The Guembeul Natural Reserve is one of the biggest reserves in
Senegal. It is home to many kinds of animals, some of which are
endangered and being protected.
Location
The reserve is 10 km south of Saint Louis at the Saint Louis Region.
This region is to the northwest of the country close to the Senegal
River mouth. It is 320 kilometers north of Dakar, the capital of
Senegal.
What to See
The park encompasses an area of 720 hectares. The park is home to a
diverse range of wildlife. There are scores of different bird species
and reptiles in the site. You will also see different species of
mammals. It is especially known for the gazelles and the African Spurred
Tortoise.
The Guembeul Natural Reserve is particularly well known for its
reintroduction programs for the gazelles and the tortoise. You will also
see snakes, lizards, lions, cheetahs, elephants, crocodiles and many
more.
History
As far back as 350,000 years ago, there were already human
settlements in the area around Senegal. Not much is known about these
early settlers, although presumably they were Neolithic.
One of the earliest kingdoms to be formed in the site is the Tekrur
Kingdom (Tekrour). This kingdom came to power no later than the 9th
century, but its actual formation date is still a matter of debate.
Several areas of Senegal came under the control of the Ghana Empire as it expanded.
It was also under the rule of the Tekrur that the Islam reached the
nation. This was around the 11th century. After the Tekrur rulers
embraced Islam, the other kingdoms were converted too. To this day,
Islam is the dominant religion in Senegal, and its customs are followed
religiously.
Cost
A week long Senegal tour or safari will cost about 2500 USD or
thereabouts. Usually though, the cost will be lower if there are more
people with you. It is not unusual for many travel tour packages to
offer discounts for groups.
Other Info
Saint Louis is one of the most popular tourist destinations in
Senegal. In West Africa, it is among the few that has retained its
French colonial features. Some of its best natural sites are the
National Park of the Langue de Barbarie and the National Park of the
Birds of Djoudj.
The Guembeul Natural Reserve remains one of the most popular
destinations in Senegal today. If you are interested in seeing the
natural beauty of Senegal, this is a good place to start.
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