Dak‘Art and Senegal Discovery Tour – 9 Days (Nov 7 to 15, 2024)

Day 1: ARRIVE IN DAKAR, SENEGAL (Nov 7)

Upon arriving in Senegal, you will receive a warm welcome and be assisted with your transfer to your hotel. Your experienced cultural tour guide will then brief you on the scheduled activities and provide insights into what you can expect during your stay.

Overnight at Pullman Hotel

Day 2: GOREE ISLAND – DAKAR AND VICINITY (Nov 8)

After breakfast, we depart for Goree Island, a serene UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its quiet streets lined with pastel-colored colonial-era buildings. One of the most notable sites is the House of Slaves, which vividly documents Goree’s tragic history. Here, you can view the infamous “Door of No Return,” through which millions passed on their way to slavery. The curator will provide a guided tour, offering deep insights into Goree’s history.

You’ll also have time to visit the Town Square, the Historical Museum, and wander through the charming streets. After lunch, we return to Dakar to visit the Dak’Art exhibitions and displays.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight at Pullman Hotel.

Day 3: DAKAR – DAK’ART FESTIVAL (Nov 9)

After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Dakar and its surroundings. Begin at Independence Place, the heart of the city, where you’ll pass by the Presidential Palace and the main cathedral. Follow the seafront drive to Soumbedioune Market and the Mosque de la Revelation, highlighting the contrasts between upscale residential areas and popular neighborhoods. Experience bustling hotspots and craft markets like Kermel and Soumbedioune Markets.

Next, visit the African Renaissance Monument, a 164-foot-tall bronze statue overlooking Dakar and taller than the Statue of Liberty. Despite its controversial history, it has become a popular attraction for both locals and visitors. Explore the Museum of Black Civilization, Africa’s most modern and comprehensive museum, featuring four floors of historical artifacts from across the continent. Conclude your tour with a visit to the Dak’Art exhibitions and displays.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight at Pullman Hotel

Day 4: DAKAR – THIES – SAINT LOUIS (Nov 10

After breakfast, depart for the drive to Saint Louis. En route, stop in Thies for lunch, a city renowned for its beautiful handwoven baskets crafted by local artisans. After lunch, take the opportunity to shop for baskets, hats, and other items at attractive prices.

Continue your journey to Saint Louis, arriving in the late afternoon. Check into your hotel and unwind for the evening.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight at Residence Hotel

DAY 5: ST LOUIS – CITY TOUR (NOV 11)

After a well-deserved breakfast, embark on a horse-drawn carriage tour to explore the narrow streets of Saint Louis, founded in the mid-17th century as the Kingdom of the Signars. The Signars, descendants of African slave mothers and European slave masters, have left a significant cultural imprint on the city. Our first stop is the Governor’s Palace, an 18th-century fortress steeped in history.

Next, we visit the Nguet Ndar area, a renowned fishing village nestled between the river and the Atlantic Ocean. Experience the bustling life of this community and learn about its rich maritime heritage.

In the afternoon, enjoy a leisurely walking tour and explore the charming streets of Saint Louis. Take time to shop and soak in the local atmosphere before returning to your accommodation.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Overnight at Residence Hotel

Day 6: ST LOUIS – TOUBA – SALY (Nov 12)

Today, depart from Saint Louis and head to Touba, the holy city of the Mouridi Brotherhood. This unique city in West Africa operates autonomously from the central government, with residents exempt from paying taxes, similar to the Vatican. Explore Touba’s significant religious and cultural sites, learning about the history of Mouridism and its founder, Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba.

Visit the main facilities and gain insight into this influential religious movement. After exploring Touba, continue your journey to Saly Resort. Upon arrival, check into your hotel, enjoy dinner, and relax for the evening.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight at Movempick Lamentin Beach

Day 7: SALY – JOAL FADIOUTH – SALY (Nov 13)

After breakfast, depart for the island of Fadiouth, passing through Joal and several traditional villages along the way. In Joal, explore the history of Leopold Sedar Senghor, Senegal’s first post-colonial president. Continue to Fadiouth, known as Shell Island, and visit its unique mixed-religion cemetery, symbolizing religious tolerance.

On the return journey to Saly, stop to visit the fishing port of Mbour and its vibrant Souk (market).

Arrive back at the hotel in time to relax before enjoying dinner tonight.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Overnight at Movempick Lamentin Beach

Day 8: SALY – DAK’ART EXHIBITION – SALY/DAKAR (Nov 14)

After breakfast, we return to Dakar for a final day to explore various exhibitions at Dak’Art. Visit bustling markets to purchase more artifacts and make connections. Later, check back into your hotel and prepare for an outdoor dinner at a restaurant featuring live music.

Meal(s) Included: Breakfast, Dinner.

Overnight at Movempick Lamentin Beach / Azalai Dakar

Day 9:SALY / DAKAR – DEPART (Nov 15)

Today is free for individual activities and relaxation. At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.