Saint Louis
August 14, 2023
Saint-Louis, also known by the Wolof name Ndar, is one of the most beautiful and interesting cities in West Africa. It lies at the estuary of the Senegal River, more than 300 km northeast of the capital Dakar, near the Atlantic Ocean. It was the first capital of French West Africa and has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. The city is now home to an estimated 170,000 residents. Saint-Louis is known for its colonial architecture, cultural diversity, and musical heritage.
One of the first things you'll see when you visit the city is the Faidherbe Bridge, which connects the island to the mainland. This bridge was built in 1897 by the French and is 500 meters long. Its impressive structure offers a beautiful view of the river and the city. The bridge is also important for transportation and trade between the island and the mainland. The historic heart of Saint-Louis is Ndar Island, where you can admire the colorful houses, the governor's palace, and the cathedral. The island is also home to many art galleries, museums, and craft shops. You can explore it on foot, by bike, or by horse-drawn carriage. The town also includes a fishing quarter, where you can witness the daily life of fishermen and their families. You can see them preparing their boats, mending their nets, sorting their catches, and selling them in the market. You can also try fresh fish or other seafood.
Every May, Saint-Louis hosts one of Africa's most prestigious jazz festivals, attracting musicians from all over the world. You can enjoy concerts, workshops, exhibitions, and street performances in various places around the city. You can also discover local musical traditions such as griots and sabar drums.
About 15 km from Saint-Louis you can visit the Djoudj National Bird Reserve, a wetland of international importance and a refuge for migratory birds. You can take a boat trip and observe thousands of pelicans, flamingos, herons, and other species. You can also spot crocodiles, monkeys, and warthogs.
These are just some of the reasons why Saint-Louis is a fascinating place to visit. Saint-Louis has a truly unique and unrepeatable atmosphere - old colonial buildings, amazing architecture, large fishing boats - you can find it all in one place. If you are looking for a truly powerful experience, visit Saint-Louis with us.