Resting on the coast at the westernmost tip of West Africa’s bulge, Senegal is best known for its dramatic natural landscapes of scenic desert, lush tropical forest, and pristine white-sand beaches. While those seeking urban distractions typically head for the capital city of Dakar, with its colourful markets and vibrant live music scene; travellers eager to relax can make their way to the nearby Goree Island or the laidback beaches of Yoff and N'Gor. When the novelty of the beach wears off, there are plenty of inland nature reserves, the lovely Casamance River, and the bright pink Lake Retba to explore. Other must-see sights include: the Fathala Game Reserve, inhabited by some of Africa’s most exotic wildlife; and the Old Town area of the historical city of Saint-Louis, filled to the brim with exquisite French Colonial architecture.
Situated on the Cape Verde Peninsula, the Atlantic port city of Dakar serves as the capital of Senegal. Originally put on the map as a tourist hotspot for the renowned Dakar Rally, Dakar has become a sprawling city that offers visitors a unique blend of modern living combined with historic traditions. The city features a vibrant nightlife, bustling markets, a variety of museums, sacred mosques, and a traditional medina quarter. Visitors can view the soaring minarets of the Grande Mosque, experience authentic Senegalese hospitality and spend their days browsing the lively markets and enjoying sunset drinks overlooking the crashing waves.
Situated in western Senegal, close to the city of Saint-Louis, the Langue de Barbarie is a sandy peninsula fringing the Atlantic Ocean to one side and the mouth of the Senegal River to the other. The southern tip makes up part of the 20-square-kilometre Langue de Barbarie National Park. Nature lovers will delight in the natural scenery and the abundant wildlife. It boasts a rich and varied ecosystem and it serves as an important stop on the European bird migration route, hosting over 160 different species of migratory and sedentary birds. Visitors can look forward to spotting a variety of bird species including pelicans and catch a glimpse of nesting sea turtles including the critically endangered hawksbill sea turtle. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit a local Senegalese village and sample local traditional cuisine.
Resting on the northern bank of the Saloum River, the photogenic town of Kaolack serves as the capital of the region. This historic market town is said to be home to one of the largest covered markets in West Africa. Visitors can browse the marketplace for a selection of locally-crafted goods including handmade wax fabrics, shells, and charms. Soak some history at the impressive Great Mosque Mawlid, and the Kaolack Mosque, which presents a truly striking scene with its tall minarets shooting toward the sky.
The lovely West African nation of The Gambia occupies a long, narrow strip of land sandwiched between north and south Senegal. This tiny country is blessed with a stunning North Atlantic coastline of beautiful palm-lined beaches, bustling fishing villages, luxury resorts, and a slew of lively bars, restaurants and nightclubs. This exquisite coastal area has been dubbed 'The Smiling Coast' due to the wonderfully warm welcome received by all who visit. Must-see Gambian attractions include the superb Sanyang Beach with its popular Rainbow Beach Bar and a boat cruise up the magnificent Gambian River to visit James Island and its historic slave trading station. Browse the bustling markets of Serrekunda and Banjul or tour the Abuko Nature Reserve, which features a remarkable variety of wildlife, including monkeys, crocodiles and over 300 bird species.
The vibrant resort town of Kololi rests on the sun-drenched Atlantic coastline of The Gambia. Visitors flock here for its sandy beaches fringed with beach shacks selling fresh seafood and vibrant nightclubs and bars along the Senegambia Strip. Browse the array of locally crafted traditional souvenirs at the Senegambia Craft Market, learn about local culture at the traditional heart of Kololi Village and sample some delicious local dishes. Don’t miss a visit to the Bijilo Forest Park, inhabited by various birdlife and wildlife and offers a collection of scenic nature trails.
Resting on the coast at the westernmost tip of West Africa’s bulge, Senegal is best known for its dramatic natural landscapes of scenic desert, lush tropical forest, and pristine white-sand beaches. While those seeking urban distractions typically head for the capital city of Dakar, with its colourful markets and vibrant live music scene; travellers eager to relax can make their way to the nearby Goree Island or the laidback beaches of Yoff and N'Gor. When the novelty of the beach wears off, there are plenty of inland nature reserves, the lovely Casamance River, and the bright pink Lake Retba to explore. Other must-see sights include: the Fathala Game Reserve, inhabited by some of Africa’s most exotic wildlife; and the Old Town area of the historical city of Saint-Louis, filled to the brim with exquisite French Colonial architecture.
Stretching over 6000 hectares of protected forest landscapes, Fathala Wildlife Reserve is located in Toubakouta, Senegal. Within this African wilderness sanctuary, visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities, including guided game drives, where visitors can spot a host of wildlife, lion safaris to catch a glimpse of these majestic beasts in their natural habitat, scenic mangrove trips, offering dolphin and crocodile-spotting opportunities, as well as bushwalking and birding to spot a variety of coloured exotic birds such as the rose-ringed parakeet, long-tailed glossy starling, and the Abyssinian roller. Don't miss the opportunity to enjoy a traditionally prepared fish barbeque while on a village and local market tour. Other commonly spotted species include little bee-eater, roan antelope, western giant Lord Derby eland, hooded vulture, Burchell's zebra, red patas monkey, rhino, giraffe, crocodile, warthog, pink-backed pelican, western reef heron and much more.
Located along Senegal’s spectacularly scenic coast, in the Petite Cote region, Saly was once a Portuguese trading post, and today it is a popular beach resort area. It is said to be the top tourist destination in all of West Africa, boasting a vibrant nightlife, entertaining bars, shops and a host of holiday activities, including a variety of watersports. This popular spot features coconut palm-fringed beaches scattered with local restaurants, ocean-front hotels and lovely villas. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of wonderful activities, including deep-sea fishing, sunbathing on sun-drenched beaches, sipping cocktails, sampling local cuisine and exploring the 700-hectare Reserve Naturelle Somone.
