Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE
West Africa
Explore the vibrant culture and deep history of West Africa in this episode. Starting in Dakar, Senegal’s bustling capital, discover the contrasts of this dynamic city, from raw markets to the towering African Renaissance Monument. Then, take a ferry to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Goree Island, home to the haunting House of Slaves and the Door of No Return, which memorializes the victims of the Atlantic Slave Trade. Journey through The Gambia to visit Juffureh, the ancestral village of Kunta Kenteh, whose story of resilience was made famous by Alex Haley’s “Roots.”
The episode offers a profound look into the rich history and culture that make Senegal and The Gambia impactful and unforgettable destinations.
In this episode, experience the natural wonders of Cape Verde, a stunning archipelago off the coast of Senegal. Begin with a hike through the lush Calabaceira Valley on Santiago Island, where you’ll pass rum distilleries and farms, and explore Banana Street, the oldest road in Cape Verde’s historic Cidade Velha. Then, venture to Santo Antão, one of the world’s most breathtaking islands, with a hike through the volcanic landscapes of the Cova Crater. End the adventure with a climb up Pico do Fogo, an active volcano on Fogo Island, where the resilient locals continue to farm the land in the shadow of its powerful eruptions.
Cape Verde’s diverse landscapes and cultural richness make it a must-visit destination for adventure travelers.
Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!
Traveling with HX Hurtigruten Expeditions
This experience was made possible by traveling with HX Hurtigruten Expeditions. You can expect a unique and immersive experience for adventure seekers and culturally curious travelers. It will be a journey that blends luxury, education, and exploration, allowing you to connect deeply with the destinations and environments you visit.
Here’s what to expect on your expedition:
Immersive Cultural Experiences: Hurtigruten takes you beyond the typical tourist routes, offering opportunities to explore local cultures and history. This trip through West Africa will take you through bustling markets and UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the ancestral villages of The Gambia. You’ll gain insights into the region’s rich history and people.
Adventure-Focused Itineraries: Expect a range of adventure activities tailored to different levels of fitness and interests. Whether it’s hiking through volcanic landscapes in Cape Verde or exploring the lush valleys of Santo Antão, each destination provides opportunities for physical exploration and natural beauty.
Sustainability and Science: Hurtigruten is committed to sustainability and environmental preservation. You’ll have the chance to participate in citizen science programs onboard, contributing to real scientific research while learning from onboard experts. With eco-friendly ships and a focus on responsible tourism, Hurtigruten ensures your trip leaves a positive impact on the places you visit.
Expert-Led Expeditions: Each journey is led by a team of expert guides, including scientists, historians, and local experts. Their in-depth knowledge of the regions will enrich your travel experience, providing context and stories that bring each destination to life.
Luxury Accommodations and Amenities: While the focus is on exploration, you won’t sacrifice comfort. Hurtigruten ships offer modern, comfortable cabins, fine dining, and amenities like fitness centers and panoramic lounges, ensuring a relaxing experience after a day of adventure.
All-Inclusive Package: Expect an all-inclusive approach, with meals, guided excursions, and onboard activities included in your package. This allows you to focus on enjoying your journey without worrying about logistics.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE JOURNEY
Explore Dakar’s Markets and Landmarks
Start your journey in Dakar, Senegal, a city of contrasts. Visit its bustling markets, where you can find everything from local textiles to fresh produce. Don’t miss the African Renaissance Monument, a towering bronze statue symbolizing growth and prosperity.
- Address: African Renaissance Monument, Ouakam, Dakar, Senegal.
- Hours: Open 24 hours, though tours typically run from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
- Cost: $2 for adults, $1 for children.
Take a Ferry to Goree Island
Just a short ferry ride from Dakar, Goree Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its tragic role in the Atlantic Slave Trade. Visit the House of Slaves and reflect on its history.
- Hours: Ferry departs every hour from 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
- Cost: $5 for round-trip ferry ride; entry to House of Slaves museum is $3.
Visit Kunta Kenteh Island in The Gambia
Explore Kunta Kenteh Island, where you’ll learn about the story of Kunta Kenteh and the legacy of the Atlantic Slave Trade. This historical site is a powerful reminder of the resilience of the people who endured unimaginable hardships.
- Hours: Open daily from 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
- Cost: $10 for guided tours.
Hike through Calabaceira Valley, Cape Verde
On Santiago Island, hike the breathtaking Calabaceira Valley, known for its lush greenery and historic Banana Street, the oldest paved road in Cape Verde. The hike offers stunning views of local farms and rum distilleries.
- Hours: Open all day.
- Cost: Free to hike; guided tours start at $15.
