The hike in Bandia lets you explore the reserve on foot, with a certified guide, on marked trails among baobabs and scrubby savannah. The walk lasts from 2 to 4 hours depending on the option, a nature guide and snacks are included, and the reserve entrance is payable on top.

Walking in the reserve

The route follows marked trails, through the baobab forest and areas of scrubby savannah. The guide shares his knowledge of the plants, animal behaviour and the sustainable management of the reserve. As you walk, you may spot giraffes, zebras, antelopes, buffalo, green monkeys and a multitude of birds. Observation pauses are planned at a respectful distance from the animals, so you can enjoy the spectacle without disturbing them.

The hike can extend over a half day or a full day, with a picnic in a secure area. It is accessible: the walk adapts to the group’s pace, with no need to be sporty. The nature guide and the snacks are included in the price; the reserve entrance is not included and is payable on top of the price.

Bring closed shoes, a hat, binoculars, sun cream and water.

If you live in Dakar, it is a way to see the reserve again, often toured by vehicle, with the rhythm and the silence of walking. If you are visiting, it is a chance to understand a protected ecosystem from the inside, away from the usual 4×4 circuit.

Bandia, 15 km from Saly

The reserve is in the Thiès region, 15 kilometres from Saly and about 65 km from Dakar. Opened to the public in 1990, it covers 3,500 hectares of wooded savannah: it is the most visited and most accessible wildlife reserve in Senegal. The Bandia page brings together the offers at this place, the Bandia Park page tells the story of the reserve, and the Petite Côte gives the wider setting, in the Thiès Region.

To extend your time around the reserve

To continue, safaris are available by vehicle, reserves and wildlife parks bring together other sites, and other guided hikes let you walk elsewhere on the coast. The beaches of Saly are close by to end the day.