Transformative Travel Experiences in West Africa
Restorative and informative adventures for conscious travelers in Senegal, Gambia, Benin & Togo.
Rooted Retreats ── .✦ Community Connection ── .✦ Cultural Immersion ── .✦ Educational Adventures ── .✦
Rooted Retreats ── .✦ Community Connection ── .✦ Cultural Immersion ── .✦ Educational Adventures ── .✦
Rooted Retreats ── .✦ Community Connection ── .✦ Cultural Immersion ── .✦ Educational Adventures ── .✦ Rooted Retreats ── .✦ Community Connection ── .✦ Cultural Immersion ── .✦ Educational Adventures ── .✦
CALLING ALL CONSCIOUS TRAVELERS
JOIN US ON A TRANSFORMATIVE JOURNEY
Uproot.ed collaborates with local guides and community to host holistic experiences that integrate culture, spirituality, cuisine, nature, adventure and healing practices, with historical and political context.
Our curriculum offers insight into our interconnected struggles on a global scale, calling us to unlearn colonial conditioning and engage a practice of collective care that transcends borders. Our itineraries are constantly evolving to enhance our educational offerings and engage more ethically as we continue our own learning journey.
We work to uproot exploitative and extractive travel practices rooted in colonialism while facilitating authentic cultural exchange. We prioritize investing in local economies and are committed to equitably compensating local collaborators. Together, we hope to co-create a future where international travel is accessible to people in the global south, but not essential for their survival.
We welcome a diversity of conscious travelers from across the world, and are especially invested in making these experiences equitably accessible to African descendants from throughout the Diaspora.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, large group, student or life-long learner, we offer custom itineraries and curricula based on your interests.
We build bridges across borders for travelers interested in authentic education, community connection, cultural exchange and communing with nature. Our immersive experiences activate the senses, soothe the nervous system and raise the consciousness of travelers.
Cultural Immersion Experiences
Check out our upcoming immersion experiences below. Contact us directly to create your own cocktail of activities with a custom itinerary based on your specific timeline, budget and interests.
SENEGAL ☀︎ GAMBIA ☀︎
BENIN ☀︎ TOGO ☀︎
SENEGAL ☀︎ GAMBIA ☀︎ BENIN ☀︎ TOGO ☀︎
DECEMBER 30-JANUARY 12, 2027
SENEGAMBIA
Legacy, Lore & Lush Terrain
From the desert sands of Lompoul, through the smiling coast of Gambia, to the lush jungles of Casamance - this route will take us through two countries and 16 cities from northern to southern Sénégal. This enchanting experience offers educational immersion with each ethnic group and ecosystem we encounter.
-
All ground transportation within Senegal. Flights are NOT included.
All entry fees for itinerary activities
All housing (unless other arrangements are made)
Two traditional meals per day
Welcome & departure gifts
Cultural craft souvenirs
Custom cultural attire
-
Village party & cultural celebrations
Significant sites in the transatlantic slave trade
Cultural cooking collaboration in the original home of Jollof rice
Learn local lore in remote villages that collaborated with nature to resist colonization
Historical landmarks & museums, including Goree Island, Renaissance Monument & Museum of Black civilization
Language & culture exchange
Visits to educational institutions
Community skill share & cultural crafting
Muslim, Christian and mystical animist village visits
Eco village visits
Introduction to Senegalese herbalism for physical and spiritual health
Desert camping & cultivation
Agricultural community cooperatives
Enchanting waterfalls and ecological education
Immersion in nature, culture, & crafts
Traditional mask dances
-
$5,598 for double occupancy
$5,698 for single occupancy
Payment plans accepted
-
$298 deposit due 5/20
$1,500 due 7/20
$1,500 due 9/20
$2000 due 10/20
MARCH 14 -21, 2027
SENEGAL
Women’s History & Future
This women's history month, we're celebrating the history and future of Senegalese women. From their artistry to their advocacy, and central role in the community - we're honoring their contributions to the culture, and investing in their craft.
-
All ground transportation within Senegal. Flights are NOT included.
