Complete Guide To National Parks In Senegal

Get ready to travel through national parks in Senegal on an unforgettable adventure! Senegal boasts some of the most incredible and diverse wildlife on the continent. From spotting rare bird species to getting up close to giant tortoises, there’s something for everyone in these stunning reserves.

Our guide is your perfect companion for exploring Senegal’s hidden gems, giving you insider tips on the best places to watch wildlife, the most scenic hiking trails and the best times of year to visit. Whether you’re travelling alone or with an adventurous family, we’ve got all the information you need to make the most of your trip.

So pack your bags, grab your binoculars and get ready to be amazed by the stunning natural beauty that Senegal has to offer. Whether you’re an experienced nature lover or just looking for a new and exciting adventure, Senegal’s national parks and wildlife reserves are waiting to be explored!

Read Is Senegal Worth Visiting? Discover This Magic Destination

Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary

Oh, the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, where do I begin? This place is a bird and nature lover’s paradise! More than 3 million birds of 350 different species live here.

When you visit, you’ll have the chance to see pelicans, flamingos, herons, egrets and many more stunning feathered friends! And the best part? You can get up close and personal with them! The sanctuary offers boat tours that take you through the winding canals and marshes where the birds call home.

But don’t worry, it’s not just the birds you’ll see on this tour! You’ll also see local villages and communities, giving you a real taste of Senegalese culture. You might even spot crocodiles and other wildlife along the way if you’re lucky!

Here are some important facts about Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary:

• Famous for: Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its outstanding natural value and biodiversity.
• How big is it?: The sanctuary covers an area of over 16,000 hectares and is home to over 3 million birds from 350 different species, making it one of the most important bird sanctuaries in the world.
• What can I see there?: Some of the most common bird species found in Djoudj include pelicans, flamingos, cormorants, egrets, herons, cocodriles, hyenas, and jackals.

• Where is it located?: The sanctuary is located in the Senegal River delta. It’s about 60 miles (96 km) north of Dakar, Senegal’s capital city. Near the city of St. Louis.
• How to get there?: From Dakar the journey takes approximately 2-3 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. Alternatively, you can also take a domestic flight from Dakar to Saint-Louis, the closest city to the sanctuary, and then take a short taxi ride to the park entrance.
• Best time to visit: Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is during the dry season, which runs from November to May, when the water levels are low and the birds are most active.
• How much is it?: The entrance fee was 7,500 CFA francs for foreign adults and 3,500 CFA francs for foreign children the last time we checked. But it’s always a good idea to check with local authorities or tour operators for the latest information on entrance fees and any other costs associated with visiting the sanctuary.
• Best way to visit the sanctuary?: The sanctuary offers guided boat tours that allow visitors to get up close and personal with the birds and explore the winding channels and marshes of the wetlands.

Parc National du Delta du Saloum

The Parc National du Delta du Saloum is one of my favourite places in Senegal. If you haven’t been there yet, you are in for a treat!

The park is located where the Saloum River meets the ocean, and it’s an incredible place to explore. Lush mangrove forests abound with monkeys, birds and other wild animals.

If you’re feeling adventurous, hop in a boat and cruise the river or try your hand at fishing. You can also take a walk through the sand dunes or visit one of the many small islands scattered throughout the park.

And don’t forget to try some of the delicious seafood the locals are famous for. With its beautiful scenery and friendly people, the Parc National du Delta du Saloum is a must-visit destination in Senegal.

• Famous for: The Saloum Delta is considered to be one of the most important wetlands in West Africa and is recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve.
• How big is it?: The park is located in the delta region of the Saloum River, where it flows into the Atlantic Ocean. It covers an area of approximately 76,000 hectares.

• What can I see there?: The park is home to over 200 species of birds, including the African fish eagle, osprey, pink-backed pelican, and flamingo. You can also see several species of monkey, including the green monkey, patas monkey, and vervet monkey. And if you visit the mangrove forests you can experience firsthand how they provide an important habitat for many species of fish, crab, and mollusk, which are a major source of food for local communities.
• Where is it located?: The park is located near the town of Palmarin, which is famous for its sandy beaches and traditional fishing villages.
• How to get there?: From Dakar you can either hire a car or take a taxi to the park, which is located about 200 kilometers southeast of the capital of the country. You can also take a bus or shared taxi from Dakar to the town of Kaolack, which is the nearest major town to the park. From Kaolack, you can then take a taxi or hire a private car to take you to the park.
• Best time to visit: The best time to visit Parc National du Delta du Saloum is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. During this time, the weather is typically warm and sunny, with little to no rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking, birdwatching, and boat tours.
• How much is it?: The entrance fee for Parc National du Delta du Saloum varies depending on the type of activity you wish to do and the length of your visit. The entrance fee for a day visit to the park is 5000 CFA francs (approximately 8.5 USD). For longer visits or overnight stays, there may be additional fees for camping, lodging, or other activities. It’s worth noting that prices are subject to change, and it’s a good idea to check with the park authorities or your tour operator for up-to-date pricing information.
• Best way to visit the park?: Visitors to the park can explore the sand dunes, take a boat tour through the mangroves, or visit one of the many small islands scattered throughout the park.

Parc National du Niokolo-Koba

Parc National du Niokolo-Koba is one of the most breathtaking places I’ve ever been! You’ll absolutely love this park if you love nature and wildlife.

Situated in the south-east of Senegal, the park is a vast expanse of dry savannah, rugged hills and dense forest that’s home to an incredible array of animals. I’ve seen everything from lions, leopards and elephants to antelopes, baboons and warthogs.

Going on a guided safari is one of my favourite things to do in the park. The park rangers are extremely knowledgeable and can take you to the best places to see wildlife. There’s nothing like seeing a herd of elephants or a pride of lions basking in the sun.

