the travelingfro teranga retreat
DAKAR, SENEGAL
May 27th 2022 - June 3rd 2022
(with COVID safety measures)
May 27th 2022 - June 3rd 2022
(with COVID safety measures)
UNCOVER a new destination, push your comfort zones, connect deeper & Get inspired.
with the magical energy of senegal.
A 7-day cultural immersion experience curated by locals to help you experience, explore, and gain inspiration in the gem of West Africa: Senegal. Get ready to change your mindset, take control of your journey, and take the next steps to live your best life while discovering the best of Senegal to bring out the best of you. Be immersed in the local culture, during the best time of year; feel the vibes as Dakar comes alive right after the Ramadan and before the heat gets too hot to handle.
dakar, senegal
go beyond the TYPICAL destination.
and discover WHERE IT ALL STARTED.
Home of TERANGA (a word in wolof that attempts to describe), the inexplicable feeling of hospitality, happiness, and community in Senegal. Dakar, is a buzzing metropolitan city where different religions, cultures, and beliefs co-exist. Hugging the most western coast line of the African continent, Senegal is simply a country you have to experience for yourself. The breathtaking sunset views, the warmth of the sun kissing your skin, the taste of the fresh seafood on your tongue, the sound of children playing in the ocean and the smell of Theip cooking in the air, tantalizes all of your senses at once. It is the perfect setting to connect, re-energize, and get inspired.
Join Jakiya - the travelingfro, Babacar, and other like-minded travelers, creatives, entrepreneurs and locals, in her unique, inspiring, and culturally rich home of Dakar. Uncover your self journey of freedom and creating the life you want to live. Discover a deeper connection and find meaning in one of the most vibrant and historically significant countries on the continent for African Americans.
the experience
what to expect.
this AIN’T YOUR AVERAGE group TRIP.
This 7-day journey brings you the best of Senegal, to bring out the best in you. Manifest, connect, and get re-motivated with a series of customized workshops around tapping into your best life, balanced by an off-the-beaten-path Senegalese experience that allows you to truly feel the country and get a little taste of everything.
itinerary
Day By Day Play
night one
Arrival day. See the tetris like eagle view of Dakar as you Land at DSS. Be greeted by the Travelingfro team and whisked off in our van equipped with A/C to your boutique hotel. Get settled in your room and have a great nights rest to be ready for your 7 day adventure.
day one
Rise and shine for our welcome roof-top breakfast. Connect with the other attendees of the retreat over fresh fruit, crepes, squeezed juice and ocean views. Get ready to explore the buzzing city of Dakar, experience the local transportation, shop in local fabric markets, and sight see as you become familiar with your surroundings. Head back to the hotel to get ready for our first self-connecting workshop and sunset cocktails.
day two
Discover the most sought-after open air locals market in Dakar, situated at the foot of the Renaissance Monument; the largest black statue in the world. Enjoy a private tour of the farmer’s market with the founder (a black woman), as you browse the booths of local artisans & business owners. Good luck trying to stuff everything from hand made crafts, hair care, jams, and more in your suitcase home. Later that night relax over jazz and Senegalese “tapas” before diving into Afro Beats and Mbalax during an unforgettable night out on town.
day three
Spend the day relaxing beach side. After putting in your order for customized handmade pieces with our private Travelingfro tailor, start the day at a place I call home. Chill with locals and travelers a like as you watch the waves, and maybe even try to catch one during a surfing lesson. Taste local juices and eat around the bowl the Senegalese way. Finish beach bummin’ with a picturesque dinner on the Almadies coast.
day four
Remember our past and reclaim our future. Cross the waters to Goree Island, where it all started for most Black Americans. Spend the day on the island with the souls of our ancestors and we explore an off the beaten path & photo walk through history. Head back to our accommodations for a local lunch and free time before attending The Travelingfro signature event; Bridging the gap: a conversation between millennials of the diaspora.
day five
Road trip time. Venture outside of Dakar to the famous pink lake “Le Lac Rose” for an off roading adventure along the coast. Uncover your need for speed and discover the biggest supplier of West African salt. Cool off for the rest of the day drink in hand, poolside with sweeping views of Dakar.
