“Africa changes you forever, like nowhere on earth. Once you have been there, you will never be the same. But how do you begin to describe its magic to someone who has never felt it?” – Brian Jackman
My response to the above quote is… GO FEEL IT! Hop on a plane and go to Africa. That’s exactly what I did.
Senegal, my new love is located in West Africa, on the shores of the North Atlantic Ocean. It shares a border with a few other countries: Mauritania to the north, Mali to the east, and Guinea/Guinea Bissau to the south. Senegal is the home to beautiful architecture, stunning secluded beaches, and remote riverine deltas. Senegal is one of Africa’s most popular destinations, and also one of the safest places to travel too. The capital of Senegal is Dakar, a vibrant city famous for its lively markets and rich musical culture.
I got the opportunity to stay in Senegal for a little over a month. The second half of my trip was spent in Dakar but I will get back to that. Let me tell you a little about the first half of my trip that was spent in a gorgeous area called Saly.
Saly is a beach resort area in the Petite Côte region of Senegal. A former Portuguese trading post, Saly features many resorts, restaurants, and bars. While in Saly, I was blessed with the opportunity to partner with 3 top properties in the area. They are all amazingly different in their own ways. It just depends on your preference. Click each name below to read more about my experience at each property
Now back to Dakar…
The second half of my trip was spent in Senegal’s vibrant capital. It might take a few days to get used to the hustle and bustle, but once you’re in the groove there’s plenty to see and do in this emerging African metropolis. Colorful markets, excellent music, and good beaches are all part of the city’s charm, as is its bustling restaurant and nightlife scene.
I decided to stay at an Airbnb once I got to Dakar which cost me about $40 a day and it was a stunning Airbnb. Such a great deal for a fantastic apartment. Once I got settled in, it was time to go exploring. One of the places I had to go to before I left Senegal, was Île de Gorée. It is a place that so many travelers before me had talked about and other travelers have talked about going, so I could not be in Senegal and not take a boat over to this island. It is such a significant part of black culture.
Located just 25 minutes from Dakar by boat, Île de Gorée is a small island known for the major role it played in the African slave trade. Several monuments and museums offer an insight into the island’s tragic past; to which the quiet streets and pretty pastel homes of modern-day Île de Gorée provide a powerful antidote.
I have learned a lot about slavery all my life but being on this island, hearing the history of what happened there from my tour guide was nothing I could have learned in a book. I could feel what happened there. It was an overwhelming experience but totally worth it. This is a MUST if you travel to Senegal. I totally recommend it, plus the boat ride there is amazing!
Getting To Senegal
The main port of entry for most visitors is Blaise Diagne International Airport, which replaced Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport as the country’s primary air transport hub in 2017. It is located roughly an hour’s drive from central Dakar and hosts an extensive array of domestic, regional, and international airlines.
Best Months To Visit Senegal (Weather)
Senegal has a tropical climate and enjoys pleasant temperatures throughout the year. There are two main seasons—the rainy season (May to November) and the dry season (December to April). I was there during the rainy season, which it did rain a few times but it was very refreshing since it can get a bit humid there. However, the humidity is kept to a minimum during the dry season so no need to fear.
Language
Senegal’s official language is French, however, most people speak one of more than 30 indigenous languages as their mother tongue. Of these, 11 are designated as national languages, with Wolof being the most commonly spoken throughout the country.
Currency
Senegal’s currency is the West African CFA franc. Most places accept Visa and other major credit cards.
Inspired and fulfilled, are the best words to describe my time in Senegal. Senegal is one of the most prestigious destinations I’ve been too and what it offered me during my time there will be hard to rival as I continue to travel the world.
Thank you, Senegal for sharing your beauty, elegance and cultural richness with this black girl travel blogger. Also, thank you to all of our partners that made this trip possible. Please follow them on Instagram, book with them and tell them Naomi V from The Cultured Collective sent you.
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Naomi is a stylish, adventurous traveler. She’s a bit of a daredevil that loves excursions. Those that know her, call her a shoe connoisseur. She is also obsessed with music and has a playlist for just about any mood. She’s a foodie that loves a good vegetarian/vegan spot. Want to know where she is headed next… stay tuned to find out!
