Senegal Unbound

Journey through Senegal's vibrant tapestry, where ancestral traditions meet avant-garde creativity to shape the nation's dynamic artistic renaissance.

9 Days | From $3,399

Where Tradition Meets Avant-Garde

Pulsating sabar rhythms, sun-drenched Atlantique coasts, kaleidoscopic fabric markets, and the aromatic spices of Senegalese cuisine—this is a sensory journey that ignites the spirit and nourishes the soul. From the avant-garde ateliers of Dakar to the tranquil mangroves of Sine Saloum, from the jazz-infused streets of Saint-Louis to the sacred grounds of Touba, join us in exploring a land where ancestral wisdom and cutting-edge vision converge, crafting a uniquely Senegalese experience.

About your trip

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Senegalese culture. Our journey weaves through three distinct regions, each offering a unique perspective on this dynamic country. From the creative pulse of Dakar, West Africa's burgeoning artistic hub, to the colonial echoes of Saint-Louis, and the serene rhythms of the Sine Saloum Delta, you'll experience Senegal's remarkable cultural diversity. We've thoughtfully crafted an itinerary that reveals the country's multifaceted identity, striking a perfect balance between discovery and depth.

What’s included

  • Transportation to and from the airport

  • All activities mentioned on the itinerary

  • Boutique hotel accommodations in twin rooms

  • 8 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners

  • El Camino’s exclusive Eat, Play, Shop Guide

  • Experienced local host with you throughout the trip

Not included

Travelers must provide evidence that they have purchased travel insurance for the duration of their journey. If you’d like to upgrade to a single room, you can add this during the booking process. If you need assistance please contact our Customer Success team.

Itinerary

Flight

☞ Please remember to book separately

Day 1

☞ Arrival in Dakar (DKR) | Welcome dinner

Day 2

☞ Door of No Return | Visit a cutting-edge art gallery

Day 3

☞ African Renaissance Monument | Center for African art and knowledge

Day 4

☞ Traditional craft market exploration | Visit Black Rock Art Residency

Day 5

☞  Island beach day at Ile de Ngor

Day 6

☞ Journey to historic Saint Louis | Innovative upcycling artist studio

Day 7

☞ Djembe drumming class | Homestay cooking class with local family

Day 8

☞ Grand Mosque of Touba |  Lunch at an eco-lodge overlooking baobab-dotted landscapes

Day 9

☞ Mangrove delta exploration and shell island visit | Depart from Dakar

  • Welcome to Senegal

    Touch down in vibrant Dakar, Senegal's capital where modern African life pulses against a backdrop of colonial architecture and Atlantic coastlines. Upon arrival at Blaise Diagne International Airport, you'll be greeted by your guide and transported to our first accommodation, a charming boutique hotel in the heart of Dakar.

    As evening falls, join the group for welcome drinks, getting to know your fellow travelers before we make our way to dinner. Your first taste of Senegalese cuisine awaits at a beachfront restaurant, where the sound of waves complements the flavors of local specialties.

    Meals Included: Dinner

  • Gorée Island and Contemporary Art

    After breakfast at the hotel, we'll board a ferry to Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This small island holds centuries of history, playing a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade. We'll have a sobering tour of the dark history of the island, and stand in the Door of No Return, the last place captive slaves stood before entering ships bound for the Americas.

    Back in the city, lunch awaits at a beloved local institution known for its traditional Senegalese cuisine. Savor authentic flavors in a warm, inviting atmosphere that's a favorite among both locals and visitors.

    In the afternoon, we'll dive into Dakar's thriving contemporary art scene with a visit to a cutting-edge gallery. Experience a personalized tour, gaining insight into Senegal's modern artistic expression and its place in the global art world.

    The evening is yours to relax and enjoy. Tap into our extensive list of local recs in our Eat, Play, Shop guide to help point you in the right direction for the evening.

    Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch

  • Dakar's Monuments and Creative Hub

    We'll begin the day with a visit to the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa, which was commissioned by the country's then-president, Abdoulaye Wade. Climb to the top of the monument for a panoramic view of Dakar and take in the breathtaking sights of the city.

