/ Photo: Gary Stuart

Dakar, the very French capital of Senegal is a pleasant city with beautiful tree-lined boulevards and the most European atmosphere of any city on the continent (outside of South Africa). The city is located on the Cap Vert peninsula, Africa's westernmost point.

Dakar has some good museums and a few historic remains, most notably the Ile de Goree, which are worth a visit. The nightlife is among the best in Africa.

For shopping Dakar has some great African markets.

When you want to be active during your stay, see activities, when you want to relax, go to the beaches.

Dakar offers several good daytrips.

Sights

The IFAN Museum is worth a visit for anyone with an interest in African art. It has an excellent collection of masks and statues from the whole of West Africa.

The Ile de Goree is a must see. The island just off the coast is accesible by regular ferry boats. There are local guides available.

The islands itself has preserved a nice, laidback atmosphere in a historical setting. The most impressive sight is the fort from where slaves were transported to the America's.

There are some good fish restaurants near the harbour. Check the departure times of the boats before you order because you don't want to get stuck on the island.

The Grand Mosque is an attraction that has great significance to this Muslim country: If youre in Dakar on a Friday stop and listen to the afternoon call to prayers. (Non-Muslim women are not allowed to enter while non-Muslim men are welcome to enter if they do so just to observe.)

Several half-day and day trips can be taken from Dakar. To the west visit Cape Almadies the westernmost point of mainland Africa and home to lobster reserves and an old fort. To the east of Dakar is Cayar a very nice fishing village. Stop in Rufisque en route and watch the return of the fishermen from the sea with their catch. Continuing east stop at the Benedictine monastery in Keur Moussa. Visitors are welcome to attend its exotic African-style masses. Pink Lake or Lac Retba is an inland salt lake. Its pinkish hue is due to bacteria in the water.

There are several good beaches within range of the capital and many provide opportunities for snorkeling. However be aware of the possibility of undertows. Ask around to find out which beaches are safe. Some of the most beautiful beaches are in the Yoff area but you should choose carefully. The nicest of the small beaches near the capital are on NGor Island although getting there can be a hassle. The beaches are only a short canoe trip from the village of NGor (not far from Les Almadies) but be aware that crews competing for passengers can get aggressive and you might find yourself hustled to one boat while another crew tries to hustle you away to another.

The Senegalese capital has some of West Africas best nightlife. Lively discos and nightclubs are jammed after 11 pm most evenings. The French Cultural Center off the Ponty is a good source of information for events held at the center and elsewhere throughout the city.

Senegals best scuba diving place is in the water off either NGor Island or village. South of Dakar there are larger beaches at MBour and Saly. The Cap Vert area is graced with sand dunes baobab trees beautiful Atlantic views and a small beach with snorkeling nearby. Toubab Diallo is a very pleasant fishing village that lacks the crowds and hustle of Dakar Mbour and Saly. Public transportation to the village is available out of Diam Ndiado on the road between Dakar and Thies.