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15 Best Places to Visit in Senegal

Mainland Africa’s westernmost country occupies a colossal cut out of the Sahel. It ranges from the fringes of the Guinean woods to the bottom of the Sahara, and throws up fascinating destinations aplenty.

Take the capital, Dakar: a town of pandemonius markets and endless energy. Or, look to the ports of Saint-Louis, which bustle with ships and Parisian-style arcades. Out in the wildernesses and Senegal has more treats for the traveler, ranging from the winding channels of the Gambia River to the shimmering beaches of the coast. Animals like hippos and hyenas all mingle here, while rustic communities continue to tick over.

And the cherry on the top? Despite a dangerous Ebola outbreak, Senegal has been one of Africa’s most stable places for decades. Fair elections and peaceful power transfers all add up to make this one accessible and fun place for the worldly explorer.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Senegal :

Dakar has seriously outgrown its perch on the Cap-Vert Peninsula.

It now sprawls eastwards into the arid dust plains to the east, and bursts out over the dockside jetties in a medley of lively trader ships and fish-scented marketplaces.

The port is what has driven the boom in both population and size, not to mention imbued the city with an enticing multiculturalism and energy.

So, be sure to drop by the curious Soviet-esque rises of the African Renaissance Monument, the acclaimed Museum of African Arts, and the old Dutch slave trade ruins on Goree Island, before delving into the curious medley of Lebanese eateries African embroidery bazaars, roasted peanut stalls and raucous beer bars around wild Sandaga Market.

2. Saint-Louis

There’s actually not as much separating the Saint-Louis of northern Senegal and its namesake across the great Atlantic pond in the Deep South of America as you might think.

Check out the arched steel construction of the Faidherbe Bridge, straddling the Senegal River like something on the Mississippi.

Or, delve into the heart of the old city of Saint-Louis to discover the French-style colonial builds, whitewashed frontispieces in the plantation style, and shady arcades.

There are even famous jazz fests held here every May! Still, the similarities do end eventually, especially as you dip into the salt-washed fishing hamlets of Guet N’Dar, or begin wonder at the craggy cliffs and exotic creatures of the Barbarie Peninsula.

3. Ziguinchor

A patchwork of pastel-painted colonial builds and age-stained frontispieces dressed in European filigrees and Parisian designs, there’s no denying the immersive colonial character of Ziguinchor.

And while the major sights here are few and far between – the bustling Marche Saint Maur des Fosses, the curious roundabouts of the Place Jean-Paul II – the real draw is the earthy African character of the place.

What’s more, Ziguinchor also happens to be the gateway of choice to the Casamance region: a place where pirogue canoes weave along the river ways, and the plains of the Sahel begin to transform into verdant Guinean woods.

4. Popenguine

Located south of the capital, on the panhandle of the Cap-Vert Peninsula, the small town of Popenguine is the gateway to one truly beautiful medley of natural attractions.

The main draw has to be the protected Natural Reserve of Popenguine, which boasts a clean and pretty boulder-peppered beach, nestled between two arid headlands of dramatic cliffs.

The area also boasts the rugged rock walls of the Cap de Naz, jutting out into the Atlantic, and a particularly famous lagoon, where nesting birds of all shapes and sizes draw crowds of spotters throughout the year.

The epicenter of the mystical Mouride order of the Sufis, Touba emerges from the rolling Sahel of central Senegal with its colossal Great Mosque, looming minarets, and countless other pilgrimage shrines and attractions (not least of all the tomb of the Mouride founder himself: Shaikh Aamadu Bamba Mbakke). The town booms with visitors during the yearly Grand Magal, when thousands come to honor the social and Islamic programs of the Sufi scholar and teacher.

The focal point is the majestic mosque, which is strictly run and has some gorgeous arabesque interiors and one soaring 87-meter-high minaret known as the Lamp Fall.

6. Joal-Fadiouth

The fascinating fishing town of Joal-Fadiouth is one that time forgot.

Alive with salt-stained timber pirogues and oodles of bobbing jetties, the town’s locals still utilize the age-old hand catching techniques of centuries gone by.

They can be seen haggling over prices of huge swordfish all along the coast by morning, while the eateries – unsurprisingly – serve up some of the best seafood in the country.

Meanwhile, the island of Fadiouth across the bay is another one to write home about – it’s almost totally formed from accumulations of sea shells!

7. Kafountine

Laid-back little Kafountine is the place to come and sample the undeniable beauties of the Casamance coast.

Great long stretches of golden sand are what draw most of the people here.

They run the gamut from wide bays washed by the rollers of the Atlantic to bustling strips peppered with the faded fishing pirogues of the locals closer to the town.

And then there’s the croc-spotted riparian habitats of the Foret des Narangs nearby, where rare birds flit through the canopies, macaques swing overhead, and wild West African creatures roam the undergrowth.

8. Tambacounda

Sat on a far-flung crossroads, the town of Tambacounda is often visited by travelers starting a West African odyssey through the countries of Gambia, Guinea-Bissau or Guinea to the south.

However, those who can suffer the scorching Sahelian climate just a little longer will discover an interesting spot; a place where a couple of French colonial remnants still mark the streets and earthy farming communities dominate the backcountry.

Tambacounda is also one of the best jump off points for explorations in the legendary Niokolo-Koba National Park – the upland reaches of the mighty Gambia River.

Situated on a small headland that bubbles out into the meanders of the Saloum River, the town of Kaolack is known as a center of Islamic teaching, and as an industrial hub of Senegalese salt production.

Its attractions start with the vast central square of Medina Baye – look up to see the turquoise-domed tops of the great minarets.

Kaolack Market then comes with a heady fray of lean-to shops and ramshackle sellers, while the rustic reaches of Coofog are dotted with bulbous baobab trees and tell stories of the historic Serer Kingdom that once ruled in these parts.

10. Kedougou

Nestled in the far south-eastern corner of the country, where the Guinean forests spill out and down to the Sahelian plains, the city of Kedougou has a character all of its own.

For starters, its geography and topography are unlike any other area in the nation – expect lush rainforests and verdant, mist-topped hills.

Kedougou also gets quite a lot of rain, giving rise to oodles of agricultural land in the surrounding region (for those who don’t mine gold, that is). And then there’s the wonderful reaches of the Niokolo-Koba National Park: a huge swathe of greenery where the Gambia River erupts in the company of hippos, lions, elephants and leopards.

Mboro is an interesting little place that can be reached in just over an hour from the capital city at Dakar.

It’s the hub of one of the most fertile regions in the nation, and produces oodles of vegetables to fill the bustling markets of the city to the south.

Mboro has an immersive market of its own too, and visitors love flitting between the food stalls and colorful farmer emporiums here, haggling for the curious local tie-dye costumes and tasty preserves.

The beach is another must, and although swimming can be risky, simply settling on the sands and watching the fishermen and luminescent plankton in the rollers is a real treat!

12. Palmarin

Encompassed by great swathes of verdant mangroves, brackish lagoons and salt flats to the east, and stretches of chart-topping Atlantic beachfronts to the north, the town of Palmarin might be hard to get to (there are hardly any real roads connecting this one with the greater infrastructure of Senegal), but it’s certainly got its fair share of attractions.

There are dense groves of palm trees to wander, palm tree wine to taste, and some excellent sands close to the center, not to mention packs of wild hyenas around town, folksy wrestling competitions, and even ancient burial mounds attributed to the Sereer folk.

