Family Adventure in Niokolo-Koba National Park

Unexpected Encounters in Niokolo-Koba

Today was a day of unexpected adventures and delightful discoveries! We ventured deeper into the heart of Niokolo-Koba National Park and experienced the vibrant life of Kédougou. It was a day filled with wildlife encounters, cultural immersion, and delicious Senegalese flavors.

The day began with the sounds of the African bush as we prepared for our journey to Halte parc Niokolo koba. The air was crisp, carrying the scent of damp earth and the promise of new sights. After packing our essentials – binoculars, camera, sunscreen, and of course, our trusty insect repellent – we set off. Moses was particularly excited, having charged his camera the night before, determined to capture the perfect shot of a lion. Hope, ever the observer, made sure to bring her travel journal to document every detail. I, on the other hand, was simply eager to soak in the natural beauty around us. It reminded me of the lush landscapes of Kyenjojo, Uganda, a comforting connection to home.

Our drive to Halte parc Niokolo Koba was an adventure in itself. The landscape transformed from open savanna to dense woodland, each turn revealing a new vista. We spotted several species of birds, their vibrant plumage a stark contrast against the green foliage. Moses, with his keen eyes, even pointed out a family of warthogs trotting across the road. The excitement was palpable; we were truly in the heart of the African wilderness. Arriving at Halte parc Niokolo Koba, we were greeted by the park rangers, their warm smiles immediately putting us at ease. They provided us with invaluable information about the park's trails and the best spots for wildlife viewing.


Discover the tranquility and natural beauty of Halte Parc Niokolo Koba, a serene oasis in Senegal perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers.

We decided to embark on a guided walk, eager to learn more about the park's ecosystem. Our guide, a local man named Ibrahima, was incredibly knowledgeable, sharing stories of the animals and plants that call Niokolo-Koba home. He spoke with such passion and respect for the land, it was truly inspiring. As we trekked through the bush, Ibrahima pointed out various animal tracks, explaining which animals had passed through and when. He showed us how to identify different types of trees and plants, explaining their medicinal properties and cultural significance. It was like stepping into a living classroom, each moment filled with new knowledge and appreciation for nature. We learned about the importance of conservation efforts in protecting this precious ecosystem, and how local communities are involved in preserving the park for future generations.

The earth has music for those who listen.

One of the most memorable moments of our walk was when we encountered a troop of baboons. They were playful and curious, swinging from trees and grooming each other. We watched in fascination as the young ones chased each other, their antics bringing smiles to our faces. Moses, of course, was in his element, snapping photos like a man possessed. Hope diligently jotted down her observations in her journal, capturing the essence of their behavior. It was a truly magical experience, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of the natural world. After our walk, we took a moment to simply sit and soak in the tranquility of the park. The sounds of the birds, the rustling of the leaves, the gentle breeze – it was a symphony of nature, a balm for the soul. I closed my eyes, feeling a sense of peace and connection to the earth. It was a moment I knew I would cherish forever. It was a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Brampton, and I was grateful for the opportunity to disconnect and reconnect with nature.

Leaving the serene Halte parc Niokolo Koba, we drove towards Kédougou, eager to explore the town and its cultural offerings. Our next stop was the Bioparc de Kédougou, a local zoo that promised a closer look at some of the region's wildlife. As we approached the zoo, we could hear the sounds of exotic birds and playful monkeys, building our anticipation. The Bioparc de Kédougou turned out to be a delightful surprise. It was smaller than the zoos we were accustomed to in Canada, but it had a certain charm. The animals seemed well-cared for, and the staff was passionate about their work. We saw a variety of animals, including lions, monkeys, crocodiles, and various species of birds. Hope was particularly fascinated by the monkeys, observing their playful interactions and mischievous antics. Moses, ever the photographer, captured some amazing shots of the lions, their majestic presence filling the frame. I was drawn to the birds, their vibrant colors and melodic songs reminding me of the beauty and diversity of life. We spent a couple of hours exploring the zoo, learning about the different species and their habitats. It was an educational and enjoyable experience for the whole family.


Explore the vibrant ecosystems and unique wildlife at Bioparc de Kédougou, a must-visit park in Senegal for nature enthusiasts.

