Senegal Best African Countries to Visit
Senegal is a country in West Africa with a population of over 16 million people. Senegalese culture is a unique combination of African, Islamic and European influences. The official language of Senegal is French, but most Senegal residents also speak Wolof, Pulaar, Jola and Mandinka.
Senegal is a country located on the western coast of Africa, bordered by Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, Guinea to the southeast, and Guinea-Bissau to the southwest. It is a major economic and cultural hub for the region, and its official languages are French and Wolof. With a population of over 15 million, Senegal has a wide variety of cultures and communities, including the Wolof, Fula, Camers, Jola, and Mandinka peoples.
The country is known for its vibrant music, cuisine, and football culture, as well as its diverse wildlife. Tourism is an important part of its economy, and the country offers a variety of attractions and experiences, from lazing on beautiful beaches to visiting historical sites.
Senegal Best African Countries to Visit Summary
- Country: Senegal
- Continent: African
- Capital Name: Dakar
- Language: French
- Currency: West African CFA franc
- Nationality: Senegalese
A brief description of Senegal
Senegal is a coastal West African country located along the Atlantic Ocean. It is bounded to the west by Mauritania and the Gambia, to the east by Mali, and to the south by Guinea, Guinea–Bissau, and the Casamance region of Senegal. It is a multi–ethnic republic governed by a written constitution and has a population of more than 15 million inhabitants, composed of several African ethnic groups.
Its main industries include fishing and agriculture, as well as telecommunications, finance, and renewable energy. It is also a major regional economic hub, with over 3 million people living within a 650–kilometer radius. Senegal has a rich culture, with various religions and a strong influence from French colonialism, evident in its architecture and language.
What are the things to do in Senegal?
Things to do in Senegal are:
- Visit Gorée Island – situated off the coast of Dakar and often referred to as “the Door of No Return” this former slave-trading post is now a moving reminder of Senegal’s long and painful history.
- Learn about Senegalese culture – observe Senegalese musicians, dancers and more in the country’s national theatre and get a real sense of national pride.
- Take in the sights of Dakar – explore the capital city’s unique blend of Middle Eastern and French styles, searching for hidden gems among the markets, restaurants and clubs.
- Jet ski in Mbour – take a ride on one of the country’s beautiful beaches on location at Mbour, south-west of Dakar.
- Climb up to the top of Ngiglé Falaise – trek up this rugged 75m natural monument for excellent views of Dakar and its surrounding areas.
- Watch pink flamingos in the Djoudj National Park – this stunning bird sanctuary in the middle of the Senegal River Delta is one of the continent’s most important wetland areas, housing a wide range of wildlife.
- Spot chimpanzees at the Chimpanzee Conservation Centre – explore the centre nestled in the forests of Fongoli, a former French colonial village and home to West Africa’s only sanctuary for chimpanzees.
- Visit boutique markets and galleries in St. Louis – one of Senegal’s oldest cities, this culturally-rich town is home to many excellent boutiques and markets selling traditional souvenirs.
- Watch the sunset over Ngor Island – spend the day on this beautiful island, surrounded by pristine coral, white sands and warm, clear waters, and catch the sun setting over the horizon.
- Try surf lessons in Popenguine – take a lesson at one of the area’s best surf schools and glide on the waves of this stunning beach.
What are the best foods at Senegal?
Some of the best foods to eat in Senegal include Yassa poulet (onion-marinated chicken), mafe (Groundnut stew), Thiebou jenn (rice and fish), Tiebou dienne (rice and fish with tomato sauce), Ceebu Jen (spicy fish and rice), Chicken Yassa (grilled chicken in onion and lemon sauce), Benachin (Jollof rice), and Attiéké (grated cassava).
What are the best hotels to stay in Senegal?
Have a pleasant day when visiting Senegal. Stay with the best hotels (as a reference):
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Dakar Sea Plaza
- Terrou Bi Hotel & Resort, Dakar
- Laico Atlantic Hotel, Dakar
- Ngor Diarama Hotel, Dakar
- King Fahd Palace Hotel, Dakar
- Le Palmier Hotel, Dakar
- Ile de Goree Hotel, Island of Goree
- Sud Bahia Hotel, Dakar
- Keur Saloum Hotel, Palmarin
- Hotel La Residence Sine Saloum, Joal-Fadiouth
Best Attractions in Senegal
Please click the picture below for more information about the best attractions in Senegal.
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What are 10 best cities in Senegal you must visit?
The best cities that you must visit in Senegal are Dakar, Saint-Louis, Thiès, Kaolack, Ziguinchor, Mbour, Tambacounda, Touba, Richard Toll and Louga.
What are 10 best attractions in Senegal you must visit?
The best attractions in Senegal you must visit are:
- Dakar-Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport
- African Renaissance Monument
- Gorée Island
- Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary
- Lac Rose
- Sine-Saloum Delta
- La Petite Cote
- Place de l’Indépendance
- Musée Théodore Monod
- Parc National des Oiseaux du Djoudj
What are 10 best destinations in Senegal you must visit?
The best destinations you must visit in Senegal are:
- Dakar: Senegal’s bustling capital city with vibrant nightlife and a cosmopolitan culture
- Toubakouta: A picturesque lakeside village with traditional Wolof villages.
- Gorée Island: An UNESCO World Heritage site of national historical significance.
- Ile de Ngor: A boat ride away from the coast lies this peaceful little paradise.
- Bandia Reserve: Spot wildlife in this 2000-ha nature reserve with over 100 mammal species.
- Lac Rose: Visit the famous pink lake in the Rufisque area for unique photos.
- Niokolo Koba National Park: An incredible park of natural beauty with diverse wildlife.
- Saint-Louis: A classic French colonial city on the west coast of the country.
- Popenguine: An idyllic beach town with white sand beaches, great for swimming and sunbathing.
- Casamance: A great chance to explore the southern regions of Senegal.