Hostels in Senegal

Senegal is a country located in West Africa. It is a coastal nation, with the Atlantic Ocean bordering it on one side. The main language spoken in the country is French, although English and other international languages are also spoken. Many tourists are drawn to Senegal for a variety of reasons, including the pretty sights of Dakar to the many activities outside the capital city.

Accommodation in Dakar isn’t too hard to find. You can look up hostels, hotels, and home stays in the city. Hostels are available outside the town too, although you may want to look a little harder for a good deal. For the most part, affordable hostels aren’t hard to find in Senegal. Whether you wind up staying in Dakar or not, there is a lot you can do while visiting the country.

For instance, you can visit Goree island or the Ille de Goree, a small island just off the Senegalese coast. You can reach it via ferry from Dakar. It is populated, and many inhabitants of Dakar have jobs on the island and commute to and from it every day. The island is famous because it was once a major port for the slave traders of the past. You can visit the Slave House on the island even today.

The museum on the Ille de Goree will give you a detailed insight into the history of the country and the island. Other nifty souvenir shops and local restaurants are located around the island too. The sea is safe for a swim, and the island is a good place to relax and unwind while in Senegal.

You should also take the time to visit the Pink Lake, known because of the color of the water in the lake. This pink color is caused by a mixture of bacteria and salt water. You can watch as the color of the lake changes from pink to a deeper shade of purple as the day goes on. Other sights to see around the lake include the people from surrounding areas who come to collect the salt and sell it.

Swimming is fine in the lake, although you must rinse yourself off with fresh water afterwards as the high salt content can cause all sorts of skin issues. A restaurant or two can be found adjoining the lake for a meal with a view.

If you want more to do inside the city of Dakar, you can try visiting the Sandaga market, one of the many markets in the city. It is known for the beautiful fabrics that are sold. You can buy traditional costumes at the market and watch the colorful setting of the entire place.

Senegal’s beaches are another part of the country you must visit. Dakar has some beaches nearby, but if you want a true seaside experience you should look for a hostel in or near Saly. Water sports, sailing and many other water-based activities are available for you to participate in at your leisure. While here, make sure you visit the local eateries and treat yourself to some local delicacies like jollof rice, couscous, and Yassa.

Handwritten by local expert for Senegal hostels Jakob Lombardi