Overall, it’s a blend of French colonialism, live music, surfing, and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet!
Where I went:
Dakar (Royal Saly; all-inclusive beach resort in Mbour)
What I wore:
It was hot and sunny when I visited so I lived in shorts and bathing suits. Senegal is a very moderate Muslim country so conservative coverage was only required at Mosques. I purchased handmade wooden bracelets from local Senegalese women, which I still wear during my world travels. They’re my good-luck charms!
What I did:
We hired a guide for this trip. Oumar was a university professor and former professional soccer goalie. He took a great itinerary and transformed it into an inspired adventure.
Upon arrival in Dakar, I took a ferry to Goree Island, which was a significant departure point for the Transatlantic slave trade. A heartbreaking chapter of the country’s history.
Senegal is a great destination for outdoor sports and adventure travel. I visited a game reserve where I was forced to share my ice cream with a pushy monkey :), floated in Senegal's famous Pink Lake (which has a similar salt content to the Dead Sea), and rode jet skis from Pointe des Almadies, the westernmost point of Africa.
I also traveled by a traditional fishing boat (pirogue) down the Saloum Delta to an island where animism (voodoo) is still widely practiced.
But it was two of Senegal’s most famous sites that provided breathtaking adventure. From1979-2009, the Paris-Dakar Rally was regarded as the toughest car race on the planet, cutting through dangerous terrain—including the Sahara Desert.
The Pink Lake was the finish line of the race. Starting at the actual finish line of this famous road race, I raced a quad bike around the lake, and ended with a stunning ride along some Atlantic coast beaches.
And I couldn't pass up the chance to ride the waves since Senegal's most famous break, the N’Gor Right, was featured in the classic surf film "The Endless Summer." Absolutely thrilling!
What I ate/drank:
Loads of chicken yassa, chicken maafe, beignets, and bissap (hibiscus tea). The French-inspired cuisine was delicious! Senegal is a moderate Muslim country, and the legal drinking age is 18. Gazelle and Flag are the local beers.
Social media musts:
Focus on the scenery and the music. Senegal is about the warm sun, crashing waves, vibrant colors, and heavy beats—from drum circles to DJs.
A Few Songs From My Travel Playlist From Senegal
Africa - Toto
Rhiannon - Fleetwood Mac
This Love - Maroon 5
Respect - Aretha Franklin
Brown Eyed Girl - Van Morrison
Surfer Girl - The Beach Boys
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