Things To Do
in Saint-Louis
Saint-Louis is a historic city located in Senegal at the mouth of the Senegal River. It served as the capital of the French colony of Senegal in the 19th century and is known for its colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene. The city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is characterized by its narrow streets, colorful buildings, and bustling markets.
Saint-Louis is also a popular destination for birdwatching and offers opportunities to explore nearby national parks and wetlands.
- "Nanga def?" - How are you?
- "Jamm rekk" - Peace only
- "Mbaam sa yaram" - Have a good day
- "Tawfeek" - Good luck
- "Damaa la ngi manage" - I am with you
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $25 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Island of Saint-Louis, exploring its vibrant streets and colonial architecture. Enjoy a fresh breakfast at a local café with Senegalese specialties.
Take a guided tour of the historical city, visiting sites like the Faidherbe Bridge and the Regional Museum. Stop for lunch at a restaurant known for its seafood dishes.
Relax at a local bar by the waterfront, enjoying the sunset over the Senegal River. Try out some local drinks and engage with the friendly locals.
Head to the fishing village of Guet Ndar to observe the fishermen at work. Breakfast can be enjoyed at a beachfront eatery with a view of the ocean.
Participate in a fishing trip organized by local fishermen, learning about their daily routines. Lunch can be enjoyed seafood grilled right on the boat.
Return to Saint-Louis and take part in a cooking class to prepare traditional fish dishes. Dinner will consist of the meal you’ve just learned to make, shared with fellow participants.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history, with colonial architecture and vibrant local traditions.
- Beautiful natural landscapes, including the nearby beaches and the Senegal River.
- A UNESCO World Heritage site, attracting tourists and promoting local arts and crafts.
- Diverse culinary scene with unique Senegalese dishes and fresh seafood.
- A lively music scene, particularly noted for its traditional and contemporary styles.
- Limited access to modern healthcare services and facilities.
- Infrastructure challenges, including unreliable transportation and road conditions.
- Higher unemployment rates among the youth, leading to economic challenges.
- Seasonal flooding in certain areas can disrupt daily life.
- Potential language barrier for tourists, as French and local dialects are predominantly spoken.
Best Activities in Saint-Louis
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a peaceful boat ride and take in the scenic views of the river and surrounding nature.
Explore the natural beauty of this park, which is home to diverse bird species and offers opportunities for bird-watching and hiking.
Take advantage of the coastal breeze and try kitesurfing, a popular water sport in Saint-Louis.
Tours
Uncover the best of Saint-Louis with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Saint-Louis
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a stunning view of the Senegal River meeting the Atlantic Ocean, along with the surrounding wildlife and nature.
Provides a picturesque view of the city and its surroundings, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Known for its colorful colonial architecture and lively streets, offering great opportunities for capturing local life and urban landscapes.
A historic square in the city center with a mix of colonial buildings and vibrant street scenes, perfect for capturing the city's ambiance.
Food in Saint-Louis
Saint-Louis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This iconic Senegalese dish features fish and rice cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce with various vegetables. It’s a staple of local cuisine and is a must-try for visitors. Look for it at Le Toucouleur or Chez Salim.
Must-Try!
Also known as ‘thebou dien’ or ‘ceeb u jen’, this traditional dish consists of fish and rice in a tomato-based sauce, often with vegetables and served with a side of vibrant, spicy red or green chile pepper paste. For an authentic taste, try this dish at Restaurant Sao Sao.
Mafe is a hearty peanut butter stew featuring lamb or beef, and served with rice. The succulent meat is slow-cooked in a rich, creamy sauce that's complemented by the nutty taste of peanuts. Check out La Kora for a delectable Mafe experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Saint-Louis better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of culinary delights. From fresh produce and aromatic spices to sizzling grilled meats and snacks, a visit to Marché Soras offers an authentic insight into local ingredients and flavors. Don’t miss the opportunity to savor delectable street food such as brochettes (skewered meat) and aloco (fried plantain).
