Podor is best understood through its river and trade. Along the stone quays on the Senegal River are former trading posts dating from the 19th century. In town, a museum in the restored fort, the Écomusée du commerce fluvial and places to explore on foot add a cultural and historical perspective. The surrounding area also offers Donaye, Ngawlé and routes on foot and on the water. When planning your trip, you can distinguish between historic sites in town and excursions into the surrounding area.

River Journey and Arrival

You can reach Podor or depart from there on a river cruise aboard the BOU EL MOGDAD. Check the current availability of the cruise before your trip. The river cruise is therefore part of your travel planning, while museums and a walk help shape your choice of things to do in town.

The Fort, Écomusée and Town History

The restored Fort de Podor houses a museum about the history of the region and its commandants. The Écomusée du commerce fluvial offers a different focus. It is located in a former trading post and displays everyday objects and goods that were once sold there and donated by Podor residents. The difference lies in their approach: the fort covers regional history and commandants, while the Écomusée focuses on everyday objects and goods.

A walk through the centre of Podor takes in, among other places, the colonial market hall, the former regional school and the military cemetery. These stops expand on the museum perspective with other places in the town centre and bring together different aspects of the town’s history in one walk.

Explore the Surrounding Area on Foot and by Water

There are two different ways to explore the surrounding area: a walking route and a pirogue trip. A walking route leads from Podor to Donaye; the village is about 12 km away and is known for its earthen architecture. Pirogue trips on the Senegal River are available from Donaye or Ngawlé, offering views of the landscape and life along the riverbanks. If you are interested in Donaye and its earthen architecture, follow the walking route. Pirogue trips, by contrast, focus on the river landscape and life along the banks. Before setting out, check whether trips are currently being offered.

Saint-Louis as a Regional Point of Reference

In the wider destination of Saint-Louis, the island of Saint-Louis lies between two arms of the Senegal River estuary. The UNESCO World Heritage site encompasses the island’s riverbanks and quays, as well as the Faidherbe Bridge. The bridge has seven arch spans; the second span from the island is designed to rotate around a fixed axis so that ships can pass. The Bou el Mogdad cruise travels from Saint-Louis to Podor. The Saint-Louis Jazz Festival also began in Saint-Louis in 1993 and brings together musicians from around the world every year. If you would like to include the festival in your trip, check the current event dates.

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Go to the main travel overview: Saint-Louis.