How to Plan Your Excursion to Djoudj National Park

Djoudj National Park is a bird and wildlife sanctuary located in the north of Senegal, near Saint-Louis, and it is the third largest bird sanctuary in the world. The park is home to vast flocks of migratory birds, some of which travel great distances to breed and flourish in the sanctuary’s unique habitat. The park covers around 16,000 hectares of wetland, and it is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are planning a trip to Senegal, a visit to Djoudj National Park is a must, and this guide will help you plan a great excursion.

Experience

This tour is an incredible opportunity to explore the wildlife in one of Senegal’s best-protected national parks. With a professional accredited tourist guide that will accompany you during your visit, you can see a wide variety of bird species and learn about the different migration patterns they observe. The landscapes are also breathtaking, which makes for a truly unforgettable experience.

Highlights

The Djoudj National Park is among West Africa’s most critical wetlands, with millions of migrating birds and other creatures, including crocodiles, being spotted regularly in the area. You can bore your adrenaline with the various species of birds you’ll have to watch like ducks, flamingos, pelicans, as well as several migratory birds, making different bird calls that will wow you. Enjoy a comfortable air-conditioned car pickup and drop off from your accommodation in Saly.

How to Get There

You can book the tour via the following link: book your tour here. The Djoudj National Park tour starts from Saly, and the tour operator provides a friendly driver who will take care of transport. They will be waiting for you at your accommodation for the pickup. The national park is a 2.5-hour drive from Saly, so please be prepared for a long journey to see the wildlife.

What to Bring and Wear

When you plan to visit the Djoudj National Park, you should come prepared with a few essential items. Bring lots of sunscreen and hats as you’ll be out in the sun for most of the day. Wear comfortable and lightweight clothing that will accommodate the hot weather. Avoid bright colors, though, as they may attract unwanted attention from the animals.

Ensure to pack your camera and extra batteries, for photographing the birds and the animals in the park. Bring a quality pair of binoculars as well so that you can make out the birds and other wildlife in more detail. Lastly, bring plenty of water and snacks that you can consume during the day as the park has no accommodations except a sitting area.

Conclusion

Djoudj National Park is an awesome natural wonder with spectacular landscapes and birds, it is truly a must-see. The best way to plan your visit is to book your tour through the provided link, get your gear ready, and prepare yourself for a unique and once in a lifetime experience in nature. Don’t forget to pack sunscreen, wear comfortable clothes, pack water and snacks, and bring necessary birdwatching equipment like binoculars and cameras. With these tips, you’re guaranteed a successful trip to Senegal’s Djoudj National Park.

An Insider’s Guide to Visiting Saint Louis, Senegal and Djoudj National Park

Nestled in the northern part of Senegal, Saint Louis is a charming city that offers an array of local attractions, dining spots, and cultural experiences to visitors. Its most famous attraction is the Djoudj National Park, which harbours an incredible variety of birds and other fauna. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you plan for your excursion to Djoudj National Park.

Local Attractions:

There is plenty to see and do in Saint Louis, besides visiting Djoudj National Park. The Saint Louis Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is perfect for exploring on foot. The island is home to several colonial-style buildings, including the Governor’s Palace and the tall “maison de nains” – the house of the dwarfs.

After exploring the city, one can take an evening stroll along the Saint Louis beach and admire the sunset. Alternatively, visit the Faidherbe Bridge, which offers a panoramic view of the city and a great spot to watch people fishing.

Dining Spots:

In Saint Louis, you can find restaurants that offer a variety of authentic African cuisines. Whether you are looking for street food or fine dining, there is something for everyone. Chez Amady and La Marigotière restaurant are popular spots for local fish dishes. On the other hand, Ali Baba Restaurant offers a unique blend of Senegalese and Lebanese cuisine, with flavours that will tantalize your taste buds.

Cultural Experiences

Saint Louis is a melting pot of cultures, and visitors can immerse themselves in unique cultural experiences. One of the best cultural events is the Saint Louis Jazz Festival, held annually in May. Also, be sure to catch traditional music performances by the Senegalese ‘griots’ (storytellers) and visit local markets to buy traditional textiles, jewellery, and handicrafts.

Local History

Saint Louis has a rich history that dates back to colonial times when it served as the capital city of French West Africa. Tourists can visit the Musée de Saint Louis for insights into the city’s history and culture. The museum features exhibitions of traditional clothing, weapons and traditional musical instruments.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly immersive cultural experience, consider visiting the village of Djilor, located about an hour away from Saint Louis. The village is inhabited by the Serer, one of Senegal’s ethnic groups. Visitors can learn about the local culture, attend traditional ceremonies, and enjoy a traditional meal.

Another less known spot is the Langue de Barbarie National Park, situated on a thin sand spit that separates the Atlantic Ocean from the Senegal River. The park offers stunning scenery of sand dunes, ocean and lagoon. Visitors can go bird watching, kitesurfing and enjoy a picnic on the beach.

In conclusion, Saint Louis is a beautiful destination, and Djoudj National Park is undoubtedly its main attraction. With an array of local attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history and off-the-beaten-path suggestions, it’s no wonder that Saint Louis is a must-visit destination in West Africa.