2026 SMA Senegal Explorers Program
| Travel Dates: | June 9, 2026 - June 19, 2026 |
| Group Organizer(s): |
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| WTT Contact: |
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| Program Tuition: |
$4,190 USD
Airfare not included in program tuition
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| Confirmed Airfare: | $2,390 |
| Deadline(s): | Enrollment deadline is October 20th. Payments will be made to SMA. Please note the tuition includes travel insurance. |
Important Reminders
Passport check
Insurance Reminder
Fundraiser
Review all materials
What to Expect
Please read through all of the information below. More details will be added as your departure draws closer.
Itinerary
We do everything possible to abide by itineraries as originally planned, but decades of experience teaches that we must be flexible in our planning. Changes to a trip’s schedule are uncommon, but Walking Tree reserves the right to make adjustments to programming in the best interest of the group.
| Day | Location | Description | Lodging |
|---|---|---|---|
| June 9 | USA - Senegal | The adventure begins! Board your overnight flight headed to Dakar, Senegal. | Airplane |
| June 10 | Dakar | After arriving to Diass Blaise Diagne International Airport this afternoon, we will transfer to our hotel in Dakar and check in. After some rest and food, we'll have an orientation meeting to discuss our adventure in more detail. Welcome dinner tonight! | Dakar Hotel |
| June 11 | Dakar | This morning we will take a guided city tour of Dakar, visiting the Place de l'Indépendance, the city center and the African Renaissance Monument. We'll also stop at Soumbédioune Market and have lunch at a local restaurant. This afternoon we will visit Ngor Island, Dakar's most relaxing and beautiful places just a short boat ride from the coast. We'll have time to relax on the beach and give surfing a try. | Dakar Hotel |
| June 12 | Dakar - Gorée Island | We will spend most of this day touring Goree Island; just a few miles from the city, this was the departure point for millions of Africans during the centuries-long slave trade. This can be very sobering, but is vitally important to try and understand. We'll explore the island with a local guide and, visit the castle for a panoramic view of the island. We'll stay the night on the island and enjoy a Senegalese dinner together. | Gorée Island Hotel |
| June 13 | Gorée Island - Lac Rose | The day begins with breakfast, followed by a departure for Lac Rose. We'll travel via the Noflaye turtle village, a special botanical reserve showcasing medicinal plants. Famous for its beauty, Lake Retba turns a stunning pink when the sun reaches its zenith. Separated from the Atlantic Ocean by sand dunes, the lake's high salt content makes anything buoyant. In a specially adapted vehicle, we will witness the traditional salt extraction methods used by the local people. This afternoon we will participate in a service project, which will be decided on by local community members at a later date. Weather permitting, we will head out to witness a magnificent sunset from the sand dunes that surround Lac Rose. | Lac Rose Hotel |
| June 14 | Lac Rose - Lompoul Desert Lodge | Today we depart for the Lompoul Desert Lodge, where travelers will have the chance to explore this region of orange sands, ride camels and camp beneath the stars. The lodge is located about three hours from Dakar, but feels like it's on another planet! We'll camp along the sand dunes in comfortable tents with running water, mattresses and even carpeting. This evening, we will gather around a campfire and enjoy some first-class stargazing, good food and delicious mint tea. | Lompoul Desert Lodge |
| June 15 | Lompoul - Somone | After breakfast, depart for the Petite Côte. This charming coastline is dominated in some areas by Senegal's emblematic tree, the majestic baobab. We'll have time to browse the local crafts in Mekhe, a town renowned for its artisinal works, or Lalane, famous for its beautiful basket weaving. Enjoy lunch on the route before continuing to La Somone. Depending on our arrival time, we can relax or embark on a walk through the Somone lagoon. This nature reserve shelters a diverse bird population throughout the year. Join a guided tour of the mangrove swamps to spot pelicans, herons, egrets, and even pink flamingos. Dinner at the hotel tonight. | La Somone Hotel |
| June 16 | Somone - Mbour | Depart the hotel and head straight for a breathtaking baobab forest arriving to Bandia Reserve. Here, you can observe the unique flora of the Sahel region and learn more about Serer culture. Witness a variety of mammals roaming freely, including buffalo, monkeys, giraffes, gazelles, rhinos, ostriches, and more. The birdlife here is equally impressive. Embark on an off-road safari with a knowledgeable reserve guide to get the most out of your wildlife viewing experience. In the late afternoon, head to Mbour, a vibrant fishing port located near the town's bustling market. Take a stroll along the harbor, witnessing the day's catch being unloaded and the lively atmosphere fueled by the fishing economy. Dinner at the hotel tonight. | Mbour Hotel |
| June 17 | Mbour | Our final day in Senegal will be spent relaxing poolside at our hotel, walking along the beach and taking advantage of our final chance to shop for souvenirs. We'll have a farewell dinner tonight to celebrate our time together! | Mbour Hotel |
| June 18 | Dakar - USA | Transfer to the airport for your flight home. | Your own bed! |
Accommodations
In order to provide a safe and memorable experience, we follow strict guidelines when choosing group accommodations. Walking Tree partners with hotels and guest houses which are centrally located, locally operated, clean and safe. We inspect each partner hotel to ensure they meet these standards.
