Bandia Wildlife Reserve
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Port
Dakar, Senegal
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At
$169
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 4½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
The Bandia Wildlife Reserve is situated 40 miles southwest of Dakar, in a dry forest dominated by acacia and very old baobab trees. A real ecological jewel in the crown of Senegal, it has succeeded in reintroducing much of the marvelous native flora and fauna that disappeared from Senegal centuries ago. In the grand setting of giant baobabs, thorny scrub and lush vegetation, herds of large antelopes and gazelles graze within the 2,500 acres of fenced natural habitat, soon to be extended to 8,600 acres. A specially-trained guide, matchless in his ability to spot a baby giraffe, a vulture's nest or a lone buffalo, leads you quite close to some of the animals -- a real treat for photographers. You'll leave the vehicle to walk at times.
In the dry season, stroll in the dry riverbed of the Somone River in the shade of Senegal's great mahogany trees.
Your competent guide offers detailed explanations of all the sights and sounds of the park. The African mammals you may see here include white rhinoceros, zebra, giraffes, buffalo, eland of Derby, Cape eland, oryx, roan antelope, cobs with crescent, cobs of Buffon, greater kudu, impala, rammed gazelle, red-fronted gazelle, patas monkeys, green monkeys, jackals and mongoose. You will likely also come across crocodiles, giant tortoise, ostriches, and more than 120 bird species.
Notes:
You will travel by air-conditioned motorcoach. Transportation is basic compared to the transportation you will find elsewhere. At the Bandia Reserve, you will switch to a safari vehicle. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Limited tourism infrastructure is part of the charm here, and you are trading breadth of experience for authentic interaction. Please bring your spirit of adventure and bear with any language difficulties your guide may encounter and with any operational surprises that may crop up.