What to visit in Dakar?

Welcome to Dakar, the Capital of Senegal! Often described as anarchic, noisy, congested and dirty, the city of Dakar bathes in an atmosphere that is both modern and traditional. It can take on another aura, that of an incredibly charming city, bathed by the waves. A vibrant, lively, warm city. What could be more normal for a peninsula and capital of the country of Teranga.

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What to do in Dakar?

For a better view of Dakar, do not hesitate to climb to the top of the Phare des Mamelles to have a 360 degree view of the peninsula. In the center of the city, breathe deeply the sea breeze coming from the 3 coasts of the city.
For a “colorful” discovery, dive into the real Dakar by visiting the Tilene Market. With its special charms area where you can find all the joys of herbs, powders, seeds, dried animals and other perlimpinpin powders, you will immediately discover the cultural diversity of the Teranga country.
Don’t miss the rendezvous at the Pointe des Almadies to taste freshly caught seafood, a unique opportunity to forget that you are in a city of more than 3 million inhabitants. Take the opportunity to relax with the hundreds of restaurants and nightclubs in the Ngor-Almadies district.
For those who want to explore the surroundings and admire the breathtaking landscapes, there is the beach of Yoff, the beach of Ngor or even the island of Gorée, once the largest slave trade center on the African coast.

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The must-see monuments

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The Presidential Palace

Built in 1902, the Presidential Palace is the former palace of the governor of Dakar during the colonial era, this palace faces the sea and is surrounded by magnificent tropical gardens. Unfortunately the palace cannot be visited from the inside. It is also advisable to obtain permission from the Red Guards (Gendarmerie Corps) to take some photos.

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The Renaissance Monument

The African Renaissance Monument is an impressive 52-meter copper and bronze statue at Les Mamelles in Ouakam, a district of Dakar. Erected on one of the two Mamelles hills opposite the one bearing the Lighthouse, the statue proudly overlooks the Senegalese capital. The statue represents a man holding his son at arm’s length and his wife, gazing skyward, thus symbolizing a new beginning, an African renaissance.
The monument was officially inaugurated on April 3, 2010 on the eve of the 50th anniversary of the Republic of Senegal and under the aegis of President Abdoulaye Wade.

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The House of Slaves

La Maison des Esclaves – Ile de Gorée – Sénégal 

Dating, according to some sources, from the year 1776, the House of Slaves is located on the Island of Gorée off the coast of Dakar. It remains the international emblem of the slave trade. The building is located in Rue Saint-Germain on one of the sides of the island opposite the Women’s Museum bearing the name of Henriette Bathily. The place is eminently steeped in history and the emotion is palpable during the visits.

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The Cathedral of African Remembrance of Dakar

Cathédrale du Souvenir Africain – Dakar – Sénégal 

Located in the heart of downtown Dakar, The Cathedral of African Remembrance is a magnificent architectural work impossible to miss as a tourist attraction. It is truly one of the essentials to visit in Dakar.

The church is unanimously described as a welcoming and soothing place with magnificent stained glass windows and frescoes on the domes. To visit absolutely!

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The Mosque of Divinity

Majestic and an architectural wonder, the Mosque of the Divinity “Masdjidou Rabbani” is located in Ouakam by the sea on the Corniche-Ouest. The Mosque was built by Mohamed Seyni in 5 years and 5 months and inaugurated in October 1997. A fabulous architectural success that must also be visited!

 

                                          DAKAR IS BEAUTIFUL, ENJOY IT !