DAY 1:
Arrival at Blaise Diagne Airport in Diass, welcome and transfer to the hotel
Dinner and overnight stay at the Hotel Lac Rose
The day begins with a delicious breakfast before setting off for the legendary Pink Lake. This unique and magical site is famous for its vibrant pink waters, particularly visible under the midday sun. You will also have the exceptional opportunity to observe locals extracting salt using traditional methods, an iconic activity that shapes local life and contributes to the region's economy.
To enrich this experience, several leisure activities will be offered: a canoe trip on the sparkling waters of the lake, a camel ride along the dunes, or a quad bike adventure (optional), offering spectacular views of this extraordinary landscape.
The day continues with a tour of the Senegalese capital, Dakar, to discover its cultural and historical treasures. The first stop is the monumental African Renaissance Monument, a symbol of African culture and the unity of the continent. Its impressive structure depicts three African figures forming a typical family, and a guided tour inside will reveal the history and events it commemorates, making this an experience that is both moving and inspiring.
Next, you'll soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Sadanga Market and Café des Arts, where you can admire beautiful traditional Senegalese clothing, paintings, and handcrafted sculptures. This is the perfect time to discover local art and crafts, and perhaps purchase some authentic souvenirs.
A delicious lunch will be served in a typical local restaurant before you continue your journey to the splendid Saly. Upon arrival, check into your charming hotel, followed by free time to enjoy the beach, the pool, or simply relax in this idyllic tropical setting.
The day ends with a refined dinner at the hotel and a relaxing night, lulled by the gentle murmur of the waves and the serenity of the Senegalese coast, perfect to conclude this unforgettable stage of your adventure.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel
The day begins with a delicious breakfast, a prelude to an unforgettable adventure on the splendid Petite Côte. Your morning starts with an immersive hike in the heart of the seaside resort, allowing you to discover the coastal landscapes, the local atmosphere, and the unique charm of this tropical destination.
Next, head to the prestigious Bandia Reserve, where an exceptional safari awaits. Accompanied by an experienced guide, you will explore this reserve, renowned for its rich wildlife, offering a fascinating spectacle with majestic rhinos, elegant giraffes, agile gazelles, imposing zebras and buffalo, as well as many other iconic species such as antelopes, warthogs, and Derby elands. Each sighting is narrated by your guide, revealing captivating anecdotes and details about the behavior and habitat of each species.
The reserve's flora is equally spectacular, notably with the presence of majestic baobabs, emblematic symbols of Senegal, some of which contain human bones, witnesses to ancient traditions and legends.
After this immersion in the local flora and fauna, head to the picturesque Somone Lagoon, a natural haven of peace home to a great diversity of birds and preserved ecosystems. A pirogue ride on its calm waters allows you to admire the rich birdlife and soak up the serenity of the place, a true paradise for nature lovers and photographers.
A tasty lunch will be served in a local restaurant, offering a moment of relaxation and indulgence before the free afternoon, ideal for enjoying the beach, relaxing or exploring the resort at your own pace.
For thrill-seekers and adventurers, additional options are available in the afternoon:
The day concludes with a refined dinner at the hotel and a peaceful night, lulled by the soothing sounds of the Petite Côte and the magical atmosphere of this region with its enchanting landscapes.
The day begins with a delicious breakfast before setting off for Ziguinchor, the vibrant heart of Casamance. Upon arrival, you will have the privilege of visiting a fruit processing unit, where courageous Diola women dedicate their expertise and passion to the production and sale of local fruits. This experience will immerse you in the authentic world of Senegalese food craftsmanship and allow you to understand the economic and cultural importance of these activities for the community.
After this gourmet and cultural immersion, lunch in the village of Edioungou, a convivial moment where you can taste local flavors in a typical and warm setting.
The afternoon will be dedicated to discovering the village's traditional crafts, with a visit to the door-making workshops. You will observe the women at work, discover the ancestral tools and meticulous techniques required to create these unique doors, true treasures of local heritage. This encounter is also an opportunity to talk with the artisans and gain a better understanding of their daily lives, their traditions, and the value of their work within the community.
Finally, we settled into the village campsite, a place imbued with authenticity and serenity, offering comfort and close proximity to the surrounding nature. The evening ended in a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for relaxing after a day rich in discoveries and encounters with local people. A restful night in the heart of Casamance concluded this unforgettable day.
The day begins with a hearty breakfast before departing for Oussouye, the true cradle of Diola culture. This fascinating village has preserved its ancestral traditions and initiation ceremonies, offering visitors a living testament to an authentic heritage. In Oussouye, you will have the honor of meeting King Simulumbai Diédhiou, the religious, spiritual, and traditional leader of the community. Residing in the sacred groves, he is considered a "collaborator of God," interceding with the spirits for the well-being of the village. An audience with the king and his royal court will allow you to discover the depth of Diola culture and rituals in a unique and solemn setting.
