From Saly & Dakar: Walk with Lions Fathala Wildlife Reserve – How to Plan Your Tour

Are you planning to visit Senegal and looking for a unique wildlife experience? Then the Fathala Wildlife Reserve is a perfect destination for you. Located four hours away from Saly, it is an ecological sanctuary that allows visitors to explore the natural habitat of a variety of animals, including lions, giraffes, zebras, warthogs, and antelopes. And the best part? You can walk alongside the lions, under the guidance of experienced guides. In this post, we will guide you on how to plan your tour to Fathala Wildlife Reserve, so that you can enjoy a stress-free and unforgettable experience.

Experience

The Fathala Wildlife Reserve tour is one of the most popular outdoor activities in Senegal, especially for those who love nature and wildlife. The highlights of the tour include:

• Seeing diverse wildlife in the famous Fathala Park
• Walking with lions with an experienced guide
• Benefitting from comfortable transportation in a modern vehicle

How to Get There

Fathala Wildlife Reserve is situated in the southern part of Senegal, near the Gambia border. The best way to get there is through the capital city of Dakar or Saly, which is a popular tourist destination. From Saly, you’ll embark on a 4-hour journey to the park, and during the journey, you’ll have the opportunity to see the beautiful landscape of Senegal. The best way to get to Fathala is through a guided tour. You can book a tour with a reputable tour company in Saly, like GetYourGuide, which offers comprehensive packages that include hotel pick-up and drop-off, transportation, and professional licensed guides.

What to Expect on the Tour

On the day of your tour, you will be picked up from your hotel in Saly at 6:00 AM to start your journey to Fathala Wildlife Reserve. Your driver will take you through the scenic route between Saly and Fathala, and you will be accompanied by a professional tour guide who will brief you on the day ahead. Once you reach the entrance of the reserve, you will be taken on an exciting safari tour in a modern and comfortable vehicle. You will have the opportunity to see a variety of animals up close, including giraffes, zebras, monkeys, and antelopes. The park spans over 2000 hectares and is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna that can only be found in West Africa. The main highlight of the tour is the lion walk experience. You will have the opportunity to walk alongside the lions, led by an experienced guide who will keep you safe and provide you with all the information you need to know about these majestic creatures. After the lion walk, you can settle down for a delicious lunch at the restaurant located in the reserve. The restaurant offers a variety of local and international cuisines, and it’s the perfect place to relax and take in the beautiful surroundings. At the end of the day, your driver will bring you back to your hotel, and you should be back in Saly at around 8:00 PM.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Fathala Wildlife Reserve tour package includes:

• Walk with the lions
• Transportation
• Professional licensed guide
• Lunch

Book Your Tour Now

If you’re looking for a unique and unforgettable experience in Senegal, then Fathala Wildlife Reserve is definitely worth a visit. Walking with lions is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s the perfect way to get up close and personal with these beautiful creatures. To book the tour, simply visit the GetYourGuide website, and select the Fathala Wildlife Reserve tour package that suits you the best. Book here and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime!

Frequently Asked Questions About Saly

Saly is a coastal town in the west African country of Senegal. It is a popular tourist destination due to its natural beauty and cultural attractions. If you are planning to visit Saly, there are some important things you should know beforehand. In this FAQ, we will answer some of the most commonly asked questions about Saly.

1. What is the climate like in Saly?

Senegal has a tropical climate, which means that it is generally hot and humid all year round. The average temperature in Saly is around 30°C (86°F) during the day and 22°C (72°F) at night. The rainy season usually starts in June and ends in October. During this time, there can be heavy rainfall and thunderstorms. The best time to visit Saly is during the dry season, which runs from November to May.

2. What are the best things to do in Saly?

Saly has something to offer for everyone. Here are some of the top things to do in Saly:

a. Visit the beaches

Saly is known for its beautiful beaches. The most popular ones are Plage de Saly and Plage de la Somone. They offer stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.

b. Explore the wildlife

Saly is home to the Bandia Wildlife Reserve, which is a must-visit for animal lovers. Here, you can see animals like giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and antelopes in their natural habitat. You can also take a safari tour to explore the reserve.

c. Experience the culture

Saly has a rich cultural heritage that is worth exploring. You can visit the local markets to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts, or check out the traditional Senegalese architecture.

d. Try the local cuisine

Senegal is famous for its cuisine, which is a unique blend of West African, French, and Arab influences. Some of the must-try dishes in Saly include Thieboudienne (rice with fish and vegetables), Yassa (chicken or fish marinated in onions and lemons), and Fataya (meat or vegetable turnovers).

3. What is the currency used in Saly?

The currency used in Senegal is the West African CFA franc (XOF). You can exchange your currency at banks and exchange bureaus in Saly. Credit cards are also accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops.

4. What is the language spoken in Saly?

The official language of Senegal is French, but Wolof is the most widely spoken language in Saly. English is also spoken by some locals, especially in the tourism industry.

5. What is the transportation like in Saly?

Saly is a relatively small town, and most of the attractions are within walking distance. However, if you want to explore the surrounding areas, you can hire a taxi or a car. You can also take a local bus, which is an affordable option but can be crowded.

