Kedougou

Kedougou is home to several minority ethnic groups, perhaps most notably the Bedik and the Bassari. Both groups are Christian with a blend of strong animist traditions and have notably distinct cultures from the Muslim majority Pulaars and Jaxanke/Malinke in the area.

Take the opportunity to learn first-hand about their unique cultural practices and ceremonies. Spending time with these ethnic groups is also a rare opportunity to experience truly local drinking culture in Senegal! Be sure to try some local palm wine or mead while you’re there.

This circuit is best taken with a guide or guides who are knowledgeable about these cultures and can explain certain practices as well as serve as a translator. They will also best know the dates of the important cultural ceremonies if you’re trying to catch them – for example the Bassari initiations typically take place in May and the Bedik’s in April but the dates and location is only set about one or two weeks before.