Saly - Discovering Senegal

Travelling to Saly

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Saly, a pretty good destination in Senegal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Saly and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Saly, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Senegal, here's everything to know about Saly for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Saly

Saly is a seaside resort in Senegal, located about 80 km south of the capital city of Dakar. It is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant culture. Saly is a popular tourist destination, offering a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and activities such as fishing, water sports, and golf. The town has a lively nightlife with bars and nightclubs. Saly is also home to a nature reserve, where visitors can see a variety of native wildlife. The best time to visit Saly is from November to May, during the dry season.

What to visit in Saly

1. Plage de Saly: This is a beautiful and clean beach in Saly that draws tourists from all over the world. Unwind with activities like swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling.
2. Joal Fadiouth: Joal Fadiouth is a small coastal town just a short drive from Saly. The town is famous for its cemeteries of the Lebu minority on the island of shells.
3. Bandia Reserve: The Bandia Reserve is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Covering an area of about 3,500 hectares, it is home to a wide variety of animals such as giraffes, monkeys, and antelopes.
4. Somone Lagoon Reserve: The Somone Lagoon Reserve is a protected area located near the town of Somone. The lagoon is home to a large variety of bird species which make for great bird-watching opportunities.
5. Dakar: Dakar is the capital city of Senegal and just a short drive from Saly. It is famous for its vibrant markets, historical landmarks, and museums, as well as its exotic nightlife.
6. Mbour: Mbour is a charming fishing town known for its lively atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and traditional crafts, including wood carvings and pottery.
7. Accrobaobab Adventure: Accrobaobab Adventure Saly is an exciting adventure park featuring zip-lines, obstacle courses, and suspension bridges, all set among the treetops.
8. House of Slaves on Gorée Island: This is an important historical site located 19 kilometers from Dakar. It was here that thousands of Africans were sold and forced onto slave ships bound for the Americas. 9. Mbodiene Village des Tortues: This attraction is a turtle sanctuary which aims to protect and conserve various turtle species. Visit the park to watch these gentle creatures in a natural, protected environment.
10. Dakar Rally Experience: Senegal is famous for its Dakar Rally which attracts petrolheads from across the world. Join a tour to see the rally in action, meet drivers and explore the vehicles up-close.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Senegal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Saly.

When to go on holiday to Saly

The best time to go on holiday to Saly, Senegal is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is typically sunny and hot, with little to no rain. The temperatures range from mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit. However, this is also the peak tourist season, and prices for accommodation and activities may be higher. The rainy season in Saly runs from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in August and September. While the temperatures are still warm, the rain can make it difficult to participate in outdoor activities. If you are looking for a more affordable and less crowded experience, visiting in the shoulder season (April-May and October-November) may be a more suitable option for you.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Saly

There are different options to get to Saly, Senegal depending on where you are coming from and your budget. Here are some possible ways: 1. By plane: The most convenient way to get to Saly is to fly to the nearest international airport, which is Dakar's Blaise Diagne International Airport (airport code: DSS). From there, you can take a taxi or a private transfer directly to Saly. The journey takes approximately 1-2 hours depending on the traffic and the mode of transportation.
2. By bus: If you are on a budget, you can take a bus from Dakar to Mbour and then transfer to a local taxi or minibus to Saly. This can be a cheaper option but it can take longer and you might have to deal with crowded vehicles and delays.
3. By car: Another option is to rent a car and drive from Dakar to Saly. This can be a convenient way to explore the region on your own pace but be aware that driving in Senegal can be challenging and you need to be careful on the roads.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Saly, Senegal!
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Saly, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Saly

