You will find the Hann Forest and Zoological Park (Parc forestier et zoologique de Hann) in Dakar, Senegal, located within the Hann Bel-Air commune. Originally established as a garden and plant nursery in 1903, this historic nature reserve offers a unique mix of flora, fauna, and local heritage. When you visit, you can explore a wide variety of wildlife, including lions, crocodiles, hyenas, gazelles, dromedaries, python reptiles, turtles, and primates such as chimpanzees.
Bird lovers can observe pelicans, Gambian geese, guineafowls, parrots, and pigeons. The park is also home to rich botanical collections. You can wander through an arboretum created in 1947 to conserve native plants of French West Africa, as well as an ethnobotanical garden featuring over 250 plant species across thirteen distinct sectors, including medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetables.
Additionally, you can learn about local conservation efforts at the Environmental Education Center, opened in 2003, or check out the park's historic aquarium. Whether you are interested in historic plant trial species like eucalyptus and coconut trees or observing diverse animals, the park provides an educational window into Senegal's environment.
What to see at Hann Forest and Zoological Park
- Observe diverse animals including lions, crocodiles, chimpanzees, gazelles, and pelicans.
- Explore the 2.5-hectare ethnobotanical garden boasting over 250 plant types.
- Wander the historic arboretum designed to conserve native West African plant species.
- Learn about regional environmental issues at the dedicated Environmental Education Center.
Visiting tips
Be sure to explore the ethnobotanical garden's thirteen sectors to discover a wide variety of native medicinal plants, fruits, and vegetables.
How long: 1-2 hours · Best time: Morning
How to get there & what’s nearby
Hann Forest and Zoological Park is easy to reach on Dakar’s public transport, and pairs naturally with IFAN Museum of African Arts and Dakar Grand Mosque. For where to stay, the weather and full itineraries, see our Dakar travel guide.
See the full Dakar travel guide for where to stay, the best time to visit and the top things to do.