Senegal

Senegal is a destination that moves to its own rhythm. Known for the concept of Teranga—a Wolof word that encompasses hospitality, community, and the spirit of sharing—it is a country that welcomes the traveler with open arms and a vibrant palette. From the high-energy, high-fashion streets of Dakar to the haunting, pastel-hued history of Gorée Island and the serene mangroves of the Saloum Delta, Senegal is a sensory masterpiece of West African culture.

Whether you are attending a world-class jazz festival in the colonial “African Venice” of Saint-Louis or dining at a chic bistro overlooking the Atlantic, Senegal offers a sophisticated and soul-stirring escape.

Why we love Senegal

We love Senegal for its “effortless cool.” It is a place where tradition and modernity don’t just coexist; they dance together. It is the birth-place of Mbalax music, the home of some of the continent’s most daring contemporary artists, and a culinary giant where the Thieboudienne (national fish and rice dish) is a labor of love. Most of all, we love the contrast between the electric urban pulse of the Cap-Vert Peninsula and the profound, golden silence of the Lompoul Desert.

The Most Beautiful Places in Senegal

From the “Pink Lake” to the Casamance forests:

1. Dakar & The Almadies

The westernmost city in Africa is a thriving hub of art, politics, and gastronomy. Visit the African Renaissance Monument—the tallest statue on the continent—for panoramic views, then explore the chic district of Almadies, where high-end villas and seaside lounges offer the best of modern Senegalese life. For a retreat within the city, the IFAN Museum of African Arts provides a serene look at the region’s cultural heritage.

2. Gorée Island

A short ferry ride from Dakar but a world away in atmosphere. This car-free, UNESCO-listed island is a poignant place of memory. Beyond the sobering history of the House of Slaves, the island is a sanctuary of bougainvillea-lined streets, ochre-washed colonial buildings, and a thriving community of artists and musicians.

3. Saint-Louis (N’Dar)

The former colonial capital is a romantic time capsule. Situated on an island at the mouth of the Senegal River, it is famous for its 19th-century architecture and the iconic Faidherbe Bridge. Known as the “African Venice,” it is a center for culture and the arts, most notably hosting the world-renowned Saint-Louis Jazz Festival.

4. The Saloum Delta

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve where the river meets the sea in a labyrinth of islands and mangroves. This is a world of “slow travel,” best explored by traditional pirogue. It is a sanctuary for hundreds of bird species—flamingos, pelicans, and herons—and home to ancient shellfish mounds that tell the story of two millennia of human history.

5. Lake Retba (The Pink Lake)

A natural wonder just north of Dakar. Famous for its pink-tinted waters (caused by a unique salt-loving algae), the lake is a surreal sight, especially during the dry season. Watch the salt harvesters at work or enjoy a “float” in waters more saline than the Dead Sea.

Highlights of a Tour Through Senegal

  • Bandia Reserve Safari: A short drive from the coast, this private reserve offers a high-end safari experience where you can see white rhinos, giraffes, zebras, and giant baobab trees that are hundreds of years old.
  • The Lompoul Desert Glamping: Spend a night in a luxury “Maure” tent among the towering orange dunes of Lompoul. It is a world of camels, traditional music under the stars, and absolute desert peace.
  • Birdwatching in Djoudj: Visit the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, the third-most important bird sanctuary in the world. Witnessing millions of migratory birds descend on these wetlands is a true natural symphony.

Essential Travel Tips

  • When to go: The best time to visit is the dry season from November to May. The weather is pleasantly warm, and this is the peak time for birdwatching and festivals.
  • Getting around: Dakar has a modern infrastructure, including the new Regional Express Train (TER). For travel to Saint-Louis or the Saloum Delta, we recommend private chauffeured transfers to navigate the scenic coastal roads comfortably.
  • Language: French is the official language, but Wolof is the heart of the street. Learning a few phrases like “Nanga def?” (How are you?) will earn you the warmest of Teranga welcomes.
  • Currency: The West African CFA Franc (XOF) is the local currency. Senegal is a leader in mobile money, but credit cards are widely accepted in the many luxury hotels and fine-dining restaurants of Dakar and Saly.