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15 Astounding Things to do in Saint-Louis – you shouldn’t be missing

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    If you have done the things to do in France, you’d know there are quite a few of them here in Saint-Louis.

    Saint-Louis awaits you like a treasure chest filled with dazzling jewels of history, culture, and nature.

    From exploring the colorful colonial architecture to savoring the mouthwatering local cuisine, the city offers an enchanting blend of past and present.

    So put on your adventurer’s hat and follow the beat of the drums as we show you some of the best things to do in Saint-Louis.

    Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Saint-Louis:

    1. Saint-Louis Island

    Saint-Louis Island. pic by Annie Guilloret. by-nc-nd 2.0

    Saint-Louis Island is a charming island in the heart of Paris, located in the Seine River between the Left and Right banks.

    What to see or do: – Visit the stunning Saint-Louis-en-l’Île Church and marvel at its breathtaking architecture.

    Don’t miss: – The weekly open-air market on Thursdays and Sundays, where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and handmade crafts.

    Insider travel tips: – Avoid visiting during peak tourist season to fully appreciate the island’s charm and tranquility.

    2. Place Faidherbe

    Place Faidherbe. pic by 10b travelling / Carsten ten Brink. by-nc-nd 2.0

    Place Faidherbe is a historic square located in the heart of Saint-Louis, Senegal.

    What to see or do: This bustling square is surrounded by beautiful colonial buildings that now house shops, restaurants, and cafes. Take a stroll around the square and admire the stunning colonial architecture.

    You can also visit the nearby Governor’s Palace, which is now a museum dedicated to the history of Saint-Louis.

    Don’t miss: Be sure to catch a glimpse of the iconic statue of Faidherbe, the French general who founded Saint-Louis in the 19th century.

    The statue stands proudly in the center of the square.

    Insider travel tips: If you’re looking for a bite to eat, head to one of the many cafes or restaurants lining the square. For a great view of the square, visit one of the rooftop bars nearby.

    And don’t forget your camera – the colorful colonial buildings and lively street scenes make for great photo opportunities.

    3. Saint-Louis Cathedral

    Saint-Louis Cathedral. pic by Onasill ~ Bill. by-nc-sa 2.0

    Saint-Louis Cathedral is a historic cathedral located in the heart of the French Quarter of New Orleans.

    What to see or do: The cathedral features stunning architecture with an intricately designed façade and a grand bell tower. Visitors can attend Mass services or simply take in the beauty of the interior space.

    The cathedral also features several ornate stained glass windows and a statue of Saint Louis in front of the building.

    Don’t miss: Taking a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture of the cathedral, including the intricate detailing on the façade and the beautiful stained glass windows inside.

    Insider travel tips: – Mass services are open to the public and a great way to experience the peaceful atmosphere of the cathedral.

    4. Eco Museum of Saint-Louis

    Eco Museum of Saint-Louis

    The Eco Museum of Saint-Louis is a museum dedicated to the preservation of the history and culture of the region of Saint-Louis in Senegal.

    What to see or do: Visitors can explore the exhibits that showcase traditional housing, farming, and crafts of the local population. The museum also hosts cultural events such as traditional music, dance performances, and art exhibitions throughout the year.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through the recreated traditional village that showcases the everyday lives of the Senegalese people. You can also visit the nearby Saint-Louis town, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

    Insider travel tips: – Arrange for a guided tour to fully appreciate the history and culture of the exhibits.

    5. Guembeul Nature Reserve

    Guembeul Nature Reserve

    Guembeul Nature Reserve is a protected habitat located in northern Senegal near the city of Saint-Louis. It covers over 6,500 hectares and is home to a variety of wildlife and vegetation.

    What to see or do: Visitors can explore the reserve through guided tours and hikes. The reserve is home to over 230 species of birds, as well as parks, lagoons, and wetlands.

    There are also opportunities to see West African crocodiles, African manatees, and other wildlife.

    Don’t miss: Be sure to visit the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, located nearby, which is known for its impressive bird watching opportunities. Also, make sure to take a boat ride through the lagoons to see the wildlife up close.

    Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the reserve can be hot and dry during the day. Additionally, it is recommended to hire a guide to ensure a safe and informative experience.

    Finally, check out the local hotels and restaurants in Saint-Louis for the best accommodations and cuisine.

    6. Langue de Barbarie National Park

    Langue de Barbarie National Park

    Langue de Barbarie National Park is a protected area located at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean in Saint-Louis, Senegal.

    What to see or do: The park is a birdwatcher’s paradise with over 150 species that can be sighted all year round.

    Visitors can also take a boat ride through the mangroves, hike the park’s trails, and watch dolphins playing in the ocean.

    Don’t miss: Make sure to visit the Langue de Barbarie peninsula, a narrow strip of land that separates the Atlantic Ocean from the Senegal River.

    You can also visit Guet Ndar, a nearby fishing village known for its colorful pirogues (fishing boats) and bustling fish market.

    Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, from November to May.

    7. Sor Beach

    Sor Beach

    A secluded beach located in the outskirts of Saint-Louis, Senegal.

    What to see or do: Enjoy a peaceful day lounging on the sandy beach, swimming in the calm waters or taking a long walk along the shoreline.

    Don’t miss: Catching a glimpse of the local fishermen bringing in their daily catch.

    Insider travel tips: Bring your own food and drinks as there are no restaurants or vendors nearby. Also, consider visiting during weekdays when the beach is less crowded.

    8. Djoudj National Bird Park

    Djoudj National Bird Park

    Djoudj National Bird Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the Senegal River delta, near the city of Saint-Louis, in northern Senegal.

    The park covers over 16,000 hectares of wetlands, waterways, and floodplains that support a wide diversity of birds and other wildlife.

    What to see or do: The park is home to over 400 species of birds, including pelicans, cormorants, herons, ducks, and flamingos, making it an excellent destination for birdwatching enthusiasts.

    Visitors can take a boat tour through the park’s waterways to see the birds up close and observe their natural habitats.

    Don’t miss: One of the main attractions of Djoudj National Bird Park is the flamingo colony, which gathers at the park during the winter season, from November to April.

    The number of flamingos in the park can reach up to 1.5 million, making it one of the largest colonies in the world.

    Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the park is during the dry season, from November to June when the water levels are low, and the birds gather in large numbers.

    Visitors should bring sunscreen, a hat, and mosquito repellant, as the park can get very hot and humid. It’s also recommended to book a guided tour to learn more about the park’s ecology and wildlife.

    9. Saint-Louis Fish Market

    Saint-Louis Fish Market. pic by 10b travelling / Carsten ten Brink. by-nc-nd 2.0

    Saint-Louis Fish Market is a popular and vibrant market that sells fresh fish every day.

    What to see or do: Visitors can explore the market and see a variety of fish that are caught locally, including octopus, swordfish, and sea bream.

    It’s a great place to watch fishermen as they auction off their daily catches.

    Don’t miss: If you’re a seafood lover, don’t miss the chance to try some of the fish that’s sold at the market. The freshly caught fish is often used in local restaurants, and it’s delicious.

    Insider travel tips: – The market opens early in the morning, so it’s best to arrive as early as possible to get the freshest selection.

    10. Musée de Saint-Louis

    Musée de Saint-Louis. pic by jean louis mazieres. by-nc-sa 2.0

    Musée de Saint-Louis is a museum located in Saint-Louis, Senegal. It was established in 1958 and is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the city and its people.

    What to see or do: The museum has a collection of artifacts and exhibits showcasing the traditional life and culture of the people of Saint-Louis. Visitors can explore the various rooms and galleries that feature items like traditional clothing, musical instruments, photography, and more.

    Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the exhibit showcasing the vibrant local music scene.

    Visitors can listen to samples of various musical genres, including Salsa, Jazz, and Mbalax, which is a popular form of Senegalese music.

    Insider travel tips: – The museum is located in the historic heart of Saint-Louis, so take some time to explore the charming colonial-era buildings and narrow streets surrounding it.

    11. Rue du Commerce

    Rue du Commerce. pic by C. B. Campbell. by 2.0

    Rue du Commerce is a charming pedestrian street in the historic district of Saint-Louis, a small town located in the east of France.

    What to see or do: Visitors can stroll along the narrow street and admire the beautiful half-timbered houses that date back to the 18th century.

    The street is lined with local shops and boutiques, offering a variety of goods ranging from handmade pottery to gourmet food items.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss out on trying some of the region’s specialties, such as Alsatian sausages, cheeses, and wines.

    Take a break at one of the street’s cozy cafes and enjoy a cup of coffee and a pastry while watching the hustle and bustle of the charming town.

    Insider travel tips: If you visit Saint-Louis on a Tuesday or a Thursday morning, make sure to check out the local market at Place de l’Hôtel de Ville, located just a few steps away from Rue du Commerce.

    It’s a great place to find fresh produce, gourmet products, and take home souvenirs. Parking can be challenging in the area, so consider taking public transportation or walking if possible.

    12. Pirogue trips on the Senegal River

    Pirogue trips on the Senegal River

    Pirogue trips are traditional boats made of wood, commonly used for fishing and transportation in West Africa. In Saint-Louis, they are used for scenic rides on the Senegal River.

    What to see or do: Experience the picturesque views of the colonial city of Saint-Louis from the water. Admire the colors of the sky during sunset or the wildlife around Djoudj National Bird Park.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss a chance to interact with local fishermen and learn about their daily life.

    Insider travel tips: Be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat as the Senegal sun can be unforgiving. Negotiate the price and duration of your trip beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.

    13. Fort de Saint-Louis

    Fort de Saint-Louis. pic by dbrothier. by-nc-sa 2.0

    Fort de Saint-Louis is a historic fort located in the capital city of Senegal, Dakar.

    What to see or do: Visitors can explore the fort’s museums and exhibitions, which showcase the history and culture of the region. The fort also offers guided tours to provide a more in-depth understanding of its role in Senegal’s past.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss the panoramic views of Dakar and the Atlantic Ocean from the fort’s terrace.

    Insider travel tips: – Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat of the day.

    14. Saint-Louis Lighthouse

    Saint-Louis Lighthouse. pic by Parcours riverain – Ville de Montréal. by 2.0

    The Saint-Louis Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in the coastal town of Saint-Louis in Senegal, West Africa.

    What to see or do: Visitors can climb to the top of the 56-foot lighthouse for beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and the surrounding town.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to capture breathtaking photos of the Atlantic Ocean and the town from the top of the lighthouse.

    Insider travel tips: It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes when climbing up the narrow staircase. Also, bring water to stay hydrated during the climb.

    The best time to visit is during sunrise or sunset for the stunning views.

    15. Séraphin Faidherbe Bridge

    Séraphin Faidherbe Bridge

    Séraphin Faidherbe Bridge is a historic narrow bridge located in Saint-Louis, Senegal.

    What to see or do: The bridge offers stunning views of the Senegal River, which separates Senegal and Mauritania. It’s a popular spot for taking photos and watching the sunset.

    Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to walk across the bridge and experience its unique architecture, which dates back to the 1800s.

    Insider travel tips:

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