Saint-Louis - Discovering Senegal

Travelling to Saint-Louis

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Saint-Louis, a pretty good destination in Senegal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Saint-Louis and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Saint-Louis, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Senegal, here's everything to know about Saint-Louis for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Saint-Louis

Saint-Louis is a city located in the northwestern region of Senegal, on an island in the Senegal River. It is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant music scene, and historical significance as the first capital of French West Africa. The city is also a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its important cultural and historical landmarks including the Faidherbe Bridge and the old town's colonial buildings. Saint-Louis is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience Senegal's unique blend of French, African and Islamic cultures.

What to visit in Saint-Louis

Here are some of the major tourist attractions in the city of Saint-Louis, Senegal: 1. Saint-Louis Island: This island is situated on the mouth of the Senegal River, and is home to some of the city's most historic buildings and landmarks.
2. Faidherbe Bridge: This iconic landmark is the most photographed site in Saint-Louis, and offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding areas.
3. Langue de Barbarie National Park: This national park is located on a narrow sandbar and is home to a wide range of bird species, including pelicans, flamingos, and sandpipers.
4. Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is located just outside of Saint-Louis and is home to over two million migratory birds, making it one of the largest bird sanctuaries in the world.
5. The African Renaissance Monument: Located just outside of Dakar, this colossal statue is the tallest statue in Africa and represents a symbol of Africa's rebirth.
6. Musée de la Cohue: This museum is home to a collection of artwork, artifacts and memorabilia from the colonial period of Saint-Louis.
7. The Governor's Palace: This historic palace was built in the early 19th century and served as the residence of the French colonial governors.
8. Place Faidherbe: This central square is surrounded by colonial buildings, and is a great place to soak up the bustling atmosphere of Saint-Louis.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Saint-Louis, Senegal!
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Senegal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Saint-Louis.

When to go on holiday to Saint-Louis

The best time to visit Saint-Louis, Senegal is from November to May, during the dry season. During this period, the weather is sunny, and the temperatures are usually between 25°C to 30°C. You can enjoy sightseeing, water sports, and other outdoor activities during this time. However, it is important to note that this is also the peak tourist season in Saint-Louis, so accommodation and other expenses may be higher than during the rest of the year. If you prefer to avoid the crowds and save money, you can consider visiting Saint-Louis during the low season from June to October, but keep in mind that it is the rainy season, and the weather may be unpredictable.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Saint-Louis

There are various ways to get to Saint-Louis, Senegal. Here are a few options: 1. By Plane: Saint-Louis has a small regional airport called Aéroport de Saint-Louis. A few airlines like Air Senegal offer domestic flights to Saint-Louis from Dakar. Once at the airport, you can hire a taxi to get to your destination.
2. By Car: From Dakar, you can take a taxi or rent a car from various car rental companies. The N2 Highway connects Dakar to Saint-Louis, which is around 270 km north. The journey takes around 3-4 hours depending on the traffic.
3. By Bus: There are several daily buses that connect Dakar and Saint-Louis. You can take a bus from Dakar's main bus station, "Gare Routière des Baux Maraîchers." The journey takes around 4-5 hours, depending on the traffic.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Saint-Louis.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Saint-Louis, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Saint-Louis

Saint-Louis, located in northern Senegal, is known for its unique cuisine with a blend of African and French influences. Here are some typical foods of Saint-Louis along with a short description for each of them: 1. Thieboudienne: This is a national dish of Senegal and a specialty of Saint-Louis. It is a flavorful rice and fish dish cooked with vegetables and spices.
2. Ceebu jën: Another Senegalese rice dish, ceebu jën is similar to thieboudienne but is made with a tomato-based sauce and a variety of vegetables, often including carrots, cabbage, and eggplant. 3. Lahal: Fish grilled on charcoal, often served with vegetables. Popular fish options include tilapia, dorado, and red snapper.
4. Thiébou yapp: A variation of thieboudienne made with beef instead of fish. It is typically served with rice, vegetables, and a rich tomato-based sauce.
5. Boulettes: These are small meatballs made with ground beef or lamb, onions, and spices. Sometimes served in a tomato-based sauce, they are often enjoyed as a quick snack or appetizer.
6. Ndambé: A hearty, spicy stew made with black-eyed peas, fish, and vegetables, Ndambé is a popular dish in Saint-Louis.
7. Pastels: These are small, fried turnovers filled with fish, ground beef, or vegetables. They are often served as a popular street food snack.
8. Thiakry: A sweet and creamy dessert made from millet, sugar, and vanilla, Thiakry is a dessert that is often enjoyed at the end of a meal.
You can find general info about typical foods in Senegal here.

