Cultural Family Adventure in Historic Saint-Louis, Senegal

A Saint-Louisian Farewell

As our week-long family adventure in Saint-Louis, Senegal, draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of contentment and a tinge of melancholy. This morning, as the sun gently kissed the colonial facades of this historic city, I knew our final day would be about savoring every last moment, etching the memories into our hearts. It's hard to believe how quickly time has flown, but I'm excited to share my experiences from the last day in this vibrant city.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Restaurant De La Residence. The hotel is known for being one of the best dining spots in the city! We sat in their cozy patio, enjoying the fresh air and the promise of a beautiful day. I opted for a traditional Senegalese breakfast – a flavorful omelet with local spices and fresh fruit. Francisca enjoyed some freshly baked pastries. Nilton, of course, went straight for the mango juice, a staple of his diet this trip. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our final day of exploration.


Experience authentic Senegalese cuisine at Restaurant De La Residence in St. Louis - where local flavors meet culinary excellence.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set out to explore the artistic side of Saint-Louis. Our first stop was Les Comptoirs - Le MuPho, an art museum dedicated to photography. This museum is actually part of a network of museums spread across the island. It was fascinating to see the blend of modern design and traditional elements in the architecture, creating an inviting space for art lovers. The exhibitions showcased a rich tapestry of visual narratives reflecting both the local environment and international perspectives. I was particularly moved by the portraits of local Saint-Louis residents, capturing the essence of their lives and stories. Nilton, surprisingly, was quite engaged, asking questions about the different techniques and the stories behind the photographs. Francisca, with her keen eye for detail, appreciated the composition and the use of light in each piece.


Discover the artistic heart of St. Louis at Les Comptoirs - Le MuPho, where photography and contemporary art converge in a vibrant cultural journey.

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

After immersing ourselves in the world of photography, we decided to take a stroll through the charming streets of Saint-Louis, soaking in the atmosphere and browsing the local shops. We stumbled upon Gallerie Touba Gouyembinde, a vibrant shop filled with local crafts and artwork. The colors and textures of the fabrics, the intricate carvings, and the unique designs were a feast for the senses. I picked up a few souvenirs – a hand-painted bowl for Francisca, a small wooden carving of a bird for Nilton, and a colorful scarf for myself, a reminder of the vibrant culture of Saint-Louis. Supporting local artisans is something I always try to do when I travel; it feels good to contribute directly to the community.


Explore Gallerie Touba Gouyembinde in St. Louis for unique Senegalese gifts, handcrafted treasures, and a taste of local culture.

For lunch, we ventured to Restaurant Maman Kine, recommended by a local we met at the gallery. The restaurant was bustling with activity, filled with the aroma of delicious Senegalese dishes. We ordered Thieboudienne, the national dish of Senegal – a flavorful rice dish with fish, vegetables, and a rich tomato sauce. It was absolutely divine! Nilton, who can be a bit picky with food, surprisingly devoured his portion, declaring it the best meal of the trip. Francisca and I savored every bite, appreciating the complex flavors and the warmth of the spices. The owner, Maman Kine herself, came over to greet us, sharing stories about her family and her passion for cooking. It was a truly authentic and heartwarming experience.


Savor authentic Senegalese flavors at Restaurant Maman Kine in St. Louis—where delicious cuisine meets warm hospitality.

In the afternoon, we decided to visit Maison d’Hôtel Sunu Keur. The guest house, which translates to ‘our home’ in Wolof, is a beautiful example of Saint-Louisian architecture. It's a tranquil retreat with rooms overlooking the river. We enjoyed a refreshing glass of bissap (hibiscus juice) on their terrace, taking in the views and reflecting on our time in Saint-Louis. The peaceful atmosphere was a welcome respite from the bustling city streets. Nilton enjoyed watching the pirogues glide along the river, pointing out the different types of birds that perched on the banks.


Discover the cultural heart of St. Louis at Maison d’Hôtel Sunu Keur, a charming hotel offering comfort and local charm by the scenic waterfront.

As the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the city, we made our way to Le Kalise for our final dinner in Saint-Louis. The restaurant had a cozy and intimate ambiance, perfect for a farewell meal. We decided to indulge in some seafood, ordering grilled prawns and fish skewers. The food was fresh and flavorful, a testament to the abundance of the sea. We shared stories and laughter, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip – the visit to the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, the pirogue ride on the Senegal River, the vibrant music and dance performances we had witnessed. It was a perfect ending to a perfect day.


Experience the vibrant flavors of Senegal at Le Kalise in Saint-Louis – a must-visit restaurant for food lovers.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Senegalese journey, and we will be heading back to Lisbon. As I sit here tonight, writing this blog post, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences we’ve had in Saint-Louis. This city has touched our hearts in so many ways, offering a glimpse into a rich culture and a vibrant way of life. I know that the memories we’ve made here will stay with us for a lifetime, and I hope that my blog posts have inspired you to explore this hidden gem of West Africa.

Saint-Louis, with its blend of colonial history and vibrant Senegalese culture, has left an indelible mark on my soul. As a tour guide specializing in Lisbon's African influences, I find myself even more deeply connected to my roots and inspired to share these stories with others. This trip has not only been a wonderful family adventure but also a personal journey of discovery and connection. I look forward to sharing more travel stories with you all soon. Until then, à bientôt!