Highlights of Senegal Road Trip Itinerary
Discover the highlights of Senegal on this 7-day road trip that takes you from Dakar to Lac Rose, Saint Louis and Touba. This 804 km journey will take you through some of the most stunning landscapes of the country, and provide you with a very high level of experience and memories. Along the way, you will be able to witness some of the UNESCO Heritage monuments of Senegal, and enjoy the best of the local culture.
The best time to take this road trip is in the dry season, from November to April, when the roads are at their best. That being said, you should be aware that the road conditions in Senegal are generally not good, and some of the roads along the route may be narrow. Despite this, the moderate budget and the unique experience that this trip offers makes it suitable for everyone. So pack your bags and hit the road to discover the highlights of Senegal!
7
number of days
799 km
route length
fair
budget
explorer
good for
on the right
traffic direction
fair
accident level
START
Dakar
Distance 799 km
Driving time 17.8 h
Pace: slow
183.7 kWh
Airports
DSS
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Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is an ideal starting point for the Highlights of Senegal Road Trip. Located at the tip of the Cape Verde Peninsula, it's a vibrant city with an abundance of attractions to explore. Visit the bustling markets of Sandaga, the vibrant music scene in Yoff, and the colorful colonial architecture of Plateau. Take in the spectacular views from the top of the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest structure in West Africa. For those who want to relax, spend some time on the beach and enjoy the seafood restaurants along the coast.
For travelers arriving by air, the closest international airport is Dakar-Yoff International Airport (DKR). Car rentals are available at the airport, making it easy to get around and explore the area. From Dakar, it's a short drive to the beautiful beaches of Saly and the picturesque fishing villages of Joal-Fadiouth and M'bour. Further inland, there are several national parks and reserves to explore, such as Niokolo-Koba National Park and Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary. Whether you're looking for an active adventure or a relaxing getaway, Dakar is an excellent choice for the start of your Senegal road trip.
1
Dakar
- Lac Rose
Distance 37 km
Driving time 1.2 h
Pace: slow
8.5 kWh
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Itinerary
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Starting your road trip from Dakar, Senegal you will marvel at the picturesque views of the African landscape as you make your way to Lac Rose. This 37 km stretch will take you less than 2 hours to complete, and you will have the opportunity to visit some of the most interesting places in the region.
In Dakar, make sure to visit the African Renaissance Monument, the largest monument in Africa and a symbol of African resurrection. You will also want to take a stroll along the Corniche, a waterfront area with a lively atmosphere and plenty of activities to enjoy.
As you drive towards Lac Rose, you will find the nearby village of Yoff. Here you can experience the daily life of the local population and take in the beauty of the nearby beach. Once you reach Lac Rose, you can take a boat tour to get up close to the pink waters of this unique lake.
No matter how long you plan to stay in this area, you can be sure that you will have a memorable experience. From Dakar to Lac Rose, you will have the chance to explore the culture and nature of Senegal. For more information on attractions, accommodation, restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the “Itinerary” of this stage.
Lac Rose - Senegal - Africa - Road Trip - Pixabay
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2
Lac Rose
- Lompoul
Distance 108 km
Driving time 3.3 h
Pace: slow
24.9 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an unforgettable road trip from Lac Rose to Lompoul! This 113 km journey will take you fewer than 4 hours to complete, and along the way you will be surrounded by picturesque landscapes.
Start your journey in Lac Rose, a beautiful beach town with white sand and crystal clear waters. Spend some time here relaxing and enjoying the sand and sea, and don’t forget to buy some souvenirs from the local markets.
Next, you will drive to Lompoul, a small village known for its dunes and desert-like landscape. Take some time to explore the unique terrain and enjoy the views of the desert. There are also some great restaurants in the village, so make sure to try them out.
This is only one stage of a larger journey, so make sure to take your time and enjoy the views along the way. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.
So, get ready for a thrilling adventure from Lac Rose to Lompoul and make sure to enjoy the picturesque landscapes along the way!
Lompoul - Senegal - Africa - Road Trip - Pixabay
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3
Lompoul
- Saint Louis
Distance 89 km
Driving time 1.7 h
Pace: modest
23.1 kWh
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Itinerary
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Ready to embark on an unforgettable journey? This 89 km road trip from Lompoul to Saint Louis is the perfect way to explore the beauty of Senegal! With a driving time of fewer than 2 hours, you can take in the picturesque landscapes and scenic roads as you go. Along the way, don’t miss the chance to explore historical sites, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Gorée and the Île de N’Dar. You’ll also want to take some time to take in the colonial architecture of Saint Louis. For more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, be sure to check out the Itinerary for this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!
Saint Louis - Senegal - Africa - Road Trip - commons.wikimedia.org
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4
Saint Louis
- Djoudj N.P.
Distance 75 km
Driving time 1.8 h
Pace: modest
19.6 kWh
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Set off on an amazing road trip from Saint Louis in Senegal to Djoudj National Park! This 75 km journey will take you fewer than two hours of driving and offers a great variety of stunning views and attractions. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore some UNESCO Heritage sites, such as the old town of Saint Louis, and you'll witness some of the most picturesque landscapes in the region. The road is narrow in some sections, so make sure to pay attention while driving! This is one of the stages of a larger tour, so you'll have plenty of time to explore everything that the area has to offer. You can find more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So what are you waiting for? Start your journey and have fun!
