chez Mourtala - Île de la Madeleine

chez Mourtala is a guesthouse near Île de la Madeleine.

Location
Île de la Madeleine, Dakar & Petite Côte, Senegal, West Africa
Coordinates
14.717850, -17.457548
Activities
guesthouse

Best Time to Visit chez Mourtala

The best months to visit chez Mourtala are November, January, February, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Great, temperature 22.91°C, rainfall 2.8mm, sunshine 9.9 hrs, humidity 65.8%
  • February: Great, temperature 21.77°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 10.5 hrs, humidity 69.6%
  • March: Great, temperature 20.22°C, rainfall 0mm, sunshine 11 hrs, humidity 79.3%
  • April: Great, temperature 20.6°C, rainfall 0.1mm, sunshine 11.6 hrs, humidity 82.1%
  • May: Great, temperature 22.15°C, rainfall 0.7mm, sunshine 11.3 hrs, humidity 85%
  • June: Great, temperature 24.85°C, rainfall 3.7mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 85.1%
  • July: Great, temperature 26.67°C, rainfall 47.4mm, sunshine 9.8 hrs, humidity 81.7%
  • August: Good, temperature 27.37°C, rainfall 166.7mm, sunshine 9.4 hrs, humidity 81.7%
  • September: Good, temperature 27.65°C, rainfall 134.1mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 82%
  • October: Great, temperature 28.27°C, rainfall 17.2mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 79.5%
  • November: Great, temperature 27.65°C, rainfall 0.3mm, sunshine 10.1 hrs, humidity 69.7%
  • December: Great, temperature 24.86°C, rainfall 2.2mm, sunshine 9.5 hrs, humidity 66.9%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the real draw of staying at Chez Mourtala, given it's a guesthouse and not a typical safari lodge?

We love Chez Mourtala for its authentic immersion into Senegalese life, a refreshing change from large lodges. It offers a peaceful base to explore the unique Île de la Madeleine National Park, and the hospitality is incredibly warm and personal. You'll find it feels less like a hotel and more like visiting a very welcoming home.

What kind of wildlife can we realistically expect to see around Île de la Madeleine when staying at Chez Mourtala?

While Île de la Madeleine isn't known for big game, we highly recommend it for birdwatchers. Expect to see a stunning array of coastal and migratory birds, including various seabirds and waders. The marine life is also vibrant, so keep an eye out for dolphins and turtles during boat excursions.

What's the best time of year to visit Chez Mourtala and the Île de la Madeleine area?

We find the dry season, from November to May, offers the most comfortable weather for exploring. The heat is manageable, and the skies are generally clear, making boat trips to the islands and enjoying the lodge's surroundings a real pleasure. Outside of this, the rainy season can bring lushness but also limit accessibility.

Can you give us an idea of the costs and what's typically included at Chez Mourtala?

Chez Mourtala offers excellent value, often including delicious home-cooked meals that are a highlight of our visits. While prices can fluctuate, we've found it to be more budget-friendly than larger safari operations. It's wise to confirm inclusions like airport transfers and any guided excursions when booking.

What should we pack and be aware of regarding safety and amenities at Chez Mourtala?

Pack light, breathable clothing, sun protection, and insect repellent. While the guesthouse offers comfortable and clean accommodations, don't expect the amenities of a five-star resort. We've always felt very safe and well looked after here; the focus is on genuine connection and experiencing local life.

Other Safari Lodges in Île de la Madeleine

Parks in Dakar & Petite Côte

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Senegal

Travel advisory for Senegal