Senegal 4 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dakar

  • Arrive at Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DSS)
  • Transfer to your hotel in the city center
  • Visit the Grand Mosque, a stunning example of Islamic architecture and one of the largest mosques in Africa
  • Walk along the famous Corniche, a scenic promenade with beautiful ocean views
  • Thing to know: The best time to visit Dakar is from December to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. Be prepared for crowds during peak tourist season.

Day 2: Dakar and Gorée

  • Visit the House of Slaves, a museum located in a 19th-century building that served as a holding cell for enslaved people before being transported across the Atlantic
  • Explore the historic island of Gorée, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with colorful colonial architecture, shops, and restaurants
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant on Gorée and try some traditional Senegalese cuisine like thieboudienne (a peanut-based stew)
  • Visa requirements: As of 2022, citizens of the US, EU, Canada, and Australia do not require a visa to enter Senegal. However, check with your embassy or consulate for any changes in regulations before traveling.

Day 3: Dakar and Mbour

  • Drive to the coastal town of Mbour, known for its beautiful beaches, colonial architecture, and lively markets
  • Visit the Pink Lake, a saltwater lake that turns pink during the dry season due to the presence of Brine Shrimp (Artemia salina)
  • Enjoy lunch at a beachside restaurant and try some fresh seafood
  • Transportation: Senegal has a well-developed road network, and many tourists rent cars or hire drivers for day trips. Be prepared for traffic congestion in Dakar.

Day 4: Saly Seigneur

  • Drive to the coastal town of Saly Seigneur, known for its beautiful beaches and lively markets
  • Visit the Saly Beach, a stunning stretch of sand lined with palm trees and beach bars
  • Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant and try some traditional Senegalese cuisine like grilled fish or chicken yassa (a spicy marinated meat dish)
  • Thing to know: Saly Seigneur is a popular destination for honeymooners and families, but it can get crowded during peak tourist season.

Other things of interest:

  • Visit the Senegal National Museum, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage
  • Take a sunset boat trip in Dakar’s harbor
  • Try some local street food like fried dough (yassa) or grilled meat skewers

Safety and security:

  • As with any foreign travel, take necessary precautions to stay safe. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use reputable taxi services.
  • Be mindful of pickpocketing in crowded areas.

Health and medical facilities:

  • Consult your doctor before traveling to Senegal, especially if you have any pre-existing medical conditions
  • Medical facilities are generally good in Dakar, but may be limited in rural areas.

Note: This itinerary is just a sample and can be customized based on your preferences and interests. Be sure to research and book hotels, restaurants, and activities in advance to ensure availability.