Dubbed as “the Riviera of Senegal”, Saly originally served as a Portuguese trading post before it gradually evolved into a tropical paradise that draws thousands of tourists yearly. While its moniker may conjure images of perfectly manicured beaches, Saly is a curious combination of luxurious accommodations and facilities and rustic surroundings, the mix of which only adds to its charm. While it is one of, if not the top tourist drawer of West Africa, its beaches remain relatively uncrowded all year round, making this the perfect destination for those who want to enjoy the sea in a quiet setting. At the same time, it also serves as a good jump-off point to the equally beautiful islands of Senegal, including Joal-Fadiouth. Check out this list of the top things to do in Saly, Senegal, that will take you to attractions beyond the beaches.
1. Admire the local artwork at Musée Khelcom
Musée Khelcom is a modern art museum that primarily showcases the artwork of local artists. The eclectic collection, which also includes a few artifacts, depicts the unique and colorful heritage and culture of Senegal. If you’re an art lover, or if you’re someone who wants to find out more about the place that you’re visiting, make it a point to include this destination in your itinerary.
Musée Khelcom
Address: Route de Saly, M'bour, Senegal
2. Enjoy a romantic meal at Restaurant Riviera
Décor de la st Valentin au restaurant la Riviera a SALY..
Posted by Jaber Ali on Wednesday, 17 February 2016
If you’re in Saly for a romantic holiday, be sure to arrange a reservation at Restaurant Riviera. The live music only adds to the ambiance. In terms of food options, this establishment serves African, European, Italian, and Vietnamese cuisine. Cocktails and other alcoholic beverages are served here as well. You can take your pick on where you want to sit: inside the restaurant, outside, or on the terrace.
Restaurant Riviera
Address: Route de Saly, Centre Commercial du Carrousel, Saly, Senegal
Facebook page: Restaurant Riviera
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 8am - 2am (closed from Mon - Fri)
3. Drive down to Galerie Mémoires Africaines
Galerie Mémoires Africaines is another destination for art aficionados. This art gallery features works that depict African culture dating back to the neolithic era to the present. Some of the works here are for sale, so if you’re looking for a meaningful souvenir to bring home with you, be sure to visit this. The art gallery can make arrangements for shipping upon request.
Galerie Mémoires Africaines
Address: Route Saly-Ngaparou, Saly, Senegal
Website: Galerie Mémoires Africaines
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 7:30pm (closed on Sun)
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4. Dance the night away at R.D.C.
R.D.C. DISCOTHEQUE FAIT LE SHOW
Posted by Gerard Guillaume Saly Rdc on Saturday, 27 August 2016
Saly may be relatively quieter compared to other tropical destinations, but this does not mean that it has no nightlife. R.D.C. is one of the most popular discotheques in the area. Besides featuring a dance floor where guests can showcase their dance skills, it also features special events that visitors can participate in. The music may either be live or churned out by a DJ. Should you get hungry after a night of dancing, there’s a restaurant on the second floor of the discotheque.
R.D.C.
Address: Stade de Saly Tapée, Route Saly-Ngaparou, Saly, Senegal
Website: R.D.C.
5. Play a few games at Casino Terrou Saly
Want to see if Lady luck will favor you while you’re in Saly? If so, head over to Casino Terrou Saly to try your hand at a few games of poker or blackjack, or else test the slot machines there. Once you’ve had your fill of the games in the casino, head over to the on-site restaurant to enjoy a sumptuous meal.
Casino Terrou Saly
Address: Rond point Diakhao, M'bour, Senegal
Website: Casino Terrou Saly
Opening hours: 12pm - 4am (daily)
6. Golf de Saly
Posted by Loc a Dakar on Saturday, 26 November 2016
Traveling to Saly but worried that you can’t scratch your golf itch while on holiday? Don’t worry, because you can play a game or 2 at Golf de Saly, an 18-hole course designed by Belgian architect Vic Bernstein. The fairways were designed for casual players, so even beginners can have fun trying this sport during their stay in Saly. Because this course features plenty of trees, a lot of wildlife have now made the area their home.
Golf de Saly
Address: BP 145, Nagaparou, Senegal
Website: Golf de Saly
Opening hours: 24 hours (daily)
Kick back and relax at Saly
Saly is a great destination for those who want to enjoy a luxurious holiday in an idyllic setting. With its beautiful beaches and its five-star accommodations, it’s not hard to see why tourists make it a point to travel here yearly to kick back and relax. There are, however, other activities that you can enjoy in the area besides those you typically enjoy in or by the sea. Use this list as a guide to find out what other things you can do here while on holiday.
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