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A travel destination in Africa with a measure of political stability, a rich cultural heritage, well developed beach resorts, a number of reserves and parks in which visitors can sate their eyes on exotic African animals and pink clouds of flamingos, Senegal is West Africa’s busiest and most sophisticated country, much sought after by the international traveller. A thriving, bustling nation of many ethnic groups, it is the "most happening hangout in West Africa" famed as much for its tropical beauty as its rhythmic music, fine textiles and delicious cuisine. The capital, Dakar is a favourite watering hole for travellers to this part of the continent and the towns along the Atlantic are perfect for a soak in the sun, game fishing and other water sports.

Senegal’s busy streets, vibrant markets and glittering nightlife are the best in West Africa, so claim the locals. Escape to the beaches of white sand for sunbathing and swimming while sipping in the local bear, Gazelle- the most popular item on the menu. Whether you want to be surrounded with people or to be all to yourself- Senegal is the perfect place for all!

Historically Speaking

Senegalese history dates from the 8th century, when it was part of the empire of Ghana. With the fall of the Ghanaian empire, Senegal broke away under the Djolof dynasty that flourished during the 13th and 14th centuries in the territory around the Senegal River and Dakar. The coming centuries saw the advent of European colonizers, particularly the Portuguese who established their supremacy over the region – a strangle hold that was to last through the 16th century. The British, French and Dutch forces, whose main interest lay in the lucrative slave trade with America, finally displaced the Portuguese. By the end of the 19th century the European nation that controlled Senegal was France, with St. Louis the new administrative centre of the colony. Senegalese nationalism floundered under the colonial yoke till a new generation of native politicians emerged under the leadership of Lamine Gueye and Leopold Senghor. This lot wanted independence and set about achieving their goal. In the fight for independence, Senegal was joined by French Sudan. Their alliance was known as the Federation of Mali, but it broke up soon after independence in 1960. Senegal became a republic under the presidency of Leopold Senghor. In 1980 Senghor resigned and Abdou Diouf was elected the new leader. The years after independence were troubled times with riots, secession movements, violent demonstrations, border disputes and to top it all, an economic crisis has made matters even worse. Austerity measures led to violence, destruction and unrest in Dakar and other cities. But new reform policies and strong economic action has resulted in economic recovery and the country is looking at a bright future.

Habitat

Senegal is a West African nation, set on the shores of the North Atlantic Ocean. Senegal is bordered by the Republic of Guinea and Guinea-Bissau to the south, Mali to the east and Mauritania to the north. The small-confederated state of Gambia lies in a tiny enclave in the south of Senegal. The terrain is generally low-lying with rolling plains giving way to the foothills of Fouta Djallon in the southeast and the Bambouk Mountains on the Mali border. The coastal area between Dakar and St Louis is a region of shifting sand dunes. South of Dakar are shallow estuaries and palm fringed coastline. In the northern part of the country, south of the Senegal Basin, lies the arid Sahelian plain of Fouta Ferlo, with scrub or no vegetation. The coastline is 531 km long and three major rivers, the Casamance, the Gambia and the Senegal, crisscross the plains of the country making up river borders with Mauritania and Gambia. The construction of dams on the Senegal River, overgrazing, deforestation and soil erosion are some of the environmental problems faced by Senegal.