Reserve de Bandia

A real ecological jewel in the crown of Senegal, the Bandia Wildlife Reserve has succeeded in reintroducing much of the marvellous native flora and of some of Africa's magnificent animals; many of which had long disappeared centuries ago, due to population pressures and poaching.

According to Mondios Guide, "Located on a small-scale Ngorogoro crater or Kenya's Masai Mara, the reserve of Bandia lends itself well to photo safaris and brings the legendary animals of Africa to your doorstep"

In the grandiose setting of giant baobabs, thorny scrub and lush vegetation, you will get a heart-stopping sight of herds of big antelopes and gazelle. All this lies within the 1,000 hectares of fenced natural habitat, soon to be extended to 3,500 hectares.

To enhance your visit, you will be led by a specially trained guide who is matchless in his ability to spot a baby giraffe, a vulture's nest or a lone buffalo.

You will get close to most of the animals; a real treat for photographers! You will also be able to get out and walk at times and may even get a closer look at a rhinoceros hidden in the bush. However, it is advisable to stay in your vehicle near male ostriches (with the black and white plumage) that are often aggressive, especially during the mating season. In the dry season, nature lovers even have the opportunity of going on a nature ramble in the dry riverbed of the Somone River in the shade of Senegal's great mahogany trees.

In addition to the fauna and flora, visitors can also see replicas of the Serere Pyramids with burial chambers, griot (traditional story tellers and entertainers) tombs in the hollow of a thousand year old baobab containing authentic human bones, a charcoal maker's grindstone, Peulh huts and more. Our competent guides, some of whom are multi-lingual, will give you detailed explanations of all the sights and sounds of the park, illustrated by delightful anecdotes.

A restaurant and bar overlooks a waterhole where buffaloes wallow and crocodiles lurk looking like floating logs.

The following lists out the itinerary of the tour:

- Departure early the morning (8:30 am) or at the end of the afternoon (4:00 pm)

- Driving by the forest of Baobab trees of Sommone.

- Crossing of the villages Peul Sérère in the bushes and, then, a visit to the reserve of Bandia in a 4x4.

- Return at the end of the morning or evening.