Le Village des Tortues in Senegal
Address: Noflaye, km 12, Route de Bambilor, BP 655 Rufisque, Senegal
Phone: +221 77 658 99 84
Situated to the northeast of Dakar, Le Village des Tortues is a great place to see West Africa’s wide variety of turtle species all in one place. Opened in 2001, it is home to over 350 turtles, from large ones that weigh up to 100 kilograms to tiny turtles that weigh a mere 40 grams.
Located a short distance from the capital in the special botanical reserve of Noflaye, Le Village des Tortues is a 40km drive from the city center. It is easily reachable by taxi from the city, and makes for a great day trip from Dakar. It can be combined with a visit to Lac Rose as well.
The Village des Tortues in Senegal is spread out across several acres of land. Turtles live in enclosures, usually with two to 10 turtles in each one. There are also several areas for visitors to view baby turtles and very small turtles.
Conservation and repopulation work takes place at the village, and it is not uncommon to see teams of international researchers measuring, weighing, and studying the various turtle populations there. Whenever possible, turtles from Le Village des Tortues are reintroduced into the wild in reserves in northern Senegal.
Visitors can get an information pamphlet at the entrance after paying the entry fee. After that you can follow a guided path around Le Village des Tortues in Senegal to see all of the wildlife. There are also guided tours available for individuals and groups. Visiting hours are from 9:00 to 18:00 daily. The entry fee is 3,000 CFA for nonresident adults.