Sure, here are some typical foods of Saly in Senegal: 1. Thieboudienne: This is Senegal's national dish and consists of fish and rice cooked in a tomato and onion-based sauce. It usually also includes vegetables like carrots, eggplant, and cassava.
2. Yassa: This is chicken or fish marinated in a mixture of onions, lemon juice, and mustard. It is then grilled and served with white rice.
3. Mafé: This is a peanut-based stew usually made with beef, lamb, or chicken. It is served with rice and sometimes accompanied by vegetables like carrots and potatoes.
4. Dakhar: This is a spicy fish soup made with vegetables like carrots, cabbage, and eggplant. It is often served with rice or bread.
5. Thiakry: This is a sweet dessert made from millet, yogurt, and sugar. It is often served after meals or as a snack.
6. Aloco: This is a dish made with fried plantains seasoned with spices like garlic, onion, and chili. It can be served as a side dish or on its own as a snack.
7. Pâté: This is a dish made with ground cornmeal or manioc flour, boiled to form a dough-like consistency. It can be served with sauces or stews and is commonly eaten as a breakfast or lunch dish.
You can find general info about typical foods in Senegal here.

Is Saly an expensive destination for tourists?

Saly is considered one of the more developed tourist destinations in Senegal, and as a result it can be relatively expensive compared to some other parts of the country. Prices for accommodations, food, and activities are generally higher in Saly than in other parts of Senegal. That being said, there are still budget-friendly options available for those who are willing to do some research and shop around. Additionally, the higher prices in Saly often reflect a higher level of quality, comfort, and convenience - for example, in terms of the amenities provided by hotels and resorts in the area.

Where to find accomodation in Saly

It is best to find accommodation in the area near Saly Portudal Beach, as it is one of the main attractions in Saly. Other popular areas to stay in Saly include the Ngaparou neighborhood, which is known for its quieter and more relaxed atmosphere, and the La Somone area, which has a bird sanctuary and a unique lagoon ecosystem. Additionally, some visitors may prefer to stay in the downtown area of Saly for easy access to shops and restaurants.
You can check hotel prices at Saly here:
Booking.com

Is Saly a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Saly, Senegal is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, as with any destination, travelers should always exercise caution and take necessary safety measures, such as staying aware of their surroundings, avoiding carrying large sums of money, and not walking alone at night in secluded areas. It's also a good idea to check travel advisories and warnings before planning a visit to the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Senegal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Saly.

What type of travelers will enjoy Saly the most?

Saly is a popular tourist destination in Senegal that caters to a variety of travelers. Here are some types of travelers who will enjoy Saly the most: 1. Couples: Saly has a romantic atmosphere and is ideal for couples. The beautiful beaches and serene surroundings make it a perfect escape for couples looking for a romantic getaway.
2. Families: Saly is a great destination for families as it offers a variety of activities for all ages, such as beach sports, water activities, and trips to nearby nature reserves.
3. Young people: If you're a young traveler looking for fun, Saly has a vibrant nightlife with bars and clubs, where you can enjoy the local music and dance.
In summary, Saly is a versatile destination that can cater to all types of travelers.

How to get around Saly

In Saly, the most common forms of transportation are taxis and rental cars. Taxis are widely available and inexpensive, but it's important to negotiate the price before getting in the taxi. Rental cars are also available, but it's recommended to rent from a reputable company and be aware of the driving conditions. Additionally, some hotels and resorts offer shuttle services for their guests. Lastly, walking and bicycling are also options for shorter distances within Saly.

What to see around Saly

Here are some places you can visit on a day trip from Saly: 1. Dakar: The capital city of Senegal is only about an hour's drive from Saly. You can visit the markets, museums, and attractions like the African Renaissance Monument and the Dakar Cathedral.
2. Lac Rose: Also known as the Pink Lake, Lac Rose is a beautiful saltwater lake about 35 km northeast of Dakar. The lake gets its pink shade due to the high salt content in the water.
3. Goree Island: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a short ferry ride from Dakar and has a rich history as a center of the transatlantic slave trade.
4. Joal-Fadiouth: Located on the Petite Cote, Joal-Fadiouth is a fishing village known for its unique blend of Muslim and Christian communities, as well as the stunning scenery of the nearby Sine-Saloum Delta.
5. Bandia Reserve: A wildlife reserve located about 15 km from Saly. You can take a jeep safari to see animals such as giraffes, rhinoceroses, and zebras in their natural habitat. I hope this helps and you enjoy your trip!
For every travel information about Senegal you can click here.

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