Matam - Discovering Senegal

Travelling to Matam

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Matam, a pretty good destination in Senegal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Matam and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Matam, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Senegal, here's everything to know about Matam for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Matam

Matam is a region located in the northern part of Senegal. The capital city of the region is also called Matam. The region is bordered by Mauritania to the north and Mali to the east, and it is primarily known for its agricultural activities, with the main crops being millet, maize, and peanuts. The region has a dry and hot climate, with temperatures often reaching over 40 degrees Celsius in the summer months. The main languages spoken in Matam are Pulaar, Wolof, and French. The region also has several cultural and historical sites, such as the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the mosque of Tonbouctouli, which is one of the oldest mosques in Senegal.

What to visit in Matam

Matam is a beautiful city located in Northern Senegal. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Matam: 1. Diama Dam - This dam, located on the Senegal river, was built to control flooding. It is a great place for fishing and birdwatching. You can also take a boat ride on the river.
2. Agnam-Goly - This village is known for its traditional Peulh architecture and for hosting a popular wrestling festival each year.
3. Ferlo Wildlife Reserve - This reserve is home to a variety of animals such as gazelles, antelopes, ostriches, and even lions. It is a great place for wildlife enthusiasts and birdwatchers.
4. Gandiol - This beach town is known for its beautiful beaches. It is a great place for swimming and relaxing.
5. Gourma-Rharous - This village is known for its lively market and for being home to the famous Senegalese musician, Baaba Maal.
6. Ourossogui - This town is known for its colonial architecture and for being one of the largest peanut-producing regions in Senegal.
Overall, Matam offers a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and wildlife experiences that make it a great destination for travelers.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Senegal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Matam.

When to go on holiday to Matam

The best time to go on holiday to Matam (Senegal) is during the dry season, which runs from November to May. The weather is generally sunny and dry with little to no rainfall, making it the ideal time for wildlife viewing and outdoor activities. However, if you prefer cooler temperatures, it's best to visit in December or January, while the hottest months are March and April. Keep in mind that the wet season, which runs from June to October, brings heavy rainfall and high humidity, which may make it difficult to explore the region.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Matam

Matam is located in northern Senegal and is accessible by land or air. Here are some ways to get there: BY AIR: The nearest airport to Matam is the Ourossogui Airport, which is about 1 hour and 30 minutes' drive away. However, flights to Ourossogui are not very frequent.
A more popular option is to fly to the Dakar international airport and then take a domestic flight or drive to Matam. There are several domestic airlines in Senegal that operate regular flights to the Matam region.
BY LAND: You can take a bus or hire a private car from Dakar to Matam. The distance between the two cities is around 850 km, and the journey can take around 12 hours depending on the mode of transportation. Buses and private cars are available from several operators in Dakar.
Another option is to take the train from Dakar to Matam. The railway line connecting Dakar to the north of Senegal passes through Matam. However, the train service is not very frequent, and the journey can take up to 24 hours.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Matam!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Matam, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Matam

Matam is located in the northern part of Senegal, and its cuisine is characterized by the use of millet, sorghum, and other grains, as well as meat, fish, and vegetables. Here are some typical foods of Matam: 1. Thieboudienne: This is the national dish of Senegal, but it is also commonly eaten in Matam. It is a one-pot meal made with fish, vegetables, and rice that is flavored with a tomato-based sauce.
2. Ceebu jen: Similar to Thieboudienne, but made with lamb instead of fish.
3. Jollof rice: A rice dish that is popular throughout West Africa, including in Matam. It is usually made with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
4. Tibs: Grilled or fried meat, usually goat or lamb, served with vegetables and injera (a type of Ethiopian flatbread).
5. Ndambé: A stew made with beans, vegetables, and sometimes meat. It is often served with rice or millet.
6. Yassa: A dish made with marinated chicken or fish that is grilled and then simmered with onions, garlic, and lemon juice.
7. Bouye: A sweet drink made from the fruit of the baobab tree. It is often sold by street vendors in Matam.
8. Thiacry: A sweet millet-based porridge that is commonly eaten for breakfast or as a snack. It is often made with yogurt, fruit, and sugar.
9. Mafe: A peanut stew that is made with meat (usually beef or chicken), vegetables, and peanut butter.
10. Fataya: Fried or baked pastry filled with ground meat, fish, or vegetables. It is a popular street food in Matam.
You can find general info about typical foods in Senegal here.

