Cycling in Senegal

A meaningful adventure on two wheels

bike type

MTB

Duration

8 days

Profile

Low Level Sports

Distance and slope

149 km / +0 m

Trip Summary

Pedal with purpose in Senegal.
This cycling adventure is more than just a journey through breathtaking African landscapes—it's a chance to create real impact. Together with Bicycles Without Borders, Bikefriendly invites you to discover Senegal while supporting access to education for local students.

The project provides bicycles to teenagers who live far from their schools, reducing travel time and giving them the opportunity to study, graduate, and dream bigger. Your trip will not only allow you to explore the beauty of West Africa on two wheels, but will also directly contribute to this life-changing initiative.

For every registered participant, 3 BAOBIKES are donated to the Bicycles Without Borders project in Senegal. ensuring that more students in Senegal receive the gift of mobility, independence, and education. By riding here, you're part of something larger: a solidarity journey where every pedal stroke moves us closer to a brighter future.

Date and availability

From 24 to 31 January 2026

€ 3.499

Your group, your dates

custom-made

Get the Bikefriendly Club and get a 10% off automatically for this trip.

Location

Meet our guide

Gemma, Idy, Alpha, Maurice

Gemma, a guide with more than 5 years of experience; Alpha, our local guide; Idy, our local bike mechanic; and Maurice, our local driver. All of them are incredible people who will accompany us throughout the journey, making this cycling adventure in Senegal a truly life-changing experience for everyone.

Trip description

The Cycling Journey

This solidarity bike trip in Senegal takes you through five unforgettable stages, pedaling across the sandy tracks of villages and small settlements in the Sine-Saloum region. Here, many students still walk an average of 10 kilometers each day just to reach their schools in Palmarin or Boyard. By joining, you'll ride the same paths that shape their daily lives, turning your adventure into a powerful act of support.

Beyond the thrill of cycling along endless white-sand beaches, traditional straw villages, and vast baobab forests, this journey also opens doors to authentic encounters: the fishing port of Djiffer, the educators who believe in change, the young people who now ride to school thanks to the program, and mechanics like Marcel—who found a new profession repairing bicycles at local schools.

Discover the Baobikes

One of the highlights of the trip is visiting the Baobike workshop in Palmarin. Here, local youth are trained and employed to assemble these iconic yellow bicycles, created in collaboration with Momabikes and Tannus. The Baobike project ensures every student receives the same sturdy, reliable bike—ending inequality and replacing the dependence on second-hand donations.

For every cyclist who joins this tour, 3 Baobikes are donated, giving students the chance to reach their classrooms with dignity and hope.

Immerse Yourself in Local Life

This is not tourism—it's immersion. On this trip you'll share meals prepared in the Senegalese way, cheer at traditional wrestling matches, and hear stories that will change the way you see the world. You'll return home with more than memories of Africa's breathtaking landscapes: you'll carry the joy of connection and the pride of having pedaled for a cause.

Don't miss the opportunity to be part of this solidarity cycling experience with Bicycles Without Borders.

Itinerary

Setting Off for Senegal

Your solidarity cycling adventure in Senegal starts with an international flight to Dakar's Blaise Diagne International Airport, the main gateway to West Africa. Whether you're departing from Madrid, Barcelona, …, or another city, our team will carefully coordinate arrivals to ensure a smooth beginning.

At the airport, the group will come together for the first time—cyclists united by the same passion for travel, adventure, and solidarity. From here, a comfortable private bus will take us south towards Palmarin, located in the stunning Sine-Saloum region.

As we drive through changing landscapes—urban bustle giving way to vast plains, mangroves, and glimpses of the Atlantic coast—you'll feel the anticipation growing. The transfer itself becomes part of the adventure: the first step into a journey where every kilometer connects you with the authentic heart of Africa.

Upon arrival in Palmarin, we'll settle into our accommodation, get to know our guides and fellow travelers, and enjoy the first evening together. Tomorrow, the real cycling begins.

Trip Briefing and Fishing Port Experience in Djiffer

Distance

22 Km

Elevation

+0m

Trip Briefing and Fishing Port Experience in Djiffer

Our first full day in Senegal begins with an inspiring visit to Point Vélo, the headquarters of the Bicycles for Education project. Here we'll meet the dedicated team running this life-changing initiative, learn how each Baobike transforms the daily lives of students, and pick up our fat bikes—the perfect companions for riding through sand, coastlines, and African villages.

In the afternoon, the adventure continues as we cycle towards the fishing port of Djiffer, located at the mouth of the Saloum River. This lively spot is a true window into Senegalese culture: narrow sandy streets lined with vibrant market life, colorful wooden boats overflowing with fresh catch, and mountains of seashells drying under the sun. The atmosphere here is unforgettable, a perfect blend of tradition, rhythm, and daily life by the ocean.