    Next, we'll dive into the heart of Dakar's creative scene by visiting a renowned center for art, knowledge, and society. This is an incredible opportunity to feel the creative heartbeat of Dakar and explore the authenticity of the city's arts and culture. You'll have the chance to engage with local artists and thinkers at the forefront of Senegal's creative economy, gaining insights into the vibrant artistic landscape of the region.

    You'll have the rest of the afternoon to explore the city further on your own or consult with your local host about additional activities in the area. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, visit more artist studios, or simply relax at the hotel.

    In the evening, we'll meet up again for a delightful dinner at a popular restaurant known for its fusion of traditional and modern Senegalese cuisine. Savor the unique flavors and reflect on the day's experiences.Senegal's creative economy.

    Meals included: Breakfast and dinner

Your Itinerary

  • Traditional Markets and Black Rock Artist Residency

    This morning, immerse yourself in the colors and energy of Dakar's markets. We'll visit a traditional craft market where you can browse and buy everything from wooden masks to batik prints. Next, we'll explore a historic market dating from the colonial era, offering a glimpse into daily Senegalese life.

    After lunch at a beachside café, we'll visit Black Rock, a world-renowned multidisciplinary artist residency that brings together international artists, writers, and filmmakers in a collaborative creative environment. Black Rock has gained global recognition for its role in fostering cultural exchange and supporting diverse artistic voices. You'll have the opportunity to tour the stunning oceanside compound, and gain insight into how this unique space is shaping contemporary African art on the world stage.

    The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy on your own.

    Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch

  • Island Escape and Cultural Shopping

    Today, we'll escape the bustle of Dakar for a serene island just off the city's northern shore. Spend the morning relaxing on palm-lined beaches, swimming in crystal-clear waters, and watching local surfers take on the waves.

    In the afternoon, we'll return to the mainland for a unique shopping experience at a center specializing in handmade West African products. You can find high-quality, ethically-produced items that showcase the region's rich cultural heritage. The rest of the evening is yours to explore. Tap your Eat, Play, Shop guide for local favorites.

    Meals included: Breakfast

  • Journey to UNESCO Colonial Town Saint-Louis

    We'll depart Dakar this morning, heading north to the historic city of Saint-Louis. Upon arrival, we'll check into our charming hotel, a beautifully restored colonial-era building that offers a perfect blend of historic charm and modern comfort. After settling in, we'll embark on a horse-drawn carriage tour of the colonial old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    In the afternoon, we'll visit the studio of an innovative local artist known for transforming bicycle parts into striking sculptures. This visit offers a unique perspective on how traditional artistic heritage is being reinterpreted and sustained through contemporary practice.

    For lunch, we'll dine at a picturesque restaurant situated on the water's edge. Here, you can savor fresh seafood and traditional Senegalese dishes while enjoying panoramic views of the Senegal River and the colonial architecture of Saint-Louis.

    Meals Included: Breakfast and lunch

  • Cultural Immersion in Saint-Louis

    Start your day with an invigorating djembe drumming class, where you'll learn basic rhythms central to Senegalese musical traditions. Following this, we'll visit a cultural museum that showcases primitive African art and the history of West African independence movements.

    In the afternoon, you'll have the opportunity to participate in a homestay-style cooking class with a local family. This hands-on experience will give you insight into Senegalese culinary traditions and family life, culminating in a shared meal of your own creation.

    For dinner, we'll visit a local restaurant known for its authentic Senegalese cuisine. Set in a traditional Senegalese house, this eatery offers a warm, intimate atmosphere where you can enjoy classic dishes prepared with a modern twist.

    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  • Spiritual Senegal

    Today, we'll journey to the holy city of Touba to visit its magnificent Grand Mosque, a pilgrimage site known for its stunning architecture. After exploring the mosque, we'll have lunch at an eco-lodge offering panoramic views of baobab-dotted landscapes.

    In the evening, we'll check into our accommodation for the night - a boutique lodge nestled on the shores of a picturesque lake. This eco-friendly retreat offers stunning views, beautifully appointed rooms, and a chance to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Senegal.

    Dinner will be served at the lodge's restaurant, where you can enjoy gourmet cuisine that blends local flavors with international techniques, all while overlooking the tranquil waters of the lake.

    Meals Included: Breakfast and dinner

  • Sine Saloum Delta, Fish Market, and Farewell

    Our final day takes us south to the northern edges of the Sine Saloum Delta, a paradise for birdwatching enthusiasts. We'll start by visiting Joal-Fadiouth, a unique man-made shell island connected to the mainland by a picturesque footbridge. This majority-Christian community is known for its mixed-religion cemetery, symbolizing Senegal’s religious tolerance.