Is Saint-Louis an expensive destination for tourists?

Saint-Louis can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists compared to other places in Senegal, but it is still affordable for most travelers. Accommodation prices in Saint-Louis can vary depending on the type and location of the lodging, but generally, they tend to be more expensive than in other parts of Senegal. Food and drink prices can also be slightly higher than in other cities, especially if you choose to eat in more upscale restaurants.
However, there are many budget-friendly activities and sights to see in Saint-Louis, such as exploring the historic colonial architecture, visiting traditional markets, or taking a boat tour on the Senegal River. With proper planning and budgeting, you can still have an enjoyable experience in Saint-Louis without breaking the bank.

Where to find accomodation in Saint-Louis

The best areas to find accommodation in Saint-Louis, Senegal are the historic island of Saint-Louis, and the nearby neighbourhoods of Ndar Toute and Guet Ndar. These areas are close to the major tourist attractions, restaurants, and shops, making it easy for visitors to explore the city and enjoy their stay. Additionally, many hotels and guesthouses in these areas offer great views of the Senegal River and the historic Pont Faidherbe bridge.
You can check hotel prices at Saint-Louis here:
Booking.com

Is Saint-Louis a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Saint-Louis in Senegal is generally considered safe for tourists. However, as with any destination, it's important to take precautions to stay safe. It is recommended to avoid walking alone in dark, isolated areas, be aware of your surroundings and also to avoid wearing expensive jewelry or carrying large sums of cash. It is also wise to take a reputable taxi or use public transportation instead of walking alone at night. Overall, Saint-Louis is a beautiful and fascinating travel destination, and as long as you exercise caution and common sense, you should have a safe and enjoyable trip.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Senegal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Saint-Louis.

What type of travelers will enjoy Saint-Louis the most?

Saint-Louis, Senegal is a destination that offers something for all types of travelers. It is a great place for couples who are looking for a romantic getaway, as it is a very picturesque and charming city. The city center, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, has beautiful colonial architecture, narrow alleys, and colorful markets, making it a romantic destination for couples.
Young people looking for fun will enjoy Saint-Louis because of its lively nightlife scene. The city has several bars and clubs that offer live music, dancing, and entertainment throughout the night.
Families will also enjoy Saint-Louis. The city has several attractions and activities for children, including boat trips on the Senegal River, visiting the Djoudj National Bird Park, and taking a horse-drawn carriage ride through the city center.
Overall, Saint-Louis, Senegal, is a destination that offers a mix of history, culture, and entertainment, making it suitable for all types of travelers.

How to get around Saint-Louis

In Saint-Louis, Senegal, you can move around using various modes of transportation. These include: 1. Taxis – Taxis are available throughout the city and are relatively affordable.
2. Horse-drawn carriages – Also known as calèches, these carriages are a popular way to explore the city's historical sites.
3. Bikes – There are bike rental services available that offer a unique and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
4. Walking – If you are up for a leisurely stroll, walking is a great way to explore the city's narrow streets and alleys. However, the heat can be intense during the day, so make sure to hydrate and wear sunscreen.
It is important to note that traffic can be chaotic, and road conditions are not always ideal, so it is recommended to exercise caution when using any mode of transportation.

What to see around Saint-Louis

Sure, here are some great places to visit on a day trip from Saint-Louis, Senegal: 1. Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the third-largest bird sanctuary in the world.
2. Langue de Barbarie National Park: This national park is a natural sand spit that separates the Atlantic Ocean from the Senegal River. It has beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
3. Touba: Touba is the center of the Mouride Brotherhood, one of the most important Islamic communities in Senegal. It has a beautiful mosque and an interesting cultural center.
4. Gandiol: Gandiol is a small fishing town located on the Senegal River. It has a beautiful beach, good restaurants, and a local pottery market.
5. Richard-Toll: Richard-Toll is a small town known for its sugar cane plantations and its colonial architecture. It is a great place to learn about Senegal's history and culture.
6. Saint-Louis Island: This island is the historic center of Saint-Louis and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It has many colonial-era buildings, museums, and art galleries.
For every travel information about Senegal you can click here.

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