Exploring the Cultural Charms of Saint-Louis, Senegal

A Day of Discovery in Saint-Louis

Today was a day of diving deep into the heart of Saint-Louis, Senegal. I was eager to explore the city's cultural gems and savor its local flavors. From historical archives to vibrant artisan crafts, and ending with a delicious dinner, Saint-Louis truly captivated me today.

The day started with a hearty breakfast at La Terrasse d'Afrique. The restaurant's warm ambiance and inviting atmosphere made it the perfect spot to fuel up for a day of exploring. I enjoyed a traditional Senegalese breakfast while overlooking the Senegal River, a truly serene way to begin the day.


Discover La Terrasse d'Afrique: A culinary gem in St. Louis showcasing traditional African flavors with stunning views.

Unveiling History at CRDS

After breakfast, our first stop was the Centre de Recherches et de Documentation du Sénégal (CRDS). The CRDS is a public institution under the Ministry of Higher Education, Research, and Innovation. Established during the colonial era in 1943, it has evolved into a vital center for preserving and promoting Senegal's cultural heritage.


Discover the cultural richness of CRDS, a unique library and museum experience in Lle de N'Dar, offering a glimpse into local heritage and knowledge.

Walking through the CRDS, I was immediately struck by the wealth of information and artifacts it holds. The museum is home to collections spanning prehistory, history, ethnography, arts, popular traditions, and the natural environment. I was particularly fascinated by the exhibits on Senegal's colonial past and the efforts to preserve its intangible heritage.

The CRDS also houses a library, which is one of the oldest colonial libraries in West Africa, dating back to 1837. The library contains over 25,000 volumes, including a vast collection of periodicals. As someone who appreciates history and the importance of preserving knowledge, I found the library to be a treasure trove of information.

The essence of travel is not just seeing new places, but also understanding the stories they hold.

I learned that the CRDS isn't just a museum and library; it's also a hub for cultural activities. They periodically organize workshops for children in plastic arts and for adults in crafts like dyeing, batik, and glass painting. It's inspiring to see an institution so dedicated to engaging the community and promoting artistic expression.

Discovering Local Art at Village Artisanal

Next on our itinerary was the Village Artisanal de Saint Louis. This artisan village is a vibrant marketplace where local craftsmen and artists showcase their talents. As I wandered through the village, I was captivated by the array of handmade products on display.


Discover the artistic soul of Senegal at Village Artisanal de Saint Louis, where local craftsmanship and vibrant culture come together in a unique shopping experience.

From intricate jewelry and colorful textiles to stunning woodwork and traditional pottery, each stall told a story of craftsmanship passed down through generations. I had the chance to speak with several artisans, learning about their techniques and the inspiration behind their work.

I found a beautiful hand-carved wooden mask that caught my eye. The artisan explained that the mask represented a traditional Senegalese spirit. I knew I had to have it as a reminder of my time in Saint-Louis and the rich cultural heritage of Senegal.

While the Village Artisanal is a bit removed from the main tourist areas on the island, it's definitely worth the visit. It offers a unique opportunity to support local artisans and take home authentic souvenirs that reflect the spirit of Senegal.

A Culinary Journey: Lunch at Chez Dasso

For lunch, we headed to Chez Dasso, a local restaurant known for its delicious Senegalese cuisine. I had heard great things about their vegetarian options, and as someone who enjoys exploring different culinary traditions, I was eager to try it.


Experience authentic Senegalese cuisine at Chez Dasso in Saint-Louis – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.

Chez Dasso is a cozy and welcoming restaurant that specializes in African cuisine, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. I ordered the mafé légumes, a traditional Senegalese dish made with peanut sauce and vegetables. The flavors were incredible, a perfect blend of savory and slightly sweet.

I also appreciated that Chez Dasso offers a variety of vegan and vegetarian options, making it a great choice for travelers with dietary restrictions. The restaurant has a warm and friendly atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly welcoming. It's no wonder it's considered one of the best restaurants in Saint-Louis.

Browsing Local Crafts at Nimzatt Galerie

After lunch, I decided to do some more shopping, and my friends recommended Nimzatt Galerie. This charming gift shop is located in the heart of Saint-Louis and offers a unique selection of Senegalese crafts, art, and souvenirs.


Explore Nimzatt Galerie in St. Louis for a unique selection of Senegalese crafts, art, and souvenirs that capture the essence of local culture.

Nimzatt Galerie is a treasure trove of unique gifts that capture the essence of local culture. I found a beautiful piece ofSenegalese fabric with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. I also picked up a few small souvenirs for Greta and my friends back in Berlin.

The galerie is located on Rue Mor Massamba Diery Dieng. The staff were friendly and helpful, providing insights into the different crafts and their cultural significance.

Dinner at Keur Dada: A Taste of Local and European Flavors

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Keur Dada for dinner. This hotel and restaurant is located in the northern part of the island and offers a beautiful setting with views of the Senegal River.


Discover Keur Dada: A vibrant restaurant in St. Louis offering delicious cuisine and breathtaking waterfront views perfect for dining or events.

Keur Dada's restaurant is known for its variety of local and European specialties. I decided to try a Senegalese seafood dish, which was absolutely delicious. The restaurant also has a bar where you can enjoy a variety of drinks.

The atmosphere at Keur Dada was relaxed and inviting. It was the perfect place to unwind after a busy day of exploring Saint-Louis. As I sat there, enjoying my meal and the company of my friends, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience this vibrant and culturally rich city.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Langue de Barbarie and Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary [see tomorrow's itinerary]. I'm excited to see the natural beauty of Senegal and learn more about its diverse ecosystem.

Today was a great introduction to the heart of Saint-Louis. I'm excited for what tomorrow brings! I'm also making a mental note to buy a power adapter; my phone is constantly running out of battery.

I'm also hoping to catch some live music while I'm here. I read that the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival is a major event. It looks like the festival was held in May, so I just missed it. But I'm hoping to find some smaller, local venues that feature live music.