The capital of Senegal is perhaps best known for being, originally, the destination of the world’s most famous rally, the Dakar Rally. However, this city has many more tourist attractions that are worth discovering, all pleasant surprises for those who visit. In this article, we tell you what to see in Dakar if you are heading there soon.
What is there to see in Dakar?
One of the things that most impresses the people that visit Dakar is its geographical location. Despite being the Senegalese capital, it is the westernmost city in the country.
Dakar is almost entirely surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, which gives it a more exotic appearance than other African cities away from the coast. This is, in fact, the reason why one of the main African ports is found in Dakar.
But what are the must-see places to visit if you travel to Dakar? Here are some of our most interesting recommendations, all of them easily within reach if you rent a car in Dakar before you set off.
Gorée Island
Gorée Island is undoubtedly the most symbolic place in the city. So much so that UNESCO itself has dubbed it "the island of memory". Why? Because this island was the enclave where most of the African slave trade took place.
It can be reached by boat from Dakar, and today it is a very quiet place, but you will still see some remnants from the slavery era. It is therefore an essential stop to better understand the history of Dakar and the history of the African continent.
House of Slaves
On the island, the most key location is the House of Slaves from 1776, today converted into a kind of museum. It was one of the last slave houses in operation, from which various people were sent as slaves, especially to America.
Mosques
One of the most interesting things about Senegal is that, although it is a secular state, 94% of its inhabitants are Muslim. This religion’s predominance makes mosques a symbol of Dakar's identity as well.
Grand Mosque of Dakar
The Massalikoul Djinane Mosque, popularly known as the Grand Mosque, is the largest Muslim temple in West Africa. No wonder, because it can host between 20,000 and 30,000 people.
Ouakam Mosque
On the beachfront, further north, we find the Ouakam Mosque, known as the Mosque of the Divinity. It has a very characteristic appearance due to its two towers and its mixture of green, orange and white. And, though it is not possible to visit the inside, it is highly recommended to drive around this area and see it at sunset.
Tour of the city
Here are some of the most interesting tourist attractions in the city.
The Plateau District
Plateau is one of the most crowded neighbourhoods, which is why it is known as the heart of Dakar. In fact, here it is possible to visit Independence Square, the City Hall and the Presidential Palace, two of the most important economic, political and administrative sites.
Medina
This area is considered the origin of the Dakar we know today, the first neighbourhood of the first district of the city that was erected more than 100 years ago. A stroll through its streets offers a sense of the original essence of the Senegalese capital.
African Renaissance Monument
You cannot leave Dakar without seeing the impressive statue standing more than 160 feet high, made of bronze, commemorating Senegal's independence from France. In addition, it is possible to climb to one of its three different levels and enjoy views of the entire city.
HLM Market
This is the largest market in the city, known for the immense variety of African fabrics on offer. It is also located in one of Dakar’s most lively and colourful neighbourhoods.
Lake Retba
About 25 miles from Dakar, it is worth taking the car and visiting Lake Retba, known as Pink Lake. This saltwater lake is one of the main sources of income for many inhabitants of the area.
It is also famous because, at certain times of the day, the water takes on a pinkish colour as a result of the amount of salt it contains, and it is a curious sight.
Renting a car in Dakar with OK Mobility is the best option to tour this city and its surroundings freely and not be left wanting to discover any of its secrets. At OK Mobility we give you all the facilities to do just that. Let's go!
post