    After exploring the island, we’ll enjoy our last meal together at a charming restaurant overlooking the Saloum River, savoring local specialties while taking in the serene beauty of the delta.

    Before heading back to Dakar, we’ll stop at the bustling Mbour Market, home to one of West Africa's largest fish markets. You'll experience the vibrant energy of this major fishing hub and gain insight into an essential part of Senegal's economy and daily life.

    Depart from Dakar that night with a heart full of memories, new friendships, and a deeper understanding of Senegal’s rich culture and vibrant spirit.

    Meals included: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner

Accomodations

Please be aware that while we have reserved these hotels, there may be rare instances where changes are required due to unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, we will do our best to secure comparable accommodations, but due to timing, availability, and local infrastructure, options may be limited. Rest assured, we’ll do everything possible to ensure you have a comfortable and enjoyable stay.

  • Hotel Le Djoloff in Dakar is a charming boutique hotel that perfectly captures the vibrant spirit of Senegal. Located in the lively Fann Hock neighborhood, this stylish hotel combines traditional Senegalese design with modern comforts. With its warm, inviting atmosphere, the hotel features uniquely decorated rooms, a rooftop terrace offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean, and an on-site restaurant that serves delicious, locally inspired cuisine. Le Djoloff provides a tranquil escape while keeping you close to Dakar’s bustling cultural scene, making it the ideal base for exploring the city.

  • Hotel de la Résidence in Saint Louis, Senegal, is a simple and clean boutique hotel, ideally situated in the heart of the city’s UNESCO-listed old town. Its prime location allows easy access to Saint Louis’ historic sites, bustling markets, and cultural attractions. With basic yet comfortable rooms, a charming courtyard, and an on-site restaurant offering Senegalese and French-inspired dishes, it serves as a great base to explore the vibrant culture and history of Saint Louis.

  • Souimanga Lodge is a boutique eco-lodge located in the serene Sine-Saloum Delta of Senegal, surrounded by lush mangroves and tranquil waterways. The lodge features charming bungalows with private terraces that offer views of the lagoon or gardens, blending comfort with nature.

Important Notes

  • We are your team of travel experts, dedicated to making your journey effortless and unforgettable. What sets us apart is that we’re one of the few travel companies offering an immersive adventure into Senegal’s most diverse and dynamic regions.

    Join El Camino Travel on an exclusive journey through the vibrant city of Dakar, the colonial charm of Saint-Louis, and the tranquil beauty of the Sine Saloum Delta. From vibrant markets and cutting-edge art to peaceful boat rides through mangroves and soulful drumming sessions, this adventure is designed to offer a rich and authentic experience.

    Early in our planning process, we made the intentional decision to slow things down, focusing on just three key regions, with minimal travel time, to ensure a deeper, more meaningful connection to the country.

    Dakar, Saint-Louis, and the Sine Saloum Delta are all uniquely captivating, and we wanted to honor their individuality. With no other tour companies offering this kind of deep dive into these specific regions, you’ll be among the few who get to experience the true heart of Senegal at a pace that lets you truly soak it all in. Your time is precious, and we’ve crafted this itinerary to ensure you explore the best of Senegal without wasting it in transit.

  • Fly into Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS)

  • We encourage travelers to aim for an arrival no later than 3 pm. This should allow you time to settle in ahead of any welcome activities.

    If you plan to depart on Day 9, please book an evening flight after 7 PM. We have a few activities planned for the morning and early afternoon that you won’t want to miss!

  • This trip is for the traveler who has an adventurous spirit, is looking to squeeze the most out of their time in Senegal, and cares about making the world a better place through responsible tourism. The trip is filled with experiences that allow you to be immersed in the varied cultures of Senegal. This traveler is open minded, inherently curious, and enjoys indulging in the moment. This trip is for the traveler who finds joy in stepping outside of their comfort zone, loves trying new things, and is excited to explore a culture completely different from their own. This trip is available to travelers from all walks of life who are over the age of 18.

    While El Camino Travel provides a high level of customer service, our traveler is someone who is easy-going and amenable to change in the diverse and unpredictable landscape of travel in Africa.

