A pirogue trip on the Somone lagoon is an hour of mangrove and birds, setting off from the lagoon, with a guide, about ten kilometres from Saly. Pelicans, cormorants and kingfishers cross your path on the water, and a half-day option goes further.

A lagoon, an hour by pirogue

The trip lasts an hour: you glide by pirogue between the mangroves, discovering the mangrove and the birds of the lagoon, with a guide. Pelicans, cormorants and kingfishers are the easiest to spot. Departure is from the Somone lagoon. The pace is unhurried, which leaves plenty of time to look, to listen and to take photographs of the birds as they pass, whether you are a keen birdwatcher or simply curious.

Several options exist: the standard trip, a pirogue flat rate for two people, an option from Nianing and the Petite Côte, and a half-day excursion with guide, pirogue and transport from the hotel. The price is per group, with a special rate from twenty people. Drinks and food are not included. Cancellation is free up to 72 hours before.

The lagoon’s mangrove tax is an official fee: it is payable on site, on top of the price. Bring a hat, sunglasses, sun cream and a camera.

If you live in the area, it is an easy outing for a weekend by the sea, with family, with no long road or preparation. If you are visiting Saly, it is the quickest nature outing to organise.

Somone, beside the estuary

Somone lies about ten kilometres south of Saly, on the Petite Côte. The village, built beside an estuary where sea and river meet, is calmer than its lively neighbour, made for contemplation and nature watching. The Somone lagoon is a community nature reserve.

Around the lagoon

In the region, the Bandia Reserve, the Popenguine reserve, Joal-Fadiouth and the craft village of Ngaparou are the classic outings. Birdwatching and guided cultural visits extend the trip.