While Fatick itself is hardly a chart-topper, and will likely never make the headlines of travel brochures with its humble boulevards and dusty cottages, its surrounding region is certainly something to write home about.

Peppered with the relics of ancient Serer prehistory, the hinterlands on the edge of the town are home to curious carved megaliths and totems dating as far back as the 9th century.

You’ll find thousands of old tumulus houses between the xeric woods of the old Baol, countless religious shrines, and places holy to the Serer religion.

Cheaper than the capital and a cheerful place all round, Thies is often used as an alternative overnight stop for expats and visitors who don’t like the frantic energy of Dakar.

It fulfils the role perfectly, and the dusty streets here are laden with smiling and welcoming locals, a few charming (if ramshackle beer bars) and some decent shops.

Thies is primarily a market town too, which means you can get a taste of the haggling and hawking that defines Senegal’s mercantile side.

There are also some good spots to sample local menus of benachin rice and fish – just look for the joints in the center.

15. Richard Toll

Curiously-named Richard Toll, a town just a stone’s throw from the border with Mauritania in the extreme north of the country, still finds a way to honor its one-time park planner, the botanist Jean Michel Claude Richard.

An interesting place that fuses cultures, it comes to life with the bustle of Xhouma Market, awash with sugar traders and craft stalls aplenty.

There are also some relics of the French colonial age to see, like the muddied face of the grand Chateau de Baron Roger.

Richard Toll also has an industrial edge, with refineries and fishing depots lining the river.

15 Best Places to Visit in Senegal:

• Saint-Louis
• Joal-Fadiouth
• Tambacounda
• Richard Toll

12 Best Tourist Attractions In Senegal...

12 best tourist attractions in senegal to visit.

Senegal is a traveler’s delight located on the west coast of the continent of Africa. This incredible African country features several natural worth-visiting spots and impressive French colonial heritage. Dakar is popular as the capital of Senegal. Amazing wildlife, enchanting beaches, rich culture, and spellbinding islands attract lots of tourists to explore Senegal. And, if you are planning to visit Senegal, you need to know some of the most popular tourist attractions to explore. So, let’s have a look at them.

Find Below Twelve Incredible Tourist Destinations In Senegal That You Must Not Miss To Visit.

1. goree island.

Goree Island is one of the famous tourist spot situated on near the coast of the capital Dakar. It has a history of prominent slave-trading center. It is crucial place for African-Americans who visit it to pay their respects to the past of their ancestors.

Make sure you visit the Dakar IFAN Museum to watch outstanding collection of West African and Senegalese masks, amazing musical instruments, and remarkable statues.  You can find this magnificent museum in Dakar, the capital of Senegal.

Explore the art and cultural artifacts in this fabulous museum. .adslot_1{width:475px;height:300px}@media (min-width:340px){.adslot_1{width:336px;height:280px}}@media (min-width:480px){.adslot_1{width:475px;height:300px}}

In Dakar, you can also find some of the worth-visiting markets, such as many main markets and Marche de Tilene. Don’t miss visiting some of the stunning coastal beaches to enjoy swimming that you can find on the Ile de Madeleinea in the vicinity of this capital city.

3. Pink Lake

Pink Lake, also well-known as Retba Lake, is a spectacular lake full of pink-purple color. It has known to possess large amount of salt content and unique species of bacteria. Watch this spellbinding lake in the reflection of the sunlight offers you a stunning view. Drive for an hour to north from the capital Dakar to watch incredible salt harvesting.

4. St. Louis

St. Louis, also popular as Ndar, is a one of the oldest French colonial towns where most European squires resided. This fishing town comprises significant part of the main land and spreads out on a tiny island.

While exploring this fabulous town, you can find old European houses comprising balconies and old-styled iron gates that reflect the past times of the town.

Make sure you visit the oldest church which dates back to the 1828 era in the Senegal here. Also, you can find a Muslim cemetery, where the net of the fishermen covers their grave of the respective net’s owner.

5. Cap Skirring

Cape Skiring is a well-known town situated on the Atlantic Ocean. Here you can find a fabulous seaside resort, golf course to play gold, and an airport. Also, you can spend a leisure time by relaxing on one of the enchanting beaches in Africa here. Make sure you explore the white sandy beach adorned with eye-catching coconut palm trees.

6. Petite Cote

Walk to the south of Dakar to find a peaceful, spectacular beach area which is widely popular as Petit Cote. This exquisite coastal region stretches more than 150 km. Watch eye-catching golden sandy beaches and spellbinding Atlantic waters and spend a pleasant time on the beach. You can find here some of the biggest tourist oriented towns, namely Saly Portugal and Mbour, and some wonderful hotels. Explore beautiful green areas. And, enjoy playing golf on the golf courses.

7. Saloum Delta National Park

Don’t miss visiting the Saloum Delta National Park that streatches over 76,000 hectares in the western area of the Senegal. It features outstanding biodiversity. You can find here fishes, various species of birds, savanna, and mangrove forests.

You can’t afford to miss eye-catching small lagoons and spellbinding green islands.

One of the interesting facts is that this incredible park is listed in UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can experience a pleasant experience by touring between several beautiful green islands by using a traditional African boat or pirogue.

8. Senegal River

Another wonderful attraction that you should not miss when in Senegal is the stunning Senegal River. This majestic river flows covering over 1,700 km. The interesting fact is that this amazing river creates impressive fertile valley in the middle of the Sahel Desert. Make sure you watch breathtaking site of fabulous dams and incredible marine life. Discover the historical significance of this exquisite river and how the river had been useful during the era of the traditional Senegalese living.

9. Casamance

Plan to visit Casamance, a region situated in the southeastern area of Senegal. You get a great opportunity to watch amazing wildlife in the tropical vegetation dominant area here. Ziguinchor is the biggest city in this amazing area of Casamance. Make sure you don’t miss the wonderful experience to spot dolphin, enjoy snorkeling, try fishing, and discover many other fabulous activities and attraction in Senegal’s Casamance. Besides all this, you can also discover more about the Jola community, which is famous as an ethnic group dominating this area in Senegal.

10. Lompoul Desert

Have an experience of exploring the desert by visiting the Lompoul Desert in Senegal. Make sure you enjoy fun camel trekking, marvelous vistas, and thrilling sand dune buggies. You can also enjoy the celebrations of the Festival du Sahel, an incredible music festival, here when vacationing in this marvelous African country.

11. Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary

Are you a birder interested in discovering unique species of birds on you visit to Senegal? If yes, then make sure you pay a visit to the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary when traveling to Senegal.

This destination is extremely popular for having greater than three million fabulous birds, particularly in the span between November and April when most of the birds migrate from the European region to the southern area.

Also, this incredible national bird sanctuary is an abode of greater than 30 species of birds that include pelican and spectacular pink flamingo. This amazing park earns the fame of being one of the unique destinations possessing permanent source of water in the south of Sahara.

12. Guet N’Dar

Guet N’Dar is a busy sea town that you must not miss to visit when exploring Senegal. It lies in the south of the Saint Louis and well-connected to the sea. It is more popular as a fishing town. Make sure you watch plenty of boats flowing on the waters of river and sea here and enjoy the experience of catching one of the fresh fishes from the river. Get to see the local culture of this town.

Now that you know these fabulous destinations to visit when in Senegal, make sure you visit each one of them when planning to spend you vacations in this amazing African country.

