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Dakar, Senegal is one of my favorite places to go. There are many amazing public and private beaches. Lots of adventure, you can do ATVing, surfing, visit the animal/lion reservoir. Two hotels that i love are the palms luxury hotel (owned by a Senegalese women) and boma hotel. My favorite spa place to go is Escaled Orient. There are lots of chill lounge places, one that comes to mind and is Senegalese owned is COPACABANA. Dakar is a place that provides a little bit of everything. I would recommend you have a good amount of cash on you but card is also taken lots of places.
A French speaking country so use your translate! The nightlife ends when the sunrises and the roads are bumpy but hey – you’re in a new country! Enjoy regardless! The fruit and fish are so fresh and the people are friendly! Go to the beach after sunset and workout! You might meet the love of your life! You can go walk with Lions at Fathala! It’s about 4 hours away but worth it! There’s a club on top of a volcano! Lit!
It has been a while since I visited Senegal, but I had the best time each time I went. Our tour guide was my friend’s cousin, so we were able to get around really well. He’s an official tour guide, Emmanuel Edouard Faye – getaroundsenegal.skyblog.com. We went to Dadiouth Shell Island, which was beautiful. We were able to see Senegal’s Lac Rose (Pink Lake) before it was washed away by floods. Goree Island/Slave Castle in Dakar is another must-see. It is a beautiful place and I look forward to returning to Senegal soon.
Senegal is such a beautiful place! If you get a chance, please visit Fathala Wildlife Reserve. This is an amazing experience that you will probably not get anywhere else. Everyone at the Reserve is extremely nice and very very accommodating! I recommend this 10/10! This place is very close to Gambia, literally 4km away and 4 hours outside of the capital, Dakar. Lastly, ALL OF THE FOOD IS AMAZINGGGGGG!!!!
1st – With the news airport in Diamniadio it’s really better to find a car before arriving in Dakar – Sénégal. Check with your hôtel it’s really better because The news airport is really far and there are nothing around.
2nd- better to visit outside the capital. Honestly as a world traveler – Born and raise in Dakar there are not lot of think to do just discovering the GOREE ISLAND in Dakar. You can find some spot and nice place for surfing in Dakar In Yoff and ALMADIES; That’s it.
3rd if you wanna visite Senegal better to go to Saint Louis – Cap Skiring –
My country, where the jollof is originally from (for your culture) an underrated country in Africa, the best weather of Africa in April/May also cheap at this time, there is a walk with lions, Goree, the isle of slave, the pink lake and many things to do
Senegal is one of the African countries that kept intact its cultural patrimony. There is a lot to see but, some places HAVE TO be on your checklist when go in Dakar (the capital city). The first one is the Goree island, a place that still keeps the deep story and memory of slavery and colonisation (this is where I learned that slavery and colonisation were actually two different things: one happened before the other). The second place is the African monument Renaissance, where you can have a beautiful view of Dakar which is actually a peninsula. You can also visit the Pink lake. However, the lake shows its pinkness mostly between December and February because of it is the cold season in Senegal. Also, the place is quite far and not that accessible. Therefore, ask to the locals to show you the easiest way to get there. Personally, I am an adventurous person, so I got there by taking the common transports. But trust me, it wasn’t easiest way.
Gorée Island is definitely a must-see! The rate of the ferry that will take you there will vary according to your nationality. If you’re not an African resident or doesn’t own a passeport from an African country you’ll pay a higher price : 5200 CFA. You’ll also have to pay an extra 3000 CFA at your arrival on the island. If you truly want to learn more about the wheelworks and details of the west African slave trade, take advantage of your time on this island, immerse yourself in its history and present, I truly recommend to rent the services of a local tour guide at your arrival on the island. We hired a freelance guide named KEMITE XELMITE and he was fantastic! He had so many insightful stories and anecdotes. At the end of the tour, he asked that we pay him the amount that we deemed fair.
