Senegal is a country with a rich history, scenic landscapes, and captivating experiences. In this article, we will break down the experiences you should not miss during your stay from the Lac Rose to wildlife reserves. Read on to see our list of unforgettable experiences to explore in Senegal.
Experience the wonder of Lac Rose (Pink Lake)
Looking for a breathtaking destination you never want to stop staring at? Head over to the famous Lac Rose (Pink Lake) also known as Lake Retba to see the lake’s beautiful pink color. The reasons for its gorgeous pink hue are because of its high salt content and the presence of the Dunaliella salina algae. For the best time to visit this amazing lake, go between November to April. The best time to see the pink color of the lake pop is mid-morning or when the sun is out. To make the visit more memorable, you can take a canoe ride on the lake.
Witness the Salt Harvest in Fatick
Senegal is one of the largest salt producing countries in West Africa and Fatick is one of the largest salt harvesting areas in the country. During your visit to Lac Rose, you should pay a visit to Fatick to witness the age-old process of salt harvesting near the Retba lake, which contains saltwater. Observe the workers as they collect salt and take in the sights of the interesting formations that occur in the salt mounds.
Savor Senegalese cuisine
Want to ignite your taste buds with delicious food? Senegal is known for its flavorful cuisine. It is credited as one of the countries that possibly created one of West Africa’s most beloved dishes, Jollof rice. For a true taste of Senegal, sample dishes like Thiéboudienne (rice and fish), Maafe (Senegalese peanut soup), or Yassa (chicken or fish marinated with spices).
Experience nightlife
You haven’t truly experienced Senegal until you experience its vibrant nightlife. If you love to party, you will love Senegal. Depending on what part of the country you visit, you can enjoy live music, beach parties, local music and jazz. Pick your favorite type of music and dance the night away for an unforgettable night.
Visit Gorée Island
From Dakar, you can catch a ferry to Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a past as a major slave trafficking center. Learn more about Senegal’s history and the global significance of the transatlantic slave trade by visiting the country’s museums and other important sites.
Explore Dakar’s unique art scene
Spend some time absorbing the dynamic arts and culture scene that Dakar has to offer. Discover traditional as well as contemporary Senegalese art by paying a visit to the African Renaissance Monument and the Dakar Grand Mosque, as well as exploring local galleries and craft markets.
Visit the African Renaissance Monument
Located on the outskirts of Dakar, Senegal, the African Renaissance Monument is a bronze figure that stands at an impressive 49 meters (161 feet) in height atop one of the twin hills known as Collines des Mamelles. The Quakam district of the city, where the statue is located, overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. Also known as the Morne Diop Monument, you can learn about this must-see landmark’s history and significance to Dakar. While you are there, you can climb the statue and watch the stunning views of Dakar.
Immerse yourself in Saint-Louis’ colonial charm
If you are an architecture enthusiast then Saint-Louis should be top of your bucket list. It is one of Senegal’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and you can experience the colonial ambience of this charming city by seeing the historic sights and riding in a horse-drawn carriage. This former capital city also has a dynamic art scene so if you love arts, you should definitely visit this city.
Visit a Senegalese village
One of the activities you can add to your bucket list is to visit a village. Visiting a rural community in Senegal is a great way to feel the warmth of the country’s famous hospitality. Participate in local activities, observe cultural traditions, get to know the locals and know more of their life experiences. With the locals, you can experience the famous Teranga also known as Senegalese Hospitality that the Senegalese people are known for.
Participate in a festival
Transcend language and cultural barriers by attending a festival in Senegal. The atmosphere is often electrifying as people gather to witness the various festivals in the country. These festivals provide a window for you to see the authentic traditions of Senegal and a glimpse into the lives of the people. The vibrant music, complicated traditional dances, colorful processions, and lively gatherings that characterize festivals is definitely something to look forward to during your trip. You can arrange for your visit to coincide with one of the country’s numerous festivals and create unique lasting memories you will never forget.
Take a camel ride in the Lompoul Desert
The Lompoul desert is a little desert in southern Senegal, not far from the city of Saint-Louis. A famous tourist destination in Senegal, the region is characterized by orange sand dunes similar to the Sahara and Mauritania. Camel rides, sand buggies, breathtaking scenery, watching the sunrise or sunset over the dunes, and more make up an incredible list of things to do.
Mosque of the Divinity
The mosque is a popular attraction in Dakar, the capital of Senegal, not only because of its impressive size and breathtaking view, but also because it is a truly one-of-a-kind architectural landmark, successfully fusing modernist and traditional Islamic design features. The vista of the mosque and the water against the backdrop of the surrounding cliffs is breathtaking.
Attend a local wrestling match
The traditional kind of wrestling practiced in Senegal is referred to as “La Lutte,” and it is a very popular and intense sport. Attending a local match will allow you to watch the spectacle and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of the sport.
A trip to Senegal will leave you with tons of things to do, and ensure you never get bored. If you’re considering a trip to Senegal anytime soon, let’s help you plan it! Contact us to get started.
