Mountain biking in Bandia, with or without electric assistance, mixes sport and discovery of wild nature: laterite tracks, giant baobabs, the lagoon’s wetlands and the animals of the reserve. Bike, helmet and guide are included.

Riding in the reserve, from the lagoon loop to the big circuits

From the first turns of the wheel, the setting changes: laterite tracks that wind through the bushes, stands of giant baobabs, lagoon wetlands visited by hundreds of birds, pelicans, flamingos, herons and egrets. A local guide goes with the group, combining wildlife watching, educational stops and photo sessions as close as possible to giraffes, zebras, rhinos or antelopes.

Thanks to the e-bike, the experience stays accessible to all, even on the hilly or sandy stretches. The circuit adapts to the level and wishes of the group, from a simple lagoon loop to wider circuits towards the edges of the park, sometimes as far as the Somone and its mangroves. Pauses let you enjoy a snack, talk about Fulani traditions, watch the antics of the green monkeys or simply listen to the silence of the savannah.

The best periods for seeing active wildlife are the morning and late afternoon. Suitable routes exist for families, with small bikes on request. Bring light clothing, closed shoes, a water bottle, sun cream and binoculars. Booking is advised, especially at weekends and during the school holidays.

If you live in Dakar, it is a sporty outing 65 km from the capital, combining cycling and safari. If you are visiting, it is a way to see the reserve other than by vehicle, at the pace of the pedals.

Bandia, the most accessible reserve

Located 65 kilometres from Dakar and 15 kilometres from Saly, the Bandia Reserve covers more than 3,500 hectares of wooded savannah. The Bandia page brings together the offers at this place, the Petite Côte gives the wider setting, and the Thiès Region ties the reserve to the coast.

To combine with the outing

To continue, other guided hikes let you walk, safaris are done by vehicle, and the Somone lagoon is the big neighbouring nature outing.