Hotel Le Calao du Lac Rose
This lovely, family-run property is a short distance from the international airport near an enchanting pink salt lake. The ocean-front hotel is located on beautiful grounds where students stay in individual cabanas surrounded by flower and tree-lined paths. Free Wi-Fi access throughout the building keeps everyone feeling connected. Students will be grouped in their rooms according to gender and availability.
La Pierre de Lisse
A small paradise about 45 minutes from Dakar, La Pierre de Lisse is true oasis located on the beach of Toubab Dialaw. Students will stay in private cabanas of stone walls and thatch roofs scattered throughout a large, exotic garden. Internet access throughout in the building keeps everyone feeling connected. Students will be grouped in their rooms according to gender and availability.
Group Flight
| Type | Carrier Name | Carrier Code | Flight Number | Departure Airport & City | Departure Date and Time | Arrival Airport & City | Arrival Date and Time |
| Outbound | Delta Air Lines | DL | 336 | DEN – Denver International Airport, Denver, United States | June 09, 2026 at 06:30 AM | JFK – John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York, United States | June 09, 2026 at 12:25 PM |
| Outbound | Delta Air Lines | DL | 216 | JFK – John F. Kennedy International Airport, New York, United States | June 09, 2026 at 06:50 PM | DSS – Blaise Diagne International Airport, Dakar, Senegal | June 10, 2026 at 07:00 AM |
| Inbound | Air France | AF | 719 | DSS – Blaise Diagne International Airport, Dakar, Senegal | June 18, 2026 at 11:15 PM | CDG – Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris, France | June 19, 2026 at 06:45 AM |
| Inbound | Air France | AF | 58 | CDG – Charles de Gaulle Airport, Paris, France | June 19, 2026 at 01:25 PM | DEN – Denver International Airport, Denver, United States | June 19, 2026 at 03:25 PM |
Once your flight schedule has been confirmed, the itinerary will appear here.
Walking Tree will secure a seat on the group flight for each participant unless otherwise instructed.
Travelers are responsible for checked baggage fees. Please visit the airline’s baggage webpage to learn if you should expect to pay anything.
We will provide a group manifest – complete with reservation codes and ticket numbers – to the Group Organizer/s before departure, and travelers will need to check in at the airport in order to receive their boarding pass and have documents verified. We recommend arriving no later than three hours prior to the scheduled departure, but contact your Group Organizer for specific details on exactly where and when to meet on the day of departure.
FLIGHT INTERRUPTION, DELAY OR CANCELLATION
Air travel can be unpredictable. Regardless of proper planning, there may still be instances when a flight is delayed or cancelled due to staffing shortages, weather, mechanical problems, etc. Please note that in such an event, Walking Tree Travel (WTT) is not financially responsible for unanticipated costs incurred by travelers en route. Our programs officially begin and end in the destination country, and because our staff doesn’t fly with the group, Group Organizers (the traveling faculty member/s) become the front-line advocate for the group in the event of a delay. In most cases of cancellations or delays, the airline will be the one who re-books travel or possibly arranges a hotel and food the night. Our primary role will be to keep families updated and provide support to the Group Organizer to reach a quick and effective resolution.
Host Community and Project Details
Packing List
Support Team
At a minimum, one experienced Program Leader will travel on every trip. In addition to this full time leadership presence, Walking Tree has additional staff in all destinations and 24/7 support from our headquarters in Denver, Colorado. Below you’ll find the the team members involved in the preparation, planning and execution of your program.
Earlham College – B.A. International Studies, Minor in Economics
Born and raised in Guatemala in a big family, JP spent seven years living and studying in the U.S., where he was exposed to highly diverse communities. He worked as a Wilderness Leader guiding expeditions across the American Southwest and later attended Earlham College in Indiana after completing the International Baccalaureate in New Mexico. His passion for international affairs led him to study abroad in China and travel extensively throughout Asia and beyond. To date, JP has visited 33 countries, often combining travel with service projects and cultural immersion experiences. Today, he is based in Costa Rica and works full time with the Walking Tree team. Outside of work, he enjoys photography, art and design, hosting friends and travelers, and planning road trips across Costa Rica and Latin America.
Emory University – B.A. Sociology and minor in Latin American History
Luke’s path to student travel began in Mexico, during a year abroad in Mexico and Central America. This formative time led him to join an international volunteer program which, after graduating from college, sent him to the small village of San Gerardo de Rivas in south-central Costa Rica. Welcomed by the loveliest of host families, his experience in this tiny town is directly connected to the beginnings of Walking Tree five years later. His love for travel still burns bright, and today he’s lucky to have a wife and daughter who are equally passionate about exploring the world. Settled in Denver, he adores his family and colleagues, skies whenever possible, and is a devoted fan of all Colorado sports teams.
