The combined safari in Bandia pairs a 4×4 safari in the reserve with other outings on the Petite Côte, as you choose: the Somone lagoon, Lake Retba (the Pink Lake) or a treetop course under the baobabs. The 4×4, the entry ticket and binoculars are included.

A safari, then more stops

The typical itinerary starts with the wildlife safari: you follow the tracks in an off-road vehicle, led by a specialist, in search of the emblematic fauna: giraffes, rhinos, zebras, buffalo, antelopes, crocodiles, monkeys, ostriches and more than 120 bird species. After the visit, you relax over lunch, then carry on to one of the stops of your choice.

The possible stops: the Somone lagoon, for a pirogue ride (a traditional wooden boat) or some bird watching; Lake Retba, to admire its colours, meet the salt gatherers or ride a dromedary; or a treetop course under the baobabs. A relaxing break or a visit to a craft market completes the programme.

The package includes the 4×4, the entry ticket and binoculars. Bring light clothing, sun protection, comfortable shoes and a camera. The circuit suits families, groups of friends and school groups, and adapts to age and preferences.

If you live in Dakar, this is a way to build your day around Bandia as you like, without organising every transfer yourself. If you are staying in Saly or Somone, it is a full day that mixes wildlife, lagoon and adventure, with no need to pick just one activity.

Bandia and its neighbours

The reserve is on the Petite Côte, in the Thiès region. The Bandia Reserve page tells the story of the reserve, which covers 3,500 hectares of wooded savannah, 15 km from Saly and about 65 km from Dakar, making it the most accessible in the country. The Somone lagoon page presents the mangrove and its birds.

Choosing your stops

Each stop has its own category: the pirogue ride and bird watching for the Somone, the horse or dromedary rides for Lake Retba, and other safaris to compare packages.