories. With the right preparation and an open-minded attitude, a family trip to Senegal can be an educational and enriching adventure for all family members.