Dakar, Senegal

The Westernmost City in Africa

Enigmatic, electric, and endlessly explorable, Dakar dazzles on the West African coast. Jutting out on the Cape Verde Peninsula, the city is the westernmost point of the African continent, and was an important trading point for European colonial powers. 

From its more notorious incarnations, Dakar has evolved into a vibrant city that’s a blend of historic French je ne sais quois, modern architecture, and amazing, authentic open-air markets. A shining example of 21st-century Africa, start at Medina, a neighborhood that will give you a real taste of local life with street markets, tiny shops, and restaurants where you’ll want to try bissap, the local tea made with hibiscus, sugar and water.

From the bustle of downtown, Île de Gorée provides a laid-back island escape. Take some time for reflection at the House of Slaves Museum, grab a drink at a calm beach on the bay, or explore the surf on the north side of the island.  

Discover Dakar’s exceptional arts scene at Village des Arts, set in a beautiful garden. Learn more about black cultural contributions across the world at the Museum of Black Civilizations. Get up close with a day trip to a bio-preserve home to 11 species of turtles. Arts, culture, history, nature—Dakar definitely doesn’t disappoint.