What to do in Dakar, Senegal: A Comprehensive Guide

Dakar, the capital city of Senegal, is a lively and vibrant destination with a rich culture and spirit of hospitality. The city boasts of beautiful African art museums, lively markets, and a variety of historical and cultural attractions. If you’ve never been to Dakar, here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do and see while you’re there.

Visit Goree Island

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Dakar is Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s just a short ferry ride from the city. The island has a dark history as a center for the transatlantic slave trade, and it’s now home to several museums and historical buildings that offer a glimpse into this turbulent past. One of the must-visits is the Maison des Esclaves, a former slave house that now serves as a museum and memorial.

Explore Dakar’s Markets

Dakar is famous for its vibrant and colorful markets, which are well worth a visit. The most popular is Sandaga Market, which is an expansive marketplace that sells everything from textiles to pottery, jewelry to spices. Other markets worth visiting include Marche Kermel and Soumbedioune Market. These markets are great places to get a feel for local life and to pick up some unique souvenirs.

Discover Dakar’s Art Scene

Dakar is a hub of contemporary art in Africa and is home to several world-renowned art museums and galleries. One of the must-visits is the Museum of African Art, which houses an impressive collection of traditional and contemporary African art. Other notable art museums include the IFAN Museum of African Arts and the Dakar Biennale, which is a major contemporary art event held every two years.

Relax on Dakar’s Beaches

Dakar is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in Africa, and they offer a great respite from the hustle and bustle of the city. The most popular beach is Les Mamelles, which is known for its clear and calm waters. Other notable beaches include Plage de N’Gor and Yoff Beach, which are great for surfing.

Marvel at Dakar’s Modern Architecture

Dakar’s modern architecture is a testament to its continued growth and development. One of the most iconic buildings is the African Renaissance Monument, which is a huge bronze statue that towers over the city. Other noteworthy buildings include the Dakar Grand Mosque and St. Joseph’s Cathedral, which are both striking examples of religious architecture.

Experience Dakar’s Music Scene

Senegal is well known for its vibrant music scene, and Dakar is the best place to experience it. There are several live music venues across the city that plays everything from traditional Sabar music to contemporary pop. The most popular music club in Dakar is Just 4 U, which hosts live music events almost every night.

Take a Day Trip to Pink Lake

Pink Lake, also known as Retba Lake, is one of Senegal’s most unique natural wonders. The lake gets its name from its distinctive pink hue, which is caused by the presence of a particular type of bacteria that thrives in high salt concentrations. The lake is surrounded by sand dunes and is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and taking photos.

Conclusion

Dakar is a lively and exciting destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, art, or just relaxing on the beach, there’s plenty to do and see in this vibrant African city. With its welcoming spirit, lively music scene, and cultural richness, Dakar is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in exploring the best of Africa.

An Insider’s Guide to What to Do in Dakar, Senegal

Located on the western coast of Africa, Dakar is the capital city of Senegal and is known for its vibrant culture, stunning natural beauty, and rich history. As a tourist, you’ll find plenty of things to do in this bustling city. Whether you want to explore the local attractions, try delicious food, or delve into the city’s history, this comprehensive guide will help you make the most of your trip.

Local Attractions

Dakar is full of attractions that cater to every type of traveler. Here are some must-visit places:

Goree Island

Start your trip by visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Goree Island. Located off the coast of Dakar, this tiny island houses several museums and historical buildings that tell the story of the Atlantic slave trade. Wander around the picturesque streets and visit the House of Slaves, where you can learn about the harrowing stories of those who were enslaved.

Pink Lake

The Pink Lake, also known as Lake Retba, is another must-see attraction in Dakar. As the name suggests, this lake has a vibrant pink tint due to the high salt content and the presence of a particular type of algae. Take a dip in the lake’s therapeutic waters, or go for a scenic walk around the shore.

The African Renaissance Monument

The African Renaissance Monument is a towering statue located in the Ouakam neighborhood of Dakar. Standing at 49 meters tall, this statue is an excellent representation of Africa’s rise and freedom. From the top of the statue, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city.

Dining Spots

Dakar is known for its mouth-watering cuisine that reflects Senegal’s diverse history and culture. From seafood to grilled meats, there’s something for everyone. Here are a few dining spots you should try:

La Calebasse

Situated in the heart of Plateau, La Calebasse serves up some of the best Senegalese cuisine in Dakar. This restaurant offers delicious dishes made with local ingredients and has a beautiful outdoor seating area.

Ali Baba

If you’re looking for something quick and affordable, head to Ali Baba for a taste of Dakar’s street food. Ali Baba is famous for its brochettes, grilled meat skewers that come in many different flavors.

La Pampa Resto

For a unique dining experience, head to La Pampa Resto, which is located on a boat docked on the beautiful Dakar coastline. The restaurant serves delicious seafood dishes and has a romantic ambiance that’s perfect for a special night out.

Cultural Experiences

Senegal is a country rich in culture and history, and there are several ways to experience it while in Dakar. Here are a few cultural experiences you should look out for:

L’Ecole des Sables

L’Ecole des Sables is a prestigious dance school located in Toubab Dialaw, about an hour’s drive from Dakar. Here, you can take dance and music classes, or attend a performance by one of the school’s talented students.

IFAN Museum of African Arts

Located in the heart of Dakar, the IFAN Museum of African Arts is an excellent place to learn about the cultural heritage of Senegal and Africa as a whole. The museum houses a vast collection of traditional African art, including masks, statues, and textiles.

Village des Arts

The Village des Arts is a cultural center located in the Ouakam neighborhood of Dakar. This center features several art galleries and artist studios, where you can view and buy works of art made by local artists.

Local History

Senegal has a rich history that is worth exploring while you’re in Dakar. Here are a few historical sites you should visit:

Gorée Memorial

The Gorée Memorial is another reminder of Senegal’s history with the slave trade. This museum is dedicated to the memory of the millions of people who were taken from Africa and traded as slaves in America. The museum’s exhibits include artifacts and art that illustrate the experiences of the enslaved people.

The African-Diaspora Museum

The African-Diaspora Museum, also known as the Musée des Civilisations Noires, is another must-visit museum in Dakar. The museum’s vast collection includes exhibits of African history, art, and cultures.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For travelers looking to explore beyond the usual tourist spots, here are some off-the-beaten-path suggestions:

Parc Forestier et Zoologique de Hann

The Parc Forestier et Zoologique de Hann is a beautiful natural park located just outside of Dakar. You can hike through the park’s lush forests and see a variety of animals, including baboons, monkeys, and hyenas.

Marché Sandaga

Marché Sandaga is Dakar’s largest market and is a great place to shop for souvenirs and handicrafts. Here, you’ll find clothes, jewelry, baskets, and more, all made by local artisans.

Lac Rose & The Atlantic Coast

Finally, take a day trip to Lac Rose and the Atlantic Coast, where you can go swimming, surf, or just relax on the beach. Lac Rose is known for its pink waters, and the coastline offers stunning views of the open Atlantic Ocean.

In conclusion, Dakar is a city full of culture, history, and natural beauty. Whether it is the rich history, unique cuisine, or cultural experiences, there is an infinite amount of things to do and see in Dakar. This guide provides only a fraction of what is available to explore, but it’s a great starting point for an unforgettable journey.