Family Adventure in Niokolo-Koba National Park

A Day of Cultural Immersion and Wildlife Wonders

Today was a beautiful blend of cultural immersion and thrilling wildlife encounters. As our trip nears its end, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the rich experiences we’ve had in Senegal. Today, we ventured into the heart of Bassari Country and later, had an amazing time at Fathala.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich culture of Bassari Country, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Senegal, where tradition thrives amidst stunning scenery.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Le Cabanon Dakar. The restaurant was amazing and offered a serene start to our day. Sipping my coffee while overlooking the ocean, I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore Senegal with my family. After breakfast, we set off towards Bassari Country. The drive itself was an adventure, with the landscape transforming as we moved inland. The anticipation was building as we approached this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Bassari Country is a well-preserved multicultural landscape, home to the Bassari, Fula, and Bedik peoples. Each group has its own unique cultural practices and traditions, and it was fascinating to witness their way of life. We explored the villages, observing the traditional architecture and learning about their customs. The people were warm and welcoming, and I felt a deep connection to their community. Hope was particularly fascinated by the intricate patterns on the traditional clothing, while Moses was interested in their farming techniques. I couldn't help but reflect on how different life is in Kyenjojo, Uganda, and Brampton, Canada, compared to this remote corner of Senegal.

We learned that the Bassari Country is located in the southeastern part of Senegal, nestled close to the borders of Mali and Guinea. The landscape is characterized by hills that are the northernmost reaches of the Fouta Djallon Massif. The area comprises three distinct zones: the Bassari-Salémata area, the Bedik-Bandafassi area, and the Fula-Dindéfello area, each exhibiting unique morphological traits. These communities settled here between the 11th and 19th centuries, developing cultures that exist in symbiosis with the natural surroundings.

The Bassari landscape is a mix of terraces and rice paddies, dotted with villages and hamlets. The Bedik villages feature tightly packed huts with steep thatched roofs. This cultural landscape was recognized by UNESCO in 2012 for its outstanding universal value.

>“Traveling – it leaves you speechless, then turns you into a storyteller.”

After spending several hours exploring Bassari Country, we had lunch at corid'or restaurant. This simple eatery is popular with locals, especially workers who come for a quick meal at lunchtime. The food was delicious and authentic, giving us a true taste of Senegalese cuisine. It was a great opportunity to interact with the local community and learn more about their daily lives.


Explore the stunning wildlife and natural beauty of Fathala, Senegal's premier wildlife reserve, perfect for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.

With our bellies full and our hearts enriched by the cultural experience, we headed to Fathala Wildlife Reserve. The reserve was created in 2006 as a habitat for the western giant eland and now houses various animal species, including giraffes, rhinos, warthogs, buffaloes, and several monkey species. While some reviews online mentioned concerns about animal welfare, we were hopeful that our visit would be a positive one.

As we entered Fathala, we were immediately struck by the beauty of the landscape. The reserve spans 60 square kilometers and is located 17 kilometers south of Toubakouta, along the main highway leading to The Gambia. We opted for a guided safari tour, eager to spot some of Africa's magnificent wildlife.

It wasn't long before we encountered a tower of giraffes gracefully moving across the plains. Their long necks and elegant strides were a sight to behold. Next, we spotted a crash of rhinos grazing peacefully. Moses was particularly thrilled, as he had always dreamed of seeing a rhino in its natural habitat. We also observed warthogs, buffaloes, and several monkey species, each adding to the rich tapestry of wildlife.

While the experience was thrilling, I couldn't shake off the concerns I had read about online. I made a point of observing the animals closely, looking for any signs of distress or mistreatment. While I can't definitively say whether the reserve meets the highest standards of animal welfare, I was relieved to see that the animals appeared to be in good health and were behaving naturally.

For dinner, we tried Restaurant Nigérian Kédougou. The restaurant is known for its authentic Nigerian cuisine, offering a taste of Nigeria in the heart of Kedougou. We savored spicy jollof rice and savory suya skewers, immersing ourselves in the vibrant flavors of Nigerian culture. The warm decor and friendly staff made us feel right at home.


Explore the vibrant styles at Boutique de Yaye Kaba, where traditional Senegalese fashion meets modern elegance in Missirah.

After dinner, we visited BOUTIQUE DE YAYE KABA. The store showcases garments that reflect Senegal's rich cultural heritage, with vibrant fabrics and intricate patterns that tell stories of local craftsmanship. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Hope bought a beautiful dress, while I got a lovely headwrap.

As I reflect on today's adventures, I am reminded of the importance of responsible travel. It's crucial to support local communities and businesses while also being mindful of the impact our travels have on the environment and wildlife. While Fathala offered an incredible opportunity to see African wildlife up close, it's essential to do our research and choose experiences that prioritize animal welfare.

Tomorrow is our last day in Senegal, and we plan to visit the Gran Baobab sagrado de Iwol and Foret de Diambour. I am excited to see what these final adventures hold. As our trip comes to a close, I am filled with gratitude for the memories we've made and the lessons we've learned.

Goodnight from Senegal!