The Ndangane pirogue tour leaves from the Ndangane landing stage and slips into the bolongs, the salt-water channels lined with mangrove. A guide from Ndangane leads the trip in his own pirogue, from 2 people, as a half day or a full day, with a picnic option on a sandbank.

What you see on the tour

The route links a series of stops in the delta: Bird Island, the natural pool, the mangrove and the island of Mar Lothie. The full-day option goes further, as far as the salt pits. You move slowly, at water level, and that is the whole point: the Saloum is a slower Senegal, where people come for the birds, the silence and the evening light rather than to tick off sights.

The price is a flat rate for the group, that is for the pirogue and not per person. You can choose a half day, a full day, a full day with a picnic, or an option from Nianing and the Petite Côte for those staying further north.

What is included, and what is not

The pirogue, the guide and the crossings are included. Drinks are at your own expense, and lunch is not included, except on the picnic option. Children go free under 8 and pay half price from 8 to 15.

The permit for the delta’s protected area is an official fee: it is payable on site, on top of the price, at the ticket office where applicable, with a different rate for Senegalese residents and for foreign visitors; it is free for children under 10. Bring a hat, sun cream and water.

Leaving from Ndangane

The trip leaves from the landing stage at Ndangane, in the Saloum Delta, or with pick-up at your hotel. If you live in Senegal, it is a weekend escape that feels completely different from the coast: you park the car and spend the day on the water. If you are visiting, the trip gives you your bearings before you go deeper into the delta; our Saloum Delta page describes its islands, mangroves and Serer traditions.

Extending the trip

Bird lovers will find other outings under birdwatching. To stay on the water, other pirogue rides are available across the country, and island excursions let you compare the landscapes from one delta to the next.