Trek Through Santo Antão’s Cova Crater
Known as one of the most beautiful islands in the world, Santo Antão’s terrain shifts from desert to lush valleys. A trek through the volcanic Cova Crater is an unforgettable adventure with panoramic views of the island.
- Hours: Open all day.
- Cost: Free to hike; guided tours start at $20.
Climb Pico do Fogo Volcano
On Fogo Island, climb Cape Verde’s highest point, the active volcano Pico do Fogo. The dramatic volcanic landscape provides a unique challenge for hikers, with stunning views from the summit.
- Hours: Open all day.
- Cost: Guided hikes start at $25.
Where to stay
Terrou-Bi Hotel, Dakar, Senegal
Located on the coast, Terrou-Bi offers luxury accommodations with easy access to Dakar’s city center and its bustling markets. The hotel boasts an infinity pool, private beach, and on-site casino.
- Address: Boulevard Martin Luther King, Dakar, Senegal.
- Cost: Rooms start at $200 per night.
- Website: Terroubi-Bi Beach Hotel
Pestana Trópico, Praia, Cape Verde
Pestana Trópico is located on Santiago Island in Cape Verde, offering a blend of luxury and comfort. The hotel features a large pool, ocean views, and easy access to Praia’s historic sites like Banana Street and Cidade Velha.
- Address: Cidade da Praia, Santiago Island, Cape Verde.
- Cost: Rooms start at $120 per night.
- Website: Pestana Trópico
Hotel Xaguate, Fogo Island, Cape Verde
Nestled near Pico do Fogo, Hotel Xaguate provides modern amenities with breathtaking views of the active volcano. It’s the perfect base for exploring the unique terrain of Fogo Island.
- Address: São Filipe, Fogo Island, Cape Verde.
- Cost: Rooms start at $100 per night.
- Website: Hotel Xaguate
And there’s tons of other fabulous places to stay during your trip.
Check out the best accommodation deals below.
What to eat
Keep in mind, when exploring the vibrant food scenes in West Africa and Cape Verde, one of the best ways to discover incredible meals is to ask locals for their favorite spots. Many of the most authentic and delicious dining experiences can be found in small, family-run eateries or local markets where menus change daily based on what’s fresh. Don’t be afraid to pop into a small restaurant or roadside stand, where you’ll often find traditional dishes like grilled fish, peanut stews, or fresh produce that reflect the flavors of the region. These hidden gems offer not only great food but also a warm, local atmosphere that adds to your travel experience.
La Fourchette, Dakar, Senegal
A top-rated restaurant serving a mix of Senegalese and international cuisine. Try the fresh seafood dishes, including grilled fish and spicy thieboudienne (Senegal’s national dish).
- Address: 4 Rue Parent Place de l’Indépendance, Dakar, Senegal.
- Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
- Cost: Main courses range from $10 – $25.
- Website: La Fourchette
Ali Baba, Banjul, The Gambia
A local favorite offering a variety of West African dishes and fresh seafood. Don’t miss their grilled chicken and peanut-based dishes.
- Address: Banjul Main Highway, Banjul, The Gambia.
- Hours: Open daily from 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Cost: Main courses range from $8 – $20.
- Website: Ali Baba
Quintal da Música, Praia, Cape Verde
Quintal da Música is a popular restaurant on Santiago Island offering live music and traditional Cape Verdean dishes like cachupa (a hearty stew) and fresh seafood.
- Address: Rua 5 de Julho, Praia, Santiago Island, Cape Verde.
- Hours: Open daily from 7:00 PM – 11:00 PM.
- Cost: Main courses range from $12 – $20.
- Website: Quintal da Música
Restaurante Tropical, Fogo Island, Cape Verde
Located near the base of Pico do Fogo, this restaurant specializes in local Cape Verdean cuisine with a focus on fresh fish and volcanic-grown produce.
- Address: São Filipe, Fogo Island, Cape Verde.
- Hours: Open daily from 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM.
- Cost: Main courses range from $10 – $18.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit West Africa and Cape Verde depends on your specific activities and destinations, but generally, the dry season from November to April is ideal. During this period, you can expect warm weather and clear skies, perfect for outdoor adventures, such as hiking in Cape Verde’s lush valleys or exploring the historical sites in Senegal and The Gambia. Avoid the rainy season, typically from May to October, as it can lead to challenging travel conditions, particularly in rural areas.
Getting Around
First, it's recommended that you hire a local guide with a car or a driver to escort you through your itinerary.
Local transportation varies by country, and it’s generally considered quire overwhelming for visitors to get around by using a mix of public transit, taxis, and, where available, ride-sharing apps.