You can also hike through the hills or canoe down the Gambia River if you’re feeling adventurous. The river offers a unique perspective on the park’s ecosystem and is an important lifeline for the park’s wildlife.

Read Niokolo-Koba National Park: An Exciting Adventure into Senegal’s Wilderness

Here are some interesting facts about Parc National du Niokolo-Koba:

• Famous for: It was established in 1954 and was designated a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1981.
• How big is it?: The park covers an area of approximately 9,000 square kilometers and is the largest national park in Senegal.
• What can I see there?: The park is home to over 80 species of mammals, including elephants, lions, leopards, hyenas, and warthogs. It is also a haven for birdwatchers, with over 330 species of birds found within the park, including the African fish eagle, vulture, and bee-eater.

• Where is it located?: Parc National du Niokolo-Koba is located in southeastern Senegal, near the border with Guinea.
• How to get there?: The distance from Dakar to Parc National du Niokolo-Koba by road is approximately 600 kilometers (370 miles). The travel time can vary depending on traffic and road conditions, but it typically takes between 8 and 10 hours to reach the park from Dakar by car or bus. You can also travel by plane. The closest airport to the park is Tambacounda Airport, which has regular flights from Dakar. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a pickup with your hotel or tour operator.
• Best time to visit: The best time to visit the park is during the dry season from November to May, when wildlife sightings are more common and the weather is pleasant.
• How much is it?: The entrance fee for Parc National du Niokolo-Koba was 5000 CFA francs (approximately 8.5 USD) per person per day. It’s worth noting that prices are subject to change and may vary depending on the season and the type of activity you wish to do.
• Best way to visit the park?: The park offers a range of activities, including guided safaris, canoe trips, and birdwatching tours. Plan your activities ahead of time to make the most of your visit.

NOTE: Unfortunately, the park has faced several challenges in recent years, including poaching, habitat destruction, and conflicts with local communities. Efforts are underway to address these issues and protect the park’s unique ecosystem.

Basse Casamance National Park

The Basse Casamance National Park is one of the most exciting and adventurous destinations in Senegal! A place where you can experience the raw and wild beauty of Africa up close, this is not your typical nature park.

Firstly, the park is located in a region steeped in history and culture. The Jola people have lived in the area for centuries, and their traditions and customs have become an integral part of experiencing the Park. There’s so much to learn and discover about the local culture, from music and dance to storytelling and crafts.

Another interesting thing is that the Basse Casamance National Park is home to some of the most incredible animals on the planet, including chimpanzees, monkeys, elephants and even leopards. It’s an experience you’ll never forget – imagine the thrill of meeting one of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat!

What is more, you’ll find dense woodlands, winding rivers and rolling hills. Whether you’re an avid hiker or a casual nature lover, there are plenty of trails to explore, each offering a unique perspective on the park’s natural beauty.

Then there’s the Casamance river. Canoeing down the river is one of the park’s highlights. You’ll paddle through the heart of the park, spotting wildlife and taking in the incredible scenery.

In short, Basse Casamance National Park is the ultimate adventure destination. With its incredible wildlife, rich culture and breathtaking scenery, it’s a place that will inspire and excite you in ways you never thought possible.

• How big is it?: The park covers over 500 square kilometers.
• What can I see there?: A diverse array of wildlife, including chimpanzees, elephants, and over 200 species of birds.

• Where is it located?: Basse Casamance National Park is located in southern Senegal, near the border with Guinea-Bissau.
• How to get there?: The nearest airport to the park is the Ziguinchor Airport (ZIG), which receives flights from Dakar and other major cities in Senegal. From the airport, you can hire a taxi or take a bus to Basse Casamance National Park.
• Best time to visit: The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, which runs from November to May.
• How much is it?: The entrance fee for Basse Casamance National Park is currently 10,000 CFA francs per person (equivalent to about 15 USD). However, prices are subject to change, so it’s always a good idea to double-check before you go.
• Best way to visit the park?: Visitors can explore the park on foot or by car, and there are several hiking trails and scenic drives to choose from. The Casamance River runs through the park, and taking a canoe trip down the river is a popular activity for visitors.

Langue de Barbarie

If you’re planning a trip to Senegal, be sure to visit the Langue de Barbarie National Park. This stunning park is a true gem of West Africa, boasting some of the country’s most incredible natural beauty and a diverse array of wildlife that will leave you in awe.

One of the best things about this park is how easy is to get there, which is not very usual by African standards. The trip must start from Saint Louis, a super cool city in the north of the country. From there, you can take a taxi, or if you are on a low budget, you can opt for the bus, which is much cheaper. The journey should take too long because they are only a short distance away. Another option that is the best, in my opinion, is hiring a private car or taking a boat tour to reach the park. This way, you will have a unique and exciting experience. Obviously, this option is a lot more expensive, but if you can afford it, it´s just awesome!

You’ll find a wide variety of fascinating plants and animals as soon as you approach the park. Incredibly diverse fauna is also abundant, ranging from the rare and imperiled West African manatee to the breathtaking pink flamingos that dot the countryside.

Langue de Barbarie’s distinctive ecosystem, which combines freshwater and saltwater habitats to produce a genuinely unique environment, is what truly sets it apart. Due to the fact that the park is now home to over 150 different kinds of birds, it has become a well-known destination for birdwatchers worldwide.

With entrance fees starting at only a few dollars per person, visiting the park is very reasonably priced. Because of this, it is a practical and affordable choice for many kinds of travelers.

Therefore the Langue de Barbarie national park is the ideal location if you’re a fan of nature, an animal, or just looking for a singular and unforgettable experience. It is a must-see for anybody visiting Senegal because of its astounding natural beauty, varied species, and simplicity of access.