Set along a palm-lined beach, Saly Portudal is a popular seaside resort in Senegal’s Petite Côte region. It was established as a Portuguese trading post in the 16th century and has since evolved into one of the most popular tourist destinations in West Africa.
Kick back on the golden sands of Saly’s main beach, where you can swim, sunbathe or participate in a range of water sports. Jet skis and windsurfing equipment are available for rent and horse rides are an idyllic way to watch the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Golfers can head to the Golf de Saly while anglers can try their luck at luring in sailfish, tuna and marlin.
A short drive inland is Foret de Bandia, where you can spot big game African species such as rhinoceros, zebras and giraffes on safari drives. Marvel at the park’s giant baobabs and see the replica Serer-built pyramids with their burial chambers.
Getting there
Saly Portudal is just over an hour’s drive from Dakar and 35 minutes from Blaise Diagne International Airport, which has flights to destinations across Europe and Africa. Renting a car is the most convenient way of getting to and around Saly Portudal.