Senegal and
Guinea Bissau Explorer
Senegal and Guinea Bissau Small Group Tour
Tour Overview
A great opportunity to see the best of Senegal and Guinea Bissau. We start our adventure in the Senegalese capital Dakar and explore this bustling city before immersing ourselves in the slave history at Goree Island. Then we head to northern Senegal, reaching the border with Mauritania and the Djoudj National Park, a natural oasis composed of hundreds of miles of partially flooded land. Our next stop is the holy city of Touba where we visit its Grand Mosque. Our adventure continues as we explore the Saloum Delta by canoe and visit some villages of the Sérère ethnic group.
After travelling back to Dakar, we continue by air on an afternoon flight to Bissau, capital of tiny Guinea Bissau - one of West Africa’s truly ‘undiscovered’ destinations. Few western travellers make it to this former Portuguese colony, but those that do return full of incredible experiences and memories of a stunning part of the continent. From Bissau, we travel by boat to the magnificent Bijagos Islands – a group of islands where traditional culture is at its strongest and ancient customs still hold sway. We visit local communities to learn about their lifestyles, some of the most traditional on the continent. The joy of this trip is the fact that you will be visiting an almost untouched corner of Africa; expect truly genuine encounters with local people and feel privileged to be one of the very few to have travelled here.
Tour Highlights
• Explore Goree Island and its slave heritage with its ‘Point of No Return’
• Discover the charming old town of Saint Louis
• Visit the Djoudi National Bird Sanctuary
• Discover tiny Guinea Bissau, one of the world’s least visited nations. Visit an almost untouched corner of Africa; expect truly genuine encounters with local people and feel privileged to be one of the very few to have travelled here
• Uncover the stunning Bijagos Archipelago and look for the unique saltwater hippo, which swim between some of the islands
Tour Rating
To help our travellers choose the right tour for them we have applied a grading system of 1 to 5. Tours with a fitness level of 1 will generally be suitable for all ages and will not be particularly strenuous, whereas tours with a fitness level of 5 are likely to be physically challenging. To find out more please contact our well-travelled team who will often have first-hand experience of the destination.
Fitness
3/5
Unexplored
4/5
Culture
5/5
History
3/5
Wildlife
2/5
Tour Pace
4/5
Map + Tour Itinerary
Day 1: Dakar (62km, approx. 1hr10m)
Arrive in Dakar and transfer to your hotel. Overnight at Ibis Dakar or similar (D)
Dakar
Located on the Cap Vert peninsula and Africa’s westernmost city, Dakar is thriving, colourful, and lively providing the first real experience of urban West Africa on this trip. Brash and often uncompromising, it was once one of the major cities of the French Empire and today is home to over a million people. With busy traffic and street vendors everywhere, Dakar is a world away from the rest of Senegal. Nearby is Gore Island, in contrast a peaceful sanctuary with well-preserved colonial buildings, giving it an almost Mediterranean feel. Gore is best known for its associations with the slave trade, although there is some controversy about how much of a role it actually played.
Day 2: Dakar City Tour – Goree Island – Pink Lake – Langue de Barbarie (25min Ferry + 275km, approx. 5hr50m)
This morning we take a city tour of Dakar. Highlights include the Presidential Palace, Republic Square and Soweto Square to see the National Assembly. We then drive to the Cathedral du Souvenir Africain and the train station, with its elegant and inspiring façade, and is the region´s oldest major transit hub. Visit the Museum of Black Civilizations, the museum is dedicated to African civilizations, a place of civilizational encounter and dialogue between cultures before we catch a ferry to Goree Island. On arrival we visit the house of slaves, a living testimony of the times of slavery, where you see the ‘door of no return’ where slaves were allegedly sent through to board boats. Continue to visit the town square and Catholic Church before stopping at the historical museum.
Return to Dakar for the second part of the city tour, visit of the Great Mosque Massalikoul Djinaan, University “Cheikh Anta Diop”, the monument of the African Renaissance, the divinity Mosque on the West Corniche, on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean, the “Village des Arts” composed of fifty-two artist’s studios (ateliers).
