Somone: Lagoon, Mangroves and Fine Sand

Somone combines a protected lagoon with mangroves, birdlife and fine-sand beaches. The lagoon is considered calm; birds can be found there, and it is also a site of local shellfish farming. This gives visitors a range of themes to explore when planning a stay: nature observation, excursions on foot or by boat, the beach and cultural connections. Somone is therefore appealing to travellers who want to focus on more than just one landscape.

A natural environment between lagoon and mangrove

The Somone Lagoon is protected. Birds found there include pelicans, herons and flamingos. More than 52 bird species have been recorded in the Réserve Naturelle d’Intérêt Communautaire de la Somone. This biodiversity gives the natural side of the area a distinctive character. The protected area is also notable for its geographic scope: the Réserve extends across the Commune de Somone and the Communauté rurale de Sindia.

The Réserve’s mangrove is rich in species and dominated by Rhizophora. The protected area also includes a nesting site for sea turtles. Its plant life, bird species and nesting site make the mangrove a distinct natural attraction alongside the beach and lagoon. For travellers who enjoy experiencing different types of landscape during a stay, this diversity is a particular highlight.

Excursions on water and on land

Visitors who want to experience the mangroves from the water can take a pirogue trip through them in Somone. The Aire Marine Protégée de La Somone runs mangrove excursions using boats operated by the GIE des piroguiers. Check current arrangements locally. The Aire Marine Protégée also offers walks along the Sentier écologique and excursions by electric bicycle.

There are several ways to get around: a trip through the mangroves, a walk along the ecological trail or an excursion by electric bicycle. Exploring on foot or by bicycle makes for a different kind of stay than taking a pirogue trip. When planning your days, you can decide whether you would rather experience the landscape from the water or include some activity on land.

Beach, lagoon and local shellfish farming

Somone has fine-sand beaches, while the lagoon is considered calm. This offers two distinct landscapes to consider when planning your trip: the sandy beach and the protected lagoon environment. Oysters and clams are also farmed locally in the lagoon. This is another distinctive feature of the area, adding a local connection to the lagoon alongside opportunities for nature observation.

Cultural connections by the water

The lagoon is also associated with cultural traditions. On an island stands a baobab associated with Baye Sank, also known as Père Jean. Reports say that hundreds of people visit the site every day; some make wishes or leave offerings there. There is also a well in the lagoon associated with Cheikh Omar Foutiyou Tall. For travellers interested in local traditions and religious connections as well as nature, these sites are among Somone’s distinctive attractions.

Choose a holiday apartment to suit your travel plans

When choosing a holiday apartment, start by considering what you want to focus on during your stay. If you want to prioritise nature and birdlife, the lagoon and mangroves offer plenty to explore. For active pursuits, you could consider walks along the Sentier écologique and excursions by electric bicycle; a pirogue trip offers a different experience, while the beaches bring fine sand into the picture. If members of your travel group have different preferences, you can weigh up nature, activity and beach time.

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For the main travel overview: Senegal.