Things to Do in Senegal

About Senegal

Senegal is one of the few countries where hospitality has its own word—teranga in Wolof—and you'll feel it everywhere. Dakar's Plateau district shows off colonial architecture alongside African markets, drumbeats, and French cafés. The mix works. The Atlantic coastline runs for miles. Wooden pirogues line the beaches, fishermen haul in nets, and the Saharan wind hits the water hard. Gorée Island tells difficult history. Lac Rose lives up to its name—the water is pink. Markets get loud. French blends with Wolof, Pulaar, and Serer in conversations that move fast and overlap constantly. Evening prayer calls echo over the rooftops. Griots play kora in doorways, keeping old stories alive with strings and voice. The sabar drums start up after dark—Senegal doesn't quiet down when the sun sets.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Car rapides in Dakar cost 200-400 XOF ($0.34-0.69) per ride. Taxis charge 2,000-5,000 XOF ($3.45-8.62) for longer trips. Sept-places between cities run 3,000-8,000 XOF ($5-14) depending on distance. Domestic flights with Senegal Airlines cost 60,000-120,000 XOF ($103-207).

Attractions: Goree Island ferry costs 5,200 XOF ($9) return. House of Slaves museum entry is 2,000 XOF ($3.45). Pink Lake tours charge 15,000-25,000 XOF ($26-43) per person. Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary entry costs 5,000 XOF ($8.62).

Dining: Thieboudienne at local restaurants costs 2,500-5,000 XOF ($4.31-8.62). French cuisine at Le Lagon runs 12,000-25,000 XOF ($21-43). Street food yassa costs 1,500-3,000 XOF ($2.59-5.17). Attaya tea ceremonies are usually free.

Crafts: Soumbedioune Market offers wood carvings for 5,000-30,000 XOF ($9-52). Traditional textiles range 8,000-40,000 XOF ($14-69). Sandaga Market has leather goods for 6,000-25,000 XOF ($10-43). Gold jewelry starts at 15,000 XOF ($26).

When to Visit

Senegal's dry season (November-May) offers the most comfortable travel conditions with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F and virtually no rainfall. December through February represents peak season with perfect weather but 30-40% higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions. March-May brings hotter temperatures (85-95°F) but fewer crowds and 20% lower prices, ideal for budget travelers who can handle heat. The wet season (June-October) sees heavy rainfall (up to 20 inches in August), high humidity, and temperatures around 80-90°F. However, this period offers the lowest prices (40-50% discounts) and lush, green landscapes—perfect for photographers and cultural ensoiasts willing to work around afternoon downpours. Major festivals include Tabaski (Eid al-Adha, dates vary), the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival (May), and Dakar Music Festival (December). Birdwatchers should visit November-April when Palearctic migrants join resident species. Surfers find best swells December-April, while fishing ensoiasts prefer the calmer May-October period. First-time visitors should target December-February for optimal weather, while repeat visitors might explore the atmospheric wet season for authentic local experiences and significant savings.