On the way to Mlomp, you will stop to witness the traditional palm wine harvest, an age-old practice that shapes local life. In Mlomp, a village of incomparable charm, you will be captivated by its authentic architecture: the two-story mud-brick houses built by the Senegalese riflemen.
depuis la Seconde Guerre mondiale, témoignent d’un style original et d’une identité culturelle intacte. A la découverte de l’histoire fascinante de l’ile de Carabane, Ancien comptoir colonial chargé d’histoire, l’Île de Carabane se dévoile comme un véritable joyau patrimonial niché entre les eaux du fleuve Casamance et les bolongs environnants. Bordée à l’est par le bolong d’Elenekine, à l’ouest par l’embouchure du fleuve, au nord par l’île Hitou et au sud par une mangrove luxuriante, cette île bénéficie d’une position géographique stratégique qui a profondément marqué son histoire. Dès 1836, la France décide d’y établir sa présence, avec l’accord du chef du village de Kagnoute, faisant de
Carabane was the very first French trading post in Casamance, and also the region's first administrative capital before Ziguinchor. A true crossroads of exchange, the island has long been a meeting place for different communities, cultures, and traditions, creating a unique blend of people and remarkable social richness. Today, Carabane Island captivates visitors with its peaceful atmosphere, preserved authenticity, and timeless charm. Between wild beaches, verdant mangroves, and the gentle island lifestyle, it offers an immersive experience where nature and history intertwine harmoniously. Strolling on the island is to take a break from time, feel the imprint of a rich past, and experience a special moment in the heart of authentic Casamance. A stopover in Carabane promises emotion, discovery, and a complete change of scenery. You can have lunch at a beachfront restaurant before settling comfortably into your accommodation on the island. Dinner and overnight stay at the local hotel.
After a hearty breakfast, set off on a new adventure in the heart of Casamance. You will embark on a motorized pirogue for a peaceful crossing through the bolongs, offering enchanting landscapes between lush mangroves and traditional villages, all the way to the Katakalousse Bridge.
Upon arrival, transfer by vehicle to Boucotte, with check-in at your charming hotel (Oudia or similar), nestled in a calm and green environment.
The exploration continues with the discovery of the authentic village of Diembéring, located near Cap Skirring. Built on dunes in the heart of vast palm groves and dominated by imposing kapok trees, this village offers an exceptional natural setting. A true bastion of Diola culture, Diembéring captivates visitors with its authenticity and the remarkable preservation of its traditions. You will discover a social organization structured into neighborhoods, each with its own public squares and "bombolongs," sacred and cultural spaces where ceremonies and traditional dances such as the Ekokon, the wrestlers' dance, take place.
This cultural immersion continues with a visit to the Sangawatt Eco-museum, a veritable open-air museum dedicated to the rich traditions of the Diola people. Created in 2002, this unique place plunges you into the spiritual and cultural world of the community. Guided by the passionate curator, you will enjoy an interactive and immersive experience: songs, dances, exchanges, and the discovery of ancestral rites will punctuate your visit.
You will also have the opportunity to explore traditional pharmacopoeia through medicinal plants, to observe the ritual objects, fetishes and sculptures used by priestesses to communicate with ancestors, and to better understand the beliefs and values that structure Diola society.
Sangawatt stands out for its philosophy deeply rooted in the appreciation of heritage: here, every visitor is invited to experience, understand, and respect the Diola cultural identity in a friendly and enriching atmosphere. This day, rich in human and cultural discoveries, will leave you with lasting memories. 
Unforgettable memories await, filled with living traditions, warm hospitality, and total immersion in the authentic soul of Casamance. The adventure continues towards Cap Skirring, famous for its idyllic beaches and peaceful atmosphere. Along the way, you'll experience an authentic immersion in the village of Kabrousse, a place steeped in history and the cradle of deeply rooted traditions. This stop will allow you to discover the daily life of the inhabitants, their customs, and the unique atmosphere that gives this emblematic Casamance village its charm.
A delicious lunch will then be served in a local restaurant, where you will enjoy Senegalese specialties in a friendly and warm setting, reflecting the legendary hospitality of the region.
In the afternoon, return to your hotel for some well-deserved relaxation before enjoying an exceptional evening immersed in culture. You will witness a vibrant traditional performance, blending dances, music, and captivating rhythms—a true expression of local cultural identity. This immersive and festive experience will perfectly round off your day, leaving you with vivid memories and a profound connection to the soul of Casamance.
Return and overnight stay
The day begins with a hearty and revitalizing breakfast, the perfect way to kick off this new adventure. The journey continues to Dakar, the vibrant capital of Senegal, where rich culture and lively city life await you for the next leg of your tour. Along the way, you'll enjoy the serene landscapes of the Casamance River and the lush Casamance countryside, offering an enchanting contrast between the natural beauty of the region and the modernity of the capital.
Overnight in Dakar
The day begins with a delicious breakfast before setting sail for an exceptional visit to the legendary Gorée Island. Located just four kilometers off the coast of Dakar, accessible in twenty minutes by boat, this iconic island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a living testament to the history of Senegal and Africa.
Over the centuries, Gorée was successively Portuguese, Dutch, and then French, becoming a major stronghold of the slave trade as early as the 17th century. Its narrow, sand-paved streets, houses with colorful balconies, and faded facades tell a story that is both tragic and fascinating. The guided walking tour immerses you in this unique atmosphere, where every corner evokes the memory of those who crossed the Atlantic in inhumane conditions.
The highlight of the visit is the famous House of Slaves, where slaves were gathered, sorted, and imprisoned before being shipped across the Atlantic. This poignant place evokes emotion and reflection, offering a profoundly human and memorable experience. Continuing your walk, you can discover other historical treasures of the island, testaments to its
A rich colonial and cultural past. After this immersion in history, return to the launch for the return trip to Dakar, taking with you unforgettable memories of this island with its timeless charm and rich history. Return to Dakar and then to AIBD
END OF CIRCUIT