All entry fees for itinerary activities
All housing (unless other arrangements are made)
Two traditional meals per day (except during long distance travel)
Welcome & departure gifts
Cultural craft souvenirs
Custom Cultural Attire
-
Introduction to the history and future of Senegalese feminism/womanism
Basket weaving women's cooperative
Women-led art collaboration
Immersion in local social and familial customs
Village party & cultural celebrations
Significant historical sites and museums
Cultural cooking collaboration in the original home of Jollof rice
Language & culture exchange
Community skill share & cultural crafting
Muslim, Christian and mystical animist village visits
Introduction to Senegalese herbalism for physical and spiritual health
-
$3,789 for double occupancy
$3,889 for single occupancy
Payment plans accepted
-
JUNE 27th - JULY 5, 2027
SENEGAL
Cross-Cultural Cookout
For Black Americans, the cookout has historically served as a cultural safe haven where we congregate outdoors to connect with kinfolk over music, dance, and cuisine. It's also a site of intergenerational education, centering storytelling as a portal for learning our legacies, remembering our history, retaining our traditions, and celebrating our survival. This summer, we’re bringing the cookout to Senegal, and centering it as a site for cross-cultural connection.
-
All ground transportation within Senegal. Flights are NOT included.
All entry fees for itinerary activities
All housing (unless other arrangements are made)
Two traditional meals per day (except during long distance travel)
Welcome & departure gifts
Cultural craft souvenirs
-
Cheikh Anta Diop University Campus Tour
Village party & cultural celebrations
Significant sites in the transatlantic slave trade
Cultural cuisine tasting & cooking collaboration in the original home of Jollof rice
Historical landmarks & museums, including Goree Island, Renaissance Monument & Museum of Black civilization
Language & culture exchange
Senegalese infused liquor tasting
Muslim, Christian and mystical animist village visits
Eco village visits
Introduction to Senegalese herbalism for physical and spiritual health
Water activities & ecological education
Desert camping & cultivation
Agricultural community cooperatives
-
$3,798 for single occupancy
$3,598 for shared occupancy
Payment plans accepted
-
Registration and payment due June 12, 2026
Stories from Senegal ✧
Stories from Senegal ✧
“The food is some of the best I have ever had, the people are the kindest I have ever met, and the country is one of the most beautiful I have ever seen.”
I rarely visit the same country twice but there is no place like Senegal, so I’ve been back several times. From the pink lake, waterfall hike, and sand surfing, to visiting indigenous animist communities in the lush southern region of Cassamance - this country had some of the dopest experiences I had and hadn't imagined. Each excursion was thoughtfully curated with a desire to educate and expose me to experiences beyond western upbringing and perspective. I can't wait to go back. If you haven't been already - GO!”
-Porsha Shafon
“Traveling with uproot.ed made my first time traveling solo to visit West Africa super seamless.”
I was given a questionnaire to assess my likes and dislikes to create a custom itinerary based on my desired experience. Shannon’s attention to detail made everything so easy. I was able to relax and explore without worrying. I've since traveled with uproot.ed in Senegal several times, and continue to learn so much during each experience. Some of these adventures are the most fun I've ever had, but most recently, I really appreciated learning about the community based agriculture and sustainability systems, as well as the women-led cooperatives crafting beautiful baskets, naturally dyed clothing and organic herbs. Being part of the intergenerational women's circles reminded me of my work as a small business owner back home. There’s so much to see and experience, I look forward to returning every year! I highly recommend visiting Senegal with uproot.ed.
-Juanita
“My Senegalese experience with Shannon was transformative. The homespace is comfortable, tranquil and aligning spiritually.”
Shannon created an itinerary with me that suited my personality and needs ahead of time. Also the home philosophy of moving with time and not rigidly against it, gave way for peaceful movement and enjoyment in activities. I was able to see many sites and learn a great deal about the culture, the religion and how they beautifully intertwined all while resting in between days and reclaiming my girlhood joy. The food! Ah I wish I had more time to just eat all the senegalese varietals- but that's just because I love rice and everything is mainly halal so it was a very safe experience overall for a muslim lady ( part time harami mami) like me.