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Saint-Louis, Senegal, it is important to greet people with a handshake and a smile. Using greetings such as 'Salam aleikum' and 'Nanga def' (in Wolof) is also appreciated.
Respect for elders is a fundamental cultural norm in Saint-Louis, Senegal. It is important to show deference and use proper titles when addressing older individuals.
In Saint-Louis, Senegal, it is respectful to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with the local community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Saint-Louis with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Louis
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Saint-Louis, Senegal. However, in some tourist areas and higher-end establishments, a service charge may be included in the bill, in which case additional tipping is not expected.
In Saint-Louis, Senegal, cash is the most widely used form of payment, especially in smaller establishments and markets. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, larger restaurants, and supermarkets, but it's always recommended to have cash on hand for smaller vendors and local businesses.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Saint-Louis.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry season with lower humidity and more comfortable temperatures. Great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
Wet season with higher humidity and occasional heavy rainfall. Lush green landscapes, but some tourist facilities may be closed or have reduced hours.
Saint-Louis at Night
Hiking in Saint-Louis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A national park located near Saint-Louis, it offers scenic trails and stunning views of the coastline and diverse wildlife, making it a great spot for hiking enthusiasts.
This historic island has charming streets and paths to explore, offering a mix of urban walking and natural scenery with views of the river and nearby landscapes.
Located a bit further from Saint-Louis, this desert offers unique hiking opportunities through sand dunes and scenic vistas, ideal for adventurous hikers.
Though not immediately next to Saint-Louis, this UNESCO World Heritage site features extensive trails through varied ecosystems, ideal for longer hiking trips.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Saint-Louis through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Saint-Louis by plane.
Located approximately 50 kilometers from Saint-Louis, this is Senegal's primary international airport, serving a range of international and domestic flights.
Located in Dakar, about 270 kilometers from Saint-Louis, this airport serves as a major hub for international flights and connections across Africa and Europe.
Situated in The Gambia, approximately 250 kilometers from Saint-Louis, this airport serves international flights predominantly to and from Europe.
Located in Mauritania, roughly 570 kilometers from Saint-Louis, it serves as a key destination for flights within West Africa and to Europe.
Located in Sierra Leone, about 880 kilometers from Saint-Louis, this airport offers international flights, mainly to West Africa and Europe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Senegal, predominantly found in the region of Saint-Louis, known for their rich culture and traditions.
Another significant demographic group, the Pulaar people are known for their pastoral lifestyle and are part of a larger ethnic group that spans several West African countries.
An indigenous group in Senegal with a strong cultural heritage, the Serer people have a notable presence in Saint-Louis.
An ethnic group primarily located in the upper regions of Senegal, they are known for their agricultural practices and cultural traditions.
A sub-group of the Wolof ethnic group, they primarily reside along the coast and have a rich history tied to fishing and maritime activities.
This category includes various smaller groups that contribute to the multicultural landscape of Saint-Louis.
The Soul of Saint-Louis
Discover the essence of Saint-Louis through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Soccer is the most popular sport in Saint-Louis, Senegal, with a strong local passion for the game. The city has produced many notable players and boasts vibrant local leagues.
Traditional wrestling is a significant part of Senegalese culture, especially in Saint-Louis. It features a unique blend of physical strength, technique, and cultural rituals.
Basketball has been growing steadily in popularity among the youth in Saint-Louis, with various local teams competing in regional leagues.
Handball is also played in Saint-Louis, with numerous clubs engaging in competitions at various levels, contributing to its popularity.
Athletics, particularly track and field events, is promoted in schools and local communities, with several events and competitions taking place throughout the year.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Louis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is a prominent feature of Senegalese cuisine, many restaurants and cafes in Saint-Louis offer vegetarian and vegan adaptations of local dishes. Look for options like Yassa with tofu or plant-based thieboudienne.
For those with gluten sensitivities, grilled fish and fresh salads are excellent gluten-free choices readily available in many eateries. Additionally, communicating your dietary preferences to the staff can often lead to personalized meals to suit your needs.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Saint-Louis with these cultural adventures.