Day six
Pack your bags it’s time to leave Dakar for a day trip. Swap the bustling city for calm relaxation feels out side of the city. Meet some friendly animals on a mini Safari followed by a luxury lunch by the sea.
day seven
Hard to say goodbye. Inhale the last moments of the trip with a filling breakfast. Transportation will drop you off at DSS airport unless you choose to extend your trip!
What to look forward to.
self discovery through cultural immersion.
Carefully curated by thought leading Dakarois, our itinerary provides a unique, local and unconventional experience of Senegal. Be welcomed by locals, witness breathtaking views from above, connect with historical roots on Goree Island, gather around the bowl to eat traditional food with families and quickly become engulfed in a colorful vibrant culture buzzing throughout every street and corner. From history lessons on Goree Island, IG photo walks, and surfing, to local dishes, empowerment workshops, events with local tastemakers and more; our itinerary is a balance between getting up close and personal with Senegal and getting up close and personal with yourself.
+ Cultural Immersion
We go beyond the typical Senegal itinerary to give you a chance to truly get immersed in the culture with an experience you can’t find by googling. Our local experts combined with our on the ground vendors welcome you to get out of your comfront zone and be open to an experience you won’t forget.
The buzzing markets
How to cook famous Thieboudienne
Local juice, spices, fruit, jams
The electrifying local transportation
+ historical perspective
Unlike, the first countries you think of when you think of traveling to Africa (South Africa, Morocco, Egypt) West Africa has a special zest, full of vibrant life, but attached to a deep history. For most African Americans our story starts here. Senegal was a critical port in the transatlantic slave trade. We go further than the surface of Goree Island to tap into the soul of our ancestors true story.
Round table discussions
First Musuem of Black Civilizations
Renaissance Monument
+ Self-discovery & Workshops
This is not your typical group trip. The Teranga Retreat will offer a series of mini master classes and workshops hosted by Jakiya and special guests to help you really dig deeper on your purpose, passion and help you on your way to create or keep creating the life you want to live.
Interactive group sessions
Moodboarding &vision planning
Creativity through afro movement, traditions and music
+ Connect with others
Come together with diverse, passionate and curious movers and doers. Whether it is your first time out of your country or your first time in the Motherland, The Teranga Retreat is comprised of a carefully selected group of open individuals who want to take control of their destiny, create their own life, jobs, and new norms by way of culture, creativity, entrepreneurship, or social impact starting with Jakiya’s inner circle in Dakar.
Local people, creatives & artisans
Other like-minded individuals
Jakiya - The Travelingfro and team
Gallery
pricing
pay in full or start a Payment plan!
(payment plans can be arranged to suit your needs. Balance must be $0 upon arrival)
$3,900 USD
double occupancy
(shared room - pre-arranged group)
*includes $500 deposit
$4,525 USD
single occupancy
(private room)
*includes $500 deposit
we got you covered.
+ What’s included? >>
Lodging: 7 days, 7 nights in Senegalese owned boutique lodging with Wifi and breakfast included
Transportation: Private transport to and from DSS airport & ground transportation to all included excursions
Food: All scheduled meals (+10L refillable purified water in room) tasting the best of Senegal
Knowledge: Expert and locally led workshops and activities
Goodies: Welcome gift bag from local and international sponsors
Angles: Professional photographer / videographer
Support: Local on the ground concierge and pre-trip onboarding support to answer any questions / requests you may have
+ what’s not included? >>
Airfare, airport taxes, or fuels surcharges
Travel insurance *required to join us
Trip cancellation, baggage, additional travel costs
Gratuities to guides, drivers, bellboys, etc.