- Lonna
MEET OUR LOCAL LEADERS ➤
MEET OUR LOCAL LEADERS ➤
Senegal & Gambia
We collaborate with experienced local guide Cheikh Tidiane Savane to curate immersive travel experiences in Senegal and Gambia. Cheikh is originally from the rural region of Cassamance in southern Senegal, where he received an organic education in indigenous sciences, ancestral technologies and spiritual practices. Having grown up in multiethnic villages, Cheikh speaks the languages of over seven West African ethnic groups and is fluent in French, which allows him to connect travelers to a diversity of communities, from the desert to the jungle.
Cheikh has since lived in the fishing village of Mbour, the smiling coast of Gambia and the bustling city of Dakar while studying law. Now, as a professional guide for over a decade, there’s little terrain in Senegal that Cheikh hasn’t traversed. His wealth of knowledge, hospitality and commitment to community embodies the essence of Senegalese teranga, which includes directly redistributing resources to support local Senegalese communities.
Restorative Retreats in Senegal & Gambia
These restorative experiences combine cultural immersion and community connection with somatic exercises and facilitated reflection. Attendees will embark upon transformative adventures and develop routines that help heal and sustain their mental, spiritual and physical well-being. Participants will leave with curated care packages and practices to sustainably integrate into their everyday lives.
𖦹 Experience Ramadan in Senegal
𖦹 Experience Ramadan in Senegal
GET ROOTED IN SENEGAL
Join Our Next Retreat!
During this sacred season, we invite visitors of all faiths and practices to deepen their devotion to spiritual growth and community connection while immersing in Senegalese culture.
We’ll begin this experience by journeying inward during the holy month of Ramadan, and practicing restorative rituals that reroute us to our roots while reconnecting us to ourselves and one another. We’ll visit significant spiritual sites like the Holy City of Touba, mystical multifaith islands, and unique eco villages where organic production is a form of prayer. We’ll engage in communal celebrations, local customs and embark upon adventures in nature and notable historical sites.
We will also collaborate on mutual aid projects to feed local community members during Ramadan. In addition to our standard practice of equitably compensating Senegalese collaborators and investing in the local community, ten percent (10%) of all proceeds are directly redistributed to support Senegalese families through Ramadan.
This is a small group retreat with limited spaces available.
Secure your spot now!
February 13th - 21, 2027
Rooted Rituals Retreat
8 Days, 8 cities
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FLIGHTS ARE NOT INCLUDED
Curated care packages upon arrival and departure, including a combination of items from our shop!
Daily traditional Senegalese meals
All ground transportation within Senegal
Comfortable housing
Custom-made Clothing
All itinerary activities
Rooftop Massage
Daily meditation & mindful movement
Daily journal prompts and facilitated reflections
Cultural exchange & community connection
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Pink Lake, Sea Salt Scrub & Black Clay Treatment
Moonlight Rooftop Massage
Traditional Cooking Collaboration
Natural Senegalese Henna
Cultural Crafting & Creative Souvenirs
African Herbal Infusion Workshop
Introduction to Senegalese spiritual practices
Immersion in nature & cultural customs
Desert Camping & Fireside Drumming
Goree Island & House of Slaves
Museum of Black Civilization
Renaissance Monument
Artists Village Visit
Interfaith Island Visit
Grand Baobab Visit
Holy City of Touba and Grand Mosque Visit
Spiritual Eco-Village Visit
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peaceful, paced, introspective, restorative, spiritual, connected, rooted
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Early bird rate: $3,595. Payment plans accepted.
10% off for Sanctuary Members
We can accommodate early arrival or later departure for an additional fee.
“...this trip turned out to be deeply healing, educational, and truly unforgettable…””
From the moment I arrived until the day I left, I was struck by the profound sense of community and connection… It reminded me of how much we, in the U.S., often lack that sense of communal care, as individualism and competition dominate U.S. culture.
The safari experience was another magical moment—giraffes are such majestic creatures! Seeing them up close was indescribable. No photos or videos can truly capture their beauty. It was like rediscovering the joy of childhood, and my inner child felt so much joy and healing in their presence.
