Best Natural Attractions in Senegal

Senegal is home to great cities and fishing villages, but it’s also home to some outstanding natural attractions.

Top of the list is Saloum Delta, where three rivers split before entering the sea. There are mangrove forests and islands spread over a huge area of around 2,000 square miles. Explore on a local fishing boat known as a pirogue, or stay in one of the lodges in the area. You can visit year-round, but the winter months bring migratory birds and breeding season for native species.

The Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is another great place to see birds, with millions living here and passing through on migration routes. Djoudj covers a massive area and is home to nearly 400 different bird species.

Another top spot is Niokolo-Koba National Park, home to a huge amount of wildlife. Senegal isn’t famous for its big animals like some sub-Saharan nations, but here you can find lions, leopards, elephants and more. It’s down in the southeast of the country, some eight hours by car from Dakar, and is officially open December–April. Infrastructure is basic, but there a few lodges around and guides are available.