Senegal owes me nothing! A week was still too short for me, but a time was had! I was also able to experience a new country, The Gambia, which borders Senegal. Keep reading to get into this trip!

How To Get There?

Every single time I plan to move from New York, an epic flight deal pops up, reassuring that NYC is the place to be for flight deals. Delta had a nonstop red eye for only 45,000 points+$149. A magnificent deal because, flights to Senegal are usually upwards of $1,000. I even had the entire row to myself. Gibing very much “poor man’s first class” lol.

To find more affordable deals to Senegal I’m gonna recommend a few things:

Look for flight deals from New York - As I stated previously, NY is a hub for many airlines and their partners, so there are many flight deals. Keep in mind how much it would cost you to travel to NYC and consider taking a bus or train instead of flying.
Pay attention to flight alerts - There are 3 ways I look for flights. I use Google flights and select the dates in green (these are the cheapest dates). I use Skyscanner the same way I use Google flights. Skyscanner seems to show more airlines, so there’s a possibility of a cheaper option. Lastly, I always, and I mean ALWAYS search secretflying.com. This website is dedicated to flight deals and will even let you know what months the deals are for and also give you example dates.
click on images to enlarge

Senegal Covid-19 Requirements

For vaccinated travelers, have your vaccine card.
For non-vaccinated travelers, have your 72-hour negative PCR test results printed.

Getting around

taxi

Getting around was a breeze FOR ME as you can easily walk to any corner and see a slew of taxi’s passing by. Hail one down and have your translator app out if you do not speak French (learning a few basic words will go far!). If the address is very specific, I always recommend looking around to see what’s a landmark everyone would know, like a hospital, park, restaurant etc. and tell the driver to take you there and then direct them to your destination to make both of your lives easier due to the language barrier. Agree on a price BEFORE getting in. My most expensive ride was 3000 CFA which was $5 USD for a 30 minute ride. If you are with other people this can be split.

The Uber of Senegal is an app called Heetch, however this app is really janky and a hit or miss. I did connect with one of my Heetch drivers who spoke decent English through Whatsapp (for legal purposes, I am NOT telling you to do this), and used them for a couple personal rides.

Hire a driver

There are many personal drivers to choose from. A few pros are, they can speak fluent English, know the area, and have clean cars with a/c. It will make your experience seamless for sure and you are paying for the convenience.

The only con is the price. It makes perfect sense if you know for a fact you’re going to out and about all day, and you’re with a group of people, where you’re getting your monies worth. I was quoted by 2 drivers for 7 days $700-$900 (Senegal isn’t Bali ,but I paid $30-$50/day in Bali that I split with a friend) to drive 2-4 people, that’s $175 per person on the low end. These companies work with tourists so they’re used to taxing (adding extra coins) lol.

It would be an efficient way of getting around, but you would have to notify them at least 40 mins in advance so that they can make their way to you, which I personally don’t think is convenient to me.

We did hired a driver towards the end of the trip since we wanted to drive to other parts of Senegal and The Gambia. This is highly recommended due to language barriers. His name was Assane and he was an angel!

I without a doubt believe he gives the best service and rates, connect with him on Instagram.

click on images to enlarge

Where to stay

I would say 7 days was just enough time if you plan to spend most of your time in Dakar. If you plan to venture out to other parts of Senegal, that’s another story. Where to stay depends on your interests. If you prefer to be close to night life and tourists, I would recommend Almadies, as it is the center. If nightlife isn’t a priority then you can pretty much stay in any neighborhood after doing your research.

Airbnb

During this trip, I traveled with three other persons, for that reason we went with an airbnb to ensure sufficient space for an affordable price. Our airbnb was a spacious apartment with 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, balcony, washer (hang dry), with good wifi for only $108 a night! It was centrally located to be able to sightsee in the north or south. Our host was marvelous with great communication, she even spoke fluent English. You can check out the listing here.

click on images to enlarge

Les Paleteuviers

We stayed one night here as a rest stop before finishing out journey to The Gambia. It was also conveniently close to Fathala Wildlife Reserve, where I did the Lion Walk. Aside from the aesthetically pleasing modern boho designs, the food was out of this world. For breakfast the porridge is a must, and the lobster still has my mouth watering when I think about it. This hotel also offer a few inclusive activities, which is great since the rooms range from $100 for a double bed and $160 for a tree house.

click on images to enlarge

Cultural Difference

Colonized by the French, the official language is French and Wahla. Personally, very few people spoke English, however this didn’t interfere with my experience. I know exactly what I was getting myself into because I did my research. If you can not handle this barrier, I strongly suggest hiring a guide/driver who will be able to translate for you.
Senegal is a muslim country, with that being said you can hear prayers throughout the day and remember to not be as revealing.
Cash is the preferred choice of payment. Some places do accept visa and Mastercard, be sure to withdraw cash from the ATM on arrival.

Things I Did

Get braids

First thing on my agenda every time I land on the continent of Africa is to get my hair braided. This time was no different, after checking into our Airbnb I was on the hunt. It was obvious that I was a tourist since I didn’t speak English, I think this was the reason for the high prices we were quoted walking into 2 shops. I saw a girl and a guy walking down the street, both speaking little to no English. I gestured that I liked her hair and where can I get mine done like hers (I could be a charades champ). They lead me to a shop with no sign that was literally 3 mins away from our Airbnb by grace.

