Africa Surf Trip

Highlights

Our destination is the beautiful country of Sub-Saharan Africa, Senegal and the wonderful island of Ngor, the westernmost point of Africa.

An alternative trip for those looking for something different. A true African experience, combining safaris, beautiful nature, a strong local element, as well as a gentle form of exploration, beckoning the restless traveler into a highly enticing West African experience.

What’s impressive is the diversity of Senegal's culture and its natural landscape due to its geographical location, on the route of exchange of goods, customs and habits between the desert in the north and tropical Africa in the south.

Ngor Island is on the list of UNESCOs protected monuments and is an important symbol of memory against slavery. It has a number of historic buildings and forts, as well as museums, such as La Maison des Esclaves, where visitors can see where slaves left from for the New World.

For our stay we have chosen a small hotel near the sea. It has double and single bedrooms. Each bedroom has its own bathroom. There is also a common area, exclusively for group members. There is no electricity at the hotel, as well as in the entire island. The lighting and charging of mobile phones, cameras, tablets, etc. is done through solar energy. The food and products for consumption on the island are brought in daily from Dakar and are fresh.

Activities

Surfing (Level: Beginner / intermediate) The activity of surfing is showing a significant growth in recent years, as it is an excellent form of sport as well as an ideal reason for someone to go traveling around the world. Easy and fun in its first steps but at the same time inexhaustible and with a huge scope for development and specialization, it enchants those who try it, from the very first time. For your introduction to the world of surfing we have chosen a unique destination, the island of Ngor, in exotic Senegal. There with the help of our experienced guidance, you will have the opportunity to learn the secrets of this wonderful activity and practice its techniques.

Local Information

Sightseeing and places to visit in Senegal:

Dakar: Visit the open markets to pick out special, handmade souvenirs for your loved ones and don't forget to put your bargaining skills to use. It is also home to the tallest statue in Africa, the African Renaissance Monument.

Pink Lake: Senegal's salty, pink lake is one of the country's most popular tourist destinations. Swim in its warm waters or watch the salt merchants collect their precious commodity.

Fathala National Park: You can book an excursion on a pirogue (small boat) or go hiking if you feel like it.

Climate : The climate of Senegal is tropical with the temperature ranging from 17 to 26 degrees Celsius during the time of our visit.

Travel documents: Greek nationals will not need a visa to visit Senegal, as it is within the Schengen Treaty. However, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day you leave the country. In any case, prior to booking the trip, consult the Senegalese Consulate.

Currency: The currency of Senegal is the West African Franc (CFA) (Exchange at Dakar Airport)

Time: Dakar is 2 hours behind Greece during the winter season.

Transportation: To get to Dakar we will travel by air via Istanbul. Upon our arrival, we will be transferred to the islet of Ngor which will be our final destination. Our domestic transportation will be done by local boats and vehicles.

Health precautions: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, but no additional vaccinations or other special health precautions are required for your trip. We should be particularly careful in the consumption of water and food which come from unverified points of origin.

Cuisine: Food in Senegal is based mainly on fresh local fish, beef, as well as fruits and vegetables indigenous in the area. The national dish of Senegal is called Ceebu Jenn. There are as many variations on how to pronounce this dish (thieboudienne, thiep bu dinenne, ceebujenn...) as there are to make it. This recipe with rice (ceeb) and fish (jenn) is one of the favorites of the Senegalese and is also made with beef (ceebu yapp). If it looks familiar, it's because it's an evolution of the Spanish paella.

Itinerary

Our daily program includes 3 hours of surf instruction (All levels) per day, from the certified instructors of Ikaria Surf School, plenty of relaxing moments on the beach as well as some group excursions to places of interest in the area. In addition to the teaching hours, the participants will have personal time to plan excursions and visits to the various attractions of the area independently from the rest of the group.

General

Pricing includes:

• Air tickets Athens - Dakar - Athens (via Istanbul)
• Accommodation with breakfast in a local Hostel in double/triple rooms
• Dinner (drinks not included)
• Surf lesson 2 x 1.5 hours / day
• Surf Equipment
• Transfers to and from Dakar airport
• Local transport (beaches and attractions)