Dakar is indeed a city of contrasts. It is ideally situated on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean in Senegal. This vast city is made up of tiny villages with French influences from back in the colonial days. The French imprint was so large that it is still evident in their culture and language.
The city boasts beautiful beaches, with thousands of tourists flocking each year to get a glimpse of the buzz. The crowds stay in the many exquisite resorts where they get access to game parks and reserves.
This eye-catching city also has many attractions, including a vibrant nightlife that features local music with traditional dances. Refreshingly, it is hardly crowded as there is so much to do in a day. The city offers a little bit of everything to the curious explorer.
Goree Island
Going to Goree Island is like sending yourself back in time to a glimpse of the slave trade era’s painful memory. It has been deservingly designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site as it displays an array of monuments, including the House of Slaves and La Maison des Esclaves. It is also here that you will find many historic forts, museums with artifacts for the past, and colonial buildings from back then.
Africa’s Tallest Monument
Dakar is also home to Africa’s tallest monument that stands at 160 feet, making it bigger and taller than the Statue of Liberty. It is known as the African Renaissance Monument and is situated in Dakar, where it looms over the city in a grace that remains unmatched. The statue was unveiled back in 2010 to mark the country’s 50 years of independence. This magnificent bronze statue can be seen from a distance, but it is best appreciated up close like all other famous monuments.
Music, Dance and Good Times
It is no surprise that the famous Akon’s birth country would have a vibrant music scene and nightlife. Music is an integral part of the city, and there is rarely a street without a street performer dishing out a soundtrack.
Each night brings an electrifying music scene featuring Senegalese talent. You will get to see both local and well-known artists performing live at different locations. The city thrives on entertainment, so there is no better place to find just that.
Senegalese people are very expressive, so do not think you will be sitting down much. The music is upbeat, and the people are always dancing to the beats. The friendly locals will likely invite you to dance if the music does not bring you to your feet.
Delicious Cuisine
A trip to any African city cannot end without you experiencing the local cuisine. Since Senegal is a West African country, Dakar’s capital offers nothing less than spicy, delicious food that will make you want more. Here, the aroma of local food is on every street you walk on. Be sure to try the national dish thiéboudiene and other local favorites such as mafé rice.