In Dakar, taxis are plentiful and affordable, though always agree on a fare before starting your ride.
In Cape Verde, especially on islands like Santiago and Santo Antão, there are shared minibusses (known as alugueres) or hire a car for more flexibility when exploring remote areas.
Ferry rides between islands in Cape Verde and The Gambia can be an adventure in themselves, but schedules are often irregular, so plan for extra travel time.
Safety Tips
West Africa and Cape Verde are generally safe for travelers, but it’s important to stay mindful of your surroundings and follow standard safety precautions:
Avoid walking alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas or near the coastline.
In busy areas like markets or bus stations, keep an eye on your belongings to avoid pickpocketing.
If you’re taking taxis, use registered cabs where possible and negotiate fares upfront.
Stay informed about any local travel advisories or health guidelines, as some regions can experience sporadic political unrest or health concerns.
It’s also important to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun with appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and hats, especially during outdoor activities like hiking.Helpful Notes
Currency: The official currency in Senegal is the West African CFA franc (XOF), and in The Gambia, it’s the Gambian Dalasi (GMD). In Cape Verde, you’ll use the Cape Verdean escudo (CVE). Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but you’ll want cash for smaller establishments, markets, and rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities, though it’s recommended to carry some cash when traveling to remote locations.
Language: French is the official language of Senegal, while English is widely spoken in The Gambia. In Cape Verde, Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole are the main languages, though many people in tourist areas also speak English.
Vaccinations: Check with your doctor for any required vaccinations before traveling to West Africa, including Yellow Fever and routine vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis is also recommended for certain regions.
Plug/Adapter Information:
Plug Type: In Senegal and Cape Verde, you may need 4 types of adaptors, Type C, D, E, K. (Senegal, Cape Verde). In Gambia, you will need 1 type of adaptor, Type G .
See the images below for other details.
Packing list
When traveling to West Africa and Cape Verde, it’s essential to pack smart, considering the region’s warm climate, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences. Here’s a summarized list of suggested items:
Clothing
- Lightweight, Breathable Clothing: Pack light, moisture-wicking fabrics for warm weather. Think cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses.
- Long Sleeves and Pants: For protection from the sun and mosquitoes during hikes and evening outings.
- Comfortable Hiking Shoes: Essential for exploring Calabaceira Valley, hiking Santo Antão, and climbing Pico do Fogo.
- Waterproof Sandals or Flip-flops: Great for beach days or ferry rides between islands.
- Swimwear: Cape Verde has beautiful beaches, so pack swimwear for relaxing or snorkeling.
- Sun Hat & Sunglasses: To protect yourself from the intense sun while sightseeing or hiking.
- Light Jacket or Sweater: For cooler evenings, especially at higher altitudes or on ferry rides.
Accessories
- Sunscreen: High SPF sunscreen to protect your skin from strong UV rays.
- Insect Repellent: A must for evenings and outdoor activities in tropical areas.
- Reusable Water Bottle: Stay hydrated, especially during outdoor adventures.
- Daypack: A small backpack for carrying essentials like water, sunscreen, and snacks during hikes or excursions.
Travel Essentials
- Travel Adapters: As noted in the guide:
- Plug Type: C, F (Senegal, Cape Verde), G (The Gambia)
- Voltage: 220V (Senegal, Cape Verde), 230V (The Gambia)
- Frequency: 50Hz
- Power Bank: To keep your devices charged during long days of exploration.
- Travel Documents: Passport, visas (if needed), and copies of all important documents.
- Vaccination Card: If required, for proof of vaccinations such as Yellow Fever.
Health & Hygiene
- First Aid Kit: Include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, blister pads, and any prescription medications.
- Hand Sanitizer: Especially useful in markets or rural areas where soap may not be readily available.
- Moisturizer & Lip Balm: To protect your skin from the dry, sunny climate.
Optional Items
- Camera or Smartphone: To capture the stunning landscapes and historical sites.
- Snorkeling Gear: If you plan on exploring Cape Verde’s beaches and underwater life.
- Notebook or Journal: For jotting down reflections on your cultural experiences or local history learned during your trip.
Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.
Ultimate Packing List Library
Find the perfect customizable packing list for all of your travel situations on our sister website Pack Better.
This episode of "Your Next Trip" explored the ancestral lands of
- the Senegalese People
We extend our respect and gratitude to the Indigenous communities who have been the stewards of these lands for generations.
Learn more about responsible travel practices in the TWD Responsible Travel Guide.
Visit the guideTrip provided by: HX Hurtigruten Expeditions
Editor: Gracel Elidia-Sy
Special Thanks: Anders Lindstrom
