Safari options in Dakar cut straight to the adventure, with four standout tours worth your time and money. The best basic choice is Bandia Park Safari – it’s well-organized and gets you close to rhinos, giraffes, and zebras in their natural habitat.
For water and wildlife lovers, the Half-Day Somone Lagoon and Bandia combo perfectly pairs a relaxing boat ride with game viewing. The Full-Day Safari and Pink Lake Tour offers great value, combining Africa’s wildlife with the remarkable pink waters of Lake Retba.
True safari enthusiasts should consider the two-day Dakar-Goree-Pink Lake package. It thoughtfully mixes history at Goree Island with wildlife viewing at Bandia Reserve, and includes the stunning Pink Lake – all with expert local guides who know their stuff.
Let’s examine these top safari experiences in detail.
Key Points
- Bandia Park Safari offers a diverse wildlife experience featuring rhinos, giraffes, and zebras, with a scenic drive to Lac Rose and a local buffet lunch included.
- The Half-Day Somone Lagoon and Bandia Park Safari provides a game drive and boat ride, with the opportunity to see giraffes, rhinos, buffalo, and crocodiles.
- The Full-Day Safari and Pink Lake Tour combines a visit to Bandia Animal Park, a boat ride at Lake Somone, and a traditional Senegalese lunch with knowledgeable guides.
- The Two-Day Experience: Dakar-Goree-Pink Lake-Safari Tour offers a comprehensive itinerary, including Goree Island, Pink Lake, and wildlife spotting at Bandia Reserve, with round-trip transportation.
- Customer reviews highlight the tours’ knowledgeable guides, memorable wildlife sightings, and the opportunity to experience Senegalese culture through food and music, providing good value for money.
Bandia Park Safari (Minimum 2 Participants)
The Bandia Park Safari offers visitors a captivating wildlife experience in the heart of Dakar, Senegal. Priced from $205 per person, this private tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts, with a minimum of 2 participants required.
The safari takes guests on a journey through the Bandia Park, where they can expect to see a stack of wildlife, including a diverse array of animals.
The tour also includes a scenic drive to Lac Rose, also known as the Pink Lake, where visitors can witness the salt harvesting process and admire the stunning baobab trees. The 4×4 ride through the dunes and along the beach adds to the adventure.
Throughout the experience, knowledgeable guides enhance the experience with their expertise, while a local buffet lunch with live music provides a taste of Senegalese culture.
While some reviews mention issues with pickup organization and 4×4 availability, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with the safari being highlighted as a trip highlight.
With free cancellation and a pay-later option, this tour is a recommended addition to any Dakar itinerary.
Read our full review: Bandia Park Safari (Minimum 2 Participants) Review
Book now: Check availability
Half-Day Somone Lagoon and Bandia Park Safari From Dakar
This half-day safari combines the thrill of a game drive at Bandia Park with the serene beauty of Somone Lagoon. Visitors will discover Senegal’s diverse wildlife, including giraffes, rhinos, buffalo, and crocodiles, during a 1.5-hour game drive.
Following the safari, they’ll enjoy a boat ride across Somone Lagoon to observe the mangrove forest ecosystem. Lunch at a local restaurant is included, providing an opportunity to sample the region’s cuisine.
The tour offers flexible pickup options, with the option to meet at either a hotel lobby or a specified point for those staying in private apartments. The experience begins at 8:00 am and concludes back at the original meeting point.
Inclusions cover all activities, transportation, a local guide, and gratuities. While not recommended for pregnant travelers or wheelchair users, the tour does provide infant seats.
Customers have praised the knowledgeable guides and memorable wildlife sightings, though some have noted issues with vehicle comfort and communication. The tour provides a unique and comprehensive introduction to Senegal’s natural wonders.
Read our full review: Half-Day Somone Lagoon and Bandia Park Safari From Dakar Review
Book now: Check availability
FULL-DAY SAFARI and PINK LAKE TOUR (Minimum 2 Pax)
Embarking on a full-day safari and pink lake tour from Dakar, guests embark on an immersive exploration of Senegal’s diverse natural wonders. The tour, suitable for a minimum of two participants, offers an air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation to captivating destinations.
Highlights include a visit to the Bandia Animal Park, where guests can spot rhinos, zebras, giraffes, and warthogs on a private tour. The adventure continues with a boat ride at the scenic Lake Somone, followed by a traditional Senegalese lunch at Café Rasta, featuring the iconic thieboudienne dish and refreshing baobab juice.
Knowledgeable and engaging guides enhance the cultural experience, providing educational insights that deepen guests’ understanding of the region. The tour’s high rating of 5.0 out of 7 reviews attests to the positive experiences shared by previous travelers, who praised the tour’s value for money, memorable activities, and personalized service.
However, the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems, pregnant travelers, or those with serious medical conditions, as a moderate level of physical fitness is required.
Read our full review: FULL-DAY SAFARI and PINK LAKE TOUR (Minimum 2 Pax) Review
Book now: Check availability
Experience Dakar-Goree-Pink Lake-Safari Tour in 2 Days
Travelers seeking to maximize their time in Dakar can embark on a comprehensive two-day tour that showcases the city’s diverse cultural and natural attractions.
The “Experience Dakar-Goree-Pink Lake-Safari Tour in 2 Days” offers an ideal itinerary for those looking to experience the highlights of the region in a short amount of time.
The tour includes visits to the historic Goree Island, known for its significant role in the slave trade, as well as the stunning Pink Lake, famed for its rose-hued waters.
Guests will also enjoy a safari at the Bandia Reserve, where they can spot a variety of wildlife, including rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and more.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, air-conditioned vehicles, a 4WD Jeep safari, and all meals, fees, and beverages.
The private nature of the tour ensures a personalized experience, and the responsive operator and well-executed schedule have received positive reviews from previous travelers.
With free cancellation and unlimited rescheduling, this two-day tour is a convenient and comprehensive way to explore the best of Dakar.
Read our full review: Experience Dakar-Goree-Pink Lake-Safari Tour in 2 Days Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Cancellation Policy for These Safari Tours?
The cancellation policy for these safari tours typically allows for full refunds if the reservation is cancelled at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure. Last-minute cancellations may incur a fee or forfeiture of the booking.
Can I Book These Tours as a Solo Traveler?
Yes, solo travelers can typically book these safari tours. Many tour operators welcome individual bookings and provide private options for solo travelers. Clients should inquire about any additional fees or surcharges that may apply for solo participants.
Are the Safari Vehicles Equipped With Air Conditioning?
The safari vehicles are typically equipped with air conditioning to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for travelers, regardless of whether they’re visiting as solo travelers or in a group. The air conditioning helps regulate the temperature and provide relief from the heat.
Do the Tours Provide Vegetarian/Vegan Meal Options?
Many safari tours do offer vegetarian and vegan meal options to accommodate dietary preferences. Inquiring about meal choices when booking the tour is recommended to ensure the availability of suitable food options during the safari experience.
Can I Bring My Own Camera Equipment on the Safaris?
Yes, most tour operators allow visitors to bring their own camera equipment on safaris. They encourage guests to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife they’ll encounter during the excursion. It’s best to check with the specific tour company for any policies or restrictions.
Recap
Dakar offers a variety of safari tours, catering to different interests and budgets. From the Bandia Park Safari to the FULL-DAY SAFARI and PINK LAKE TOUR, travelers can explore Senegal’s diverse wildlife and natural landscapes. These tours provide an opportunity to experience the best of Dakar’s safari offerings, making it a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts.