Îles des Madeleines National Park, National park on volcanic islands near Dakar, Senegal.
Îles des Madeleines National Park consists of rocky island formations with steep cliffsides positioned roughly four kilometers from Dakar's coastline. This protected area spans 45 hectares and includes several uninhabited islands with complex marine environments and natural rock structures.
French naturalist Michel Adanson explored the islands in 1749 and documented a massive baobab tree bearing sailor carvings from the 15th and 16th centuries. The site served historically as an important waypoint and resting place for seafarers traveling along maritime trade routes.
The islands take their name from the Magdalene feast celebrated historically at this location. Local communities view this site as an important sanctuary for seabirds and manage visitor access carefully to maintain this role.
Visitors depart from the Soumbediounne waterfront in Dakar aboard motorized pirogues to reach the islands. Local guides are mandatory and assist with navigation through the rocky terrain and wildlife observation during the excursion.
The islands serve as a major breeding site for specialized seabird species including red-billed tropicbirds and cormorants. Bird enthusiasts can observe nesting colonies of these rare species up close during their visit.
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