Is Matam an expensive destination for tourists?

Matam is a relatively affordable destination within Senegal. However, the cost of your trip will depend on a number of factors such as your travel dates, accommodation preferences, activities, and dining choices. In general, if you travel outside of peak seasons and stay in budget-friendly accommodations, you can save money. Additionally, local transportation such as taxis and public buses are generally affordable. It's also important to note that some activities such as visiting national parks may have entry fees.

Where to find accomodation in Matam

Matam is a city located in the northern part of Senegal, near the border with Mauritania. There are different options for finding accommodation in Matam or nearby such as: 1. Matam city center: There are several hotels and guesthouses located in the center of Matam, which offer easy access to local shops, markets, and restaurants.
2. Goudiry: Goudiry is a small town located about 50 kilometers south of Matam. It is a good option for people who prefer a quieter atmosphere and prefer to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city.
3. Nguibassal: Nguibassal is a small village located about 80 kilometers north of Matam. It is ideal for people who want to be closer to nature and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
4. Ourossogui: Ourossogui is a city located about 100 kilometers north of Matam. It is a good option for people who are looking for a larger variety of hotel options, restaurants, and nightlife.
You can check hotel prices at Matam here:
Booking.com

Is Matam a safe destination for tourists?

Matam is generally a safe place for tourists, but like any other place, visitors should exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings. It is advisable to avoid walking alone at night or carrying large sums of cash. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas, so it is important to keep your belongings close. Additionally, it is always a good idea to research local customs and laws before visiting a new place and to follow them. Overall, with proper safety precautions, Matam can be a great destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Senegal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Matam.

What type of travelers will enjoy Matam the most?

Matam is a region of Senegal that offers a unique experience to travelers looking to immerse themselves in traditional culture and enjoy the natural beauty of the area. While it can be enjoyed by different types of travelers, it may appeal more to certain groups.
Couples and families who enjoy outdoor adventures will appreciate Matam's wilderness areas, such as the Ferlo National Park, which offers a chance to experience traditional nomadic culture and spot wildlife like gazelles and hyenas. Couples may also enjoy exploring the city of Matam, which is known for its lively markets and cultural festivals.
Young people looking for nightlife and parties may not find what they are looking for in Matam, as the region is more focused on traditional culture and natural beauty than on urban nightlife. However, younger travelers who are interested in learning about traditional ways of life and spending time in natural environments will find plenty to enjoy in Matam.

How to get around Matam

In Matam, the most common and convenient means of transportation are taxis and motorcycle taxis, also known as "bajaj". There are also some public transportation options such as buses and minibusses, but they can be unreliable and infrequent. It is important to negotiate prices with the taxi and bajaj drivers beforehand to avoid overcharging. Additionally, walking and biking are viable options within the city center.

What to see around Matam

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Matam, Senegal: 1. Parc National du Niokolo-Koba: This national park is located about 2 hours away from Matam and is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and giraffes.
2. Kayesoum: This is a small village about 30 minutes away from Matam that is known for its traditional architecture and artisanal crafts.
3. Loumpoul: This village is about an hour away from Matam and is known for its traditional wrestling matches and music festivals.
4. Dara Wakhal: This nature reserve is about 45 minutes away from Matam and is home to a large population of migrating birds, including pelicans and flamingos.
5. Goumel: This is another small village located about 40 minutes away from Matam that is known for its traditional architecture and cultural heritage.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
For every travel information about Senegal you can click here.

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