Fina Senghor
Senegal Country Director
University Gaston Berger of Saint-Louis – M.A Applied Foreign Languages (English and Spanish), Tourism and Conference Interpreting.
Fina was born and raised in Dakar, the capital city of Senegal. Later, due to her passion for languages, she went to Saint-Louis to continue her studies. After her master’s degree in 2008, she joined a British organization arranging trips for foreigners in developing countries around the world. Fina was in charge of welcoming young students to her country, who were coming to help and support local people in hard living conditions. With 9 years of experience working in multicultural environments, she is open-minded and very involved in social action. Furthermore, Fina is a member of cultural and social associations that give priority to the well-being of children and women in Africa.
Group Roster
Below is a list of the travelers enrolled on the program.
- 1 Anastasia Brannan
- 2 Catherine Riopelle
- 3 Emma Thatcher
- 4 Gloria Sims
- 5 Jenica James
Blog and Communication
During travel we work hard to keep families updated as frequently as possible with blog posts and photos, giving you peace of mind that your traveler is safe and thriving on their program. Students regularly contribute to these posts, providing families back home a great way to vicariously track the progress of the trip. You will be notified when the first update is posted, after which we recommend checking in regularly via the black “Program Blog” button at the top of this webpage.
Assuming your school allows the use of cell phones, most destinations are wired enough to allow participants access WiFi at different moments in the program, allowing them to communicate directly with home. Ask your Walking Tree representative about the degree of connectivity on your program.
GLC Curriculum
Walking Tree has developed a curriculum of activities meant to help travelers get the most out of their trip before departure, during travel and after they return home. These simple and engaging activities are meant to spark discussion, frame experiences, and prepare participants to travel ethically and effectively both on this trip and on future adventures.For more information about student learning objectives and the format of the curriculum, click on the ‘learn more’ button below.
To view and complete the Pre-Program Activities, visit our online portal at the button below.
Standards of Behavior
In order to run a safe and successful program, it is vital that travelers are prepared to be on their best behavior and bring enthusiasm and interest to each and every day. A communal atmosphere of trust and mutual respect is the foundational. As such, all individuals participating on a Walking Tree program are required to take responsibility for their actions and adhere to a high standard of personal conduct.
IMMEDIATE DISMISSAL
- Possessing, consuming or distributing alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Associating with participants while they are in possession of alcohol or illegal drugs.
- Behaving in a way that consistently damages the group dynamic or jeopardizes personal or group safety. This includes consistently displaying a negative attitude, intimidating or excluding other participants, sneaking out, disobeying group leaders, and any other behavior that is not conducive to an atmosphere of trust and mutual respect.
GROUNDS FOR DISMISSAL OR IN-COUNTRY CONSEQUENCE
- Getting a piercing or tattoo.
- Stealing, or deliberately damaging or defacing any personal property, buildings or materials.
- Threatening physical or emotional harm, or brandishing a weapon.
- Possessing, consuming, or distributing tobacco or nicotine, including vape pens.
- Riding mopeds, motorcycles, or any other type of unauthorized vehicle.
- Being out of designated area or accommodations after curfew.
- Breaking group rules.
These standards of behavior are essential for the successful completion of your program. Please take the time to review these as a family and make sure everyone understands and agrees to them.
Health and Safety
We strongly recommend visiting the CDC Senegal website to get the most updated information on health and vaccination considerations in your destination country. In addition, we encourage you to consult your personal family physician so you can be as informed as possible when making important decisions about vaccinations and other necessary health-related preparations before traveling.
Our in-country staff meticulously prepare for all programs. Walking Tree receives regular updates from the U.S. Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to proactively stay ahead of any potential security concerns. Our in-country staff also verify the safety records of our partner organizations, vendors, and transportation providers, thoroughly vet homestay families through in-depth interviews and visits, and stay informed about important current events in the region.
Program Leaders are seasoned travelers who are CPR and First Aid certified, undergo thorough training in crisis management, and participate in comprehensive leadership training. We do our best to prepare for any eventuality and have detailed emergency protocols for our leaders, in-country staff, and U.S.-based staff.
We collect medical disclosures from all participants to ensure we can meet every student’s needs during the program. Please inform us immediately of any additional health issues not listed during your initial registration process. Leaders and in-country staff are prepared to respond promptly to any mental, physical, or emotional health concerns and follow comprehensive emergency protocols.
Insurance
While we work hard to ensure the safest experience possible for our travelers on program, experience teaches that travel can be unpredictable. For this reason, we recommend that all travelers consider a travel insurance policy with a Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) provision. Detailed explanations of plan options can be found via the link below.
To provide travelers and families with a quality option, Walking Tree has partnered with Travel Insured International, one of the most respected providers in the industry. Begin by getting a quote here.
IMPORTANT NOTE: in order to secure coverage that includes CFAR, you must purchase the plan within 14-21 days of your first payment to Walking Tree. Be careful when you read the tenets of the policy to ensure you understand the required timeframe for purchase. You must also insure 100% of your trip cost, so program tuition + flight. Please reach out to us with questions.