The best way to explore and learn about the Sérères of Mar Lodj is from one of the localguides who, unfortunately at the time of writing, arenât very organized or visible. Yourcampement should be able to put you in touch with one, or the guides are easy to findat the artisan ateliers where they sell their sand paintings in the village. Any tour of thevillage of Mar Lodj will include a visit to
the modern Catholic church, with architecture inspired by the shape of a traditional round hut, and its pretty black Madonna statue
the Mosque, towering over the townâs central square
the Arbres Sacres holy trees, three different intertwined trees believed to represent the peaceful coexistence of Mar Lodjâs three religions
the TamTam telephonique telephone drum, which was traditionally used to communicate important news weddings, deaths, emergencies to other villages on the island
the villageâs central square, which houses a small daily market and occasional big events like village meetings or the annual wrestling competitions see below
the Womenâs Artisanal Market, on the salt-flat between the village and the campements, providing a venue to buy all your souvenirs for friends back home be prepared to chat and bargain!
Ask to visit the boulangerie, too, where Mbaye uses a giant mud oven to maketraditional village bread itâs delicious and your campement will probably serve it!
Horse-and-carriage visits to Mar Soulou, Mar Farfako and Mar Wandie by pirogue forthe latter are available and can give you a broader understanding of life on Mar Lodj,from the âfloatingâ millet-storage huts to the fishing culture of Mar Wandie.
Traditional Wrestling
No visit to Senegal is complete without experiencing the sights and sounds of atraditional wrestling match, known in Sérère as Njom. Although today traditionalwrestling is a national phenomenon in Senegal, it is rooted in Sérère tradition. EverySérère village still regularly holds organized tournaments and supports their own localchampions. Mar Lodjâs annual wrestling competitions are held during a weekend inJanuary. Each village will have its own 3-day competition; call your accommodationsprovider for exact dates and special lutte events.