If the tide allows, we'll ride along more than 20 kilometers wide, deserted Atlantic beach, testing our skills on sand and feeling the power of the ocean right beside us. This first stage is not only about cycling—it's about immersion. By the end of the day, you'll already feel the unique connection between sport, nature, and solidarity that defines this journey.

Discovering the Solidarity Schools and Exploring Simal

Distance

33 Km

Elevation

+0m

Discovering the Solidarity Schools and Exploring Simal

Today we dive deeper into the “Bicycles for Education” project, visiting two of the schools where this initiative is transforming daily life: Samba Dia and Filela, the administrative center for many of the delta's communities. Here you'll see first-hand how the program works, meet teachers and students, and understand the real impact that a simple bicycle can have—turning long walks of over 10 kilometers into just a short ride to class.

The experience is powerful and emotional: classrooms full of energy, young people whose futures look brighter with every Baobike, and communities proud to show the difference this project is making. It's a chance not only to observe but to connect, listen, and share stories that stay with you long after the trip.

In the afternoon, we head to Simal, a charming riverside village surrounded by mangroves. Here, time slows down. We'll explore a local craft market, meet artisans, and then cool off with a refreshing swim in the river, joining locals who welcome us with smiles and curiosity. It's the perfect balance between cultural immersion and relaxation after a morning full of emotions.

Cycling Through the Real African Savannah

Distance

46 km

Elevation

+0m

Cycling Through the Real African Savannah

Today's stage takes us deep into the authentic African savannah, a landscape of endless horizons and vibrant contrasts. As we ride, we pass through hidden villages nestled among towering baobabs and graceful palm trees, symbols of resilience and life in this region. The striking red iron-rich soil dominates the scenery, creating a powerful backdrop for our cycling adventure.

The route is both beautiful and thought-provoking. Under the warm African sun, we follow the same dusty paths that many children walk each day to reach their schools—sometimes more than 10 kilometers each way. Pedaling here reminds us not only of the challenges they face, but also of the importance of the project we are supporting.

It's a ride that blends physical effort, natural beauty, and emotional reflection, leaving you with a deeper connection to Senegal and its people.

School Visit & Interactive Cultural Experience in Ngallou

Today we give our bikes a rest and focus on something just as important: connection with the local community. This day is dedicated to integration, exchange, and living the daily rhythm of life in Palmarin.

In the morning, we'll visit the Bicycles Without Borders project at Palmarin High School, where we'll also see the Bikefriendly hangar—a space that represents the seed of a dream now turned into reality. Here, the project has grown from a simple idea into a movement that provides hundreds of students with access to education through bicycles.

Later, we'll take part in a cultural gymkhana in the village of Ngallou, a playful and interactive way to discover traditions, stories, and local customs. The rest of the day is all about sharing experiences with the youth of the village—whether through games, conversations, or sports, it's an opportunity to bond, laugh, and learn together.

This day without cycling often becomes one of the most memorable of the trip: a reminder that solidarity is not only about donating bikes, but also about building friendships and mutual understanding.

Pirogue Journey to Mar Lodj & African Rhythms

Distance

27 km

Elevation

+0m

Pirogue Journey to Mar Lodj & African Rhythms

Today we trade our bikes for traditional canoes, beginning an unforgettable boat journey from the village of Ndangane. Gliding through the mangroves, we pass by the famous Bird island, a sanctuary filled with vibrant species, before reaching the enchanting island of Mar Lodj. Here, a delicious traditional meal awaits us, prepared with the flavors of Senegalese cuisine.

After lunch, we'll stroll through the village, discovering its relaxed pace of life, before enjoying a break at the iconic Rastafarian hut, a little paradise by the water. It's a perfect moment to soak in the atmosphere, rest, and let the spirit of the island surround you.

In the afternoon, our pirogues take us back through the mangroves to the Akulé pier, near Palmarin. From here, we switch back to our fat bikes for a final short ride, pedaling the last stretch to our accommodation. The combination of river, islands, and cycling creates one of the most diverse and magical days of the journey.

Cycling Adventure in the Niassam Reserve

Distance

21 km

Elevation

+0m

Cycling Adventure in the Niassam Reserve

On our last full day of adventure, we explore one of the most beautiful corners of Palmarin, a landscape filled with majestic baobabs, swaying palm trees, and shimmering salt flats. Here, we'll witness the remarkable work of local women who dedicate themselves to harvesting salt under the African sun—a tradition that has shaped life in this region for generations.

From there, we hop back on our fat bikes to ride through the Niassam Nature Reserve, following sandy tracks across the savannah with sweeping views of mangroves and salt pans. This ride perfectly combines the thrill of off-road cycling with the serenity of Senegal's wild landscapes.

This day captures the essence of Senegal—nature, tradition, and the joy of cycling through unforgettable scenery.

