Family Adventure in Niokolo-Koba National Park

A Day of Discovery

Today was a beautiful blend of nature, culture, and delicious food as we explored the area around Saint-Louis. It’s amazing how much variety Senegal offers, from the wildlife in Niokolo-Koba to the coastal charm of this historic city. I am so grateful to be sharing these experiences with my family, creating memories that we will treasure for a lifetime.

Our day began with an early breakfast at Restaurant dolima a la paillote. The warm ambiance and the promise of authentic Senegalese cuisine were exactly what we needed to start the day. The restaurant was indeed a culinary gem, celebrated for its local dishes that mirrored the region’s rich cultural heritage. As we stepped inside, we were welcomed by a friendly staff and mouth-watering aromas that made our stomachs rumble. Moses opted for the spicy fish thieboudienne, a local favorite, while I chose the chicken yassa. Hope, ever the adventurous one, decided to try a daily special recommended by our server. Each dish was a burst of flavors, prepared with locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant was open for lunch and dinner, serving a variety of dishes that highlighted fresh ingredients. Sipping on refreshing drinks and traditional teas, we soaked in the authentic taste of Senegalese hospitality.

After breakfast, we set off to explore Petowal hill. The drive was scenic, passing through small villages and vibrant landscapes. I must admit, I didn't know much about Petowal Hill before today, but I was eager to discover what it had to offer. While information about the hill itself was limited, I learned that the area is known for the Petowal Mining Company, which is developing socio-economic programs for local communities. Knowing that our visit indirectly supports these initiatives made the experience even more meaningful. It was interesting to learn about the Mako Gold Mine in the region, operated by the Petowal Mining Company. The mine has contributed to the local economy and employs a significant number of Senegalese workers.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Petowal Hill, a national park in Senegal, rich in biodiversity and stunning landscapes for nature enthusiasts.

The world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.

Next on our itinerary was the Langue de Barbarie, a thin, sandy peninsula near Saint-Louis. This strip of land separates the Atlantic Ocean from the final section of the Senegal River, creating a unique ecosystem. As we approached, the landscape transformed into a beautiful mix of sand dunes, mangroves, and coastal vegetation. The Langue de Barbarie National Park is a protected site, home to a diverse array of bird species. We spent a delightful afternoon birdwatching, spotting pelicans, flamingos, and various migratory birds. The park was established to protect a fragile coastal zone threatened by erosion and human activities. The park includes dunes, forests, sandbanks, lagoons and mangroves.


Experience the tranquil beauty of Langue de Barbarie, a nature preserve where the Senegal River meets the Atlantic Ocean, perfect for nature lovers and adventurers.

After our nature excursion, we were ready for lunch. We headed to Noflaye Beach, a restaurant along the Almadies road. This trendy spot offered a relaxed atmosphere with our feet in the sand and our eyes on the ocean. The restaurant is open every day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. and is located on the Almadies road. We enjoyed crepes and pizzas while enjoying the beautiful beach view. The combination of good food and the sound of the waves made for a perfect midday break. I remember back in Brampton, Hope would always pester us to visit the local pizza joint, but this was a whole different experience!


Experience breathtaking views and delicious crepes at Noflaye Beach, Dakar's hidden culinary gem by the sea.

Before dinner, we decided to explore the local shops. Boutique Issa Sakho caught my eye with its array of locally-sourced goods. This vibrant grocery store offered a glimpse into the culinary traditions of the region. We explored fresh produce and artisanal products, each telling a story of Senegal’s rich agricultural heritage. I picked up some spices to try my hand at recreating some of the delicious dishes we’ve tasted on our trip. The staff was incredibly helpful, sharing tips and stories about the local cuisine.


Explore the authentic flavors of Kedougou at Boutique Issa Sakho, a unique grocery store showcasing local products and culinary traditions.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to La Cabane du Pêcheur for dinner. This restaurant is known for its seafood, with fresh catches provided daily by local fishermen. The menu featured a variety of fish, shrimp, crabs, and other seafood delicacies. Moses ordered grilled fish, while Hope and I shared a plate of spicy gambas. The flavors were exquisite, and the ambiance was perfect, with the sound of the ocean creating a soothing backdrop. The restaurant is known for highlighting fresh seafood provided daily by local fishermen. I couldn't help but think of Moses's long drives as a truck driver, and how much he deserved this relaxing evening.


Experience exquisite seafood dining at La Cabane du Pêcheur in Dakar – where fresh catches meet stunning coastal views.

Tomorrow, we plan to visit Sit de min and Dademayo, continuing our exploration of Senegal’s natural beauty. We'll have breakfast at Restaurant kaba et frère, lunch at Restaurant Mandingue, and dinner at impérial Bar, brasserie et restaurent. I’m also looking forward to possibly visiting Black And White, a local bar, for a taste of the nightlife.

Today was a reminder of why we chose Senegal for our family adventure. The blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality is truly captivating. I’m excited for what tomorrow brings, and I can’t wait to share more of our journey with you all. Reflecting on the day, I realize how much these experiences strengthen our bond as a family. Seeing Hope embrace our heritage and witnessing Moses relax and enjoy the beauty of Senegal fills my heart with joy. These are the moments that make all the challenges of life worthwhile. As an immigrant to Canada, I often find myself longing for the familiar comforts of Uganda, but Senegal has a way of making me feel connected to my roots, reminding me of the beauty and resilience of the African spirit.