Things to Do in Bandia Reserve

You'll see giraffes within 30 minutes at Bandia Reserve—that's more wildlife certainty than you'll find at most West African parks. This 3,500-hectare private reserve sits 65 kilometers southeast of Dakar and started as a reforestation project in the 1990s before becoming home to giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and various antelope species. The landscape is classic Sahelian savanna. Acacia trees dot golden grasslands with the occasional baobab rising like a natural monument, and the manageable size means you won't spend hours hunting for animals that may not appear.

Dining options don't exist near the reserve. Most visitors eat in Mbour or Saly, both 20 minutes away, where Mbour's central market area serves thieboudienne and grilled fish for 2,000-4,000 CFA francs. Saly caters to tourists with pricier beachfront restaurants charging 8,000-15,000 CFA francs for main courses. Restaurant Keur Marietou in Mbour has authentic Senegalese food in a family-run setting that's worth the detour. Many visitors pack lunch from Dakar since the reserve has no dining facilities beyond picnic areas.

November to May delivers optimal conditions. The dry season brings clear skies, minimal rainfall, and easier wildlife spotting as animals gather around water sources, with December through February offering the most comfortable temperatures at 25-30°C. March to May gets quite hot at 35-40°C but remains manageable for early morning or late afternoon visits. The wet season makes roads muddy and disperses wildlife—though the landscape becomes lush and green. November and May provide the best balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and active wildlife behavior.