Another unforgettable part of my trip was visiting Seashell Island. The island, entirely covered with seashells, felt like a dream. Visiting during Ramadan added a layer of spirituality and magic to the experience. Our guide shared that during this sacred time, the seashells hold special energy. He kindly gave us guidance on how to use the shells—blessed by the island and Ramadan—for spiritual baths. I took one home with his permission and later used it to manifest the love of my life.
To all future visitors: believe in the people, believe in the land, and embrace the magic of Senegal. I cannot wait to return!
-Carol Larancuent
CAROL’S STORY: MAGICAL MOMENTS IN SENEGAL
Since we are all visitors to this time and place, we are just crossing through. Our goal here is to serve, learn, grow, and love. Then we go back home.
—Aboriginal Proverb featured on a home in Shell Island, Senegal
Authentic Education Abroad
We collaborate with local educators, artists, archivists, elders and youth to co-create immersive curricula and educational adventures for students and lifelong learners. We specialize in impactful short-term studies and international internships that can last 1 to 10 months.
Intentional Immersion 𖦹 Authentic Education 𖦹 Cultural Exchange 𖦹
Intentional Immersion 𖦹 Authentic Education 𖦹 Cultural Exchange 𖦹
How are we different from other study abroad programs?
Our curriculum is co-created with local communities, and combines educational rigor with experiential learning, adventure and authentic cultural exchange.
Regardless of your age or education level, this experience will expand your knowledge, ignite your imagination and increase your capacity for cross cultural connection.
Additionally,
We are Black owned, locally led and family operated
The community is our primary classroom, and serves as a site for critical thought, creativity and cross cultural connection
Our lesson plans promote practical life skills and political consciousness
We prioritize partnerships with local communities and equitably compensate our collaborators
We work to unlearn extractive, exploitative practices and redistribute resources back into the communities we work with
When traveling with uproot.ed, visitors become family, and what once felt foreign, feels familiar.
UPCOMING ADVENTURES ABROAD
✈︎
UPCOMING ADVENTURES ABROAD ✈︎
DECEMBER 30-JANUARY 12, 2027
SENEGAMBIA
Legacy, Lore & Lush Terrain
From the desert sands of Lompoul, through the smiling coast of Gambia, to the lush jungles of Casamance - this route will take us through two countries and 16 cities from northern to southern Sénégal. This enchanting experience offers educational immersion with each ethnic group and ecosystem we encounter.
-
All ground transportation within Senegal. Flights are NOT included.
All entry fees for itinerary activities
All housing (unless other arrangements are made)
Two traditional meals per day
Welcome & departure gifts
Cultural craft souvenirs
Custom cultural attire
-
Village party & cultural celebrations
Significant sites in the transatlantic slave trade
Cultural cooking collaboration in the original home of Jollof rice
Learn local lore in remote villages that collaborated with nature to resist colonization
Historical landmarks & museums, including Goree Island, Renaissance Monument & Museum of Black civilization
Language & culture exchange
Visits to educational institutions
Community skill share & cultural crafting
Muslim, Christian and mystical animist village visits
Eco village visits
Introduction to Senegalese herbalism for physical and spiritual health
Desert camping & cultivation
Agricultural community cooperatives
Enchanting waterfalls and ecological education
Immersion in nature, culture, & crafts
Traditional mask dances
-
$5,298 for early bird rate
$5,598 regular rate
$4,798 reduced rate for group of 8 students
Payment plans accepted
-
$298 deposit due 5/20
$1,500 due 7/20
$1,500 due 9/20
$2000 due 10/20
MARCH 14 -21, 2027
SENEGAL
Women’s History & Future
This women's history month, we're celebrating the history and future of Senegalese women. From their artistry to their advocacy, and central role in the community - we're honoring their contributions to the culture, and investing in their craft.
-
All ground transportation within Senegal. Flights are NOT included.
All entry fees for itinerary activities
All housing (unless other arrangements are made)
Two traditional meals per day (except during long distance travel)
Welcome & departure gifts
Cultural craft souvenirs
Custom Cultural Attire
-
Introduction to the history and future of Senegalese feminism/womanism
Basket weaving women's cooperative
Women-led art collaboration
Immersion in local social and familial customs
Village party & cultural celebrations
Significant historical sites and museums
Cultural cooking collaboration in the original home of Jollof rice
Language & culture exchange
Community skill share & cultural crafting
Muslim, Christian and mystical animist village visits
Introduction to Senegalese herbalism for physical and spiritual health
-
$3,589 early bird rate
$3,789 regular rate
Payment plans accepted
-
JUNE 27th - JULY 5, 2027
SENEGAL
Cross-Cultural Cookout
For Black Americans, the cookout has historically served as a cultural safe haven where we congregate to connect with kinfolk over music, dance, and cuisine. It's also a site of intergenerational education, centering storytelling as a portal for learning our legacies, remembering our history, retaining our traditions, and celebrating our survival. This summer, we’re bringing the cookout to Senegal, and centering it as a site for cross-cultural connection.
-
All ground transportation within Senegal. Flights are NOT included.
All entry fees for itinerary activities
All housing (unless other arrangements are made)
Two traditional meals per day (except during long distance travel)
Welcome & departure gifts
Cultural craft souvenirs
-
Cheikh Anta Diop University Campus Tour
Village party & cultural celebrations
Significant sites in the transatlantic slave trade
Cultural cuisine tasting & cooking collaboration in the original home of Jollof rice
Historical landmarks & museums, including Goree Island, Renaissance Monument & Museum of Black civilization
Language & culture exchange
Senegalese infused liquor tasting
Muslim, Christian and mystical animist village visits
Eco village visits
Introduction to Senegalese herbalism for physical and spiritual health
Water activities & ecological education
Desert camping & cultivation
Agricultural community cooperatives
-
$3,598 early bird rate
$3,798 regular rate
Payment plans accepted
-
Registration and payment due June 12, 2026
What Students Say
💬
What Students Say 💬
“Senegal reminded me that our greatest wealth isn't what we own, it's the people we belong to and the communities we build.”
-Dakota Dorsey, Morgan State University
“ I hope that many more students use these opportunities to see the world to expand their mindset and motivate them in their professional and educational development.”
Study abroad with uproot.ed awakened how I see the world. Being across Africa, from the dense cities to remote villages helped me put into perspective how different cultures are but how they are all impacted by American imperialism.
-Jaylin Babb, Morgan State University
“This trip challenged much of what I’d been taught about culture, religion, and community.”
I really enjoyed seeing the contrast between the cultures in different villages, but all with the common thread of community connection. Coming from the U.S. where there's religious separation and conflict, I also enjoyed seeing how Muslims, Christians and animists live together communally and care for one another. It was also interesting to visit Gambia, and learn the history of this country inside of Sénégal, with a similar culture and people, but with a different language and political identity. I learned so much. I can see why people stay for months at a time, and I look forward to returning and continuing to learn with uproot.ed!
-Genesis Palmer, Penn State University
Shannon Cumberbatch
Hey y’all! It’s meeee, your curator of conscious travel.
Growing up, I didn't have the privilege of international travel. Even as an HBCU student at Spelman College, I was busy working over 50hrs/week with a full course load, leaving little capacity for travel. So I'd journal about journeys to distant places, imagining myself immersed in the history, nature, art, cuisine, and culture of communities abroad. At the time, I didn’t realize I was writing a roadmap that would route me to my roots.
Consciously connecting with communities abroad allowed me to more deeply connect with myself, and my communities back home. I was exhausted, seeking an escape from systemic oppression in the US, and inspiration for a more liberatory way of living. Instead of an escape, I experienced integration that helped me reimagine my relationship with labor, recover from burnout and establish systems of care that support our collective healing and liberation.
To say intentional travel transformed my world is an understatement. It inspired me to imagine and co-create new worlds, where borders that were once barriers, become bridges that reconnect us to ourselves and one another.
Four Fun Facts About Me ✦︎
Four Fun Facts About Me ✦︎
FOUR FUN FACTS ABOUT ME:
EXPERIENCED TRAVEL PLANNER
Over a period of 10+ years, I coordinated travel to over 25 countries across 4 continents, with a specific emphasis on immersion in the African Diaspora.
