Bandia Reserve

The Bandia Reserve is a private wildlife sanctuary located near Mbour, approximately 65 kilometers south of Dakar, covering an area of 3,500 hectares. Established in the 1990s, the reserve was created to reintroduce endangered African wildlife species to the region and promote ecotourism. The sanctuary is home to an impressive variety of animals, including giraffes, white rhinos, zebras, antelopes, and buffaloes, living within a protected environment of savanna and acacia forests. A striking feature of the landscape is the presence of majestic baobab trees, some of which are centuries old and historically served as burial sites for griots. Visitors can explore the reserve on guided off-road safaris, allowing for close-up encounters with the wildlife. In addition to the land animals, Bandia features a lagoon-side restaurant where crocodiles and various water birds can be observed. The project is considered a success story for conservation in Senegal, actively contributing to biodiversity preservation. Its proximity to the coast makes it a popular excursion for tourists staying in Saly and Dakar. It provides a unique chance to experience African fauna in a well-managed setting without traveling to remote national parks.

Nearby cities

Thiès

An important transport hub and industrial center known for its tapestry production and historic railway lines.

Mbour

A bustling fishing port on the Petite Côte, famous for its vibrant daily fish market and authentic local atmosphere.

Saly

Senegal's premier seaside resort on the Petite Côte, known for palm-lined beaches and luxury resorts.

Lompoul Desert

A captivating area of high, orange sand dunes offering an authentic desert experience in the heart of Senegal.

History & landmarks

Bandia Reserve

A privately owned nature reserve offering an exciting safari experience with many of Africa's iconic large animals.

Basilica of Popenguine

An important Catholic sanctuary in Popenguine, attracting thousands of pilgrims from across the country each year.

Keur Moussa Abbey

A Benedictine monastery in the Thiès region, famous for its spiritual chants blending African instruments with Gregorian chant.

Great Mosque of Tivaouane

The most important religious center of the Tijaniyyah order in Senegal, attracting thousands of pilgrims annually at the Maouloud festival.

More places

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Kirène Cement Plant

A major cement plant belonging to Ciments du Sahel in Kirène, Thiès region.

Ndayane Deepwater Port

A mega-port under construction south of Dakar, intended to relieve the old port.

Monkey Park

A small protected area where you can observe monkeys in their natural environment.

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Dangote Cement Factory Pout

The Dangote cement factory in Pout is part of Senegal's expanding construction sector.

Thiès ridge

A distinct, elongated ridge near Thiès.

Historic Railway Hub of Thiès

A major center of historical rail transport and the site of a famous railway workers' strike.

Thiès poultry farm

A significant poultry farm that provides fresh eggs for the region.

Thiès Forest

A protected forest area in the Thiès region.