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13 Best Places to Visit in Senegal | Senegal Tourist Attractions

With natural sites of great beauty, enchanting fauna and flora, warm welcome from its inhabitants and breathtaking seaside resorts, Senegal is a dream destination to be made with the utmost urgency . Bordered by Atlantic Ocean, Senegal is and will remain one of the most beautiful countries of West Africa.

• 1) Visit the alleys, the markets, the shopping streets.
• 2) Get drunk on Dakois nights: restaurants, nightclubs, dances.
• 3) Bathing in the beaches of Bel Air, N’Gor, Yoff, Ouakam, Anse des Madeleines, etc.
• 4) Surfing and windsurfing.

  2. Saint-Louis

• 1) Visit the Fanal de Saint-Louis during the holidays.
• 2) Visit beautiful city of Saint-Louis.
• 3) Go to museum of the research and documentation center of Senegal.
• 4) Go to the beach of St. Louis.
• 5) Go out to listen to music in the streets of Saint-Louis.
• 6) Visit the bird parks of Djoudj.
• 7) Visit the park of the Language of Barbary.
• 8) Visit the famous bridge faidherbe.

• 1) Canoe trip on the Senegal River.
• 2) Boat trip.
• 3) Bathing in the river.
• 4) Walk along the river.
• 5) Make crossings.

• 1) Discover the different species of birds.
• 2) Visit the national bird park of Djoudj.
• 3) This park is open from November to April.
• 4) The entrance of the park costs 2 000 CFA francs (3 €)
• 5) Possibility of excursions in pirogues 3 000 fransc CFA (4,6 €)

  6. Niokolo-Koba National Park

• 1) Explore animals in Niokolo-koba Park.
• 2) Hike in the park.
• 3) The best visit period is from March to May.
• 4) The park costs 2 000 CFA francs (3 €) per day and per person.
• 5) Rental of vehicle costs 5 000 CFA francs (7.62 €)
• 6) Visit the village of Badi with its dancers next to the park.

• 1) Discover beautiful city of Ziguinchor.
• 2) Visit the exhibitions and shows at the cultural center of the Franco-Senegalese alliance.
• 3) Purchase trinkets at the St-Maur-des-Fossées market.
• 4) Attend the traditional fighting battle of Lower Casamance.

• 1) Bathing and sunbathing on the beach.
• 2) Walk along the sea on foot.
• 3) Canoe trip.
• 4) Seaside activities (Quads, horse riding, fishing, water sports, etc.)

• 2) Walking by the sea on foot and in dugout canoe.
• 3) Enjoy many activities, activities and tourist attractions.

Enjoy it ! Don’t hesitate to leave comments and share your memories of holidays in Senegal! If you know of other places of exceptions to visit in Senegal! Share it !  

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Visit Senegal: My Detailed Senegal Travel Guide & Itinerary

Last Updated on March 15, 2023

Visit Senegal for a peek into West African culture and history. Here’s my detailed Senegal travel guide and itinerary.

Perched on the westernmost tip of Africa, Senegal beats to a different rhythm as its neighbors. The country is lined with beaches popular with surfers and dotted with islands that are home to crumbling but charming French colonial buildings.

The Senegalese pride themselves on the teranga , or warm hospitality in Wolof language. It’s one of the many reasons that makes Senegal so special in my eyes and is at the core of their culture. I traveled solo in Senegal, and met many people along the way who made a difference to my trip.

As one of the most stable countries in West Africa , Senegal is easily the best place to go for an introduction to the region. Whether it’s your first or 10th time in Africa, a trip to Senegal is never dull. Here’s my detailed guide with everything you need to know about Senegal travel.

Table of Contents

When to Visit Senegal

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The Blaise Diagne International International Airport is the main gateway to Senegal. The airport is brand new, opened in December 2017, and it’s amazingly efficient. But it is located 27 miles (43km) from downtown Dakar (1-hour car journey).

Dakar Airport is easily accessible by direct flight from major cities in Europe, including Lisbon and Paris. Major airlines that serve this airport include Emirates, Air France, TAP Air Portugal and Turkish Airlines.

The cheapest way to fly to Dakar is from Lisbon on TAP Portugal . Flights from Lisbon to Dakar usually cost around $500 return. But I got a great deal: my flight from Amsterdam to Dakar cost only US$280 return!

Those flying from the US will have to fly via Europe. Flights from New York to Dakar cost around US$850 return (16-hour journey). Flights from Los Angeles to Dakar cost around $1000 return with stopovers in Chicago or Toronto.

Search for Flights to Senegal

Senegal has borders with Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Gambia . The most notorious border crossing is the Senegal-Mauritania border at Rosso. It’s just two hours from Saint Louis and there’s a free ferry crossing to get you across the Senegal River. Some travelers have reported attacks at the border crossing. Read this blog post for details. 

Another border crossing that is open is the Senegal-Gambia border in Karang/Amdallai. This border has frequent protests and closures. Karang is about a 5-hour journey from Dakar. After crossing the border, you’ll need to catch a taxi to Barra and from there, a ferry to Banjul, capital of Gambia.

Overland travel in Senegal is only recommended for those who have traveled West Africa and who can handle rough situations.

The best time to visit Senegal is during the dry season from November to February . These are the coolest months and the best time to see wildlife.

It’s best to avoid the rainy season from late June to September. Some national parks can become inaccessible and even closed. The heat and humidity can be extreme and malaria is a serious problem. If you’re planning to travel only around Dakar, you won’t have to worry about malaria.

I visited Senegal in early June and the weather was perfect. It wasn’t too hot or cold. The average temperature during the day was around 75 deg F (24 deg C) and it was dusty but not rainy.

I spent one week in Senegal and got to explore three areas: Dakar, Saint-Louis and the Langue du Barbarie National Park. It gave me a good sense of the country, though I wished I had more time to go down south.

The best thing about traveling to Senegal is that it’s easily accessible from Europe where I’m based. Flights from Europe are short (3.5 hours) and cheap (mine cost $350 return). So I can easily come back anytime!

If you have the time though, I recommend having at least two weeks in Senegal. This will give you enough time to go to the desert and wildlife parks. See my Senegal itinerary at the bottom of the post.

Senegal is known as one of the safest countries in West Africa. With relatively low levels of crime and disease, plus a stable democracy, Senegal is quite a safe travel destination.

As a solo female traveler, I felt rather safe when traveling around Senegal. I got hassled a lot though, with usually 3-4 men (and women) approaching me each day. Mind you, they’re usually not that persistent.

West Africa tends to be more challenging than other parts of Africa for those who don’t speak French. I recommend hiring a guide if you’re not confident being alone. I traveled independently in and around Dakar and then hired a guide to explore Saint-Louis and a nearby national park. I didn’t get hassled one bit while traveling with him.

How to Get Around Senegal

It is possible to rent a car in Dakar and drive around on your own. Roads in Senegal are actually not too bad, especially those connecting Dakar with major cities/sights.

But there are quite a few unpaved roads so it’s best to hire a 4×4. I’d advise driving only if you’re an experienced driver and can navigate unpaved roads and crazy drivers. A 1-week car rental from Dakar Airport cost around $285 for a compact car and $1000 for a 4×4.

Rent a Car in Senegal

A popular way of getting around cities is by Ndiaga Ndiayes (colorful 30-seater minibuses). These buses aren’t the most comfortable way to get by but give you an interesting local experience.

