What to do in Dakar

Unique experiences in the capital of Senegal

Overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, at the westernmost tip of the African continent, Dakar is a city that surprises and fascinates, a cultural crossroads where African authenticity blends with modernity, offering a journey full of contrasts and suggestions.

Dakar preserves its historical roots, visible in its most emblematic places of worship. The Dakar Grand Mosque, with its 67-meter-high minaret, is one of the most important in the country, while the Massalikin Jinane Mosque, in the Colopane district, stands out for its elegant architecture. The Mosque of the Deity, in the coastal village of Lebou in Ouakam and directly overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, is also one of the most evocative places of worship in Senegal. Also of particular beauty is the Dakar Cathedral in the Dakar-Plateau district. Art, here, is everywhere. From the National Gallery of Art, dedicated to the visual arts, to the city's numerous museums, such as the Léopold Sédar Senghor House-Museum (former residence of Senegal's first president).

Equally fascinating is the coast of Dakar with long beaches of fine sand overlooking the waves of the Ocean, such as the Madeleine beach and the beach of Anse Bernard, in the center of Dakar, or the wild Plage de N'Gor. Ideal for enjoying the African sun or practicing water sports, surfing, deep sea fishing, diving or venturing out to discover the quiet islands just off the coast such as the Magdalene Islands or the Île de Gorée.

The city also ignites the senses with its colors, its energy and the warmth of its people. The liveliness of the city can be found in the colorful markets, in the fishing villages such as that of Ngor on the island of the same name, which can be reached by canoe, but also in the nightlife.

The journey to discover the beauty of the destination offers authentic emotions. Here are some proposals for unique experiences in the capital of Senegal.

Stroll through the Medina district and local markets
The Medina district, with its lively streets and colorful markets, offers an authentic immersion in the daily life of Dakar. The Soumbédioune market, in particular, is a shopping paradise renowned for its local handicrafts, where you can buy paintings, textiles, leather goods, carved woodwork, ebony and silver jewelry, traditional musical instruments or works of art made by Senegalese artisans.

Immerse yourself in the art of museums

For art enthusiasts, the IFAN Museum of African Art, one of the oldest in West Africa, houses artifacts from different cultures on the continent to understand the depth of African artistic expressions. While, the Museum of Black Civilizations celebrates the cultural and historical richness of Africa and offers a journey from prehistory to contemporary art, highlighting the contribution of Black civilizations to world heritage.

Climb to the top of the African Renaissance Monument
Dominating the skyline of Dakar at 52 meters tall, the African Renaissance Monument is the tallest statue on the continent made of bronze and copper. It is located on one of the hills of the Mamelles and represents a man, a woman and a child looking towards the future. 

Climbing the 198 steps that lead to the base of the monument, you will access an elevator that takes you to the top, offering a breathtaking panoramic view of the city and the Ocean.

A musical evening at the Mamelles lighthouse

Built in 1864, the Mamelles Lighthouse stands on the hill of the volcanic site Les Mamelles and is the oldest in the city. In addition to offering a spectacular panorama, during the night it becomes truly impressive with its white ray of light that reaches 53 kilometers, up to the Cape Verde peninsula. Here you can continue the evening at the bar or restaurant where you can listen to live music in an exclusive location.

Explore the Île de Gorée

Among the islands of Dakar, you can visit the Island of Gorée where you can spend a whole day. This island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has witnessed the slave trade and is home to the Historical Museum of Senegal in the Fort d'Estrées.

Walking through its cobbled streets, you can admire well-preserved colonial buildings and breathe an atmosphere full of memory and poetry.

Visit the turtle village

The village of Sangalkam is home to several species of turtles and, in particular, the giant rammed turtle which can reach 100 kg. In the village you can also witness the mating or birth of turtles or learn how to repair broken shells. An excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in nature and get to know Senegalese biodiversity up close.

Excursion to the Pink Lake
Lake Retba or Pink Lake, about 40 km from Dakar, is a lagoon surrounded by dunes and filao trees. It is known for its changing waters due to an algae that colors the water pink under the effect of the sun. 

A former finish line of the Paris-Dakar rally, it is an ideal place for quad biking in the dunes, horseback or camel rides, and relaxing by the lake. An unmissable experience to which you can add a visit to the exhibition of salt collectors.

Texts by Enzo Cuppatri

Avion Tourism Magazine
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Where to stay in Dakar

Dakar offers various and special accommodation options between hotels, apartments and bed & breakfasts.

To find the ideal hotel and the best offers, you can search by stars but also by neighborhoods or places of interest.

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