Understand

Embark on a journey to Palmarin, a rustic community nestled along a breathtaking 17km peninsula on Senegal's Petite Cte. To the West, you'll be greeted by pristine sandy beaches stretching along the vast Atlantic Ocean. Venture East to discover the awe-inspiring National Reserve de Palmarin, a stunning mosaic of mangrove channels, salt flats, grasslands, and lush forests. This extraordinary ecosystem is home to a diverse array of plant and animal species, creating a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Within this enchanting region, you'll find five charming villages: Ngallo, Ngueth, Gounamane, Diakhanor, and Djiffer, where the majority of the locals reside. Traditional fishing and tourism form the backbone of the local economy, while salt, oyster, and clam harvesting contribute as well. The Sereer, who speak their unique Soloum area dialect, are the predominant ethnic group in this area. French and Wolof are also widely spoken secondary languages, adding to the multicultural tapestry of this vibrant community.

Get in

Preparing for an adventure in Palmarin is a breeze, thanks to convenient transportation options. Whether you choose to rely on the area's lodging establishments, your own private car, or public transit, exploring Palmarin is within reach. Embarking from Dakar, take the scenic route via Mbour and Joal on route N1. Keep in mind that after Joal, the road transitions from asphalt to laterite, so the quality may vary. During the rainy season, it's important to have a 4x4 vehicle as the road can become impassable. Just follow the signs in Samba Dia, directing you south to Palmarin. If you prefer public transit, head to the Dakar garage, where you can catch a cost-effective sept place or bus rapid to Mbour for approximately 1500cfa. Once you reach Mbour, sept places are readily available to Djiffer, the southernmost village in Palmarin, for 2000cfa. If you have specific lodging accommodations or you prefer to stay in one of the enchanting Palmarin villages before reaching Djiffer, make sure to communicate your desired drop-off location to the driver. Another public transit option is to travel from Dakar to Joal for 2000cfa and then continue the journey from Joal to Palmarin for 1000cfa. Once you arrive at the northern garage in Joal, take a clando taxi for 150cfa to reach the southern garage. Whichever method of transportation you choose, prepare to immerse yourself in the captivating beauty of Palmarin and its surrounding villages. A thrilling adventure awaits!

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Thieboudienne - This is Senegal's national dish, a flavorful fish stew. It primarily consists of various kinds of fish, tomatoes, onions, Maggi cubes (a seasoning cube), and chili peppers, all slowly cooked together. The stew is then served over a bed of rice, often accompanied by sides such as salad or kebabs.

Yassa Poulet - This dish features marinated chicken that is grilled or broiled, typically served alongside a side of spiced rice and coleslaw. The chicken is marinaded in a blend of herbs and spices, which may include lemon juice, garlic, ginger, and mustard, giving the dish its unique, zesty flavor profile.

Mafe - Mafe, also known as Groundnut Stew, is a beloved Senegalese dish primarily made with peanuts, tomato paste, and fish or shrimp. It's a thick, hearty stew that is often served with rice or bread, making it a filling and satisfying meal.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing