Things to do in Senegal

Step into the sobering Maison des Esclaves, a poignant memorial to the Atlantic slave trade, and stand at the 'Door of No Return' overlooking the Atlantic.

Gaze up at the colossal 49-metre bronze statue of a family emerging from a volcano, a dramatic symbol of Africa's rebirth, especially spectacular when the sun dips behind it.

Paddle out to this world-class right-hand reef break off N'Gor Island, where long, peeling barrels attract surfers from across the globe.

Wade into the vividly pink, salt-saturated lake, a surreal natural wonder whose colour intensifies in the dry season, and watch salt harvesters at work.

Glide by pirogue through this vast wetland paradise, an essential stopover for millions of migratory birds including vast flocks of pink flamingos and white pelicans.

Wander narrow, colonial-era streets lined with pastel-coloured façades and ornate wrought-iron balconies on this charming island bridging the Senegal River and the Atlantic.

Groove to world-class jazz and African rhythms at this iconic festival that transforms the island city into an open-air stage every spring.

Plunge into Dakar's bustling central market, where towering piles of brilliantly coloured fabrics and a cacophony of bargaining sounds create an unforgettable sensory overload.

Navigate a labyrinth of emerald mangrove creeks and bolongs in a traditional wooden canoe, spotting ospreys, monkeys and fishing villages hidden among the islands.

Choose your catch straight from the Atlantic at this elegant round market, then have it grilled on the spot and devour it with spicy onion sauce.

Walk among hundreds of weathered laterite stone circles, a 1,500-year-old burial ground and one of the world's largest megalithic complexes, set in quiet savannah.

Toast to the sunset over the westernmost tip of Africa from a chic rooftop in Dakar's wealthiest neighbourhood, known for its lively nightlife and ocean views.

Sink your toes into soft white sand fringed by coconut palms on this stunning Casamance beach, where azure waters and a laid-back fishing village atmosphere reign.

Drive through a semi-arid landscape of ancient baobabs and acacias to spot rhinoceros, giraffes, zebra and antelope in this private reserve just an hour from Dakar.

Paddle silently through a tangled waterway of mangroves, spotting kingfishers and mudskippers, and visit the island village of Hitou for a glimpse of animist traditions.

Feel the adrenaline as massive fighters, dripping in gri-gri amulets, clash in the traditional Laamb wrestling, a captivating blend of sport, dance and magic.

Lose yourself in one of West Africa's oldest art museums, home to a superb collection of masks, statues, musical instruments and intricate textiles from across the region.

Dig into a steaming bowl of rice cooked in a rich tomato sauce with fish and vegetables, the quintessential Senegalese comfort food, at this beloved local institution.

Hike along rugged basalt cliffs plunging into the Atlantic, where volcanic rock formations meet crashing waves, part of the Popenguine natural reserve.

Cross a wooden bridge to an extraordinary island made entirely of millions of seashells, where streets, houses and even the cemetery are paved with shells.

Stand before the immense spiritual centre of the Mouride brotherhood, with its five soaring minarets and vast marble courtyards, one of the largest mosques in Africa.

Watch a frenzy of brightly painted pirogues unloading their glistening catch as women expertly sort and auction fish on the sand in this major artisanal fishing port.

Hike through lush greenery and remote Bassari villages to a thunderous 100-metre waterfall plunging into a natural pool perfect for a refreshing swim.

Step inside the elegant residence of Senegal's first president and renowned poet, preserved as a museum showcasing his personal library, artwork and intimate belongings.

Experience the Sahara-like landscape of orange sand dunes in this small desert, riding camels and spending the night in a traditional Moorish tent under a canopy of stars.