Planning a trip to Senegal ? Then you're about to discover the land of Teranga and its warm atmosphere! Many must-see places await you, from Gorée Island to the Casamance region. The diversity of the landscapes almost makes you forget that Senegal is three times smaller than France in terms of area. If you haven't yet planned your itinerary for your stay in Senegal, we've put together a short list of iconic places to visit in this article. From Gorée Island to Cap Skirring, you'll have plenty to see and do. No need to thank us, when you love something, you don't count the cost! So here's our list of must-see places to visit during your trip to Senegal!
Gorée Island, an absolute must-see
If you could only choose one place during your stay, Gorée Island should be your number one choice. Both for its history and its unique character, it's an absolute must-see! The island is located 3.5 kilometers from Dakar and covers an area of 28 hectares. It is, of course, infamous for its dark history and involvement in the slave trade between the 15th and 19th centuries.
The paradoxes of Gorée Island are strikingly unique. There, one finds in the same place dark quarters reserved for slaves amidst radiant houses owned by slave traders. Its geographical position made the island the epicenter of the African slave trade. The Portuguese, French, English, and Dutch fought for control of the island for a long time. Indeed, Gorée Island served as an anchorage for the "slave carriers," tasked with capturing and bringing back slaves from the hinterland.
The House of Slaves alone embodies the terror of that era. The last slave house on the island, this dwelling leaves an indelible mark on visitors.
Now a UNESCO World , Gorée Island is an essential part of your trip to Senegal . Today, it symbolizes reconciliation, offering a unique space for dialogue and confronting the reality of past human exploitation.
The Pink Lake and its unique character
Lake Retba (Lac Rose) is another must-see destination for anyone traveling to Senegal! Located about 30 kilometers north of Dakar, it's a favorite with visitors. Its varying hues have made it famous, and it was also the final stage of the Paris-Dakar Rally until 2008.
Also known as Lake Rëtba , its color comes from an algae that oxidizes iron. Furthermore, Lake Rose contains a very high salt concentration. More precisely, its concentration is eight times higher than that of seawater. This is why, day and night, hundreds of people work to extract salt from the lagoon. This extremely arduous work results in an annual production of approximately 60,000 tons!
Numerous hotels and campsites are located in the area, and activities abound. Horseback riding, quad biking, or canoe trips offer a wide range of choices. A craft village is situated at the far end of the lagoon.
It's worth noting that in 2005, Lake Retba (Lac Rose) was nominated for UNESCO World Heritage status. This nomination has still not been approved. Nevertheless, Lake Retba remains a jewel of Senegal and a prime destination for your trip to the country.
Dakar, the capital with many faces
The Senegalese capital simply had to be on our list. Dakar is the economic heart of Senegal. Two million inhabitants mingle there in an atmosphere that is as vibrant as it is welcoming. It is the nerve center of the country, and the diversity of its neighborhoods makes it a truly colorful place.
If you're a fan of traditional crafts, you'll be in heaven at the Soumbédioune market ! All kinds of artisans display their wares there. Sculpture, ceramics, leather goods, basketry, jewelry… you name it, they have it! Also, take a stroll down to the beach right next to the market. You can watch the fishermen return in their brightly colored pirogues. If you're interested in fabrics, the HLM market is an excellent place to go. You'll find a multitude of styles there, including the famous "wax" print.
We also invite you to visit the Almadies Corniche if you're looking for tranquility. There, you can enjoy a drink or a bite to eat in its many restaurants, all with breathtaking sea views.
The African Renaissance Monument is also worth a visit. Standing 52 meters tall, this copper statue was inaugurated in 2010. It was the initiative of President Wade. The statue is made up of several levels. You can even have a meal in the restaurant located at the top!
This list is obviously far from exhaustive. Take advantage of your trip to Senegal to discover other surprises in Dakar!
Saint-Louis, a city steeped in history
Saint-Louis is considered by many to be the most beautiful city in Senegal. Indeed, it has become a fully-fledged tourist destination over the last thirty years.
On the one hand, its climate is ideal (Saint-Louis is the coolest city in Senegal). It is located at the crossroads of the Atlantic Ocean, the Sahara Desert, and the sub-Saharan bush. Its strategic position made it the first city built by French colonizers in 1659. Its name was given in honor of Louis IX, the King of France at the time. Saint-Louis was also the capital of Senegal for a long time, during the era of French West Africa (AOF).
Once considered a "sleeping beauty" just thirty years ago, Saint-Louis has experienced a revival. The restoration of its houses and the resurgence of its cultural life (the Sahel Festival and the Jazz Festival) have breathed new life into Ndar (the Wolof name for Saint-Louis). Moreover, it has managed to preserve its colonial-era buildings and architecture. Today, the city attracts numerous artists and visitors.
Numerous hotels are located in the city. You will have the opportunity to visit the Senegal River region. Don't hesitate to visit the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary!
