Makasutu Forest: Canoe Ride, Plant Lore & Palm Juice Day Trip

Summary

Wander Makasutu’s sacred woods then drift down Mandinga Bolong creek

You’ll walk under ancient trees in Makasutu Forest with a local guide sharing plant lore and legends. Drift along Mandinga Bolong creek by pirogue, taste fresh palm juice, and maybe even meet a Marabout for fortune telling—all with private transport from Brikama. Expect moments of quiet wonder mixed with laughter and earthy smells you won’t forget soon.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered if a place could feel both wild and quietly watched? That’s what I kept thinking as we stepped into Makasutu Forest, just outside Brikama. Our guide—Musa, who grew up nearby—paused every few meters to show us leaves that smelled like lemon or bark that felt rougher than I expected. He told stories about the Ninki Nanka guarding these woods. I wasn’t sure if he was joking or not, but honestly, the way the light filtered through those giant trees made it easy to believe in legends.

We wandered for a while, and Musa pointed out plants used for everything from headaches to “marriage problems”—his words, not mine. It was humid but not uncomfortable; there was this earthy smell everywhere, sort of sweet and sharp at the same time. The birds were loud—sometimes you’d hear three different calls at once—and at one point we stopped just to listen. I still think about that silence between sounds.

The canoe ride on Mandinga Bolong creek was slower than I expected. We sat low in a traditional pirogue, close enough to touch the water if you wanted (I did; it was cool and a bit gritty). There were mangroves all around, and now and then someone would wave from the bank—kids mostly. Afterward, Musa offered us fresh palm juice straight from a calabash bowl. It tasted faintly sweet and cloudy; he laughed when I tried to say “thank you” in Wolof—I probably butchered it.

If you want your fortune told by a Marabout, that’s possible too—I didn’t try it myself but saw another traveler come away looking thoughtful. Just remember: entrance isn’t included in the price, and cash is king here. No cards anywhere in Makasutu, which felt oddly fitting for a place that seems to exist half in legend anyway.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Makasutu forest and creek

• Meet your guide at Makasutu
• Learn about medicinal plants and trees
• Discover traditional uses of plants
• Take canoe ride on Mandinga Bolong creek
• Try fresh palm juice or visit Marabout

Top questions

How far is Makasutu Forest from Brikama?

Makasutu Forest is located near Brikama, about 1000 acres in size.

Is entrance to Makasutu included in the tour?

No, entrance (1500 GMD as of 2025) is not included; bring cash only.

What activities are part of this day trip?

You’ll explore the forest with a guide, take a canoe ride on Mandinga Bolong creek in a traditional pirogue, try fresh palm juice, and can meet a local Marabout for fortune telling.

Is transportation provided from Brikama?

Yes, private transportation is included in this day trip from Brikama.

Can I pay with credit card at Makasutu?

No; most places including Makasutu accept cash only—no credit cards.

Is this tour suitable for young children?

Infants are allowed but must sit on an adult’s lap during transport; moderate fitness is recommended due to walking involved.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Brikama to Makasutu Forest and back again. While entrance fees aren’t covered (bring cash), you’ll have your own local guide through the forest trails before drifting down Mandinga Bolong creek by pirogue—with chances to taste fresh palm juice or visit a Marabout if you’re curious.