Somone is a coastal village situated on Senegal's Petite Côte, roughly a hundred kilometers south of Dakar. It is renowned for its lagoon classified as a nature reserve, calm beaches, and a more preserved atmosphere than neighboring resorts like Saly. The lagoon, bordered by dense mangroves, attracts migratory birds and kayaking enthusiasts, while the village maintains an authentic pace of life.

Quick facts at a glance

• Access: from Dakar, approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by car via national route N1; shared minibuses from Mbour or Saly.
• Recommended duration: a full day to explore the lagoon and beach; two to three days to experience the village fully.
• Dress code: beach attire suitable; cover up in the village outside beach areas.
• Best season: November to April (dry season), outside the rainy period.

What to see

Somone Lagoon is the heart of the site. Surrounded by lush mangroves, it is home to pelicans, herons, cormorants, and numerous migratory species. Local pirogues allow you to traverse or skirt its shores. Somone Beach, less crowded than Saly's, offers fine sand and relatively calm waters. The village itself, with its winding streets and markets, offers a glimpse into daily Lebou and Serer life.

History and context

Somone is a fishing village whose economy gradually shifted toward tourism beginning in the 1980s, following Saly's development. The lagoon was designated a community nature reserve, managed in part by local residents, which has helped limit tourism pressure and preserve the mangrove ecosystem. This local management is often cited as an example of participatory conservation in West Africa.

Highlights of your visit

The lagoon and its birdlife

An early morning pirogue excursion on the lagoon allows you to observe colonies of white and grey pelicans nesting in mangrove islets. Local guides know the nesting zones and adapt the route according to the season.

Somone Beach

Less developed than Saly's beaches, it suits swimmers seeking tranquility. Fishermen bring their pirogues ashore late in the morning—a lively and photogenic moment.

The craft market

Several stalls offer locally made textiles, jewelry, and wooden objects. Prices are generally more affordable than in Dakar or major Saly hotels.

Photography tips

The golden morning light over the lagoon is ideal: reflections in the water and pelican silhouettes are particularly crisp before 9 a.m. For the beach, sunset casts warm hues on colorful pirogues. Avoid photographing residents without prior consent.

Location and access

Somone is situated on the Petite Côte, between Mbour and Saly. From Dakar, national route N1 leads to Mbour, then a secondary road reaches Somone. Regular shared minibuses connect Mbour to Somone. The village is accessible by car; the lagoon's edges sometimes require a short walk from the parking area.

Nearby attractions

• Saly — lively beach resort a few kilometers away, with numerous hotels, restaurants, and water sports activities.
• Mbour — fishing town with a bustling fish market especially lively late in the morning.
• Bandia Reserve — wildlife reserve about thirty kilometers away, where you can spot rhinoceroses, giraffes, and antelopes.
• Lac Rose (Lac Retba) — lake with distinctive pink waters, accessible from Dakar heading north.