The city, like Gorée Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Petite Côte , a major tourist destination in Senegal
A trip to Senegal will surely give you the opportunity to stop on the Petite Côte (Little Coast) . This is Senegal's premier tourist destination, stretching for nearly 70 kilometers south of Dakar. Located on the Cap Vert peninsula, the Petite Côte encompasses a multitude of fishing villages such as Yenne , Toubab Diallaw , Popenguine , Somone , Ngaparou and Saly . The latter underwent a radical transformation with the inauguration of the seaside resort in 1984. Since then, hotels, restaurants, nightclubs, and private beaches have proliferated. Numerous tourists flock there every year, enjoying the ever-present sunshine and idyllic setting.
Further south, you can visit the Nianing estate , Pointe Sarène , Mbodiene and Joal . The latter is also the birthplace of Léopold Senghor, former president of Senegal.
Despite the fact that the area has become Senegal's leading tourist destination for the past 20 years, some of its villages have managed to retain their unique character. Fadiouth Island is a perfect example. Indeed, this island is composed of seashells, making it one of a kind. It can be reached via its 725-meter-long wooden jetty.
The Petite Côte offers wonderful, sublime landscapes made up of baobabs, lagoons and picturesque villages.
Here is an article about the history of Saly Portudal.
Touba, an emblematic religious city
This is the religious center of the Mouride brotherhood in Senegal. Located approximately 200 kilometers east of Dakar, Touba was founded at the end of the 19th century by Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba, founder of Mouridism.
A unique city due to its religious significance, Touba hosts the Magal of Touba every year. This event brings together a vast number of Mourides who come to commemorate the exile to Gabon of its founder. As a result, hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world travel there to participate in what is the largest religious gathering in West Africa. During this day, only the recitation of the Quran and the Khassaides (writings of Sheikh Amadou) are permitted. Everyone offers meals according to their means.
The city is home to the Great Mosque of Touba , one of the most impressive in Africa. Composed of five minarets, the tallest reaches a height of 66 meters! You can visit it. A guided tour is recommended so you can learn more about the history of this historic monument.
The Sine Saloum, a true natural spectacle
Heading back south through Senegal, you can stop at the Sine Saloum . This delta is located at the confluence of the Sine and Saloum rivers. The region is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A true natural spectacle, the delta offers visitors extraordinary landscapes .
The Sine Saloum region encompasses a multitude of islands and islets, scattered amidst mangroves that stretch as far as the eye can see. The region thus resembles a veritable open-air labyrinth. Indeed, the natural heritage of the Sine Saloum is worth the trip in itself. For example, it boasts 114 varieties of fish and 400 different species of birds! Among these is the largest colony of royal terns in the world!
Your trip to Senegal will have a special flavor after a visit to the Fathala Reserve . Located in the Fatick region, this reserve is home to a multitude of plant and animal species, including lions. And the most popular activity in the reserve is walking with these felines! A unique experience you'll remember for a long time!
Another iconic location is the multicolored salt wells of Palmarin . Seen from the sky, the tarpaulins stored all over the lagoon give an impression of being elsewhere and an extraordinary atmosphere.
Casamance, an unforgettable experience
This article would never have been complete without mentioning Casamance . During your trip to Senegal, don't hesitate to head south to discover this wonderful region. Some consider it the most beautiful region in West Africa, and we're inclined to agree… With more abundant water than in northern Senegal, Casamance offers a magnificent landscape of lush vegetation.
Ziguinchor is the main city of the region. It's also much cleaner than the capital! You'll find beautiful colonial houses in the Escale district, located in the city center. Hotels and other accommodations are available so you can fully enjoy this undeniably charming city. Numerous cultural events take place there, such as concerts and exhibitions. Ziguinchor, with its unique architecture, perfectly embodies the meeting of French and Senegalese influences.
If your trip to Senegal includes a visit to the Casamance region, we also recommend stopping in Cap Skirring . There you'll find some of Senegal's most beautiful beaches in a relaxed atmosphere! Excursions through the mangroves, a visit to the Kadiout Museum , or a walk among the kapok trees... it has it all! Cap Skirring stands out by offering tourists much more attractive prices than the Petite Côte.
But also…
Many other places await you during your trip to Senegal. Trying to be as comprehensive as possible (but also leaving you to discover the many surprises there), here is a list to complete the picture:
The Bandia Reserve : Located on the road to Mbour, the Bandia Reserve covers 3,500 hectares. It is home to a large number of different animals living in semi-freedom. Giraffes, zebras, antelopes, mongooses, hyenas… you name it! You will have the opportunity to take a guided tour in a 4x4 and have a meal at a restaurant near a crocodile-inhabited river.
The Megalithic Circles : Located in Gambia, these are one of the megalithic wonders of the world. They are also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Popenguine Cave : Attracting more and more visitors each year, the Popenguine Cave houses the Black Madonna and numerous statues of various saints. The town is also known for its annual Christian pilgrimage.
Carabane : Traveling in Senegal also means discovering the authenticity and cultural heritage of places like Carabane. You won't find any cars or even roads there; travel is done by dugout canoe!
Kédougou : An open-air treasure, the Kédougou region is home to various ethnic groups of Senegal. Bassari, Bedick, Soninke, Jalonke… everyone mingles here! If natural landscapes appeal to you, take a trip to Niokolo Koba National Park!
This concludes our overview of must-see places to visit during your trip to Senegal . We've covered all the iconic locations so you can create unforgettable memories of your visit to the land of Teranga KEUR-IMMO search engine to find your dream home!