Until We Meet Again

Our final morning in Senegal is dedicated to enjoying the warmth of the local community and sharing one last moment with the group that has become like family over these unforgettable days.

We'll return to Point Vélo, where our journey began, to say goodbye to our wonderful guides and the people behind the Bicycles for Education project. Here we'll return our fat bikes—the companions that carried us through beaches, villages, and savannah—and take some time to reflect on the experiences we've lived together.

The rest of the morning will be free to make final visits, share farewells with the locals, or pick up small souvenirs before boarding our private bus back to Dakar's Blaise Diagne International Airport. Each participant will then catch their flight back home, carrying not only memories of cycling in Senegal but also the joy of new friendships and the pride of having been part of a solidarity project that truly changes lives.

This is not just the end of a trip, but the beginning of a story you will always carry with you.

Advantages of booking your event with BikeFriendly

Culture

Culture in Palmarin

Palmarin is the beating heart of the most authentic Senegal. A place where daily life flows with the rhythm of the tides and the warm smiles of its people. Nestled between mangroves, rice fields, and endless beaches, this peaceful rural area keeps alive the traditions of the Serer people, known for their hospitality and their deep bond with the land and the sea.

Here, the community thrives on artisanal fishing, salt harvesting, and agriculture—activities you'll witness up close as you cycle along sandy trails and coastal paths. Women dressed in vibrant boubous gather to cook traditional dishes such as thieboudienne (rice with fish), while children play spirited football matches on makeshift sandy pitches.

In Palmarin, every greeting is an invitation to pause and share, every glance a window into a way of life built on calm, cooperation, and respect for nature. Cycling through these lands is not just about covering kilometers—it's about immersing yourself in a culture that welcomes you like family.

Climate

Climate in Palmarin

Traveling to Palmarin in January means cycling under gentle sunshine and warm, pleasant temperatures, with highs around 26 °C and mild evenings. It's the height of the dry season, so the days are stable and rain-free, while the Atlantic breeze keeps every ride refreshing. The landscapes shine in golden and salty tones, creating the perfect setting to enjoy the routes by day and relax by the ocean at night.

Gastronomy

Gastronomy in Palmarin

The cuisine of Palmarin is a true feast of African flavors with a strong influence from the sea. The star dish is thieboudienne, considered Senegal's national dish: rice slowly cooked with fresh fish, vegetables, and spices that fill the air with an irresistible aroma.

Other classics you'll get to taste include yassa—a chicken or fish stew marinated in lemon and caramelized onions—and mafe, a hearty stew of meat or vegetables in a rich, peanut-based sauce full of flavor and texture.

In this coastal region, fish and seafood—such as prawns, oysters, and clams from the mangroves—take center stage at the table, always fresh and paired with local produce like millet, sorghum, and tropical fruits. Every meal is served with the warm hospitality that defines Senegalese culture, turning each dining experience into a moment of connection and celebration.

Land

Terrain of the Routes in Palmarin

Riding a fat bike through Palmarin is pure African adventure on two wheels. You'll pedal along endless stretches of firm sand beaches with the ocean as your travel companion, and venture onto inland sandy trails that weave through vibrant, colorful villages.

Further inland, the routes take you past towering baobabs and across red-earth landscapes, with sections that alternate between compact paths and patches of loose sand that will test your technique. You'll also find short stretches of paved road, perfect for linking stages and enjoying the contrast of scenery.

It's a varied and playful terrain, designed to let the fat bike show its full potential—mixing smooth rides with technical sections, always set against the unique backdrop of Atlantic Africa.

Included services

Transfer

Private transfer from Dakar Airport to Palmarin on day 1, and return transfer on the final day of the program.

Accommodation

7 nights' accommodation with breakfast in private bungalows.

full board

Breakfasts, lunches and dinners in local restaurants, with drinks included.

Guided rides

Professional guide every day plus mechanic support within the group.

Refreshments on route

Water and fruit available during rides.

Sightseeing

Guided visits and cultural activities as outlined in the program.

Bike rental

Fatbikes available throughout the trip.

Support vehicle

With option to change clothes or hop on during the ride.

Flights

Assistance with booking your flight to Dakar from your point of origin.

Donation

For every participant, 3 Baobikes are contributed to the Bicycles Without Borders project in Senegal.

Not included

Flights

Round-trip flights to Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport.

Immunizations

Vaccinations and any necessary medication for the trip.

View

Processing and obtaining the required entry permits for Senegal.

not included

Any service not specifically mentioned in the Included section.

Additional to hire

Travel insurance: assistance and cancellation

Mandatory for all participants. You can book it with us or through another provider.

*Check our cancellation policy.