After a morning of wildlife encounters and natural beauty, our stomachs began to rumble. It was time to sample the local cuisine. For breakfast, we started our day at Caffe Noliane in Kédougou. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air, mingling with the sweet scent of pastries. It was a cozy and inviting spot, perfect for a morning pick-me-up. I ordered a café au lait and a croissant, while Moses opted for a strong black coffee and a pain au chocolat. Hope, ever the adventurous one, tried a local pastry filled with mango. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and welcoming. It was a great way to start the day, fueling us for our adventures ahead. For lunch, we decided to try Restaurant du Centre, also in Kédougou. It was a bustling local eatery, filled with the sounds of chatter and laughter. The menu was filled with traditional Senegalese dishes, and we were eager to try them. I ordered the thieboudienne, a flavorful rice dish with fish and vegetables, while Moses went for the yassa chicken, a tangy and savory chicken stew. Hope, being a vegetarian, opted for the vegetable couscous. The food was absolutely delicious, bursting with flavors and spices. It was a true taste of Senegal, a culinary experience that we would not soon forget. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it a great value for money.


Discover the culinary delights at Caffe Noliane in Méridien - where local flavors meet international cuisine in a cozy bistro setting.


Experience authentic Senegalese cuisine at Restaurant du Centre in Dakar-Plateau - a culinary haven for travelers seeking local flavors.

As the sun began to set, we decided to treat ourselves to dinner at Mine d'Or, a restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and exquisite cuisine. The restaurant was beautifully decorated, with soft lighting and comfortable seating. The menu was a blend of Senegalese and international dishes, offering something for everyone. I ordered the grilled fish with lemon butter sauce, while Moses went for the steak with pepper sauce. Hope, ever the adventurous one, tried the vegetarian tagine. The food was simply divine, each dish cooked to perfection and bursting with flavor. The service was impeccable, the staff attentive and friendly. It was a truly memorable dining experience, a perfect way to end our day of exploration. The ambiance was romantic, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share such a special moment with my family. Moses held my hand across the table, and I knew that this trip was bringing us closer together.


Experience authentic Senegalese cuisine at Mine d'or in Sabodala – a must-visit restaurant for food lovers.

After such a long day, we decided to unwind at Kraken Pub, a local bar known for its lively atmosphere and refreshing drinks. The pub was buzzing with energy, filled with locals and tourists alike. The music was upbeat, and the atmosphere was festive. I ordered a local beer, while Moses opted for a glass of wine. Hope, being underage, enjoyed a refreshing juice. We sat back and soaked in the atmosphere, enjoying the music and the company of each other. It was a great way to end the day, relaxing and unwinding after a day of adventure. We chatted about our experiences, sharing our favorite moments and laughing at our mishaps. It was a reminder of the importance of family and the joy of shared experiences. As we walked back to our accommodation, the stars twinkled above us, and the sounds of the African night filled the air. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Discover Kraken Pub in Ngor, Dakar - where vibrant nightlife and local flavors come together for an unforgettable experience.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Niokolo-Koba National Park and the vibrant life of Kédougou. From the wildlife encounters to the cultural immersion to the delicious Senegalese flavors, it was a day that will forever be etched in my memory. Tomorrow, we plan to venture to Petowal hill and Langue de Barbarie. I am particularly excited about visiting Langue de Barbarie, as I have heard it is a haven for birdwatchers. I am also looking forward to exploring the local shops, including Boutique Issa Sakho, to find some unique souvenirs to bring back home. I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow holds! I am also grateful for having Moses and Hope by my side, sharing in these incredible experiences. Their presence makes every moment even more special, and I cherish the memories we are creating together. As an immigrant, I've learned that home is not just a place, but a feeling. And today, in the heart of Senegal, I felt a sense of belonging, a connection to the world and its people. It was a reminder that we are all part of something bigger, and that our differences are what make us beautiful.

I’m also glad I remembered to pack all of our essentials. I was initially worried when I realized I had forgotten the portable power bank and travel journal. We managed to purchase a travel journal in Kédougou today, so Hope can continue to capture her observations, but we’ll need to find a power bank soon!