Mountain biking in Dakar, with or without electric assistance, shows you the capital from the beach: sand, lagoons, fishing villages, at the pace of a guide. The outing lasts a full day and is made on a bike provided or on your own; helmet and guide are included.

A day on the bike, two ways to do it

Two full-day options are offered, priced per person:

• Bike hire, full day: the bike is provided, with helmet and guide.
• Outing with your own bike, full day: you bring your own equipment and the guide goes with you.

The ride usually starts on the beach, facing the Atlantic, with fat bikes or electric-assist bikes (e-bikes) to make progress on the sand easier. Some routes run along the urban lagoons, notably at Yoff, Ngor or in Hann Bay, and others pass through fishing villages or follow the coast. Stops let you chat with local people or have a drink by the water. The local guides share the history of the places, encourage respect for the beaches and adapt the pace to each participant.

You do not need to be a strong rider: many routes are easy, and e-bikes make the outing accessible even on the sandy sections. Bring sun cream, sunglasses, a cap and water.

If you live in Dakar, it is a way to see your city without a car or traffic jams, on a Sunday or a public holiday. If you are visiting, it is a way to read the peninsula from its edges, before or after the classic districts.

The beaches and lagoons of Dakar

The outings are organised around the coastline of the peninsula: the district of Yoff and its big beach, Ngor and its island, the bay of Hann, then the Almadies and their corniche. The Mamelles lighthouse is the high point of the west coast, and a landmark for the ride.

Around the ride

To stay with outdoor activities, other guided hikes are available, and bird watching finds its place on the lagoons, where herons and fiddler crabs show themselves.