2-Day Senegal Safari and Saloum Delta Tour with Lion Walk

2 Days From you hotel in Gambia to The Gambia Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Cross the Gambia River by ferry and journey into Senegal through scenic countryside
02 2-hour safari game drive in Fathala Wildlife Reserve to spot giraffes, zebras, rhinos, buffalos, monkeys, and antelopes
03 45-minute guided Lion Walk with rangers in a controlled setting (minimum height 1.45 m)
04 Village tour around Toubacouta with cultural encounters and local traditions
05 Pirogue boat exploration of the Saloum River mangroves, including Shells Island and birdwatching, including the Goliath heron

Discover the best of Senegal in just two days with a thrilling mix of safari wildlife, an unforgettable Lion Walk, and the tranquil beauty of the Saloum Delta. Travel from The Gambia via the Banjul-Barra ferry and cross into Senegal for an immersive adventure led by rangers and local experts. Enjoy a game drive in Fathala Wildlife Reserve, then slow the pace with a warm village visit near Toubacouta and an overnight stay by the river. On day two, cruise the mangrove-lined Saloum River by traditional pirogue, looking out for remarkable birdlife and visiting Shells Island before returning in the evening.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 2 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Included · Standard

Transport Included

Wheelchair access No

Cities Serre Kunda, Banjul, Fathala Wildlife Reserve, Barra

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Fathala Safari, Lion Walk, and Toubacouta Village

6:00-6:30 AM: Pick-up from your hotel or residence. Drive to Banjul and board the ferry to Barra (North Bank).
Enjoy the scenic ride as you cross the Gambia River.
Continue through the countryside to the Gambia-Senegal border for customs and immigration formalities.
Proceed to Fathala Wildlife Reserve.
Upon arrival, receive a briefing from the rangers on safety and the day's activities.
Embark on a 2-hour safari game drive, spotting wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, rhinos, buffalos, monkeys, and antelopes in their natural habitat.
After the game drive, join the rangers for a 45-minute Lion Walk, walking alongside these majestic animals in a controlled and safe environment.
Note: A height restriction of 1.45 meters applies for the Lion Walk.
Drive to Toubacouta village, a charming community near the Saloum Delta.
Check in at Keur Saloum Hotel, renowned for its panoramic views of the Saloum River. Enjoy a delicious lunch at the hotel.
In the afternoon, explore the neighbouring settlements, interact with locals, and learn about their traditions and daily lives.
Dinner and overnight stay at Keur Saloum Hotel, where you'll unwind with the soothing sounds of the river.

Day 02

Saloum River Exploration and Return Journey

Morning: Breakfast at the hotel. Board a traditional pirogue boat for an enchanting exploration of the Saloum River.
Navigate the vast mangroves and admire the unique ecosystem, including oyster beds and lush vegetation.
Spot wildlife, including the Goliath heron, the world's largest heron, and other bird species.
Visit Shells Island, an island made entirely of seashells, offering a glimpse into the area's historical and cultural significance.
Stop at Birds Mangrove Island, anchor the boat, and explore the serene surroundings filled with birdlife and natural beauty.
Return to the hotel for a hearty lunch.
Prepare for the journey back and depart for the Senegal-Gambia border.
Cross the border and catch the ferry back to Banjul.
Transfer to your hotel or residence, arriving in the evening.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — From you hotel in Gambia to The Gambia 4 cities · 2 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Round-trip transportation with a professional driver and guide
Ferry crossings
Entry fees for all activities, including the safari game drive and Lion Walk
1-night accommodation with bed and breakfast
Boat ride on the Saloum River
Village tour in Toubacouta
Unlimited bottled water during the trip

What's Not Included

Drinks and meals
Personal expenses and souvenirs
Gratuities for guides and drivers

What to bring

Passport and travel documents
Yellow fever vaccination card for border formalities
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
Mosquito repellent
Camera or smartphone for capturing memories

Know before you go

2-hour safari game drive at Fathala Wildlife Reserve featuring iconic African wildlife such as giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and antelopes
A once-in-a-lifetime Lion Walk experience
Village exploration in Toubacouta, providing insights into local Senegalese life
A scenic boat ride on the Saloum River, navigating mangroves and discovering unique ecosystems
Visit to Shells Island, a historic and cultural treasure built entirely of seashells
Birdwatching at Birds Mangrove Island, home to species like the Goliath heron and other waterfowl

Logistics