EXPERIENCED EDUCATOR
I was a professor and director of an experiential learning clinic at Columbia Law and created custom curricula while conducting community workshops for over 10 years.
BICONTINENTAL LIVING
I straddle two continents, flowing between Senegal and the U.S. East Coast, bridging communities and worlds.
MULTILINGUAL
I speak French, a bit of Spanish and am studying Wolof, Arabic, and American Sign Language.
Frequently Asked Questions
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At this time, visas are not required for US passport holders when visiting Sénégal for 90 days or less (though that may soon change). Your passport must be valid for 6 months beyond your arrival date, regardless of the length of your trip.
Visas are required for US passport holders traveling through Gambia (a coastal country couched between northern and southern Senegal). Gambian visas can be obtained in advance via the Gambian Embassy in Washington, DC, or on arrival for approximately $150.
US passport holders are also required to obtain e-visas in advance to Benin online for $50, and Togo for around $40 single-entry.
Travelers who are not US passport holders should consult the Senegalese/Beninoise/Togolese embassy in their area, or check with the consulate from country that issued their passport. If you cannot access this information, contact us for possible assistance.
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No vaccination records are currently required for Senegal and Gambia, but malaria prevention medication is often advised, and taken two days before travel, each day during, and 7 days following.
Travelers must present yellow fever vaccination cards upon arrival in Benin and Togo.
We also ask that you test for covid before travel, and that you do not travel if positive or otherwise feeling ill and/or potentially contagious so that we can have a safe and healthy experience together.
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There are many activities and areas of Sénégal that are not wheelchair accessible and that may be challenging to traverse with a walker or crutches. However, we are willing to create custom itineraries mapping accessible paths to visit Senegal, and will provide as much mobility support as possible.
We are also willing to seek interpreters for those who are deaf or hard of hearing, and provide guides and visual descriptions for those who are blind or low vision.
Similarly, some activities aren't accessible with a stroller, but we can create custom itineraries for babies, youth and elders alike.
Please contact us directly with any other accessibility concerns.
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We accept ACH transfers, cash app, zelle, venmo, orange money and wave.
We also process payments via squarespace, which offers credit card processing, google pay, applepay for a 3% fee, and the option of payment plans through afterpay.
Students are offered a payment schedule which can be customized for all conscious travelers.
You may also inquire about the possibility of an energy exchange/barter for a reduced rate.
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For Senegal, Delta airlines offers direct flights from JFK to DSS at least twice per week. However, beware that Delta will require you to present the physical card you booked with at check-in, or you’ll be denied travel.
Delta partner Air France also offers flights from JFK to DSS multiple times per week, with layovers in Paris.
United Airlines offers direct flights from IAD in Washington, DC to DSS multiple times per week.
There are several other airlines leaving these hubs that allow for a daytrip layover in places like Spain and Morocco and Portugal.
We recommend doing a quick google flights search as early as possible, and allow flexibility within 1-3 days of trip dates to see a variety of flight and price options.
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We do not have the capacity to offer financial assistance at this time. For short term studies, your home university may have scholarships available via the study abroad department. We're happy to provide any information necessary to support your request.
For semester-long studies with 6 or more credits, you may be able to transfer the financial aid you're currently receiving to cover your semester abroad in Senegal. Check with your study abroad office to confirm.
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For our short term studies, the community is our primary classroom, but we will also collaborate with local universities, technical schools and/or local organizations offering education and training related to your major or specific area of interest.
For semester long studies in Senegal for academic credit, you will attend Cheikh Anta Diop University, named after one of Africa's premier scholars, historians, pan-African politicians and physicists who questioned racial bias in science.
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For short term studies, internship credit, certificates of completion and letters of recommendation may be available.
For semester-long studies, transferable course credit may be available.
Please contact us to get more specific information based on your individual circumstances.
BEFORE YOU GO….
Checkout Our Pre-Travel Guide
From currency to communication and culture, our pre-travel guide will equip you with essential information to prepare you for smooth travels in Benin, Togo, Senegal and Gambia.
