Keur Moussa/Kayar/Tortoise Village/Pink Lake

Keur Moussa/Kayar/Tortoise Village/Pink Lake -1 Day. On these days, this tour is available.: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday

Keur Moussa
Abbaye du Coeur Immacule de Marie
Pink Lake
Tortoises Village

Keur Moussa, also known as Kayar or Tortoise Village, is a small village located on the coast of Senegal. The village is known for its traditional architecture, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors to Keur Moussa will have the opportunity to explore the village's streets and visit the local market, where they can purchase traditional crafts and souvenirs.

One of the most notable features of Keur Moussa is its traditional architecture, which is characterized by its use of mud, thatch, and straw. Visitors can see this traditional architecture in the form of the village's houses, which are built using locally-sourced materials. The houses are also decorated with intricate designs and patterns, which are unique to the village and reflect the cultural heritage of the people who live there.

Another highlight of Keur Moussa is the nearby Pink Lake. The lake is known for its unique pink color which is caused by the high salt content in the water. Visitors can take a boat ride on the lake and explore the surrounding area, which is characterized by its beautiful landscapes and diverse wildlife. The lake is also a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, and visitors can take in the beautiful views of the surrounding area.

Keur Moussa is also home to a traditional Senegalese wrestling academy. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of wrestling in Senegal and even get a chance to see a live wrestling match.

The village is also known for its association with the Mouride brotherhood, an influential Sufi Muslim group, and their Grand Mosque. The Grand Mosque of Touba, the largest mosque in West Africa, is located nearby and is a pilgrimage site for millions of Muslims.

Overall, Keur Moussa is a unique destination that offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the traditional culture and way of life of Senegal. The village's traditional architecture, picturesque landscapes, and rich cultural heritage make it a must-see destination for those interested in learning about the culture and history of Senegal.

We depart to Keur Moussa where you can observe or participate in the morning mass at the now-famous monastery built by Benedictine Monks in the early 1900s. Here you will see Benedictine Monks celebrating mass accompanied by traditional African musical instruments such as Koras, Balafons, and Soft Drums. Mass is celebrated in French with a generous sprinkling of Walof.

After Keur Moussa, continue to the nearby fishing village of Kayar. Fishing is the main economic activity of Kayar. Observe the vibrant colorful spectacle as the fishermen return to shore with the day's catch and haggle with their wholesale distributors amid the animated noise and activities.

From Kayar we continue to Pink Lake. On the way, we stop at Noflaye botanical gardens to see various species of tortoise.

We arrive at Pink lake, a rare natural phenomenon caused by a unique combination of microorganisms and a high concentration of salts which gives the lake its pink color.

Recently the lake is not as pink as in past years due to the nonstop depletion of the salt for commercial use. Interact with the women harvesting salt. For the adventuresome, try floating in the lake. Time permitting visit the nearby Fulani village before the completion of the day's activities.

 

• Meeting and assistance upon arrival and departure • Transportation in private vehicle • Experienced cultural tour guide • Admission to listed sites • Assistance with visa application

• Cost of visa • Flights • Travel insurance • Gratuity for driver and guide • Meals not listed • Personal expenses