About 250 km south of Dakar, near the Gambian border, the Fathala Reserve embodies the ultimate “wild” adventure in Senegal. Spanning 6,000 hectares of preserved savanna, this natural sanctuary of the Saloum Delta National Park, in the Fatick region, offers an immersive experience, unmatched in scale and natural richness. Less crowded than Bandia and much larger, this site — once home to a village called Mina — attracts adventurers, families, wildlife photographers, and travelers seeking a reinvented sense of authenticity. Created in 2000 with a focus on conservation and environmental education, this private reserve protects and reintroduces many iconic large mammals and bird species from West and Southern Africa. The star attraction — the supervised walk with lions — adds a unique rush of adrenaline to this exceptional site, ranked among the most original stops on routes between Petite Côte, The Gambia, and Casamance.

A sanctuary of biodiversity

Fathala is home to an impressive array of wildlife, introduced through various reintroduction programs, in a landscape of savanna and original forest. You may encounter:

• Large mammals: giraffes, savanna buffaloes, white rhinoceroses, zebras, Derby elands, oryx, kob, warthogs, antelopes.
• Predators: lions (in a secure enclosure for observation), hyenas.
• Birds: pelicans, hornbills, ostriches, rollers, weavers, herons, and countless migratory species.
• Reptiles: crocodiles, monitor lizards, giant tortoises. The reserve, part of the Saloum Delta, mixes baobabs, mahogany trees, and grassy savanna, occasionally crossed by curious monkeys or galloping antelope herds.

Passionate guides accompany each safari and share their knowledge of the species, unique flora, and local ecological challenges.

The unique lion experience

The “walk with lions” is Fathala’s most iconic activity. Accompanied by experienced handlers, visitors walk alongside young adult lions, learning about their habits and behavior under a strict safety protocol.

This rare and tightly supervised activity takes place in small groups and begins with a full briefing: no handbags, strict safety rules, and the presence of multiple rangers near the big cats. Fathala’s lions, bottle-fed and socialized with humans from a very young age, offer visitors exceptional opportunities for photography and observation. This “walk with lions” lasts about 40 to 50 minutes and leaves a lasting impression on participants.

Scenery and atmosphere

Fathala Reserve reveals an endless savanna dotted with large African trees, wooded areas, water points, and sandy tracks.

The feeling of immersion is total: hornbills calling at dawn, zebras galloping through clearings, frogs singing at nightfall near the waterholes. Unlike Bandia, human presence is minimal, creating a true “wild Africa” atmosphere where safaris feel larger-than-life.

Safaris at Fathala

• Classic safari (2–3h): wildlife observation from an open vehicle, accompanied by a knowledgeable naturalist guide.
• Birdwatching safari: focused on spotting numerous bird species, ideal for photographers.
• Full-day safari: a mix of safari, relaxation, swimming, and meals at the lodge.
• Lodge stay: night in a luxury tent (king-size bed, private bathroom), waking to monkeys’ calls and watching wildlife at sunrise.
• Combined excursions: Fathala is often included in itineraries toward Casamance and The Gambia for a multi-territory adventure.

Lodge and services

Fathala Lodge offers high-end stays in safari tents beneath mahogany trees, with a pool, bar, restaurant on stilts, and views over the bush. Guests enjoy an “Out of Africa” level of comfort: hot water, air conditioning, local and international cuisine, cocktails, and the possibility to book excursions and safaris depending on the season and preferences.

Things to do in Fathala

• Guided 4×4 safari at sunrise or sunset.
• Unique walk with lions (on reservation, about 45 minutes).
• Stay at the lodge and enjoy life in the bush.
• Birdwatching (more than 200 species recorded during migration season).
• Pirogue excursions around the Saloum Delta, introduction to botany, wildlife photography, and unforgettable sunrise/sunset moments near the lion enclosure.

Fathala anecdote

• Some visitors report hearing baboon calls in the middle of the night blending with a lion’s roar — guaranteed atmosphere for a safari night in the lodge.

Fathala practical information

• Location: Near Karang (Gambian border), between Sine-Saloum and The Gambia.
• Access: 4–5h by road from Dakar (organized excursions possible), 3h from Saly or the Petite Côte.
• Hours: 8 a.m.–6 p.m., safaris mainly morning and afternoon; lion walk at fixed times (reservation required).
• Rates: 25,000–35,000 FCFA (€40–55) for a classic safari; “walk with lions” extra; lodge stays from €150 per night.
• Services: Restaurant, pool, bar, shop, rest area, 4×4 rental possible, multilingual guides (FR, EN).
• Best season: Year-round; dry season ideal (Nov–May), green season (lush landscapes, animals sometimes harder to spot).
• Conditions: Supervised lion walk.