Mountain biking in the Saloum follows the bolongs, the traditional villages and the fishing areas of the delta, on sandy tracks lined with baobabs and mangrove trees. Bike, helmet and guide are included, for about 2 h 30 to 3 h, from age 12.

Riding between bolongs and baobabs

The start is around Ndangane or Mar Lodj, with a local guide. The circuit crosses isolated hamlets, areas of bush and wooden walkways leading to the banks of the delta, over mixed terrain of tracks, sand and paths. E-bikes make progress in the sand easier and let you go further, to viewpoints over the mangrove and the islets.

Breaks are planned to watch the birds, pelicans, herons and egrets, and to chat with residents about their lives set by the tides. A snack is offered halfway, often at an eco-camp or under a giant kapok tree. The level is moderate, with a few sandy stretches, and some circuits include short passages on walkways or embankments.

Included are the bike, the helmet and the guide, and the activity is open from age 12. Bring water, sunglasses, sun cream and light clothing. The best season is the dry season, from November to May.

If you live in Senegal and are staying in the Saloum, it is a sporty outing of under three hours that fits between two pirogue trips. If you are visiting, it is a way to see the interior of the delta, villages and mangrove, without walking for hours.

The delta, seen from the track

The Saloum is a UNESCO-listed delta, about 150 km south of Dakar. Sine-Saloum brings together the area’s activities, and the Sine-Saloum Delta page tells of its islands and villages. The delta falls under the Fatick region.

Other ways to see the delta

To complete the outing, a visit to Mar Lodj, a pirogue ride and a night in a camp at the water’s edge are classics. Other guided hikes are also available on foot.