To get from one city to another, the best way is by sept-place (Peugeot cars converted into 7-seaters). These cars leave from the main taxi station of each city and depart only when they’re full. Be prepared to be squashed!

Taxis are common and easy to get everywhere, but be sure to bargain. Prices to get around the downtown area are around 1000 CFA.

From downtown Dakar to Ngor shouldn’t cost more than 3000 CFA each way. And a taxi from Dakar to the airport is priced at 25,000 – 30,000 CFA each way.

West Africa tends to be more challenging than other parts of Africa for those who don’t speak French.  I traveled independently around Dakar and then used the service of a guide to explore the north. I hired Moctar, founder of From Dakar , that focuses on immersion trips. He’s multi-talented guy who’s also a photographer and media company owner.

If you prefer to travel with a group, check out this 10-day Senegal and Gambia adventure with small-group operator G Adventures. I’ve traveled with them many times (to Mongolia, Antarctica, Brazil, Nepal etc.) and can highly recommend them. Every single trip was epic and I made many lifelong friendships on my trips with them.

Alternatively, you can book day tours on Viator to have a guide only on certain days.  Here are some day tours from Dakar worth checking out :

• Museum and Mosques: Exploring the Cultural Fabric of Senegal
• Day trip around Dakar and Goree Island  
• Day trip to Bandia National Park and Pink Lake
• Solidarity Tourism in Traditional Villages

There are lots of affordable choices when it comes to accommodation, especially in Dakar. A good resource for apartment or villa rental in Senegal is MyAfric.com (akin to the Airbnb of West Africa). If you’re an upscale traveler, then that’s the best place to find comfortable accommodation.

Blaise Diagne Airport: Radisson Hotel Dakar Diamniadio

If you’re arriving late into Dakar, I recommend booking a hotel near the airport as Dakar is an hour away by taxi. This is the only airport hotel (albeit around 20 minutes away) with a free airport shuttle. It’s a proper 5-star hotel with an excellent pool and restaurant. Check the latest rates.

Dakar: Villa Renaissance

This was the best place I stayed at in Senegal. The private mansion has been converted into a comfortable boutique hotel with clean and stylish rooms and a swimming pool. Rooms are air-conditioned and feature 4-poster beds and a turquoise beach theme. It’s just a 10-minute walk from the beach in Ngor. Check the latest rates.

Dakar: Hotel du Plateau

I also stayed at this clean and pleasant hotel located right in the heart of downtown Dakar. This area is where all the colonial buildings stand and there’s quite a lot to see here. But it is a gritty area, so be prepared for some hassling. The hotel is a great escape from the chaos of the city though, with comfortable air-conditioned rooms. Check the latest rates.

Saint-Louis: Hotel La Residence

This is one of Saint-Louis’ oldest hotels, located right in the heart of the island. The owners (an ancient Saint-Louisian family) have done a great job in evoking the sense of history. The heritage hotel is well located and definitely the best place to stay in town. Check the latest rates. Check the latest rates.

Langue du Barbarie: Zebra Bar

Located on the edge of the Senegal River, this campsite has awesome views and access to the bird reserve of Langue du Barberie. The spacious kid-friendly camp has accommodation in simple huts and big bungalows. Check the latest rates.

Senegalese food took me by surprise: it’s hearty, spicy and comforting. Traditional Senegalese dishes often come with rice and a dollop of chili or mustard.

Fish and seafood are staples of Senegalese cuisine. You’ll find grilled sole, dorade and calamari in many restaurants. Otherwise, chicken and goat are always available. Vegetarians might have some difficulty finding options in Senegal as meat is found in almost every dish here.

There are the three main Senegalese dishes you need to try:

• Thieboudienne (pronounced Chebu Jen) literally means “fish and rice” in the local Wolof language.
• Yassa is a sauce of onions, lemons and garlic. It is used to garnish chicken and fish.
• Mafé is a succulent peanut butter-based sauce that is usually served in curry form with beef, pork, goat, or chicken.

There are lots of cheap eateries and patisseries all over the main cities. Food hygiene may be a problem at street-side stalls and some dibuterie (barbecue meat stands), so be careful.

Here are some of the best places I ate at:

• Keur N’Dya, Dakar — This is undoubtedly one of the best places to try thieboudienne in Dakar. They serve traditional Senegalese dishes that are sometimes accompanied by the kora (West African harp-like instrument).
• Chez Katia, Ngor — This hip restaurant in Ngor is particularly popular with Senegalese. It’s got an affordable menu that includes amazing pastries, grilled meat, and pizza.
• Le Reveil, Saint-Louis — This humble restaurant/bar in the heart of Saint-Louis serves up amazing mafé with goat meat. My guide said it’s the best place to eat in Saint-Louis.

The currency used in Senegal is West African Franc (CFA). The exchange rate is roughly US$1=580 CFA. You can get a decent exchange rate at the airport, so changing money at the change bureau near baggage claim is definitely worth it.

Senegal is generally cheap when it comes to accommodation and transport. You can get a room at a guesthouse/campsite for around $20/night and a comfortable air-conditioned room in Dakar for $50-70/night.

Food isn’t as cheap as you’d think. A dish of thieboudienne in a local eatery usually costs 2000-3000 CFA ($3.70-5.50), and grilled fish or calamar in a tourist town costs around 4000-6000 CFA ($7.50-11).

The majority of Senegalese are Muslims, but they tend to be less conservative than their counterparts elsewhere in Africa.

Most Senegalese are understanding of western cultures, with many adopting western-style dress themselves. It is acceptable to dress in singlets and dresses, but you should still be mindful of local cultural practices and beliefs. Cover up when entering religious buildings.

In particular, take extra caution during religious festivals. During Ramadan, it’s not polite to eat and drink on the street during daylight hours, while most are abstaining.

The Senegalese take pride in “teranga”, a Wolof word for hospitality.   You’ll hear that a lot during your Senegal trip.

People tend to be open and welcoming towards visitors. I lost count of the number of locals who approached me to strike up a conversation. The hassling can be annoying, but stay firm and calm.

Most of the time, they want to show you their shop or be your guide. I usually respond with a firm “no”. But if I sense that the man is trying to make an honest living, I would hire him for a short tour and pay 2000 CFA for his time.

The main languages spoken in Senegal are Wolof and French. But I’ve found quite a few people who speak English, particularly the young Senegalese who are constantly hassling tourists.

Don’t expect taxi drivers or waiters to speak English. Knowing a few key words in French or Wolof can be very useful. Start with a friendly   “Bonjour” (Hello) and “Ça va? Bien?” (How are you? Good?) in French. Even better, say “Salaam Alaykum” to greet locals and “Jërejëf” (Thank you in Wolof).

I can understand a bit of French (but can’t really speak it), and didn’t find it difficult to get by. You can always find help at your hotel or use Google Translator.

In recent years, Senegal has made vast strides in the battle against malaria, with cases falling from over 30% in the early 2000s to less than 5% in 2015.

Dakar and Saint-Louis can be visited without malaria medication . But you should take precautions during the rainy season (late June – September) and if heading inland (especially the southeast). I visited in early June and didn’t take any malaria medication. It didn’t rain at the all when I was there and mosquitoes were very few.

Though a yellow fever vaccine isn’t required to enter Senegal, it’s recommended. Once you get one, it’s effective for life. Remember to bring a good mosquito repellent, tissue and sunblock.