Gallery

Testimonials

Bikefriendly

4.9

Based on 121 reviews.

rate us at

Clara Isabel Suarez Bonilla

11:53 16 Dec 24

The trip to Senegal was an extraordinary, immersive experience. It allowed you to experience the country firsthand, interacting with and meeting its people. The local guides were very friendly and truly professional. If you're willing to endure the discomforts of deep Africa, this is a highly recommended trip.

Maxi Connecting Rod

19:50 11 Dec 24

This solidarity trip to Senegal has exceeded my expectations.
The work being done by Bicycles Without Borders and Bikefriendly is commendable and makes me think there is still hope in the world.
I've seen firsthand that this project is real and not just a gimmick. The idea is truly brilliant, and it's helping many children and adolescents continue their education in a very meaningful way, as it's not a charity, but a means for the local population to develop.
The immersive experience in the country is complete, and traveling around the country by bike helps us feel fully integrated into the environment. In just one week, we've been able to understand and learn a lot about this country and its wonderful people, who are materially poor but spiritually rich.
I take my hat off to the work done by both the guide Sergio and the local team, which included Alpha, my lifelong friend and very professional, as well as Idi, Maurice, and Sidy.
I will definitely recommend this trip.

Maria Lacosta Ibarz

16:35 09 Dec 24

Senegal, a trip that touches your heart and soul and makes you reflect. Sports, experiences, culture, solidarity, and many other things you only experience when you're there. Sergio, our guide, was unbeatable. Always calm and poised, he conveyed his passion for cycling and introduced us to Senegalese culture. The management and service provided by Bikefriendly were brilliant from the start. We will travel with you again without hesitation.

Miguel Domper

16:22 09 Dec 24

We had a great experience on a trip organized by Bikefriendly; everything went perfectly! We're particularly grateful for the excellent service Carlos provided during the booking and trip preparation process. Sergio, our guide, also provided excellent guidance throughout the trip. Highly recommended! We'll definitely be back with Bikefriendly again!

Rufino Martín

10:19 09 Dec 24

Solidarity trips with a high level of involvement, activities, and deep immersion in the country and local projects.

Mcjorero Mcjorero

21: 59 09 Nov 24

I have discovered a new way of traveling in which you continue enjoying the passion for cycling in extraordinary places, you meet super charming and very nice people with the same passion as you, and all with the peace of mind of being very well organized by Bikefriendly, the treatment received on the trip so that we did not lack anything and helping us in everything we could need is what makes the difference, without a doubt highly recommended and to repeat 🫶🏼🫶🏼

David Gonzalez

11: 44 17 Oct 24

This trip around Mallorca has been incredible, everything was well organized, the guide was attentive to us, always providing drinks, bars, gels, etc., giving advice, showing us places of interest, attentive to every detail. It's wonderful to discover places this way. You just have to focus on pedaling and enjoying the surroundings, as well as meeting like-minded people! Excellent in every aspect! Regards

Carolina DAmico Rebord

21:47 15 Jul 24

It was an incredible four days! I didn't miss a thing! Sergio was on top of everything, along with Bea and Carlos, a master of organization! The refreshments were excellent and varied, the support along the route... They followed us closely, always on top of everything. The group was very good, but the captain (Sergio) played an important role.
I recommend it, the routes exceeded my expectations! The hotels were good and the food was very good.

FAQs

How are flights arranged?

Once the minimum number of participants is confirmed, we will contact everyone who has completed their pre-booking and provide detailed instructions on how to book your flights. Our team will guide you through the process to make sure your journey to Dakar is smooth and well-coordinated.

Are the cycling routes very demanding?

This is not a competitive tour but a solidarity cycling trip in Senegal, where the bike is mainly our means of daily transportation. The routes are not overly demanding; the goal is to enjoy the journey, discover the project, and immerse yourself in the country, its people, and its culture. We'll stop as often as needed to take photos, interact with locals, or rest in the shade. It's all about the experience, not the speed.

Even with refreshment stops… should I bring my own snacks?

Yes, it's always a good idea to carry the energy bars or snacks you're used to, so you can eat whenever you need to and avoid any dips in energy. Along the way, you'll also find refreshment stops with water refills and fresh fruit, ensuring you stay hydrated and fueled during each stage of the ride.

I have allergies or intolerances. Can you adapt the menus?

We will do our best to accommodate your needs, but please keep in mind that we are in Senegal, where food variety can be limited. Once your booking is confirmed, we'll contact you and send a short form to gather important details such as emergency contacts, allergies or intolerances, and any health conditions. This helps us prepare as much as possible to make your experience safe and enjoyable.

Which vaccinations do I need?

For up-to-date health recommendations, you should contact your nearest International Vaccination Center or consult your private health insurance provider. These experts will guide you on the required and recommended vaccines for traveling to Senegal. We suggest booking an appointment as soon as you confirm your place on the trip to ensure you have enough time to complete the necessary vaccinations before departure.