2024 Dak’Art Off
& Saint Louis Jazz
Senegal is a jewel of Africa – and the world
– Anthony Bourdain
This cultural experience includes travel to three cities of Senegal:
Dakar, Saint -Louis & Saly
Dakar, the pulsating heart of Senegal and the vibrant host of Dak’Art Biennale, promises a tapestry of experiences, and a storied past waiting to be explored. Dak’Art Biennale, the largest contemporary art festival in Africa, transforms the city into a vibrant hub of creativity, showcasing the works of talented artists.
Saint-Louis, founded in 1659, stands as a guardian of Senegal’s colonial heritage, now celebrated as a fishing hub and a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2000. We will be there for the renowned Saint Louis Jazz Festival, where soulful melodies fill the air.
And then, Saly—a picturesque paradise with palm-lined beaches, crystal-clear waters, and an atmosphere infused with tranquility.
Through meticulously curated experiences, we’ve woven together a tapestry of unforgettable moments that will redefine your future travels. By the journey’s end, you’ll emerge not just as a traveler, but as an explorer deeply intertwined with the rich tapestry of Senegalese culture, forging lasting friendships, and fostering a profound connection with the soul of Africa. Get ready to embark on a voyage of discovery like never before.
——- ITINERARY ——-
DAY 1 – May 14TH Welcome to Senegal!
Arrival to Blaise Diagne International Airport, you will be welcomed and assisted by our local staff and then transferred in A/C vehicle to your (4 stars) downtown hotel. Accommodation at a bed and breakfast.
DAY 2 – May 15TH The Real Dakar & Goree Island!
The best way to get to know a destination is by gaining a bit of its history. After breakfast at the hotel, we’ll take a tour that gives you a deep dive into Dakar’s roots. We’ll immediately immerse ourselves in the local culture by exploring the city, sampling local foods, learning about the people and getting a taste of “teranga,” visiting local markets, museums, and stopping at the African Renaissance Monument to take in the amazing view.
In the afternoon, we’ll board the ferry to Goree Island, a tiny, car-free island off the coast of Dakar, known for its role in the Atlantic slave trade. We’ll visit the House of Slaves and the Door of No Return, the Fort with its “Memorial to the Martyrs” and see important remains of World War II. Wander down the charming streets of the island and meet the inhabitants.
DAY 3 – May 16TH DAK’ART BIENNALE Opening Ceremony!
After breakfast visit various art galleries, and interact with artists (painters, sculptors, designers, and others) and exhibition spots related to the DAK’ART BIENNALE ACTIVITIES (lunch at a private restaurant).
DAY 4 – May 17TH Dakar/Thies/Saint-Louis!
This morning you will depart Dakar and travel to Saint Louis, the northern capital of Senegal.
En route, we will stop in Thies, to visit one of Senegal’s most exclusive art centers, The National Gallery of Art Tapestries. Every year, during a nationwide competition, Senegalese painters are selected by a committee headed by the Ministry of Culture. The most beautiful paintings are used as patterns for weaving very exclusive large tapestries. Then the patterns are destroyed, which makes the tapestry unique. Tapestries from the National Gallery of Art Tapestries Thies can be seen at Buckingham Palace and the Plenary Hall of the United Nations. We will visit the Exhibit Hall and converse with the artists while they are weaving the tapestries in their workshops.
You will have time for lunch on your own in Thies.
In the afternoon we will proceed to Saint Louis. On the way to Saint Louis, we will stop in the rural city of Ngaye, which is known for its handcrafted leather shoes, and handcrafted decorative dresses. Taiba N’diaye is known for its handmade baskets.
Arrive in Saint Louis in the late afternoon.
This evening you will attend the Jazz Festival. Overnight at your hotel.
DAY 5 – May 18TH Saint-Louis Jazz Festival!
After breakfast at the hotel, we will enjoy a sightseeing tour of Saint Louis. Admire its old colonial houses with their colored wood and iron balconies. Visit the picturesque fishing district of Guet Ndar.
In the afternoon we will visit a Primary School (subject to authorization).
Dinner: Enjoy dinner at the home of a well-known Senegalese artist.
After dinner, we will attend the Jazz Festival.
DAY 6 – May 19TH Saint-Louis Langue de Barbarie Boat Ride!
After breakfast take a boat ride at the Langue de Barbarie bird’s park to admire the magnificent Senegal River, a famous bird’s paradise. Lunch and relax at Ocean & Savanah Hotel restaurant.
After, drive back to Saint-Louis.
Evening free to attend the Saint-Louis International Jazz Festival.
Dinner and overnight at (3 stars) hotel.
DAY 7 – May 20TH Nature: Saint-Louis/Bandia/Saly!
After breakfast departure to Bandia wildlife reserve for a safari ride to catch a peek at some of the Big 5! We might see: giraffes, buffaloes, hyenas, zebras, warthogs, rhinoceros, monkeys …. We’ll also experience an encounter with lions you won’t soon forget!
After, drive further south to Saly seaside resort.
Dinner & overnight at (4 stars) hotel.
DAY 8 – May 21st SALY/JOAL FADIOUTH!
After breakfast departure to Joal Fadiouth (bird place of the late President Leopold Sedar Senghor).
Boat ride through a narrow sea lagoon to discover the seashell cemetery where Catholics and Muslims belonging to the same Serer ethnic group are buried together.
Also discover their original millet storage on piles, the old Saint-François Xavier Church, and last but not least, interact with the village elders during their council.
On our way back to Saly, we will stop to visit a colorful and lively fishing port. Relax and enjoy the sunset.
In the evening, we’ll gather one final time for a celebratory dinner. Let this last meal together be a moment to cherish the unforgettable memories of Senegal and to appreciate the remarkable journey you’ve embarked on.
Overnight at Saly seaside resort.
DAY 9 – May 22nd Saly & Departure!
SAYING GOODBYE IS NEVER EASY!
We understand how quickly time flies when you’re having fun, but alas, it’s time to bid farewell. Make the most of today by soaking in the sun at the beach before heading to Blaise Diagne International Airport for your departure, tailored to your flight schedule.
Included :
- Meals as planned in the program
- Transportation
- Accommodation in hotel
- All visits as mentioned in the itinerary
- English-speaking tour guide
- All expenses linked with the visits
- Mineral water always available on the bus
Not included
- Flights to Dakar
- Drinks during the meals
- Travel Insurance (recommended)
Your Investment
SHARED ACCOMMODATIONS
(DOUBLE OCCUPANCY)
starting at $2,649 per person
YOUR INVESTMENT OF $2,649 INCLUDES:
If you book this option with a friend, you are sharing one room, with two beds, or if booking as a couple, you will share one bed.
SOLO ACCOMMODATIONS
(SINGLE OCCUPANCY)
starting at $2,999 per person
YOUR INVESTMENT OF $2999 INCLUDES:
This booking is for one room for one person.
In addition, please note that I am here to assist with any pre- or post-visits and hotel arrangements throughout Senegal, tailored to your preferences.
Considering our final hotel stop in Saly, if you wish to extend your stay for a couple of nights to bask in the beauty of the beach and unwind, simply inform me, and I’ll make the necessary arrangements. Alternatively, if you prefer to return to Dakar for a few days of exploration and relaxation, I’m more than happy to accommodate your wishes.
Your satisfaction and comfort are my top priorities, so please don’t hesitate to reach out with any requests or inquiries.