Gorée Island
Region: Off the coast of Dakar
Cultural Heritage
A World Heritage site as a departure point of the slave trade. Stone fortresses and the House of Slaves remain.
Tourism in Senegal
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Lake Retba (Pink Lake)
Region: Outskirts of Dakar Region
Nature
A vividly pink salt lake colored by algae. Salt harvesting operations can be observed.
Saint-Louis Old Town
Region: Saint-Louis Region
Cultural Heritage
A charming island city lined with French colonial architecture.
Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary
Region: Inland Saint-Louis Region
Nature
A bird paradise. Boat tours to observe pelicans and flamingos are popular.
Niokolo-Koba National Park
Region: Kédougou Region
Nature
Protects savanna and river ecosystems. Home to monkeys, lions, hippos, and rare chimpanzees.
Touba Grand Mosque
Region: Touba
Religious Architecture
The headquarters of the Murid brotherhood. Grand white marble minarets and library.
African Renaissance Monument
Region: Ouakam Hill, Dakar
Modern Architecture
A 49-meter bronze statue symbolizing Africa's future. Visitors can take an elevator to the viewing platform.
Saloum Delta
Region: Fatick Region
Nature/Cultural Complex
A World Heritage area where mangroves and fishing village culture coexist. Kayak tours are popular.
Dindefelo Falls in Casamance
Region: Kédougou Region
Nature
A spectacular 100-meter waterfall appearing in tropical forests. A trekking base.
Lebu Village of Yoff
Region: Near Dakar
Cultural Experience
Traditional fishing and dried fish markets. Early morning fishing port visits are lively.
Suggested itineraries
Dakar and World Heritage 5-Day Tour
Duration (days): 5
Highlights: Gorée Island, Lake Retba, African Renaissance Monument, Saint-Louis Old Town
A short model tour based in the capital exploring Atlantic coast history and nature, enjoying colonial architecture and the Pink Lake.
Safari and Southern Culture Exploration 10-Day Tour
Duration (days): 10
Highlights: Niokolo-Koba National Park, Touba, Casamance Region, Dindefelo Falls
Combining domestic flights and overland routes to experience wildlife viewing, Islamic holy sites, and tropical forest village culture all at once.
Travel tips
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required upon entry.
- The dry season (November-April) is easier for travel; during rainy season, roads can flood.
- City taxis have no meters. Negotiate fares before boarding.
- French is widely understood, but basic Wolof greetings are appreciated.
- ATMs are limited to major cities. Secure CFA cash early.
- Tap water is not potable. Use bottled mineral water.
- During thunderstorms, avoid outdoor high places due to frequent lightning in some areas.
- Sunglasses and masks are useful for dust protection.
- To prevent pickpocketing, hold bags in front in crowded areas.
- Check security information before visiting border areas and remote Casamance.
- Credit cards are accepted only at high-end hotels and large supermarkets.
- Strong sunlight requires hats and sunscreen as essentials.
- Non-Muslims are often prohibited from mosque interiors during Islamic prayers.
- Weekend traffic congestion is common on the Dakar-Saint-Louis road.
- Drone photography requires advance permission.