    This trip is also for a solo traveler who does not want to travel solo, but instead with an interesting group of people and for those who do not want to spend countless hours planning a trip of a lifetime.

    Our adventurous style of group travel is not for everyone. Please read carefully through the itinerary and the above description to ensure that you are booking a trip that fits your comfort level.

    Please review our Traveler’s Values here prior to booking.

  • We are not a luxury travel company, but we're not budget either. So what exactly does that mean? At El Camino Travel, we're all about the high-low. We enjoy fine dining but we also love street food. We fly coach but you can find us in the airport lounge. We'll splurge on something special like handmade pottery or a one-of-a-kind hand-sewn dress, but we also love searching online for a good deal. We love great style and design, but we also get excited about off-the-beaten-path experiences that are a little rough around the edges. We pride ourselves on designing trips that are authentic and real, understanding that any country is comprised of many lenses and lived experiences and that we can't possibly showcase them all.

    This duality can be seen in our trips. Our trips represent boutique travel—not luxury, not budget. We won't be staying at hostels but we won't be at luxury hotels either. We choose boutique hotels where we can prioritize things like location, character, charm, safety, and customer service.

    Sometimes we do experiences that feel more high-end. Sometimes we're going *way* off the beaten path to do something entirely unique, and sometimes that means it's a little unpolished. Our traveler is someone who enjoys both ends of the spectrum and understands that one isn't more authentic than the other.

    Luxury travel usually means a lot more hand-holding. While we provide a high level of customer service, our traveler is a little more adventurous and self-sufficient. We provide blocks of free time so you have the flexibility to explore the destination your way because we understand that everyone is different. Don’t worry though, we will make sure you are equipped with a curated list of all our favorite places to eat, play, and shop for when you are out on your own with your new travel friends.

    For some additional context, a luxury-travel version of our trips would start anywhere from $7,000-12,000. We mix the high-low versions of a destination to keep our trips more accessible.

  • Please note that our standard pricing is based on shared double rooms. This allows us, among many things, to keep the cost of the trip accessible to as many travelers as possible. If you’re booking this trip with a friend, family member, or significant other, let us know and we’ll place you together.

    Traveling solo? No problem—the majority of our travelers choose to fly solo. We’ll be in touch before the trip to learn a bit about you and find the best fit for a roommate. We will make it a priority to best situate you and we’re happy to chat more in-depth if you have any questions or concerns about this.

    Single room upgrades are available! A limited number of single rooms have been reserved. Please select this option at checkout if you’d prefer your own space. If all the single rooms have already been filled, please email us at info@elcamino.travel and we'll let you know if we can secure additional rooms to accommodate a single.

    We'll have more details regarding hotels prior to your trip, but we promise we chose these locations because they pass the El Camino standard of customer service and are clean, safe, and well-maintained.

    It's important to note that our accommodations are not luxury or high-end. We seek more boutique accommodations that are well-situated and allow us to make the most of our itinerary.

    We book enough rooms to accommodate the entire group at our preferred hotels well in advance, however, please be aware that emergencies with the hotel or other unforeseen events could result in last-minute changes.

  • We have a roster of well qualified hosts that we work with. Prior to your trip, you will receive a welcome packet that will inform you on who will be guiding your adventure. We proudly work with local hosts because no one is better equipped to provide layer upon layer of context than someone who is actually from there.

  • A non-refundable $500 deposit is due at the time of booking. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure.

    Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions for more information about our cancellation policy.

    Payment plans are now available using Affirm. Apply now to make monthly payments.

  • Our trips are very active, and involve a lot of walking, standing, and moving around—sometimes, in very high temperatures, with high humidity, on uneven roads and terrains, in busy cities. While we work to accommodate all travelers, other modes of transportation are not always available, due to infrastructure, making walking the only option. Travelers should be willing and able to walk anywhere up to 4 miles each day, up and down stairs and hills, and be able to stand for extended periods of time. If you have any concerns or questions about the activity level of this trip, have recently had surgery, or have any history of mobility issues, please reach out to us at info@elcamino.travel before booking. We want to ensure that everyone on our trips is safe, and will able to keep up with the active itinerary. By signing up for any of our trips, you agree to and understand that a certain level of physical fitness is required to safely participate in this itinerary.

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