Senegal Travel Itinerary: Things to Do in Senegal

I’m sharing my 1-week Senegal itinerary to help you plan your Senegal trip. Many of the interesting sights like Lac Rose and Goree Island are near Dakar, so it’s easy to base yourself in Dakar and explore the area.

Downtown Dakar is where most of the old colonial buildings are found. It is quite rough, be prepared for some hassling.

Some of the points of interest in downtown Dakar worth checking out are Le Musée des Civilisations Noires , Gare du Dakar, Hotel du Ville and Marche Kermel (street market).

Continue to the Ouakam fishing village that is home to two major sights: Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (tallest statue in Africa) and Mosquée de la Divinité.

Île de Gorée (or Goree Island) is a gorgeous island and UNESCO site just 1.8 miles (3km) from downtown Dakar. The tiny island makes for an ideal day trip, as it’s just a 20-minute ferry ride from the Gare du Dakar.

The island’s sandy car-free lanes and pastel-colored colonial buildings flanked by lush bougainvillea flowers and baobab trees are undeniably alluring.

But don’t let the bright colors here fool you — the island bears witness to some of the worst brutalities in human history. From the 15th to the 19th century, it was the largest slave-trading centre on the Senegalese coast.

Next morning, head to Ngor, a fishing village that is one of Dakar’s most attractive areas . A taxi ride from downtown Dakar to Ngor costs around 3000 CFA ($5).

Ngor itself has a nice beach with lots of colorful boats lined up on the sand and kids frolicking in the water. Next to the seafront is an interesting labyrinth-like residential area where locals live.

Then head out on a pirogue (leaves whenever it is full) to Ngor island or Île de N’Gor, just off the shore. The peaceful islet has a few calm beaches with some legendary surf on the norther end. The sandy walkways are flanked by surf camps, eclectic art galleries and artistic houses.

It’s time to head out to explore the countryside of Senegal. Saint-Louis is a 4-hour journey from Dakar on the sept-place (7-seater). Catch a sept-place from the Gare Routiere Pompiers.

Saint-Louis was the first French settlement in Africa, founded in 1659. It became a thriving trading centre, and eventually the capital of the French colonial empire.

The old town stands on an island in the middle of Senegal River. Today it’s a shadow of its former self, existing as a sprawl of dilapidated colonial buildings which hint at former glory. A  few of the beautiful buildings have been wonderfully restored such as the Museum of Photography and Keur Fall Artisan shop .

There is a lot to Saint-Louis so I recommend spending another day wandering its dusty roads and checking out the interesting shops and museums.

The best way to explore every corner of Saint-Louis is by horse-drawn carriage, the original mode of transport here. Make a stop at the Faidherbe Bridge, the city’s most significant landmark. It was designed by Gustav Eiffel, the famous engineer behind Eiffel Tower.

Cross the bridge and you’ll find a very different side to Saint Louis. The fishing district of Guet Ndar is an extremely lively area with thousands of pirogues parked on the beach and gritty houses lining the dusty roads.

Located around a 30-minute taxi ride from Saint-Louis, the Langue du Barbarie National Park is a protected area around the estuary where the Senegal River and the Atlantic Ocean meet.

It is home to many bird species, including the flamingo, pelican, cormorant heron and egret. Catch a pirogue and you’ll see them in big flocks, especially from November to April. 

There are also lots of small villages within the national park. We took a stroll to a village just outside Zebra Bar and it was fascinating to visit the market and see how locals live in the rural area.

It’s time to head back to Dakar. Spend some time in the morning wandering around Saint Louis (lots of markets, interesting shops and boutiques) before catching a sept-place back to Dakar.

I’d advise staying near the Blaise Diagne airport if you have a morning flight to catch as Dakar is an hour away. There’s not a lot going on around the airport and the only hotel that’s near is the Radisson Hotel Dakar Diamniadio.

Other Things to Do in Senegal

• Lac Rose — A pink lake that shimmers under the sun due to the cyanobacteria that flourish in the water.The degree of pinkness depends on the season.
• Toubab Dialow — My local guide’s favorite surfing spot in Senegal. The cliffs drop off to the Atlantic Ocean beneath. This fishing town is home to a hippy campsite and backpackers’ favorite, Sobo Bade.
• Sine-Saloum Delta — If you have more than 1 week in Senegal, I highly recommend visiting this delta. About three hours from Dakar, Sine-Saloum is a beautiful area of shimmering flat plains, palm groves, salt marshes and lagoons.
• Desert du Lompoul — Near the Grand Cote lies giant dunes that stretch from the coast far into the country’s interior. You can stay in Mauritanian desert tents right in the middle of the dunes.
• Bandia Wildlife Reserve — If it’s your first time in Africa and you’re dying to see big animals, head to Bandia Reserve just outside Dakar.

Did I miss out on anything? Ask me anything in the comment field below!

Nellie Huang

Nellie Huang is the founder of WildJunket. Originally from Singapore, Nellie has traveled to over 150 countries across 7 continents. She is a book author and Lonely Planet guidebook writer. As an adventure travel blogger, she has a special interest in unusual destinations and deep experiences. Follow her travels on her Facebook and Instagram .

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The Comments

Thank you for sharing your trip Nellie! I’m planning a trip with my family to spend five full days in Dakar. Is that too short to include Saint-Louis?

hi Raymond, yeh five days might be too short to include Saint Louis if you want to see everything I mentioned in Dakar. That said, if you’re not traveling with young kids and you’re all able to move fast, then it is possible with 3 days in Dakar (including a day trip to Ile de Goree) and 2 days in Saint Louis. You can even hire a whole sept-place if you’re a family of four/five.

Thanks Nellie! I sent you a message via your FB wildjunket channel, do you mind checking if you get a chance?

hi Raymond, I just answered your message. Hope you have a good trip to Senegal!

Lisa E Lynde

Hi! I am looking at a quick trip to Dakar in a couple weeks and would love to find out a reputable tour company that can guide me through the downtown and to Goree. I will be a solo female traveler and don’t speak French, so it makes sense I go the tour route (though I normally don’t like them!) :) Would love suggestions!

hi Lisa, I shared my guide’s contact above, in the ‘tour operator’ section. But here it is again: I traveled with Moctar, founder of From Dakar, that focuses on immersion trips. He’s multi-talented guy who’s not just a tour operator, but also a photographer and media company owner.

Peggy Vander Meulen

Loved your informative and up-to-date guide to Senegal. Is there a way to download a printable or pdf copy of your travel guide? I’d be willing to pay! I can’t find any guidebooks newer than 2019. Our family lived in Dakar for 7 years back in the 1990s and we’re returning for two weeks Feb. 2022. Thank you. Peggy

hey Peggy, thank you for your kind words! Glad you find it useful! At the moment, I don’t have a PDF version (although I’m in the process of hiring a designer to create PDFs for some of my articles.) But you can actually click on the printer icon on the left and print out this whole article. It might be quite a few pages though. I’ll let you know when a PDF is available for this article. Thank you!

Hi Nellie thank you for you sharing your experience in Senegal. I have 9 days to spend in the area…Does it worth going to Gambia? tks

hi Debora, I’ve been to Gambia too and it’s a beautiful country that definitely deserves more time. I don’t think you’ll have enough time to see both Senegal and Gambia in 9 days. Here’s a link to my Gambia articles in case you’re interested to see what you can do there.

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Senegal travel guide: things to do and travel tips.

