Senegal is a country unto itself. For many travellers, Senegal is their intro to West African culture. From the tropical mangroves of Casamance to the dust-covered streets of Dakar, the country packs an outstanding kaleidoscope of landscapes and attractions that can keep you occupied for days.
Senegal is the gem of West Africa and is featured in varied, brilliant landscapes, a distinct heritage, and vibrant culture. Also, home to UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the smallest National park in the world and the tallest statue in Africa. Senegal can satisfy outdoor types and curious wanderers of all ages.
Not overrun with swarms of tourists, Senegal’s outstanding natural beauty, hospitality, decadent food, and epic historic sites will have you scratching your head. Believe it or not, Senegal never fails!
But wait! If you really cannot do without crystal wasters and picture-postcard beaches, then the Petite Cote region of Senegal got you covered! Here, the antiquated clasp hands with the contemporary. But, if you prefer a classic beach holiday to soak up daily life, then Saly and M’bour is your best bet. Senegal has it all!
Wait, there is more! Also, if you love rolling waves without being surrounded by other surfers, then the Senegalese coast is worth a visit. Here you can surf to your heart’s content, literally. But if surfing is not your thing, a scenic hike in one of the country’s brilliant mountains is a must.
Highlights
Senegal Capital: Dakar
Population: 16,564,919
Area 196,839 km²
Major Religion: Islam
Official Language: French
Climate: The best time to visit Senegal is during the winter dry season from November to March.
Dialling code: +221
Senegal Currency
Currency: West African CFA franc
Symbols: Fr
DESTINATION AND CULTURE
Music and Nightlight
The country is the birthplace of renowned African singer Youssou N’Dour. You may not agree with this, but one thing is for sure. You are going to respect the hell out of him once you visit and watch N’Dour’s booming performance.
Colonial Heritage
Brush up on Senegalese epic history and visit Saint Louis, where several brilliant exhibitions will leave you thrilled!
Senegal Cuisine
Senegal is a hotbed of hospitality with diverse restaurants serving different food across the globe – at some of the best prices.
Senegal’s local delicacy includes; ceebu jen, a tomatoey fish stew over rice; yassa grilled chicken marinated with lemon juice and onions. Rice, French bread, and couscous are common starches. Seafood; fish is eaten along the long coast.
Goree Island
Make it here to see the appeal of this cultural and historical hotspot of Dakar, and visit the House of Slaves that will truly leave you mesmerized and account for a lot of “what” and “wow” moments!
Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary
Bird lovers AWE! Located about 60km north of Saint-Louis, this stunning park is on the UNESCO World Heritage list. Here you can experience the heavenly combination of life and nature at its best. Try it!
But if birding is not your thing, you can also spot warthogs and rhinos in the park as well. A bucket list is not complete without a touch of this scenic Bird Sanctuary. You literally won’t regret it here!
Thiossane, Youssou N’Dour’s Nightclub
Thiossane is a famous artist nightclub in the bustling centre of Dakar. Thiossane is an excellent example of what can happen when you put people from different ethnic groups together in a room and turn up the music. Their N’Dour performance is truly bewitching and infectious. You will love it here!
Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine
Larger than the statue of liberty and completed in 2010, this 49-foot bronze monolith depicts a man, woman, and child who represent the strength of the continent. If you can’t make it up the steps, the monument can also be seen on the Dakar skyline. Whether you love it or loathe it, it is worth a visit.
Island of Saint Louis
Here you can immerse yourself in the local culture, and appreciate the wild but often crumbling architecture.
Niokolo Koba Park
Niokolo-Koba offers the visitor a plethora of brilliant natural wonders to truly behold. Here you can spy the likes of tree ducks, eagles, turacos, hornbills leopards, hippos, and more. For the nature enthusiast, this is once in a lifetime experience.
Pink lake
You can’t beat the views of this famous Senegal lake. The Pink Lake continually wow visitors with its pink colour, vast depth, and incredible outdoor activities. Whether you are rafting down the lake, flying in a helicopter, or paddling on a boat, the majestic pink colour of the lake will leave you breathless.
Dakar
If are you after an ideal holiday that involves spending your days weaving through winding streets and immersing yourself in a completely new culture, then Dakar is a must-visit! This amazing Senegal capital may not wow with the wild architecture, nor is it overflowing with a major tourist attraction, but one thing is certain you will truly love it.
Fathala Animal reserve
Fathala Wildlife Reserve is a great (and inexpensive) opportunity to get some brilliant safari action. You will love it here! Not only will you spot wild animals, but you will also get the chance to see some of the villages in the northern part of the Gambia.
Bandia conservation park
Bandia park reserve is one of the major tourist attractions in Senegal. Here you will enjoy a wonderful boat ride in Somone lagoon –an eco-park proving a natural habitat for birds and -other creatures.
How to get a visa to Senegal
Fill out and sign the application form. Attach your passport – with at least six months validity from the date of entry and one blank visa page. Also, hold proof of onward/return airline tickets, and documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit to Senegal!
Helpful Travelling tips
• Book through an agent directly to save costs. Since OTA’s takes commissions
• Currency and Banking. The currency of Senegal is the West African CFA franc. Approximately 1 XOF = 0.00167 USD.
• Dress Modest