Paddle and kayak in Ndayane is a guided outing of about two hours on an open sea lined with small cliffs and rocky stretches, some fifty kilometres south of Dakar. The equipment, the instructor and the photos are included, and the outing is open from age 10.

An open sea facing the cliffs

Ndayane is a lébou village (the lébou are the traditional fishing people of the Dakar coast) on the Petite Côte, about 50 km south of Dakar, which has stayed away from the tourist beaches. Paddling or kayaking here happens in a peaceful atmosphere: the sea is wide, lined with small cliffs and rocky stretches that make the outing varied and a real change of scene. Fishermen bring their pirogues in here, and you glide through what is still real fishing-village life.

Morning is the ideal moment: the sea is calmer, the light reflects off the rocks, and it is the hour when fishermen haul in their nets. The best slot is early in the morning, between 8 am and 10 am.

How it runs and what is provided

You set off from Ndayane’s main beach, where a licensed instructor welcomes the participants. After a short introduction to the equipment and the safety rules, the group heads out to sea for a paddle of about two hours, adjusted to sea conditions. Depending on the tide and the wind, the route follows the coast toward Popenguine or in the other direction, with a few stops to observe or take photos.

The equipment, the instructor and the photos are included. Bring sunscreen, water and a hat. The outing is open to beginners, with a full briefing and supervision from start to finish; the current may be felt depending on the tide, and the instructor then adjusts the route.

If you live in Dakar, this is a morning on the water about 50 km from the capital, which you can extend with lunch by the sea. If you are visiting, it is a chance to see the Petite Côte from a less beach-resort angle.

Ndayane, between Popenguine and Toubab Dialaw

Ndayane is part of the commune of Popenguine-Ndayane, in the Mbour department, near Cap de Naze, after Toubab Dialaw when coming from Dakar. The village has shifted from an agricultural economy to fishing, and lies close to a future multipurpose port. It is part of the Petite Côte.

Extending the outing

You can combine the outing with a visit to the Popenguine Reserve, famous for its coastal paths. The craft village of Toubab Dialaw and its red cliffs can also be visited in the same day, and the trip can continue with a boat trip or a hike along the coastal paths.