If you’re planning a trip to West Africa, this Senegal travel guide is for you!

Senegal is by no means among Africa’s most visited countries, but it’s been making strides on the tourist scene in recent years.

In this West African nation, baobabs dot the landscape as majestic river deltas part the land.

Wildlife reserves, while not quite as impressive as their counterparts in East Africa, offer the chance to see giraffes, zebras and rhinos.

The coastline that hugs the country is characterised by its white-sand beaches, with the city of Dakar sitting on a peninsula.

While tourism in Senegal is still in its infancy, a fair few high-end hotels have opened in recent years, and it’s getting easier to travel around the country.

Here’s all you need to know!

Senegal facts

• Capital: Dakar serves as the political and cultural heart of Senegal, boasting a mix of modernity and tradition.
• Population: Approximately 17 million people call Senegal home .
• Area: Covering about 197,000 square kilometres, Senegal sprawls from the arid Sahel region in the north to lush forests in the south.
• Official Language: French is the official language. However, local languages like Wolof are widely spoken. English is increasingly spoken, but as a traveller a few words of French (or Wolof!) will help a lot.
• Currency: The West African CFA Franc is the standard currency here. You’ll find that ATMs are mostly available in larger cities and towns.
• Climate: Senegal has a tropical climate, characterized by a dry season from November to May, and a rainy season from June to October.
• Religion: About 95% of the population identify as Muslim, with most of the remainder being Christian. Most Senegalese people pride themselves on religious tolerance and harmony and the country is secular.
• Food: Senegalese food is a blend of African and French influences. The national dishes include “Thieboudienne,” a fish and rice meal, and “Yassa,” a tangy chicken dish (fish yassa is also available). It’s not the easiest place for vegetarians, but I managed it!
• Entry Requirements: Visitors from the UK, USA and a range of other countries do not need a visa for visits of fewer than 90 days. Always check your official government website (for example, Gov.uk ) before travelling.

Getting to Senegal 

Senegal’s Blaise Dignane International Airport has flights to various European destinations, including Paris and Lisbon, with a London charter flight in the peak tourist season. 

The airport is about equidistant to Dakar and the beaches of the Petite Côte (Saly, Pointe Sarene), around an hour’s drive to each. 

All of Senegal’s land borders – to Mauritania, Gambia, Guinea Bissau, Guinea and Mali – are open, although Senegal is certainly the most well-connected country in the region and some of these crossings can be rather hair-raising! 

However, the Senegal/ Gambia crossing isn’t too bad – we crossed it after our trip to Senegal.

Getting around Senegal

While Senegal has tonnes of things to do and wonderful places to see, I do think at the moment it’s let down a little by less than stellar transport infrastructure!

Private transport and tours

Private transfers and tours are readily available, but they are expensive – we were quoted around £200 for a day tour from Dakar to Touba (around 2 hours away). 

Group tours aren’t common unless you’re booking through TUI or another accommodation provider. 

Public transport in Senegal 

Public transport in Senegal consists of buses and sept-places. 

Dakar Dem Dikk runs buses to and from the capital, with connections to places like St Louis (in the north, near the Mauritania border) and Kaolack (a couple of hours from the Gambia border). You can book tickets via the Youmba app – full instructions in this article (coming soon!).

The buses have the potential to be great, but our 2.5-hour bus was over four hours late!

Sept-places are cars which have been converted to add extra seats in the boat. As the name translates to, the car has “seven places”; they can each accommodate seven people. 

We paid 2,000 XOF for an hour-long journey in a sept-place.

These fees are fixed, so you shouldn’t be overcharged and can’t negotiate, but there is an extra, negotiable fee for baggage, which we paid 1,000 XOF for. 

Places to visit in Senegal

Senegal is scattered with nature reserves and atmospheric towns and is lined by a golden coastline. Here are the best places to add to your itinerary:

The capital of Dakar is a labyrinth of streets that weave around each other and lead to the coastline that surrounds it on nearly all sides.

It’s a hectic city, brimming with traffic and usually sweltering under the baking sun! 

However, there’s plenty to do here and it’s worth spending a couple of days to take it in.

The standout spot is Goree Island , a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a sombre history; it was where slaves were imprisoned before they were transported to North America.

While it’s an emotional place to visit, I’d definitely recommend doing so to come to terms with this side of history. 

Ngor Island, on the other side of Dakar, cumulates some of West Africa’s best surfing, SCUBA diving and tropical beaches leading to street art-lined beaches. Plus it’s only a 10-minute boat ride from Ngor Beach ! 

The African Renaissance monument is an enormous statue overlooking the bay (pictured) and is worth climbing up to.

Then there’s the Mosque of the Divinity which overlooks the sea and is right by a small fish market.  

The Petite Cote 

The Petite Cote is what’s helping Senegal tourism huge strides in recent times. 

Pointe Sarene is a fishing village turned seaside hotspot, and Saly’s a buzzing coastal town. 

Stay in a luxe hotel, grab a cool drink and toast to a beach holiday in Senegal! 

In the northwest corner of Senegal, St Louis is a city where French and African influences merge.

The streets are a showcase of colonial architecture that are now homes for local businesses.

The Senegal River bisects the city; Faidherbe Bridge is one of the best sunset spots that spans from the mainland.

Take a trip to the Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie to enjoy birdwatching; pink flamingos and pelicans call this area home.

The second-largest city in Senegal, Touba is the spiritual heartland of the Mouride Brotherhood, a significant Sufi Muslim order.

The Grand Mosque is the focal point, and while its interior is off-limits to non-Muslims, the imposing exterior warrants admiration, with resplendent minarets and intricate geometric designs.

If you’re visiting Touba, dress modestly and consider hiring a guide to fully detail the city to you.

Lompoul Desert

Easily accessible from both Dakar and St Louis, the Lompoul Desert is a slice of Saharan landscape within Senegal.

Accommodations often include staying in traditional Mauritanian tents, which offer more comfort than their exterior might suggest, with comfortable bedding and sometimes even en-suite bathrooms.

Sandboarding and camel rides are popular activities here.

And don’t forget to catch the sunset, as the waning light casts the dunes in a golden glow.

Fathala Wildlife Reserve 

Probably my favourite place to visit in all of Senegal, Fathala’s a huge nature reserve encompassing bushland, 4×4 trails and mangroves. 

In Fathala, giraffes, warthogs, zebras and one solitary rhino mingle, visitable on game drives. 

Bush walks incorporate birdwatching, and rivers weave through the lush mangroves. 

Fathala’s often visited on a day trip from the Gambia, but stay in a luxury safari tent at Fathala Wildlife Lodge. 

Bandia Wildlife Reserve 

Fathala’s little sister, Bandia is equidistant to the beaches of the Petite Cote and Dakar and is a popular day trip from both. 

It’s much smaller than Fathala – although this does mean that wildlife sightings are virtually guaranteed – and safaris typically take 1-2 hours. 

It’s fenced in and does have a slightly zoo-like atmosphere, but you’ll see giraffes, zebra and potentially one of the only two rhinos in the park!

Saloum Delta

The lush Saloum Delta forks into the coastline of Senegal, sprawling over 180,000 hectares as rivers turn into tributaries lined by mangroves. 

This national park is one of the most biodiverse areas of the country, and civilizations have prospered here for centuries thanks to its abundance of seafood and plant life. 