Djoudj N.P. - Senegal - Africa - Road Trip - www.flickr.com
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5
Djoudj N.P.
- Touba
Distance 310 km
Driving time 7.6 h
Pace: modest
80.6 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on a thrilling road trip adventure from Djoudj National Park in Senegal to Touba. Along the 310 km drive, which will take you less than 7 hours, you’ll find some of the most mesmerizing landscapes, picturesque roads and UNESCO Heritage sites. As you journey, keep an eye out for the narrow sections of the road and be sure to take in the spectacular surroundings. Enjoy the feeling of freedom that comes with a road trip and make sure to take plenty of pictures. Along the way, you’ll find many options for accommodation, restaurants, and campsites. For more information, check the “Itinerary” section of this stage for more details. Wherever you go, you’ll find plenty of interesting places to explore and enjoy, so make sure to make the most of your adventure!
Touba - Senegal - Africa - Road Trip - Pixabay
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6
Touba
- Dakar
Distance 179 km
Driving time 2.2 h
Pace: fast
53.7 kWh
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Itinerary
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Embark on an exciting 179km road trip journey from Touba to Dakar! This 2-hour drive is filled with interesting sights and attractions. In Touba, don’t miss the Touba Grand Mosque, which is one of the most important religious sites in the country. After that, drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Gorée Island, which was a major port for slaves in the past. Visit the Maison des Esclaves and the Door of No Return to learn about the island’s history. On the way to Dakar, you’ll also pass by the Islamic city of Rufisque. In Dakar, you can explore the city’s vibrant markets, or take a tour of the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary section of this stage.
Dakar - Senegal - Africa - Road Trip - Wikipedia
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Dakar
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Dakar, the capital and largest city of Senegal, is the perfect ending point for the "Highlights of Senegal Road Trip". Located on the westernmost point of the African continent, Dakar is a vibrant and colorful city full of bustling activity and attractions.
The city is home to many of Senegal's famous landmarks, including the Grand Mosque, the African Renaissance Monument, and the nearby Île de Gorée, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can spend time exploring the city's bustling markets, vibrant nightlife, and multitude of beachfront activities. Other popular attractions include the IFAN Museum of African Arts, the Dakar Zoo, and the nearby Pink Lake.
For the adventurous traveler, Dakar is home to some of the best surfing in West Africa, as well as a wide variety of water sports and activities. Those seeking a more relaxed experience can enjoy the city's many beaches, such as N'Gor, Yoff, and Almadies.
For those traveling by air, the closest international airport is the Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), located about 25 kilometers from downtown Dakar. Once in the city, visitors can take advantage of the many car rental companies to explore the city and its surroundings.
At the end of your "Highlights of Senegal Road Trip", Dakar offers a unique blend of African culture, natural beauty, and modern amenities that will make your visit to Senegal truly unforgettable.
Dakar - Senegal - Africa - Road Trip - Olympic.org
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Highlights of Senegal Road Trip at a glance
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Start:
Dakar
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End:
Dakar
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Distance:
799 km
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Stay:
7 days
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Getting there:
Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS)
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When to drive:
March, March, November, December
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More info:
More info you can find in the "Itinerary" section at each stage.
Before you set off
Discover the enchanting beauty of Senegal on a 7-day Road Trip spanning 804 km that takes you from the lively streets of Dakar to the remarkable, salt-infused Lac Rose, the historical treasures of Saint Louis, and the sacred city of Touba. This journey offers an immersive experience into the diverse cultural tapestry and stunning natural landscapes of Senegal.
Key Destinations and Top Sights:
Your adventure begins in Dakar, the dynamic capital city where contemporary African life meets a rich historical past. From there, you'll head to the otherworldly Lac Rose, also known as Lake Retba, famous for its unique pink waters caused by Dunaliella salina algae and its importance in salt production. Continue to Saint Louis, a city that exudes old-world charm with its French colonial architecture. Don't miss the chance to visit its notable UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the famed Saint Louis Island. Conclude your journey in Touba, the heart of the Mouride brotherhood, an Islamic Sufi order. The city's magnificent Touba Mosque, with its impressive minarets and stunning architecture, stands as a symbol of Senegalese spirituality.
Best Time to Go:
To fully enjoy the Road Trip, plan your visit between November and April. This dry season period offers pleasant weather, fewer mosquitos, and more passable Road conditions, making it prime time for exploration and sightseeing.
Potential Risks:
While the journey is rewarding, it's important to be aware of Road conditions that can be challenging in Senegal. Some stretches may be unpaved or potholed, and during the rainy season, conditions can worsen. Exercise caution and drive defensively, especially on narrower Roads.
Interesting Facts for Roadtrippers:
Senegal is a country where the warmth of its people matches the climate. It's known for teranga, a Wolof word meaning hospitality, which you'll experience firsthand from the locals. The country also has a deep musical heritage, with genres like Mbalax, and you may encounter spontaneous performances or music events along your Trip. Additionally, Senegal is a birdwatcher's paradise, especially in the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary near Saint Louis, which is home to hundreds of species of birds.
A good choice for:
A Road Trip through Senegal is more than a means of transportation; it's a cultural odyssey that invites you to connect with the soul of the country. As you navigate from the urban rhythms of Dakar to the spiritual serenity of Touba, each destination will leave its own unique imprint, enriching your travel experience with memories that will last a lifetime.
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