Senegal as the France of Africa

Senegal is not just a dot on the map for us, but a place that has become our home for a while. We lived here for two years and experienced everything – from dancing children in the sandy streets of Dakar to quiet evenings with strong frothy mint tea by the ocean.

Senegal, nicknamed the France of Africa, is located on the west coast of Africa and borders Mali, Mauritania, Guinea and Gambia. The capital is Dakar, a vibrant metropolis full of contrasts – both traditional culture and modern trends. The country is considered one of the most stable in the region and is known for its "terangou" – the legendary Senegalese hospitality, which is deeply rooted in the local culture. It is home to many ethnic groups, the largest of which are the Wolof, Fulbhe and Serer.

We have traveled all over Senegal. Here is a sample of our tips for visiting:

• Green Cape is the westernmost point of the African continent, located in Dakar. The country of Cape Verde is named after this Cape Verde. See our video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-3Rj_mtnb3/?igsh=MW9sODdrNHZtdG4zYg== 
• Gorée Island is located just 2 km from Dakar. It was a symbol of the Atlantic slave trade. Today, it is a monument and a beautiful tourist destination with colonial architecture and an art scene. See our video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C_8sCcWtSGn/?igsh=NXpnM3JvbDlhNWJi 
• The Bandia Nature Reserve is a true ecological gem. In the expanse of baobabs you can see legendary animals such as: giraffes, rhinos, buffaloes, zebras, monkeys, ostriches or crocodiles. A rescue program for the derby antelope is underway in Czech-Senegalese cooperation. The University of Agriculture in Prague has already managed to save dozens of individuals. See our video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-ucbRoMta6/?igsh=MW9wb2ZscTBhZmJwdw== 
• Dindefelo Falls are located near the town of Kedougou. They are a tourist attraction and park in southeastern Senegal. They are located just a few kilometers from the Guinean border. The waterfalls are about 100 meters high. See our video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-qBBIRsZjc/?igsh=aXQ1eGYza2F0aGJk 
• Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is home to the largest pelican nesting site on the entire African continent and is located in the northwest of Senegal. To our surprise, up to 38,000 of them nest here and around 10,000 young are born between December and May. Each pelican eats 2 kg of fish per day. During the winter, 3 million birds flock here. See our video: https://www.instagram.com/reel/C-p8atLMRVO/?igsh=cW83b3VvcHBjY2M2   

Interesting facts you may not know:

• Senegal has never had a military coup, which is very unique in the region.
• Many people speak more than three languages ​​fluently – the official language is French, but Wolof, Serer, Fulbhe and others are also commonly used.
• Senegal is one of the few African countries where it is not customary to use a woman's surname after marriage – women keep their maiden name.
• In Dakar you will find the tallest statue in Africa – the African Renaissance Monument, 49 meters high.

Senegal is not a "typical" tourist destination - and that's why it's so magical. It's a land of colors, rhythms, smiles and hospitality. It teaches you to slow down, listen and see the beauty in ordinary things. If you're looking for a destination where you can experience authentic Africa without pretense, where people invite you for tea off the street and where every day can turn into a little adventure, then Senegal awaits you with open arms.