Excursion Lake retba and fisherman village (for in-transit guests only) tour at Dakar

This tour is available to in-transit guests continuing on to the following cruise.

Discover Lake Retba, also called Lac Rose (Pink Lake), a shallow saltwater lake surrounded dunes, offering one of the most spectacular panoramas of Senegal north of Dakar.

The Lake Retba's salinity content compares to that of the Dead Sea, and during the dry season it exceeds it. Its distinct pink color is caused by the Dunaliella salina bacteria, which is attracted by the lake's salt content. At Lac Retba meet the locals and learn of their daily activities, including the harvesting of salt.

After lunch, drive onward to discover the largest fisherman village in Senegal. More than 4500 wooden painted pirogues come to the shore with the catch of the day. On the beach the fisherman sells to the local market women, meet the artisans carving the large pirogues and painters decorating them with bright colours.

Lake Retba is under consideration as a UNESCO world heritage side and one of the most visited attractions known for its pinkish colour. Due to environmental changes in recent years, the eye-catching coloration is slowly fading away.   

Note

Please note: This tour is available to in-transit guests continuing on to the following cruise. The drive time to/from Lac Retba is approximately 1.5 hours in each direction. A minimal amount of easy walking over short distances, with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and at the sites visited. Lightweight, comfortable clothing with flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection is recommended. Lake Retba is under consideration as a UNESCO world heritage side and one of the most visited attractions known for its pinkish colour. Due to environmental changes in recent years, the eye-catching coloration is slowly fading away.