Next depart to Retba Lake, also nicknamed Pink, nestled between white sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean. Tour of the lake and see how women harvest the salt from the depth of the lake. Lunch at a local restaurant and continue to Ocean et Savane Lodge located in Langue de Barbarie National Park in front of the river. Enjoy a beautiful sunset in front the river. Dinner and overnight in Ocean et Savane Lodge or similar (BLD)
Day 3: Langue de Barbarie – Saint Louis (35Km / approx. 1h)
Spend the morning at leisure. After lunch we head to St. Louis, Senegal's first capital, and today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. After lunch at a local restaurant, before enjoying a horse-drawn carriage ride around the city. Visit the fisherman's district, the lively fishing community of Guet N'Dar in the “Langue de Barbarie”, a magical place with dozens of pirogues used for local fishing as well as the Cathedral, situated next to the Governor's Palace, an 1828 building. with a neoclassical facade and one of the oldest churches in Senegal. Dinner and overnight at Hotel La Residence or similar (BD)
Day 4: Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary
Today visit Djoudj National Park, the third largest bird reserve in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A living sanctuary, situated in the Senegal River Delta, with a wetland of 16,000 hectares and 1, 5 million migratory birds. It is a lush setting with wetlands comprising lakes, streams, valleys, and pieces of sand. Bird watching in a pirogue, with particular emphasis on the white pelican, cormorants, Gambian geese, ospreys, crocodiles, among other species. Return to St. Louis for lunch and spend the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at Hotel La Residence or similar (BLD)
Day 5: Saint Louis – Touba – Palmarin (340Km / approx. 6h30m)
Depart to Saloum Delta. Along the slopes, you will have chance to meet the Peuhls breeders at the time of the regrouping of the zebus herds for the milking of animals. Then visit the holy city of Touba and its famous mosque. After lunch we continue our journey on the Saloum Delta in Senegal. Dinner and overnight at the eco-lodge of Palmarin or similar (BD)
Day 6: Palmarin – Mar Lodj (30Km / approx. 45min + 30min boat trip)
We take a canoe to cross to the picturesque island of Mar Lodj, just opposite Ndangane. Visit the villages of Mar Lodj and Marfafaco, home of the Sérère ethnic group. Lunch at the Essamaye camp on the edge of the lagoon before returning to Palmarin in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight at Ecolodge of Palmarin or similar (BD)
Day 7: Palmarin – Joal Fadiouth – Dakar Departure for Guinea Bissau (80Km / approx. 2hrs)
Depart for Joal Fadiouth where we drive into a palm tree and baobabs forest. Stop at Fadial Village to admire one of the biggest baobab trees in Senegal then continue to Joal – Fadiouth. Drive through the forest of Samba Dia and charming “Serere” villages with traditional huts. Visit Fadiouth Shell Island by foot. Highlights include the cemetery for Muslims and Christians, the market, the church, and the white alleys where shells are ubiquitous. After lunch at the restaurant of Taverne du Pêcheur of Joal, transfer to Dakar’s international airport for a late afternoon flight to Bissau, the capital of little visited Guinea Bissau. Upon arrival you will be and transferred to your hotel. Overnight Dunia Hotel or similar (D)
Please note that you will travel unaccompanied, without a guide, on the short one hour flight from Dakar to Bissau.
Bissau
Guinea-Bissau’s capital is a small and fairly unassuming place, with old colonial buildings and a generally easy-going pace – although that changes at the time of the annual carnival. It’s a pleasant place to wander around to witness everyday scenes of life but doesn’t offer much in the way of traditional sightseeing – rather the attraction is to experience a slice of urban Africa that is much easier to deal with than some other African capitals. Some of the traditional crafts to be found here are particularly excellent.
Day 8: Bissau – Orango National Park by boat (approx. 3hrs)
This morning take a short city tour of Bissau before departing by boat for Orango National Park in the heart of the Bijagos Archipelago. Overnight at Orango Parque Hotel or similar (BLD)
Bijagos Islands
The Bijagos Archipelago is made up of around forty different islands and has been declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve due to their ecological importance and rare and endangered species including turtles and the unique saltwater hippo, which swim between some of the islands. Their distance from the mainland has meant that local culture here has remained far less affected by modern influences than elsewhere, and most islanders live a very traditional life, with a different language, Bijago, spoken here.
Day 9: Orango – Village of Eticoga (5km / approx. 3hrs walk)
Take a walk in the forest with a with a local eco-guide to the village of Eticoga, known for its sanctuary where Queen Okinka Pampa and her family rests. As a place of veneration, it regularly hosts rituals in the company of her descendants and villagers. We visit the women's association and their handicraft and horticultural work. Overnight at Orango Parque Hotel or similar (BLD)
Day 10: Orango – Lake Anor (20km / 2hr boat and approx. 2hr of walking)
Beach to beach boat trip in the presence of eco guides then continue by foot through the mangrove and savannah to Anor Lake and its freshwater pockets. Spend some time at the lake with a picnic lunch before returning to our hotel. Overnight Orango Parque Hotel or similar (BLD)
Day 11: The sacred village of Ambuduco (4hr boat and walking)
A large palm grove announces the arrival at the oldest part of the National Park, where the most important ceremonies on the island take place. Enjoy the traditional dance "Canhocan", characteristic of the young bijagós warriors, in a perfect combination of their culture with nature where these people live their everyday life. After lunch we head to Ponta Anchaca Lodge. Overnight Ponta Anchaca Lodge or similar (BLD)
Day 12: Joao Viera and Poilao Islands National Park
Excursion to Joao Vieira, the island of orchids. During the crossing, we may be lucky to spot some dolphins. Continue to the uninhabited Island of Poilao, the first nesting site for green turtles on the entire West African coast. Overnight at Ponta Anchaca Lodge or similar (BLD)
Day 13: Ponta Anchaca – Bissau (approx. 2hrs by boat)
After a leisurely morning we transfer back to Bissau by boat. Overnight Dunia Hotel or similar (BD)
Day 12: Ponta Anchaca to Ilha sul de Canhabaque (February to September)
After breakfast leave the Ponta Anchaca Lodge by boat for the Anchaca Sud Lodge on the island of Ilha sul de Canhabaque. After check-in enjoy the fine location, on a 22km stretch of beach. Dinner and overnight at the lodge. (BD)
Day 13: Inhoda Village and return to Bissau (February to September)
After breakfast we leave the Anchaca Sud Lodge and visit some local rice paddies and hope to see some migratory birds. We also visit the small village of Inhoda before travelling back to Bissau by boat. Overnight Dunia Hotel or similar. (BLD)
Day 14: Bissau Departure
You will be transferred to Bissau’s airport for your departure. (B)
Tour Inclusions
Arrival and departure transfers
Overland transport throughout with professional driver
One-way economy class flight from Dakar to Bissau including 20k baggage allowance
All accommodation
Services of English-speaking guide / tour leader
Meals as listed
B – Breakfast
L – Lunch
D – Dinner
Entrance fees for sites listed as part of the itinerary
Tour Exclusions
International flights (contact us for expert advice and a quote)
Any airport taxes (except from Dakar to Bissau)
Travel Insurance
Visa – To be obtained in advance
Drinks
Items of personal nature
Tips (Discretionary)
Feedback from our Travellers
Essential Info
Foreign Office Travel Warnings
Before booking your tour, please familiarise yourself with the country specific information provided by the UK’s Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. This includes important information such as latest immigration requirements, and details of any travel advisories.
We constantly monitor the advice posted by the FCDO. In particular we will always advise clients of any travel warnings. At present there are no warnings against travel to the parts of Senegal and Guinea Bissau that we visit on this tour. Please feel free to contact us should you have any specific concerns or would like to know in detail what measures are being taken to ensure visits remain trouble free and without incident.
It should be noted that this information applies to British citizens. Other nationals are asked to check the current position of their respective government.
Visa Information
At the time of writing British, and US nationals do not require a visa for a tourist visit to Senegal. Australiain nationals will require a visa.
At the time of writing British, US and Australian nationals require a visa for a tourist visit to Guinea Bissau. For further details please visit the applicable website shown below.
British Nationals - www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice
US Nationals - travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html
Australian Nationals - www.smartraveller.gov.au
Other nationals should check the latest requirements with the authorities in their home country, or with the destination’s nearest embassy or consulate.
Should you require any documentation to support a visa application, such as a letter of invitation, upon request this will be provided by Undiscovered Destinations after receipt of your balance payment.
As it is the travellers’ responsibility to ensure that they meet all entry requirements it is essential that you check the rules and any other conditions at the time of booking and again when making your balance payment. In addition, we would strongly advise that you make a final check around two weeks before your arrival. This is important as requirements can change at short notice. Undiscovered Destinations, when possible, will provide guidance about entry rules, but in the first instance please contact the relevant authorities, including the applicable embassy or consulate for assistance.
Passports
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, valid for at least six months after the date of return to your country.
We strongly advise that your passport contains a minimum of two blank pages, as this may be a requirement of the local immigration authorities. In addition, certain countries will stipulate that the two blank pages are opposite each other. If you are unable to meet these requirements, you may be refused boarding by your airline or denied entry by the immigration authorities.
For specific information about the requirements for your destination please check with the country’s embassy or consulate. Alternatively, UK citizens can visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice.
Vaccinations & Protection
As with travel to most parts of Africa, we strongly recommend that you contact your doctor’s surgery or a specialist travel clinic for up-to-date information, advice, and the necessary vaccinations. For a visit of less than one month, almost certainly you will be advised to have immunisations against the following: Diphtheria and Tetanus, Hepatitis A, Typhoid, Meningitis. The use of a DEET-containing insect repellent is highly recommended.
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in your home country can be different in other countries. If you’re travelling with prescription or over-the-counter medicine, read this guidance from NaTHNaC on best practice when travelling with medicines. For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, you’ll need to contact the embassy, high commission or consulate of the country or territory you’re travelling to.
Travel Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Undiscovered Destinations that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses (including cover for Covid-19 conditions) and emergency repatriation to your home country and be valid for the entire duration of your holiday.
Local Conditions
When travelling to our destinations, many of which are underdeveloped and untouristed by mainstream tourism, a good deal of patience and a sense of humour is an important attribute. This will help you to cope with problems such as ageing or poor infrastructure and when maintenance may not be as high as we would always like.
The choice of appropriate accommodation in some towns and cities (particularly the smaller places) can be limited, and standards of both service and maintenance can be less than polished. Guides and other service providers in some of our destinations do not always have the decades of collective practice and experience that their counterparts in more developed countries can draw upon. Although we will always try and resolve any issues as quickly as possible, on occasions there may be some shortcomings which no matter how hard we try will be unavoidable.