You should also visit the Pink Lake, it’s worth to be seen! note that the lake may not be that pink the day you go as the color is highly dependent on the weather and the microorganisms in the lake). You can even « swim » in the lake if you wish. Its content in salt is higher than in the Dead Sea, so you’re supposed to float pretty well. We did an excursion that involved a 30 min boat ride were a guide answer all your questions on the lake and 1hour quad ride around sand dunes. It was amazing! During the quad ride you can stop in several spots to take pictures. I highly recommend to negotiate the price of this excursion. We paid around 10 000 CFA-12 000 CFA/ person (we were 10 so we were able to negotiate a good price). You don’t have to book it in advance just negotiate with the people that take care of it at the lake.
A stop by the African Renaissance Monument is essential during your stay in Dakar. This monument is majestic. The Mosquée de la Divinité also deserve to be seen. Don’t hesitate to go to the multiple markets in Dakar to shop waxes fabrics, spices, jewelry and souvenirs. In those markets negotiate for everything. The first price is always a wrong price. Senegal is affordable but more expensive than I expected. In the malls the prices are similar to those in Europe. You’ll find in Dakar multiple local and African designer boutiques with high quality clothes and accessories. (ex : Nanawax)
I spent 2 days near the beach in Somone (few hours from Dakar). There are beautiful villas and Airbnb to rent over there rather than going to hotels. From there, you could go clubbing at night in Saly.
I also recommend to visit the « Réserve de Bandia » (1h from Dakar). It’s a natural reserve where you can meet multiple big african mammals. It was a nice experience. The fee to enter the park is 12 000 cfa/adult, you have to pay 6 500cfa for the guide and 10 000cfa if you want to enter the park with your vehicle or 40 000 to rent a 4*4 vehicle (9-11person) with driver. Note that you have to enter the reserve with a vehicle. The experience is funnier if you rent the 4*4, as the vehicle is big, open on the sides and highly seated. Don’t hesitate to share the costs with other visitors. I went with 2 friends and we joined 2 other groups to mutualize the rate of the guide and 4*4 vehicles.
In my opinion, Senegal is a true definition of vacation as it fulfilled my needs for history, culture, food, nature, activities, shopping, and relaxation.
Senegal is hands down one of the best countries to visit in West Africa so I urge everybody to consider it when making plans to travel to Africa. Senegal is very beautiful and affordable. Most people speak French, and Wolof (the national language) so if you are anglophone, it might be a bit challenging for you but you will still be able to communicate.
When visiting Senegal, I recommend making a stop at the Goree Island, known for its role in the slave trade. Goree is a bit expensive but definitely worth seeing. No need to spend money on booking a hotel because I personally believe that a full day is more than enough. You can only get there by boat but the fare is relatively cheap.
Another popular place in Senegal is Saly Portudal. It takes a little less than 2 hours to drive down there through the new express route. Saly is absolutely beautiful and has that island vibe to it. My friends and I like to escape there when Dakar gets a bit too hectic or boring. It’s the type of place you definitely want to stay for about a week or more because it is that beautiful and relaxing. Most people book hotels, however, I personally think it’s best to book a villa with a group of people. It is more fun that way and a lot cheaper.
Îles de la Madeleine or also called Îles de Serpent is another amazing place you go to for quick getaway or beach day . Sad to admit but I have never been there before. I always make plans to go down there when I visit Senegal but never actually got the chance to .. But it’s on my bucket list for my next visit to Senegal so I’m definitely looking forward to it.
Besides that, Senegalese people absolutely love the beach so most of our restaurants, hookah bars , and lounges are by the beach. A few of my favs are : Chez Fatou, Sharkys, White Dream, Cosmo, La Cabanne du Surfeur , Creperie La Prainha, Radisson.
1. The food in Senegal is everything!!!
I had the most amazing trip to Dakar. One must visit Goree Island and visit the Slave House and the door of no return and learn the history of not only the slave catchers but the rebellions.
Ngor Island is a small island that has the best food I’ve ever ate. Order Cèebu jën.
Dakar is also home of the Renaissance Monument and the Museum of Black Civilizations.
Everyone refers to one another as brother/sister and everyone I met said, “Welcome home.”
Dakar Is surrounded by beautiful bodies of water ! Every restaurant I ate at you could see the water from where you eat and it was very relaxing. My favorite one was La Cabane du Surfeur .If you’re someone like me who finds a peaceful of mind in being able to lay back on the beach, take it easy and enjoy the simple things life has to offer then you’ll love Dakar for the fact you don’t have to do much to enjoy yourself there! The elements of the capital make everything there an experience of a lifetime
Dakar is the charming capital city of Senegal, one of the most stable countries in West Africa. It is a modern city with a rich history and a magnet for foreign workers in the region.
Despite being a french speaking country, I still managed to communicate with my rudimentary French. You may find English speakers in many places. Wolof is the main local language.
Things to do: Visit The African Renaissance Monument which is more than just Africa’s tallest statue. It houses a small museum and you can take the lift to the crown and enjoy amazing views of the city. Then head for the beautiful beaches of Dakar or take a trip to Ngor island. Another must-visit island is the former slave port of Goree, which has the infamous House of Slaves and other well preserved colonial buildings. A short drive away from Dakar is the famous Lac Rose (Pink Lake). Make sure to try some local delicacies while in Dakar especially Yassa!
Dakar can be reached from many European destinations and you will arrive in the brand new Blaise Diagne International (DSS) airport, arguably the best in West Africa.
I found Dakar quite affordable; I stayed in a huge 1 bed apartment (Airbnb) near the popular Corniche area for just a little over $30/night! European-style restaurants can be a bit pricey.
Overall, Dakar is a safe city with lots of history, a vibrant culture and extremely friendly locals!
Dakar is the most beautiful African city I have visited! A mixture of modernity and tradition African. Senegal is a country with a rich cultural heritage so you will have the chance to visit several places.
Some places I visited: Pink Lake, Presidential Palace, Goree Island, House of slaves, the African Renaissance monument.
I also visited a small village not far from Dakar named Pout, and I was very well welcomed. I really enjoyed this trip and I want to go back there to visit more places.
My wife and I had visited Senegal more specifically Dakar, its capital. This country has had a very interesting history. The cost of living is not expensive and the Senegalese are very friendly. We visited the slave house and do not worry if you do not speak English and there are always very good guides who will be there to tell you the story in detail. A very special place where you can only get a feeling of disgust, of rage towards the settler. Opt to stay one night on the island this could be very interesting. We also visited the African Renaissance monument. It weighs 680 tons (20 tons for the baby, 70 tons for the mother and 100 tons for the man.This monument is 52 meters from the foot of the woman. There are so many other places that my wife and we had the chance to visit for example “Lac Rose”
We had a great time in Dakar. I highly recommend it for culture.
my favorite country! I am totally love of this country! His story, his welcome, his wealth! This country appeals to me a lot! At no time did I feel foreign and treated as one of them! The people and kind and courteous, its good, there are many things to visit, including the island of gore history you will cry! The breathtaking pink lake, Senegal by night is super developer the evening its top. We eat well and we do good business, fabric and money is not expensive. The walk of Dakar is one of my favorite! Do not hesitate to sew out outfits they have a lot of talent and it does not cost you much! Above all, do not forget to buy paintings or sculptures of laba you would find anywhere of such beautiful painting or statuette at prices defying any competition. This trip is surely in my top 5 without hesitation. Everything is good price, adventure, history, and idleness
Dakar, known as the Horn of Africa, was another spectacular and affordable trip for me in West Africa. Airfare to there was @$900 from NYC with a stop in Paris via Air France; and once there, prices for lodging, cab fare and entertainment were very reasonable. Dakar is a vibrant city which made me feel I could live there because the people are very warm and accommodating; the weather is perfectly moderate (high 70’s), and the roads are well maintained and easy to navigate. A cab ride from the airport cost less than $10. I stayed at the Pullman Taranga Hotel, a 4 Star, modern, eclectic hotel, near the Presidential Palace with great views of the Atlantic Ocean, a delightful bar and a restaurant which serves huge portions of delicious, traditional Senegalese dishes. The Dakar night scene is energetic and safe! I recommend Calypso Nightclub which serves great, low cost drinks and plays the latest American hip hop and R and B. There are other bars on the same strip with Calypso where you can people watch while enjoying drinks and music.
