Things to do in Somone Lagoon
Discover the best attractions and experiences Somone Lagoon has to offer
Historic Monuments
Explore sites that reveal Senegal's layered history around the Somone area and the wider coast.
Maison des Esclaves (Gorée Island)
A poignant UNESCO-listed fortress and museum on Gorée Island, just a short ferry ride from Dakar.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Victoires, Dakar
A historic cathedral in central Dakar with colonial-era architecture.
Fort of Rufisque
A historical fort near Rufisque overlooking the coast with colonial-era significance.
Museums
Cultural hubs housing art, archaeology and African history along the Atlantic corridor.
IFAN Museum of African Arts (Musée des Arts Africains)
Pan-African art and heritage collections housed in a historic building.
Musée des Civilisations Noires (MCN)
Exhibits showcasing the diversity of African civilizations and cultures.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites from mosques to cathedrals echoing the region’s diverse faiths.
Grande Mosquée de Dakar
Impressive grand mosque displaying modern African religious architecture.
Cathédrale Notre-Dame des Victoires
A historic cathedral in central Dakar with a calm interior.
National & Theme Parks
Wildlife reserves and protected mangroves worth a nature-filled day trip.
Bandia Wildlife Reserve
A close encounter with African wildlife including giraffes and rhinos in a savanna setting.
Réserve naturelle de la Somone
Lush mangroves and lagoons ideal for boat trips and bird watching.
Saloum Delta (Delta du Saloum) Biosphere Reserve
Cascading tidal networks of mangroves and small islands in a UNESCO Biosphere area.
Neighborhoods
Vibrant coastal towns and villages along the Petite Côte.
Saly Portudal
A lively resort town with beaches, restaurants and markets.
La Somone
A scenic village by the lagoon known for its beaches and relaxed vibe.
Ngaparou
A beachside village with local markets and guesthouses.
Free Things to Do
Low-cost ways to enjoy the coastline and wildlife.
Walk along Somone Beach
Stretch your legs on the long lagoon-side beach at sunrise or sunset.
Birdwatching at Réserve naturelle de la Somone
Scan the mangroves for herons, stilts and flamingos.
Stroll Mbour markets
Browse stalls with local crafts, fruits and seafood at a laid-back pace.
Gastronomy
Savor iconic Senegalese dishes and coastal flavors.
Thieboudienne (Ceebu Jën)
A fragrant fish and rice dish considered Senegal’s signature meal.
Yassa Poulet
Lemony marinated chicken with onions, a staple of Senegalese cooking.
Maafe (peanut stew)
Rich peanut sauce served with rice or couscous.
Nightlife
Coastal resorts offer relaxed evening spots with sea views.
Saly Beachfront Bars
Casual venues along the coast with drinks and live music.
Casino de Saly
A local casino with gaming and occasional shows.
Entertainment
Live performances and cultural showcases around the coast.
Live music at Saly venues
Evening gigs featuring local bands and DJs.
Traditional dances at resort areas
Short cultural performances drawing on Senegalese heritage.
Sports
Active pursuits for outdoor lovers.
Golf de Saly
An 18-hole course set near the coast, ideal for a round in tropical sun.
Diving & snorkeling near Petite Côte
Explore marine life along the coastline with local operators.
Kayaking in Lac de la Somone
Paddle through calm waters and mangroves, a peaceful workout.
Off the Track
Unusual ways to experience the region beyond beaches.
Pirogue boat ride through Somone mangroves
Glide through mangroves and spot birds and fish.
Mangrove kayaking tour
Close-up views of roots, water and wildlife.
Archaeological sites in Joal-Fadiouth
Explore the shell island and historic cemeteries connected by a wooden bridge.