6. Is Saly safe for tourists?

Saly is generally a safe place for tourists, but it is always important to take precautions. Petty theft can be a problem in crowded areas, so it is best to keep your valuables out of sight. It is also advisable to avoid walking alone at night and to stick to well-lit areas.

7. What should I wear in Saly?

Senegal is a predominantly Muslim country, and it is important to respect the local customs and traditions. It is recommended to dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for the hot and humid weather.

8. Do I need a visa to visit Saly?

Most visitors to Senegal require a visa, which can be obtained from the Senegalese embassy in your home country or on arrival at the airport. It is recommended to check the visa requirements before you travel.

9. What is the time zone in Saly?

Saly is in the GMT (Greenwich Mean Time) time zone, which is the same as London, UK.

10. What are some useful phrases in Wolof?

Wolof is the most widely spoken language in Senegal, and it is always appreciated when tourists make an effort to speak the local language. Here are some useful phrases in Wolof:

• Hello – Salamalekum
• How are you? – Na nga def?
• Thank you – Jërëjëf
• Yes – Waaw
• No – Déedéet
• Goodbye – Naka nga def

Book Your Tour Now

Saly is a vibrant and culturally rich destination that is worth exploring. With its beautiful beaches, wildlife reserves, and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone. By following the tips and guidelines in this FAQ, you can make the most out of your trip to Saly.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Saly

Saly is a vibrant town located along the coast of Senegal known for its stunning beaches, spectacular scenery, and variety of things to do. If you’re planning a trip to Saly, it’s important to make the most of your time there by experiencing all that this amazing destination has to offer. Here’s how to have an unforgettable experience as a tourist in Saly.

1. Hit the Beaches

One of the main draws of Saly is its beautiful beaches. Saly and its surrounding area have a total of six beaches, all of which are open to the public. Here are some of the most popular beaches in Saly:

i. Mbour Beach

Mbour Beach is located along the coast of Saly and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. The beach has clean, soft sand, and the water is warm and clear. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes close to the beach where you can grab some food and drink or rent some umbrellas and beach chairs for a relaxing day on the beach.

ii. Royal Beach

Royal Beach is located in the north of Saly, and is a semi-private beach. The beach is kept clean and tidy, and there are plenty of sun loungers and umbrellas available for rent. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, visitors can also enjoy beach football or volleyball.

iii. La Somone Beach

La Somone Beach is located south of Saly, and it is arguably one of the most beautiful beaches in the area. Visitors can enjoy clear, warm waters and stunning views of the mangrove forests that fringe the beach. La Somone Beach is a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and beachcombing.

2. Take a Nature Tour

Saly is home to a wide variety of land and sea animals, as well as some incredible natural scenery. Taking a guided nature tour is a great way to explore the area’s rich flora and fauna. Here are some of the top nature tours in Saly:

i. Bandia Wildlife Reserve

The Bandia Wildlife Reserve is home to over 3,500 animals from 73 different species. Visitors can take guided tours of the reserve to see animals such as lions, giraffes, zebras, and antelopes. It’s a great attraction to visit if you’re looking to get up close and personal with the wildlife of Senegal.

ii. Joal Fadiouth Village

Joal Fadiouth Village is a fishing village located close to Saly, and it’s a great place to explore the natural beauty of the area. Visiting the village by boat, you can see the local fisherman at work and observe the colorful boats along the shoreline. The village itself is situated on a small island, which is also home to a Catholic cemetery and a mosque.

3. Go Shopping

If you’re interested in shopping, Saly has plenty of options for you. In the town centre, there are many shops and boutiques selling everything from traditional handicrafts to designer clothing. The local market is also a great place to visit if you are looking for unique souvenirs to take home.

i. Marche Artisanal

Marche Artisanal is one of the most popular markets in Saly, and it’s a great place to pick up handmade jewellery, textiles, and other handicrafts. The market is full of colorful stalls, and there’s always a lively atmosphere. Just be sure to haggle to get the best deals!

ii. Saly Center

Saly Center is a large shopping centre in the heart of the town, and it’s home to many shops and boutiques selling clothing, accessories, and more. It’s a great place to visit if you’re looking for a more modern shopping experience.

4. Embrace the Nightlife

Saly comes alive at night, with plenty of options for dining, drinking, and dancing. There are many bars, nightclubs, and restaurants in the town, so there’s something for everyone.

i. Papayer Nightclub

The Papayer Nightclub is one of the most popular spots in town for dancing and drinking. The music is lively, and the atmosphere is always electric. If you’re looking to party the night away, this is the place to be.

ii. The Cabane

The Cabane is a popular restaurant and bar located on the beach. Visitors can enjoy fresh seafood and cocktails while taking in the stunning ocean views. The Cabane also hosts live music on certain nights, making it a great place to spend an evening.

Book Your Tour Now

Saly is a fantastic destination for tourists looking for a mix of natural beauty, culture, and entertainment. With its beautiful beaches, rich flora and fauna, and vibrant nightlife, there’s never a dull moment in Saly. If you’re planning a trip to Senegal, be sure to spend some time exploring all that this incredible town has to offer.