Things To Do
in Saint-Louis
Saint-Louis, Senegal sits on the Saint-Louis Island and the Langue de Barbarie peninsular at the mouth of the Senegal River. The city is famed for its cobbled streets, colonial architecture, and a bohemian vibe that lingers from its French-era past. It's a gateway to bird-rich wetlands and is famous for the annual Saint-Louis Jazz Festival.
The atmosphere blends riverfront charm with easy access to nearby wildlife reserves.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, enjoying fresh pastries and Senegalese coffee. Afterward, wander through the charming streets of the historic center, taking in the colonial architecture and vibrant colors of the buildings. Don’t forget to visit the Place Faidherbe, where you can admire the statue of the famous French governor.
After lunch at a nearby restaurant featuring traditional Senegalese dishes, explore the local artisan shops and galleries. Engage with local artists and perhaps purchase unique handmade crafts as souvenirs. Stroll along the riverbanks of the Senegal River, soaking in the picturesque views and the peaceful ambiance.
As the sun sets, head to the local market to experience the lively atmosphere filled with sounds and smells of street food. Enjoy a dinner of fresh seafood, grilled to perfection at a popular waterfront eatery. Conclude your day by taking a relaxing walk along the river, watching the fishermen return with their day’s catch.
Begin your day early with a hearty breakfast before making your way to the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As you arrive, prepare for a guided boat tour that will take you through the breathtaking wetlands, home to thousands of migratory birds. Keep your binoculars ready to spot pelicans, herons, and flamingos in their natural habitat.
After your birdwatching adventure, enjoy a packed lunch in the serene surroundings of the sanctuary. Continue to explore the various trails and lookout points, learning more about the diverse ecosystems and wildlife from your guide. Capture stunning photographs of the unique flora and fauna that thrive in this vibrant environment.
Return to Saint-Louis in the late afternoon, where you can unwind at your hotel or take a stroll along the beach. For dinner, treat yourself to a meal at a local restaurant that specializes in Senegalese cuisine, like Thieboudienne, made with rice and fish. Spend your evening reflecting on the day’s adventures under the starry sky.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🍽️Three-course meal for two (mid-range restaurant) | $12-25 |
| ☕Cup of coffee or tea | $1-3 |
| 🚕Taxi ride within town | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich colonial heritage and riverfront charm
- Access to wildlife reserves and birdwatching
- Friendly locals and vibrant markets
- Compact city walkable core
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Seasonal heat and dust can be challenging
- Some areas have limited English/French-speaking services
- Travel logistics can be longer from the capital Dakar
- "Nanga def?" - How are you?
- "Jërëjëf" - Thank you
- "Ba beneen yoon" - See you later
- "Nanga wax English?" - Do you speak English?
- "Jamm rekk" - I am fine
Places to Visit in Saint-Louis
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic iron bridge spanning the Senegal River with views of boats and colonial boulevards.
Colorful colonial houses, shaded courtyards, and lively street scenes along cobbled lanes.
A narrow island peninsula with reed beds, salt flats, and sweeping river views ideal for sunset photography.
Wetlands teeming with birds; lookout hides and water channels perfect for wildlife photography.
Food in Saint-Louis
Saint-Louis Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rice cooked in fish stock with vegetables and typically served with fish; a staple at riverfront eateries.
Must-Try!
Lemon-marinated chicken with onions, often served over rice or with fried plantains.
A rich peanut-based stew with meat or vegetables, commonly enjoyed with rice or bread.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant waterfront market offering grilled fish, fresh produce, snacks, and affordable meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake and a friendly 'Bonjour' or 'Salaam.' Small talk is common before business.
Dress modestly in public; remove shoes when entering homes; ask permission before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Saint-Louis
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip (5-10%) is appreciated in restaurants and for tour guides if service is good.
Cash is widely accepted; some places take mobile money (Orange Money, Wave). Credit cards are common in larger hotels and some restaurants.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler mornings and comfortable daytime temperatures; harmattan dust can reduce visibility on some days.
Hot, dry days; carry water, wear light clothing, and plan outdoor activities early or late.
Periodic heavy rains and high humidity; landscapes turn lush and migratory birds peak mid-season.
Saint-Louis at Night
Hiking in Saint-Louis
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat trails and boardwalks through wetlands ideal for wildlife watching.
Easy coastal trails with birdlife and scenic river views.
Airports
How to reach Saint-Louis by plane.
Small regional airport serving domestic flights and some regional connections; limited schedule.
Main international gateway for the region; connection to Saint-Louis via road or domestic flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Wolof, Fula, and smaller groups; a strong riverine and coastal culture.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Most popular sport, played in local clubs and informal matches.
Common in schools and community centers with local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saint-Louis.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Focus on vegetable stews, legumes, and rice dishes; ask for fish-free broths and clearly request no meat products when ordering.