Family Adventure in Niokolo-Koba National Park

Finding the Heart of Niokolo-Koba

Today was a day of venturing deeper into the soul of Niokolo-Koba National Park. It’s one thing to read about a place in a guidebook, but it’s entirely another to feel the earth beneath your feet and breathe in the air. Moses, Hope, and I set out this morning with a sense of excitement, ready to uncover the hidden gems that this UNESCO World Heritage site holds. The experiences we had today felt like a true immersion into the natural and cultural heart of Senegal.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Gallard Restaurant. I enjoyed a traditional Senegalese coffee, strong and aromatic, while Moses opted for a lighter breakfast of fresh fruit. Hope, ever the adventurous one, tried a local pastry that she declared was ‘absolutely divine.’ Fuelled up, we were ready to explore.

First on our itinerary was Andjel. The drive there was an experience in itself, the landscape transforming into a tapestry of greens and browns. As we drove along the D24 road towards Landiene, the views were simply stunning. The air was thick with the scent of earth and vegetation, a welcome change from the urban air of Brampton. The September weather in Niokolo-Koba is warm and humid, with a chance of rain. I was glad I packed lightweight clothing.

Arriving at Andjel, I was immediately struck by the serene beauty of the place. The rolling hills met the calm waters, creating a picturesque scene that seemed straight out of a painting. We decided to take a leisurely hike along one of the trails, the path winding through lush greenery. The views were breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscapes. Hope, with her youthful energy, was particularly thrilled, snapping photos at every turn. Moses, ever the steady presence, walked beside me, pointing out various plants and birds. I tried to recall some of the facts from my field guide, eager to impress them both with my knowledge of African wildlife.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture of Andjel in Landiene, a must-visit tourist attraction for nature lovers and adventurers alike.

“The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning, you didn't even think to ask.”

What struck me most about Andjel was the sense of tranquility. It was a place where you could truly escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and reconnect with nature. We found a quiet spot to sit and simply soak in the surroundings, the only sounds the gentle rustling of leaves and the distant calls of birds. It was a moment of profound peace, a feeling that I knew would stay with me long after we left.

After our time at Andjel, we headed to Laboya. This attraction is another gem nestled within the national park. Laboya is known for its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. As we arrived, we were greeted by more lush greenery and scenic vistas. We decided to take a leisurely walk, enjoying the vibrant ecosystem that Laboya had to offer. The area is a paradise for birdwatchers, and I was thrilled to spot several new species that I hadn't seen before. Hope was in her element, her camera clicking away as she captured the natural beauty around us. Moses, with his keen eye, spotted a group of monkeys playing in the trees, much to our delight.


Discover the serene beauty of Laboya, a breathtaking tourist attraction in Senegal's national park, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

For lunch, we decided to try Restaurant J’Go Dakar. The restaurant is known for capturing the heart of Senegalese cuisine. The warm and welcoming atmosphere made us feel right at home. We savored the rich flavors of local ingredients, from grilled meats to fresh seafood. Hope enjoyed a refreshing local beverage, while Moses and I stuck to traditional Senegalese dishes. It was the perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploration.

As the afternoon progressed, we made our way back towards our accommodation, but not before making a stop at Sous les manguiers, a local bar. I decided to try a local juice, while Moses enjoyed a beer. Hope, of course, stuck to her favorite soda. It was a great way to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.


Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Sous les Manguiers, a delightful bar in Kedougou, perfect for enjoying local drinks and culture beneath the mango trees.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant La Pointe des Almadies. This restaurant is nestled along the coast of Dakar and offers breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. The diverse menu showcased fresh seafood and traditional dishes, prepared with a modern twist. The ambiance was perfect, and the food was delicious. It was a wonderful way to end our day.


Experience authentic Senegalese cuisine with breathtaking ocean views at Restaurant La Pointe des Almadies in Dakar.

As I sit here now, writing this entry, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences we had today. Niokolo-Koba National Park is more than just a collection of landscapes and wildlife; it's a place that touches your soul. The tranquility of Andjel, the beauty of Laboya, and the flavors of Senegal have all combined to create a day that I will cherish forever.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Parc Niokolon Koba. I'm eager to see what other hidden treasures await us in this remarkable corner of the world. We'll start our day with breakfast at Sunu Makane/Chez Seck, followed by lunch at Alkimia, and dinner at Restaurant Le N'Gor Pieds dans l'Eau. Hope is already excited about visiting Boutique Nekh Soow, a local shop.

As I reflect on our day, I am reminded of the importance of slowing down and appreciating the world around us. In our busy lives, it's easy to get caught up in the daily grind and forget to take the time to connect with nature and culture. This trip to Niokolo-Koba National Park has been a reminder of the beauty and wonder that exists beyond our everyday lives, and I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family.

Before drifting off to sleep, I journaled about the day. Although I had remembered to pack my field guide to African Wildlife, I had forgotten my travel journal at home in Brampton. I will need to remember to buy one tomorrow when we visit Boutique Nekh Soow.

Goodnight from Senegal. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. “Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”