1. Goree Island
If there’s one must visit place in Dakar, this is it! Just off the course of mainland Senegal, Goree Island offers a better understanding the transatlantic slave trade and Senegalese history. From museums to well preserved buildings, this UNESECO World Heritage Site truly feels like you’re stepping back in time. This island is a chilling reminder of the scar of slavery many African countries still carry.  I advise going with a tour guide, you can hire them before you get at the port where you buy tickets to the island or on the island. (Senegalese and Africans get a discounted rate onto the island)

2. The African Renaissance Monument
This is an undeniably breathtaking copper statue in the capital. A must see in Dakar. This monument celebrates not only Senegalese liberation but African liberation from colonialism. This magnificent statue was created in hopes of becoming an international tourist attraction like the statue of liberty. I hope you like stairs because just like the road to freedom, it is a long climb up.

3. Niokolo-Koba National Park
This is a UNESECO World Heritage site is Senegal’s largest national park. This protected area is home to some amazing biodiversity. This is a great place for bird lovers who’d be able to get close up views of flamencos, pelicans and even elephants!

4. The IFAN Musuem and Museum of Black Civilizations
These museums are great places to go to explore more of West African culture. With a hundred of artefacts, from African clothing styles to traditional armour dating back hundreds of years.  A must visit if you’re in Dakar.

5. The stones of Senegambia
Though not tecnically in Dakar, these stones are still worth the trip. Scattered around Senegal and Gambia, these UNESECO World heritage sites date back to the 3rd century BC. and are  historical landmarks. Whilst some speculate these stones to be a burial ground, others believe the stones were placed there by Gods and have spiritual meaning. Either way, they sure are an archaeological wonder.

6. Visit Fathala
For those adventure seekers, why not visit Fathala Wildlife reserve. This reserve is home to hundreds of animals including endangered animals such as rhinos, warthogs, buffaloes and more.You can even get the unique experience to walk with lions. Bet you don’t have the opportunity to do that everyday.

7. Lac Rose
Also known as Lake Retba, This is a beautiful lake located 45km from central Dakar and is naturally pink due to the high salt content. Though when I went, it wasn’t particularly pink, it is worth a visit if you have extra time on your trip as the landscape and area alone are very different to inner city Dakar.

8. Djoudj National Bird park
This national park is the 3rd sanctuary in the world and a paradise for bird lovers. With over 350 different bird species migrating to and from this park, don’t miss out on a chance to see some beautiful birds such as pelicans and flamingos. But if birds aren’t your thing, this park is also home to other animals like monkeys, warthogs and even crocodiles.

9. Mosque of divinity
This mosque is located in Ouakam, a neighbourhood in Dakar and stands tall on the edge of the Atlantic ocean. Why not take a trip to see it and marvel at the amazing architecture.

10. The Beach
Dakar has some undeniably great beaches with neighbourhoods like Ngor being notoriously loved by surfers. With amazing sandy beaches and great local food close by, you definitely won’t be disappointed making Dakar your next holiday destination.

Let us know how you found Dakar below!