Learn all about this in the Saloum Delta Museum in Toubakouta (French only, but the Google Translate app can handily translate entire blocks of text using your camera) and take a boat tour out on the mangroves. 

Visit Shell Island – an island that’s been gradually formed by shells collecting and compounding – and Île des Oiseaux , where at sunset you’ll see an array of colourful bird life.

If you’re staying in Toubakouta you can arrange boat trips with your hotel, but you’ll be able to get it cheaper by heading down to the pier and seeing if a local fisherman can take you.

If you want to pre-arrange something, I have the WhatsApp contact of the guy who took us – just drop me an email ( [email protected] ) if you’d like it. 

He knows a few words of English but we spoke mainly in (poor, on my side) French – but he is super enthusiastic, so if you can speak a little French or are okay with speaking through Google Translate/ body language he’ll be happy to take you!

Best hotels in Senegal 

There are some excellent hotels in Senegal, both five-star resorts and some more local resorts. Here are some that we stayed at to consider when you visit:

Hotel RIU Baobab, Pointe Sarene

The Hotel RIU Baobab opened in 2022; it’s a deluxe property with multiple pools, a waterpark, three restaurants, a buffet, a pool bar and a private beach.

The airy lobby is kitted out with plants and home to squashy sofas, and the luxurious rooms have African artwork, a spacious seating area and a super comfy bed.

We spent four nights here and it was among the best resort hotels I’ve been to.

Check out Hotel RIU Baobab by clicking here.

Fathala Wildlife Reserve and Lodge, Fathala 

Fathala Wildlife Reserve sees plenty of day trippers from Gambia each day, but if you have the time, I’d definitely recommend staying here for a little longer.

The lodge boasts stunning safari tents with four poster beds, baths and outdoor showers.

The aircon works fantastically (you won’t even notice you’re in a tent!) and there’s no better experience than sitting outside your tent with a cup of coffee, listening to the birds waking up around you.

There’s a small swimming pool which is overlooked by a restaurant, where you’ll enjoy top-quality food for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Check out Fathala Wildlife Reserve and Lodge by clicking here.

Cabane du Pêcheur, Dakar

Another great place we stayed at in Senegal – although it was slightly different to the others – was Cabane du Pêcheur in Ngor Beach, Dakar.

Translating to the “house of the fisherman”, this lodge has comfy rooms with mosquito nets and leads out to a fish restaurant which overlooks the sea.

The restaurant’s a little expensive, but the food is good – I don’t even eat fish but I adored the pesto and mozzarella ravioli.

Check out Cabane du P êcheur by clicking here.

Health and safety tips for Senegal

I’m covering this in full in my article is Senegal safe ?, but here are a few pointers. 

Senegal is generally a safe country , although there are the occasional protests which can turn violent. As a tourist, it’s fairly easy to avoid these. 

Pickpocketing can happen , particularly in downtown Dakar. 

There is quite a lot of poverty in Senegal, and many people are living day to day, trying to get by. I didn’t actually encounter much begging, but found a lot of people wanted to sell me things (souvenirs, tours, etc). 

It’s totally understandable, and I supported small local businesses where possible, but obviously, I couldn’t buy things from everyone. Sometimes, you do have to be firm. 

Don’t drink the tap water and be careful with food hygiene – after a few bouts of traveller’s diarrhoea in the past, I avoided salads in most places in Senegal and was very careful with not consuming any water, which generally meant I avoided too many gastro issues. 

Speak to your doctor before travelling about any necessary vaccinations you might need. 

I’d recommend taking malaria tablets , especially if you’re travelling close to the wet season or travelling to any inland regions (including Fathala or the Saloum Delta). 

Senegal is aiming to stamp out malaria by 2030, and there are less cases nowadays than there used to be, BUT every local who I spoke to had had malaria multiple times. 

What to wear in Senegal

Most of the year, Senegal’s hot – but it’s also a fairly conservative country.

95% of the population is Muslim, but traditional attire is a bit different to North Africa and the Middle East.

Some women cover up, whereas others wear short or even strappy sleeves. I didn’t see many Senegalese women wearing short skirts or shorts.

If you’re by the pool or on the beach, shorts and strappy tops (and even swimwear) are fine, but personally I wouldn’t wear anything too revealing in other places (some tourists do though).

Do also bear in mind that one of the best ways to avoid mozzie bites (and subsequently mosquito related diseases) is to wear long clothes. Bearing this in mind, I tried to completely cover my arms and legs every evening and when I was in wooded areas.

When to visit Senegal

I’d recommend visiting during Senegal’s dry season , from November to May. We visited in October and while it didn’t rain much, it was still incredibly hot.

Temperatures from November to May are much more moderate, usually ranging between 75-85°F (24-29°C).

Christmas and New Year’s are among the most popular times, but don’t expect Senegal to be overrun with tourists; it’s generally fairly easy to move around and find accommodations (although I’d always recommend booking at least a day or two in advance, more if you want to stay somewhere specific).

I wouldn’t recommend visiting during the wet season – it brings increased humidity and a heightened risk of malaria and mosquitos.

If you do travel during these months, be extra cautious with mosquito protection.

Cost of travel in Senegal

Like many African countries, Senegal isn’t particularly cheap for tourists (I found Gambia to be much more cost-efficient). But some things are still budget-friendly!

Some guesthouses are as low as $20-$30 per night, but these do vary in quality.

Mid-range and luxury hotels range from $50 to well over $200 for high-end properties.

Senegal doesn’t have much in the way of street food, but you can often pick up its famous fish and rice dish Thieboudienne in small restaurants – often costing as little as $2 (although you may be charged a more expensive tourist price).

Sit-down restaurants, particularly in Dakar, can range from $5 for a basic meal to $30 or more.

Add $1-$3 for a bottle of Gazelle, the local beer, or perhaps a glass of bissap, a local hibiscus drink.

Transport also ranges hugely.

Local buses and shared taxis are the most pocket-friendly, usually costing less than $5-10 for journeys of 2-4 hours.

I’d recommend using the Yango app in Dakar for flat-rate taxis (it works like Uber but you’ll need to pay in cash).

Tours often come at a premium. A day trip to Gorée Island, including the ferry and museum entry and with a guide and lunch, can cost up to $70 (you can definitely DIY for cheaper!).

Bandia wildlife reserve costs from around $20.

If you shop for souvenirs, be prepared to haggle. We were originally quoted $40 for a tiny wooden giraffe statue, and eventually paid $10 – then saw similar ones on sale in a shop for $5.

While I try not to haggle too much over small amounts, some of the quoted prices were quite wild!

SIM cards with data packages are affordable, costing around $10 for 15GB of data. You could also use Airlo e-sim cards; these can be activated as soon as you enter the country, but they’re much more expensive than physical sim cards.

Cash is king in most of Senegal, apart from some hotels (but usually not small local guesthouses).

ATMs are readily available in the cities and accept foreign cards.

Do bring some cash to exchange when you’re there – I’d recommend Euro rather than USD because it has better exchange rates and more places change it (presumably due to the French tourist market, which is by far the biggest).

How to plan a trip to Senegal!

I hope that this article helped you plan your trip to the West African nation! I’ll be talking much more about both Senegal and The Gambia, so do check back. Plus, check out my Instagram page to see more posts from Senegal.

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Top 10 Tourist Attractions in Senegal

Are you a Traveler, Nature Lover, Bird Admirer, Boat Rider? Looking for top visited tourist attractions in Senegal? Whatever you are the mesmerizing beauty of Senegal will definitely take your breath away. The African small country has countless places to spend hours, days, and months without agony and mechanical life.

