Senegal

The Coast & North

Explore Vibrant Dakar

  • Visit Place de l'Indépendance, the city's central square.
  • Admire the architecture of the Grand Mosque.
  • Discover African art at the IFAN Museum of African Arts.
  • Wander through the bustling Kermel Market for local goods.
  • Explore the colonial-era buildings of the Plateau district.

Surf in Coastal & Northern Senegal

  • Visit the Almadies Peninsula (Dakar), known as a primary surf hub in Senegal.
  • Popular spots include Thiaroye and Secret Spot.
  • Ngor Island (off Dakar), offers surf breaks that can be good for beginners to intermediate surfers.
  • Enjoy a more relaxed island vibe.

Reflect at Île de Gorée's History

  • Visit the poignant House of Slaves (Maison des Esclaves).
  • See the Memorial to the Victims of Slavery.
  • Explore the historical fortifications and enjoy coastal views.

Discover the Beaches of the Petite Côte

  • Relax on the sandy shores of Saly.
  • Experience the vibrant fishing port of Mbour.
  • Explore the diverse ecosystem of the Somone Lagoon.

Explore Historic Saint-Louis

  • Walk across the iconic Faidherbe Bridge.
  • Explore the UNESCO-listed colonial architecture.
  • Visit the Governor's Palace and the Grand Mosque.
  • Experience the bustling Guet Ndar fishing district.

Witness Birdlife at Djoudj Sanctuary

  • Take a boat tour to observe diverse bird species.
  • Explore the unique wetlands ecosystem.

Discover the Pink Lake (Lac Rose)

  • Marvel at the lake's unique pink hue.
  • Observe the traditional salt harvesters at work.

Experience the Lompoul Desert

  • Explore the rolling sand dunes.
  • Consider a traditional desert camp experience.

Inland & the South

Explore Kaolack's Inland Hub

  • Visit the bustling Kaolack Market.
  • Observe the groundnut processing industry (seasonal).

Discover the Sine-Saloum Delta

  • Take a boat trip through the intricate waterways.
  • Explore the mangrove ecosystems and islands.
  • Observe diverse birdlife.
  • Engage with traditional village life.

Experience Rural Tambacounda

  • Explore the less-visited eastern Senegal.
  • Encounter different ethnic groups and cultures.
  • Visit local markets and towns.

Explore Ziguinchor in Casamance

  • Discover the regional capital of Casamance.
  • Visit local markets and experience regional culture.
  • Consider boat trips on the Casamance River.

Explore Kédougou Region

  • Visit Dindefelo Falls.
  • Explore Bassari Country (UNESCO site).
  • Experience unique cultural traditions.
  • Note: This region is more remote.

Suggested Travel Itinerary

Senegal - 4 Weeks

Days 1-12: Dakar & Almadies Surf Focus

  • Arrive at Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DSS) in Dakar.
  • Explore Dakar's city center. Visit Place de l'Indépendance, stroll through the Plateau district to admire the colonial architecture.
  • Visit the Kermel Market for a sensory experience of local produce, crafts, and the vibrant atmosphere.
  • Explore the IFAN Museum of African Arts to appreciate Senegalese and West African artistry.
  • Consider experiencing a local Mbalax music performance in the evening for a taste of Senegalese music.
  • Take a trip to the Almadies Peninsula. Observe the surf breaks and get a feel for the local surf culture.
  • Surf in the multiple breaks (Popular spots include Thiaroye and "Secret Spot") and enjoy the coastal vibe.
  • Take a pirogue trip to Ngor Island for a change of scenery and different surf opportunities. Enjoy the island's relaxed pace.

Days 13-20: Île de Gorée & Ngor Island Surf

  • Take a morning ferry to Île de Gorée. Explore the historical sites (House of Slaves, memorials) and reflect on its significance. Return to Dakar.
  • Travel to Ngor Island by pirogue. Focus on surfing the breaks suitable for different skill levels around the island.
  • Enjoy the relaxed island pace, explore the village, and relax on the beaches.

Days 21-25: Petite Côte Exploration

  • Travel south to Saly on the Petite Côte. Enjoy the beaches and local villages.
  • Visit the fishing port and market in Mbour for a local experience.
  • Explore the Somone Lagoon by boat or kayak, observing birdlife and mangroves.

Days 26-28: Pink Lake & Return to Dakar

  • Take a day trip to the Pink Lake (Lac Rose) to see its unique color and the salt harvesters. Consider a quad bike tour.
  • Optional: Visit the National Tapestry Factory in Thiès if interested in crafts.
  • Return to Dakar.