Bandia Reserve
Experience an authentic African safari with diverse wildlife, including giraffes, rhinos, and lions, in Senegal's Bandia Reserve.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are most active
Bandia Reserve
Best Time
Animals are most active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience an authentic African safari with diverse wildlife, including giraffes, rhinos, and lions, in Senegal's Bandia Reserve.
"Absolutely loved the game drive at Bandia! The variety of animals was impressive."
Book a Knowledgeable Guide
Guides enhance the experience with stories and insights. Matar is highly recommended!
Beware of Monkeys!
Monkeys can try to grab food at the restaurant. Be vigilant and use provided deterrents.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Majestic Giraffes
Main Reserve
Witness these gentle giants gracefully roam the savannah. A truly iconic safari sight.
Rhino Encounters
Main Reserve
Get up close to powerful rhinoceroses in their natural habitat. An awe-inspiring experience.
The Lion Reserve
Separate Section
Experience the thrill of seeing lions, the kings of the savannah, in a dedicated enclosure.
Abundant Crocodiles
Main Reserve
Be amazed by the sheer number of crocodiles basking near the water. A wild sight!
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Wildlife Sightings
Understand the Two-Part Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Knowledgeable Guide
Guides enhance the experience with stories and insights. Matar is highly recommended!
Beware of Monkeys!
Monkeys can try to grab food at the restaurant. Be vigilant and use provided deterrents.
Separate Lion Reserve Ticket
The lion reserve is on the other side of the road and costs extra. Plan accordingly.
Pack Essentials
Bring a hat, sunglasses, and water for a comfortable safari experience.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Knowledgeable Guide
Guides enhance the experience with stories and insights. Matar is highly recommended!
Beware of Monkeys!
Monkeys can try to grab food at the restaurant. Be vigilant and use provided deterrents.
Separate Lion Reserve Ticket
The lion reserve is on the other side of the road and costs extra. Plan accordingly.
Pack Essentials
Bring a hat, sunglasses, and water for a comfortable safari experience.
Consider a Full Day
Combine your safari with a meal at the restaurant and exploring the gift shop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors generally have a wonderful time at Bandia Reserve, praising the impressive variety of animals and the knowledgeable guides who enhance the safari experience. The main reserve offers a great introduction to African wildlife, though the separate lion reserve incurs an additional cost. Some find it a bit pricey for the duration, but the overall experience is highly recommended for those visiting the Saly or Dakar area.
"Absolutely loved the game drive at Bandia! 🦒 🦓 The variety of animals was impressive — and the sheer number of crocodiles 🐊 was wild to see up close. What truly made the experience special was our guide, who was not only friendly but incredibly knowledgeable, sharing fascinating stories and history about the park and the region. If you’re in Saly, this is definitely a must-visit."
Gee-man
"WE HAD A WONDERFUL VISIT, IT WAS SOME OF OUR FIRST TIME GOING TO AN AFRICAN ZOO/SAFARI.....6 ADULTS AND 5 CHILDREN. WE DID NOT MAKE IT TO THE OTHER SIDE THAT HAD THE LIONS AND OTHER ANIMALS.....IT ALSO COST SEPARATELY. WE ALSO HAD A SNACK AT THE RESTAURANT AND CHILDREN PLAYED AT THE SWING PARK. WHEN EATING, YOU HAVE TO WATCH FOR THE SMALL MONKEYS TRYING TO GRAB YOUR FOOD, BUT THE RESTAURANT HAVE SMALL GADGETS TO STOP THE MONKEYS FROM COMING CLOSER TO YOUR TABLE."
ASIA MAHMUD
"We had a great tour from our guide Matar. Stopped for the afternoon on the way from Saly to Dakar, saw a lot of animals, birds and baobabs. Highly recommend as one of the best spots to visit around Dakar."
Adam Schrader
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bandia Reserve is located between Saly and Dakar. Many visitors stop by on their way from Saly to Dakar. You can hire a taxi or arrange transport through a tour operator. The drive from Dakar is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.
Yes, Bandia Reserve is easily accessible from Saly, a popular coastal town. It's a common stop for day trips or as part of a larger Senegal itinerary.
The primary way to explore Bandia Reserve is via a 4x4 vehicle with a driver and guide. This allows you to safely navigate the park and spot wildlife.
Typically, visitors are required to use the park's designated 4x4 vehicles with guides for safaris. This ensures safety and a better wildlife viewing experience.
Yes, many tour operators in Dakar and Saly offer organized day trips to Bandia Reserve, often including transportation and guided tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Bandia Reserve can vary, but it's generally considered a bit on the expensive side. It's advisable to check current pricing before your visit.
No, the lion reserve is a separate area across the road and requires an additional ticket.
Bandia Reserve is typically open daily, but it's best to confirm the exact opening and closing times before your visit, especially for the last game drive.
Information on online ticket purchasing is limited. It's generally recommended to purchase tickets upon arrival at the reserve.
While specific discount information isn't widely available, group visits are common. It's worth inquiring directly with the reserve for any potential group rates.
🎫 🦁 Wildlife & Safari
You can see a variety of animals including giraffes, rhinoceroses, zebras, monkeys, various bird species, and a large number of crocodiles. The separate lion reserve allows you to see lions. +1
Yes, there is a dedicated lion reserve on the other side of the road from the main reserve, which requires a separate ticket to visit.
A typical safari tour at Bandia Reserve lasts about an hour, focusing on spotting the diverse wildlife within the main park.
Bandia Reserve is a private nature reserve where animals live freely within its 3000-hectare area, aiming to protect endangered species.
While you can see lions, walking with them is not a standard activity at Bandia Reserve. Some sources mention walking with lions at Fathala Wildlife Reserve.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant within Bandia Reserve that serves local dishes and other options. +1
The restaurant offers a mix of delicious local Senegalese cuisine and other international options.
Be mindful of small monkeys trying to grab food. The restaurant provides gadgets to deter them.
While there's a restaurant, it's generally recommended to dine there or be cautious if consuming food outside due to wildlife.
Yes, the restaurant is family-friendly, and there's even a playground for children.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, ideal for photography, and also when animals are most active.
Absolutely! Many visitors share their experiences through photos and videos on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. +1
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of the animals and follow your guide's instructions. Avoid using flash photography directly at animals.
Popular shots include close-ups of giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and the impressive crocodile population. +1
If you're passionate about wildlife photography, a good camera can capture stunning images. However, a smartphone can also capture memorable moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting the main reserve first, as it offers a wider variety of animals that are generally more visible. While the lion reserve is exciting, the main safari provides a comprehensive introduction to African wildlife for children. Ensure everyone has hats and water for comfort during the drive.
Budget Travelers
To save on transport, look into shared taxis or group bookings if traveling with others. Many travelers combine a visit to Bandia Reserve with other activities in the Saly or Dakar region to maximize their travel budget.
Photography Enthusiasts
While professional cameras are great, even a good smartphone can capture memorable moments.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Bandia Reserve Experience: More Than Just Animals
Beyond the wildlife, Bandia Reserve also provides a pleasant atmosphere for visitors. There's a restaurant on-site serving local and international cuisine, making it a convenient stop for lunch or a snack after your safari. Be aware of the playful monkeys that might try to sneak a bite, but the restaurant staff are equipped to manage this. A small gift shop is also available for souvenirs.
It's important to note that Bandia Reserve is divided into two sections. The main reserve houses the majority of the wildlife, while the lion reserve is a separate enclosure requiring an additional ticket. This distinction is crucial for planning your visit and understanding the full scope of what Bandia offers.
Planning Your Bandia Reserve Safari
When you arrive, you'll purchase a ticket and then hop into a 4x4 vehicle accompanied by a driver and a guide. These guides are invaluable, offering not just directions but also fascinating stories and historical context about the reserve and its inhabitants. Many visitors specifically praise guides like Matar for their expertise and friendly demeanor.
Don't forget to pack essentials for a comfortable safari. A hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water are highly recommended to protect yourself from the sun.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit