Saint-Louis

Senegal, Africa

Saint-Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is famed for its colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and the annual Saint-Louis Jazz Festival. The city is split between the mainland and an island connected by bridges, featuring colorful markets, artisan shops, and scenic sunsets over the Senegal River. Visitors can explore the rich history at the Faidherbe Bridge and discover the nearby wilderness in the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, making it an appealing blend of urban and natural experiences.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

City

Vibe

History

Airport

Saint Louis

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Saint-Louis

1

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore Île de Saint-Louis

Discover this UNESCO site with colonial architecture.

No booking required
2

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Faidherbe Bridge

Stroll along this iconic bridge for stunning views.

No booking required
3

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Maison de la Culture

Engage with local arts and crafts exhibitions.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Relax at Plage de la Pointe

Enjoy sunbathing and swimming at this beach.

No booking required
5

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Experience a Senegalese music night

Dance to vibrant local music and rhythms.

Booking required
6

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Regional Museum

Learn about the history and culture of Senegal.

No booking required
7

Est. 4 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Watch the birdlife at Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary

See thousands of migratory birds in their habitat.

Booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Sample local cuisine at a street food stall

Taste authentic Senegalese dishes like yassa and thiéboudienne.

No booking required
9

Est. 5 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival

Enjoy world-class jazz music in a vibrant atmosphere.

Booking required
10

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the local markets

Shop for handmade crafts and local produce.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-13 (#184 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

CFA Franc

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

Wolof

(20-50% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Thiéboudienne

Fish cooked with rice and vegetables (National dish)

Yassa Poulet

Chicken marinated in lemon and onions

Mafé

Peanut stew with meat or vegetables

Pastels

Fried pastries filled with fish or meat

Bassi Salte

Rice with meat and vegetables in sauce

Phrases to learn

English

Wolof

Hello

Naka nga def

(Nah-kah ngah dehf)

Yes/No

Waaw / Deedeet

(Wah-wah / Deh-deht)

Thank you

Jërëjëf

(Jeh-reh-jehf)

Excuse me

Ndegam

(N-deh-gahm)

How much?

Nata?

(Nah-tah)