Additional tours, meals, excursions and beverages that are not mentioned
Personal expenses such as alcoholic beverages, spa services, laundry, excess baggage, communication, cost of obtaining a passport, etc.
+ what do I have to pay now? >>
$20 application fee
Upon acceptance, your first payment will be counted as the non-refundable deposit, one month after your payments will be deducted from that form of payment until your balance is 0.
+ this is for you if >>
You are open minded and ready to explore something new
You are adaptable to different situations and if things don’t go exactly to plan, you are flexible
You have a genuine interest in creating the life you want to live and personal growth
You love meeting and connecting with new and different people
You are patient and understand that there will be a language and cultural difference
You are open to try to communicate with people from different backgrounds and beliefs
You seek off the beaten path activities and have a "go with the flow" attitude
You enjoy walking, eating, and trying and doing new things
You don’t require high tech amenities to be comfortable away from home. (Our lodging has hot water, AC and Wifi, but not always guaranteed. Credit cards are not widely accepted. There is no Uber. However, we will try our best to be sure you are comfortable).
You understand that Senegal is still a developing country and you are excited to explore what ever comes with that
+ This is absolutely not for you if >>
You don’t like sand, water, or nature
You can’t deal with heat or sun
You don't enjoy stepping outside your comfort zone
You are looking to flex for the gram and be on a vacation
You find walking difficult, as much of our exploring will be done on foot
You are a complainer and closed to trying new things and meeting new people
You require high tech amenities to be comfortable away from home. (Our lodging has hot water, AC and Wifi, but not always guaranteed. Credit cards are not widely accepted. There is no Uber).
+ The application process >>
Spaces are intentionally limited for The Teranga Retreat in order to provide an intimate, authentic and customized experience for you. If interested we welcome you to apply. There is a non-refundable $20 application fee to process applications and ensure only serious applicants apply. Booking invitations will be extended upon acceptance of your application and until capacity is reached. Once your application is reviewed and accepted you will receive a reservation link to make a single payment or opt for payment plan options. Please be ready with your $500 deposit once accepted.
+ The local impact >>
With the mission of connecting people to Africa and forwarding the black economy around the world, 95% of our partners, staff and sponosors are Black Senegelase, African or of the diaspora. There is a priority to ensure all activities, accomodations, & opperations are lead and hosted by the local people of Senegal.
reviews
2019 senegal attendees
The Teranga Retreat spoke to me from day 1. I was excited by the chance to see a new country in Africa, experience it through the eyes of someone who lives there and get the chance to have a fully immersive experience both through travel and self reflection. I knew it would be a trip symbolic of greater changes in my life. And oh boy, Jakiya, Ashley and Babacar did not disappoint. The experience was premium, honest, tailored, intimate and fun. On this retreat I discovered a new gem in the motherland, I was connected to soul sisters, women who are all driven by purpose, passion and adventure and we were well taken care of course. We also got the unique chance to meet and mingle local people which further helped shift my perspective on what I could achieve if I pursued my calling and my heart's desires.
I always knew that I wanted to visit Africa, but like many black Americans the process of getting there seemed so out of reach. In late 2018, I came across an Instagram post sharing the details of a retreat to be hosted in Dakar, Senegal. I'm not sure why, but something told me to go for it. Making that decision has been one of the best I've made in a long time. Not only have I gone to Africa (and am going back in just a few months), I've made memories to last a lifetime, connected with women (now close friends) from around the world, but I've found a deeper sense of purpose. Jakiya and her team's level of care and attention to detail around EVERY aspect of the retreat created an environment for all attendees to get what they needed. Whether that was space for reflection, an opportunity to try something new, or just enjoying the present. If you're even considering the Teranga Retreat, take this as your confirmation. Go, go, go!
