Culture - Senegal

Senegal has the required assets for a blooming tourism industry. It is only a few hours away from major tourist markets. Besides that, this sunny country claims more than 3000 hours of sunshine yearly. All forms of tourism can be experienced in Senegal seaside resorts: leisure, aquatic sports, scuba diving, horseback riding, and desert excursions are reminiscent of the mythical meharees from the spice trade era. Among the sand dunes, find out traditional villages where time stands still as the aboriginal people, such as the Fulani, stick to their timeless rites and surreal landscapes changing with the sun cycle. Many natural reserves across the country offer a privileged look upon a fantastic diversified fauna and flora: ecotourism is a rising interest in Senegal and opportunities to witness the rituals of natural life abound in this beautiful country. The reefs and cays of the coastline are heaven for divers, holding out the promise of such extraordinary sightings of the underworld, and the quiet beaches of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as fishermen harbours, are perfect for a relaxing walk with the caressing trade winds. Dakar, the melting pot capital city dotted with many historical museums and cultural landmarks, is one of the busiest cruise ships port in Africa and boasts an exciting restaurant and club scene, as well as duty-free shops.
Despite various influences (Western influence due to a long French presence in West Africa, Middle Eastern influence following a tradition of multiple exchanges with North Africa and Arab countries), Senegal has its own brand of exotic music, food and customs that gives it the right dash of spice. From the largest cities of Dakar and Saint-Louis to the tiniest and most remote villages in the hinterland, authenticity is everywhere and colours, scents, crafts and traditional patterns seem to blend harmoniously to bring the visitor into an exotic daydream.