If you visit Senegal for once then it is definite that it will call you again and again in her arm. So if you are planning to have some fun or mental peace then tourist attractions in Senegal are the best options for you at this moment.

Senegal tourism is full of cultural value, historical significance natural and built beauty, it can eradicate the monotony of robotic society a person bear in his shoulder. So, to visit Senegal, stay with us to the end to know some finest places to visit of Senegal tourism.

10 best places to visit in Senegal:

Fresh foods, cultural insights, affordable rates, and amiable local people could be the reason you cannot resist the chance to visit the tourist attractions in Senegal. We are going to introduce the 10 never miss places to visit while roaming in Senegal.

Demure Senegal reigns with her capital city Dakar has an exotic attraction that can seriously outgrow a tourist from anywhere of the world.

The westernmost city among African islands is situated near the coastal Cap-Vert peninsula with eastward sprawls and lively markets. For fish and trader ships this place is just like a never-ending fair.

The city grasps multiculturalism and boosts energy that can vibrate any heart that hunkers after peace and simplicity. Though size and population it is the biggest city in Senegal and also a great destination for tourists.

Among the tourist attractions in Senegal Dakar is decorated with the Museum of African Arts, Goree Island of the Dutch slave trade, African embroidery bazaars to quench the hunger of an adventurer. And, don’t forget to visit the wild Sandaga Market to taste the roasted peanuts with raucous beer.

Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach holiday or an adventure-filled exploration of the city, there are plenty of things to do in Dakar .

Goree Island

The horrified past of Senegal now become one of the famous tourist attractions in Senegal situated in Goree Island. Just opposite the capital Dakar near the cost prominent slave trading center built by the Dutch turned into a museum.

The history of this weeping island tells the story of the slaves and the dark period of the human civilization. History lovers can feel the spiritual connections by stepping on the soil that bears the bloodshed of the slaves back in the 15 th century.

Along with the House of Slaves Senegal tourist platform, Goree Island is the location for The Henriette Bathily Women’s Museum which reflects the contribution of women in African society.

The effervescent history and costal food will work as medicine on your infected life and create a sense of freedom you always wanted.

Who doesn’t love a pink colored place with full of water? The Retba Lake is situated 30 miles away from the capital on the north-east side known originally as the Pink Lake in Senegal. The maximum 40% salt attracts the Dunaliella salina bacteria to absorb sunlight they produce the red-purple pigment.

This unique process has a scientific description but not to worry you don’t have to solve any math to enjoy this scenic beauty instead of a heart full of pink colored happiness.

Don’t miss the mellifluous color just because you have to drive for one hour from the capital to the north because of the reflection worth the time and price.

Senegal River

Just imagine a wide majestic river with colorful boats and lively fish market on the bank. How does it feel? Awesome right? Then, this stunning imagination can be turned into reality by visiting the Senegal tourist hub the Senegal River.

The 1700 km water area helps the Sahel Desert to turn into a fertile land and the excitement of the incredible marine life. The quintessential things are the dams and the historical significance makes this river more exquisite.

This river bears the symbol of the traditional Senegalese lifestyle that flows through the generations in the blood of the Senegal people. So, make sure when you go Senegal doesn’t overlook this impressive allocating place to gather some lifelong sweet memories.

Petite Cote

Beach is the place where anyone can burn and wash away all the agonies of life under the Sun and in the Sea. Petite Cote is more than 150 km of the coastal region with exquisite golden sand and opulent Atlantic water.

It is the place for the peace seekers where the roar of the Atlantic sea water will bring the melancholy in you. Just take a chair to flatten your body and lost in the tranquil world of fate where you always wanted to be.

Some opulent hotels and the spellbinding tourist oriented towns are located just near the Petite Cote beach known as Saly Portugal and Mbour. Even there is a golf course to entertain you with green exotic natural surroundings.

Cap Skirring

If you are looking for a place with all kinds of advanced features and facilities that can meet your needs along with nature’s blessings then, yes you have good news. Cap Skirring is the place where you can find exactly what you love.

The Basse Casamance region upholds the small town Cap Skirring on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean is one of the finest tourist destinations in Senegal. The place decorates itself with an airport, golf course, and seaside resort all in one.

The fisherman occupied town is now has become a European town due to huge tourist turnover every year. They come to enjoy the enchanting coastal beauty of Senegal and to have a wonderful time with friends and family.

What are you waiting for? Just put this name on your bucket list and grab your bag to witness the white sand and palm trees with open wide eyes.

Wildlife fascination can be put out just with one visit to the southeastern part of Senegal on the bank of the Casamance River the region named Casamance. The biggest city of this amazing area is Ziguinchor which is famous for “Office de Tourisme de Casamance” and “Les Paletuviers Boutique Hotel”.

The area is full of vegetation and wildlife animals that can both give you pleasure and thrill. If you plan to visit Casamance then make sure you have an extra day on your hand to add the fantastic experience with the adorable dolphins.

The famous Jola community is the majority of the population of this area and is unexpectedly amiable and friendly that will definitely make you feel comfortable. You can also take the chance of fishing, snorkeling, and many exciting activities of the tourist attractions in Senegal.

Lompoul Desert

Have you ever been to a desert consist of orange sand?  Did you ever attend any African music festival? Whether your answer is ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ you are welcome to explore the orange sand desert to have the experience that you will never forget.

Lompoul desert always stays in the top list of Senegal tourist attractions because of the marvelous vistas and camel riding. You will be amazed by the beauty and opulent style of the sand dune buggies in the middle of the desert.

The music Festival takes place during the vacation period of African countries known as the ‘Festival du Sahel’ which exaggerates the culture of Senegal people. Hurry up the next festival is knocking at your door to entertain you with a warm embrace.

Saloum Delta National Park

Missing the Saloum Delta National Park during your Senegal tour is a great sin according to the travel God. Just kidding! The western part of the Senegal is blessed with over 76,000 hectares of land area “the Saloum Delta National Park” could be the only reason to visit Senegal.

Surprised? Yah there are lots of eye-catching and breathe taking things that can bring you the inner peace you were looking for. Numerous small lagoons and a wide variety of birds along with mangrove forests makes this place as a perfect example of biodiversity.

You will be amazed by the heaven like green scenarios of the islands on the traditional boats named ‘Pirogue’ and this park is also in the UNESCO World Heritage Site list.

Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary

The effervescent clamor of the birds can fill your heart with joy and can help you to fly in the sky of sweet imagination with the birds. Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is the place where many unique species of birds can be discovered.

If you are a birder then you have the chance to witness about three million fabulous birds migrated from the European region during November to April. The Senegal tourism industry greatly depends on the tourists within this time.

More than 30 species of birds made this destination extremely popular among the Senegal tourists. The permanent source of water attracts the birds like super pelican and rare pink flamingo every year to quench the thirst of the bird lovers from all over the world.

Wrapping Up:

For some tourists, it may be a little daunting endeavor to travel to an undeveloped country but the energy, culture, history, and people are the things that will eradicate the doubt inside you. Tourist attractions in Senegal are really affordable and safe as well. So, next time when you plan to roam in the world of beauty and multiculturalism don’t forget about the Senegal tourist attractions. I am pretty sure that you will have an incredible experience and some memorable stories to tell.