I don't even know where to start. For the last 3 years I always had the urge to travel to Senegal. I had never been to west africa before and i knew that the first place i wanted to travel to was Senegal. I didn't know how or when and after many failed attempts to plan a trip with my friends i just happened to stumble on the Teranga Retreat announcement on IG and my heart said YES!. I am soooooo glad I followed my instincts because this retreat was everything AND MORE!! Very well planned and curated!...Especially for someone who wants to travel alone but afraid to take the leap of doing it completely solo. As cliche as this might sound I can honestly say this trip changed my life and showed me the genuine Senegal that i will definitely be coming back to.
The Teranga retreat was fantastic, an experience I'll never forget and the best investment you can make if you love travel and want an immersive experience to get inspired and reflect on your journey ahead!
THe Team
your support each step of the way.
Frequently Asked Questions
+ Do you provide transportation services? >>
Yes. We provide private transport to and from DSS airport & ground transportation to all included excursions within the time frame of the retreat.
+ Are my payments refundable? >>
Payments are not refundable. Please see cancellation and refunds policy.
+ Are there payment plans? >>
Yes. There are several options for payment plans listed on the website for your convienence. Each plan reflects post-deposit pricing.
+ Is a deposit required? >>
Yes. The $20 application proccessing fee and a non-refundable deposit of $500 is required at booking.
+ What is the exact retreat itinerary? >>
The itinerary includes 3 key parts.
Cultural Immersion
Historical Perspective
Masterclasses & Workshops
There will be a range to activities from beaching and surfing, to more active and exploring. If you are not open to walking and trying new things then this retreat is not for you.
For more information, check out the "Itinerary Highlights" section on the website and expand the categories. Once application is reviewed and accepted we will send a detailed itinerary and next steps.
+ How is this different from other groups trips? >>
You will be in a group of other like-minded individuals but each activity is optional. You are more than welcome to explore on your own at your own expense if there is something on the itinerary that doesn't suit your interest.
It is not all about exploration there will be carefully crafted workshops and masterclasses to help you uncover your purpose, push your abilities and create your best life. If you are not interested in any of these, this retreat is not for you.
+ When will I hear back regarding my application? >>
The application is a selective process. We are intentional about our efforts for The TravelingFro Teranga Retreat and have constructed a team of individuals who will review every application to ensure that we choose people who are serious about this experience. Please give us up to a week to respond.
+ What if I want to speak to someone in further detail about the retreat? >>
There will be opportunities for Webinars, 1 on 1 calls and on-boarding group chats should you have questions pre, during and after the process. Otherwise, please send all of your concerns to letsgo@thetravelingfro.com
+ Do I need travel insurance? >>
Yes. For your safety, we require proof of purchase of travel insurance. It is not included in the retreat price, thus the responsibility of each participant to purchase depending on your needs. A popular option is World Nomads, however, looking for a detailed explanation check out this post on travel insurance 101 by Nomadic Matt.
+ How much should I bring for extra, personal expenses? >>
Honestly, this is at your discretion. You can never go wrong with bringing a surplus for personal expenses. 2019 attendees said they spent no more than $200 of their spending money as mostly everything is included.
+ How do I know this retreat is for me? >>
The Teranga Retreat is for you if:
You are open-minded and ready to explore something new
You are adaptable to different situation and if things don’t go exactly to plan, you are flexible
You have a genuine interest in creating the life you want to live and personal growth
You love meeting and connecting with new and different people
You are patient and understand that there will be a language and cultural difference
You are open to try to communicate with people from different backgrounds and beliefs
You seek off the beaten path activities and have a "go with the flow" attitude
You enjoy walking, eating, and trying and doing new things
You don’t require high tech amenities to be comfortable away from home. (Our lodging has hot water, AC and Wifi, but not always guaranteed. Credit cards are not widely accepted. There is no Uber. However, We will try our best to be sure you are comfortable).
You understand that Senegal is still a developing country and you are excited to explore whatever comes with that
+ Who will be joining me on this retreat? >>
A group of no more than 10 selected individuals with like minds ready to explore create and discover everything this trip has to offer.