Things to see/do in Dakar:
Lake Retba: Dakar’s pink lake, where you can watch the salt collectors gather rock salt from the lake. The lake’s pink hues because brighter depending on the season and time of the day. A short ride on the pink lake is a must as you will have the opportunity to chat with a salt collector and even taste the sale he extracted from the lake!
Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and House of Slaves: The entrance fee is @$30 which covers the ferry ride and entrance to the House of Slaves. The no-car island is inhabited by some 1600 people but the attraction there is the House of Slaves. Fun fact: From the 15th to the 19th century, Goree was the largest slave-trading centre on the African coast. Ruled in succession by the Portuguese, Dutch, English and French, its architecture is characterized by the contrast between the grim slave-quarters and the regal houses of the slave traders.
I was deeply moved by the history of this site, and was on the brink of tears when I got to the “Door of No Return”, the narrow doorway where millions of Slaves left this west African shore for the Americas, Europe and the Caribbean. This was the highlight of my trip to Dakar!
The Monument of the African Reistance: This statute of a man, woman and child is the only one of its kind where people can walk around in the inside. It is the tallest copper statute in the world and is taller than NY’s Statute of Liberty! After you climb close to 200 steps to get inside, you’ll be impressed by the statues of historical figures like President Obama and Nelson Mandela, as well as the tapestry and furniture donated to Senegal by other nations. I found the breezes while way at the top of the statute to be quite exhilarating; and the views of the city from that height were amazing! The entry fee to the Monument is under $30 and is quite affordable for such a remarkable structure.
Mamelles Lighthouse: An historical site which costs under $20 to gain entry is worth the trip because once inside your tour guide will provide the history of lighthouses. I learned Mamelles is the second most important Lighthouse in Africa; the purpose of the lights; and the technology involved in the actually bulbs which today still direct ships passing through the region in the day and night. Also, the views on the Lighthouse are simply stunning!
Medina: A bustling street market where you can ship for souvenirs, fabric, local food, and herbs and spices. This is the place to be to get the real feel of the diverse, cosmopolitan city of Dakar.
I look forward to going back to picturesque and affordable Dakar.
Forgive me, my first language is French. Dakar is one of my trip. People are so kind. Air tickets start at € 370 for the lucky and the best organized, when you take your tickets much earlier but on average it is in the € 500 from France. There are hotels as Airbnb rooms that will come back cheaper. Personally, I did not take a room I benefited from the Senegalese Teranga *. Teranga (hospitality) simple, humble and warm which is granted to the traveler
I visited Dakar , Senegal multiple times and each time has been a beautiful experience.
They have beautiful beaches and hotels. I stayed at King Fahad which is one of the best hotels . The hotel is very unique because it has its own private beach and huge tropical garden with a pool that overlooks the water.
Food is amazing and very tasteful overall it was a great experience.
I just returned from a 10 day trip to Dakar last week!
I am Gambian but for some reason, everytime i go to Dakar was for transit never for holiday. But this time i stayed longer.
ONE THING AS A SENEGAMBIAN —- THE FOOOOOOD!
I have been to 23 countries and hands down our food is the best! ANYWHERE you get it. any restaurant.
I visited Ile de Ngor – which is an island in Dakar that you have to pay 3€ to get in a canoe and crossover (it takes 5mins)
I recommend visiting the 2nd Island – there is a restaurant ran by “Ebrima” and some other boys that is incredible! we spent both Saturdays in Dakar there. very nice ambiance and great food.
There are a lot of beaches in Dakar with local bars – do not hesistate to try them! they are actually very relaxing for a sunset drink or two. Other places i can recommend are – Bazoff Restaurant – Lagon 1 Restaurant (designed as an old wrecked ship) – Terrou Bi for Sunday brunch ( it is 50€ for unlimited brunch alcohol included – you can ask for as many bottles as you can drink and also have access to swim in the pool or beach).
It is ok to use Taxi but you have to be smart and start with the lowest 1000CFA there are so many taxis in Dakar they end up settling and accepting any offer unless it is late at night.
I am happy to answer any more questions regarding this beautiful city. you can reply to this comment or write to me on instagram @haddymax :)