Biche Brune is owned by Jessica, whom speaks English. In under 3 hours, I got my hair braided with hair included and a manicure all for $30. Check the receipts for proof!

click on images to enlarge

African Renaissance Monument

Did you really go to Senegal if you didn’t visit the tallest monument in the Africa? The African Renaissance Monument features a ginormous Black family pointing to freedom. There are about 208 steps, so visiting does count as a work out. If you can make it to the top, you can also go inside of the statue where you’ll have a birds eye view of Dakar. The best part is that there’s an elevator to the top!

click on images to enlarge

Goree Island

There is was no way that I was going to visor Dakar and not visit Goree Island. Though it bears a traumatic past, the island is simply gorgeous with lively locals and tourists. It is vital that you bring your passport, they will send you back. A ticket costs 2600 CFA is you have an African passport and 5200CFA for non-African passport holders.

On arrival children can be seen playing soccer and swimming in the ocean. There will be people trying to juggle you into hiring them as your tour guide. As always, I encourage you to explore at your own pace and allow the history to come to you. However, this is how locals make a few dollars.

As we spent some time taking photography on the most vivid street during a scorching hot day (makeup was literally melting off) we were offered wine and invited to lunch Senegalese style. An humongous bowl, each person takes a fork and dig in. I couldn’t have spent a better time here.

click on images to enlarge

Fathala Wildlife Reserve

You might have seen videos or pictures of people posing with lion’s online and wondered where did they do it. This has been on my bucket list for a few years. I wanted to do it in South Africa, but I was not willing to suffice the $250 to risk my life. Here in Senegal, it was only $25, a price I was willing to pay. It is recommended not to wear any bright colors, flowy or revealing clothing.

click on images to enlarge

Saly Beach

Saly Beach is one of those off-the-beaten path gems. A cultural village of Rastafarian’s. It is about an hour away from Dakar, so you’ll have to hire a driver for this one. You’ll have to park and take a small boat to the actual beach island. Here you can grab a drink, a bite at Chez Rasta, and relax on the beach or play soccer with the locals. The best part, is that there is no charge to enter this beach!

click on images to enlarge

Lake Retba

Commonly known for its Pink Lake with gradient hues, Lake Retba is known by all. Just a mild 45 mins ride from Dakar, you’ll arrive and it could either be pink or blue like a gender reveal. The pink hues are all dependent on the season, weather and time of day. They say the best time to see the best pink hues is afternoons in August between 12 and 3 pm. As of now there is no charge to enter, however there are locals hustling, so if you do decide to use them for your photos, please tip them.

click on images to enlarge

Ngor Island

Only 10 mins away from our Airbnb, Ngor Island isn’t unknown for any local. A quick 10 min ferry from mainland to this vibrant island. The ferry costs about $4 for a “private” (it just has less people, about 12) boat, and $2 for a shared (about 25 people) boat. From here you will transcend onto a beautiful island full of art, history and culture. The best part is that you’ll be able to try fresh seafood and Senegalese style jollof rice.

click on images to enlarge

Street Markets / Shopping

One of favorite parts about traveling to the continent of Africa, is finding unique pieces that can be turned into a family heirloom. Every high traffic point will have markets. Remember to always negotiate and don’t buy anything you don’t need. My Senegal tee was a MUST! I also found some cute rasta pants and anklets at Saly beach.

I also found two beautiful 2-piece sets from a shop called Diarra B. which was recommended by Jessica, the hair braiding shop owner. For such a great price, $40 each, I could not leave these well made sets there. Especially since it would be at least 3 times the price back home.

click on images to enlarge

Where We ate:

Shady’s Bar and Grill

Hands down my favorite place for a quick bite. On arrival this was the first place we ordered from and the food did not disappoint. Nights when we were indecisive or too lazy to head out, we ordered from here because it’s just that good! The whole chicken with pita and humus was like no other, and the potatoes were an added yummy touch. It’s affordable (about $20) and can feed 2-3 people easily.

click on images to enlarge

Cosmos

This indoor/outdoor beachfront lounge is a vibe complete with a pool, comfortable patio sofas and offering hookah, this is the place to be. On the weekends or late nights is when the music is jumping and crowd is lively.

click on images to enlarge

Melo’s

After taking touristic pictures at the African Renaissance monument, we made way over to an eclectic eatery called Melo’s. Offering a unique French twist brunch, Melo’s was at the end of the block, or a 5 minute walk from the monument.

click on images to enlarge

Le Cabanon

For those with an elevated palette and appreciation for detailed restaurants, Le Cabanon would be right up your alley. I highly recommend this restaurant as the food was delectable and the warm breeze from the Atlantic Ocean will remind you that you’re on vacation.

click on images to enlarge

J’Go

Right in Almadies where there are tons of places to eat, I’d recommend J’Go. I had a delicious fish and the vibes were cool. There is even hookah for you hookah lovers.

click on images to enlarge

La Terrasse Soleil Cafe

This place played the best music I heard my entire trip! From current hip hop to afrobeats and dancehall music. This place was a vibe. All of the patrons were having a good time and even showed off their dance skills of current moves. I did not try any of the food, but this place is fun for a quick drink and vibes.

click on images to enlarge

Boma Hotel

BOMA hotel’s bohemian atmosphere will instantly lift your spirits with their beautiful decor and friendly staff. We actually considered staying here when the plan was originally Dev and I. We came for a quick satisfying lunch and chill day catching up with some friends who had just arrived.

click on images to enlarge