L'Ecolodge de Simal

Getting here over all that sand can be a bit of a challenge, but the lovely riverside setting makes the drive worthwhile. The room was nice and dinner excellent. Breakfast, though, was pretty sparse. There was no WiFi, and the cell signal was unreliable. For what you get, the price seemed high.

A perfect little paradise a few hours from Dakar, with great food and amenities and complete peace at any time of day. You can take a kayak out around the delta for as long as you like, and it’s free.

I had such a good weekend here and only wish I’d booked more time. The activities were well organised, and they made vegetarian meals for me without any fuss. Our lodge was clean, comfortable, and had everything we needed. Meals are included. One of my favourite getaways, and I’d highly recommend it.

A lovely experience, with an amazing stay in a room that had an open-air bathroom, right by the river. It’s cash only, so get money in Mbour or Saly before you arrive, since the next ATM is there. You can join the hotel’s river tours for free or head out yourself in a kayak. The roads are sandy, so consider a four-wheel-drive car if you’re renting. This place is amazing.