From its picturesque beaches and vibrant markets to its range of natural wonders and groups of local women, colorfully dressed and adorned with the most artistic headwraps, explorers can now fly to Dakar, Senegal’ s Blaise Diagne International Airport on United Airlines’ nonstop service from Washington Dulles three times weekly.
This is a destination that has long captivated and enchanted visitors from all over the world.
Often called the‘ Paris of West Africa,’ Senegal’ s cosmopolitan capital is not only the country’ s administrative and commercial center but also home to the largest seaport in Africa. All of these factors, combined with the city’ s many other attractive features, contribute to making it one of the most talked-about destinations on the continent.
In Place de l’ Indépendance, the heartbeat of the city, French colonial architecture collides with modernity amid the buzz of lively street scenes, bustling vendors, and the rhythmic chatter of Wolof— the language preferred by many locals. Meanwhile, the nearby Dakar Cathedral of African Remembrance fuses French and African design with twin towers ascending toward the skyline, while the Presidential Palace, with its whitewashed walls and guards in red, stands as a striking symbol of Senegal’ s post-independence pride.
Among the many adjectives commonly used to describe a visit to Dakar, the term‘ authentic’ stands out, and perhaps nowhere is this quality more apparent than in the local markets. Marché Kermel, a landmark in its own right, is situated in a flower-shaped pavilion overflowing with vendors selling everything from local crafts and vibrant textiles to exotic spices, fresh produce, and fish. Similarly, the more chaotic Marché Sandaga sprawls across multiple streets, enticing visitors with a world of handmade jewelry, leather goods, and street food like thieboudienne— Senegal’ s national dish of fish, rice, and vegetables.
Art lovers will be thrilled to discover that in this African capital city, home to the Dakar Biennale— one of Africa’ s premier art festivals that draws international artists and collectors— a treasure trove of art awaits. The Museum of Black Civilizations is a modern gem showcasing Africa’ s extensive history, art, and heritage along with its diaspora. The IFAN Museum( Theodore Monod Museum of African Art), one of the oldest art institutions in West Africa, features a rich collection of more than 9,000 African artifacts, including masks, statuettes, drums, pottery, ceramics, and baskets. There’ s also the Village des Arts( The Arts Village), a Senegalese cultural center that consists of 52 workshops highlighting the work of local artists across all disciplines of the visual arts. Additionally, several prominent local galleries, notably the Cécile Fakhoury Gallery and The Yassine Gallery, actively promote contemporary African art.
Outside the city, Dakar’ s attractions become even more sumptuous. Les Almadies, situated at the western end of Cape Verde peninsula and renowned for its tranquil beaches and fresh seafood, is the ideal place for a relaxing escape from the city’ s hustle. Meanwhile, the Madeleine Islands, a short boat ride from the city, serve as an untouched haven of volcanic rock and seabird colonies. Closer in, Lac Rose( Pink Lake), a saltwater oasis, captivates with its surreal hue, attributed to algae.
At its core, Dakar is a destination that thrives on contrasts— urban chaos meets coastal calm, and tradition dances with modernity. It’ s a city where the spirit of teranga( Senegalese hospitality) welcomes travelers seeking an authentic and unforgettable experience. Whether you’ re tracing history or chasing sunsets, Dakar promises an undeniably unforgettable West African adventure.
GETTING THERE:
United Airlines has nonstop service from Washington Dulles International Airport( IAD) to Dakar, Senegal’ s Blaise Diagne International Airport( DSS) with three flights weekly.
African Renaissance Monument
Credit: Miroslav Liska
Dakar, Senegal
Credit: Dominic Nicholas
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