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Lake Retba
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Lake
Located northeast of Dakar, Lake Retba is world-renowned for its vivid pink waters, a phenomenon caused by the presence of Dunaliella salina algae. This microorganism produces a red pigment to absorb sunlight, particularly during the dry season when salinity levels are at their highest. With salt concentrations reaching up to 40%, the lake provides a buoyancy similar to that of the Dead Sea, allowing visitors to float effortlessly on its surface. For decades, the lake has been a vital source of income for local workers who harvest salt manually from the lake bed using traditional wooden boats. They protect their skin from the corrosive salt by applying shea butter before spending hours in the water. Historically, the lake served as the dramatic finish line for the original Dakar Rally, where vehicles emerged from the surrounding dunes to celebrate their victory against the backdrop of the rose-colored water.
- Location: Senegal
- Nearby: Rufisque (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 25 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 8 | 9 | 21 | 9 | 2 | 17 | 89 | 176 | 150 | 42 | 8 | 7 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Located less than an hour's drive from Dakar, the lake is easily accessible via paved roads, making it a very popular day trip utilizing taxis, private cars, or guided tour buses.
Best season
The dry season, especially between November and June, is universally considered the best time to visit because the striking pink water color is most spirited due to higher salinity and sunlight.
Terrain & paths
The immediate surroundings feature a mix of white salt flats, sandy dunes, and small local enterprise areas, providing a flat but sandy and sometimes crunching walking surface.
What to bring
Sun protection is absolutely crucial here due to the reflection off the salt and water, so pack sunglasses, a wide hat, comfortable sandals, and a camera for the unique landscape.
Parking
There are ample designated parking areas near the main tourist facilities, craft markets, and boat launch points where visitors gather to start their exploration of the lake.
Safety
While floating in the highly saline water is a popular activity, ensure you do not stay in too long to prevent skin irritation, and always rinse off with fresh water immediately afterward.
Time needed
A half-day trip is typically good for taking a short boat ride to witness salt harvesting, taking photographs of the colored water, and exploring the surrounding artisanal markets.
Geography
Facts
- The pink hue is particularly intense during the dry season (November to June).
- Salinity levels reach up to 400 grams per liter of water.
- Salt harvesters rub their skin with shea butter to protect it from the corrosive salt.
- The lake covers a surface area of approximately 3 square kilometers.
- There is no direct inflow from the ocean, despite its proximity to the coast.
- Over 3,000 people work daily to harvest approximately 60,000 tons of salt per year.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Lake Retba (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Why is the lake pink?
Due to a high salt content and microorganisms.
Can one swim in the lake?
Yes, you float very easily due to the salt.
When is the color most visible?
At noon in bright sunlight.
Are there accommodations nearby?
Yes, there are some hotels right on the lakeside.
How long does it take from Dakar?
About one hour by car.
Lake Retba: where is it located?
Lake Retba is located in Senegal.
Lake Retba: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Lake Retba: why is it worth visiting?
Located northeast of Dakar, Lake Retba is world-renowned for its vivid pink waters, a phenomenon caused by the presence of Dunaliella salina algae.
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Nearby cities
Dakar
The vibrant capital of Senegal is located on the Cap-Vert peninsula and serves as the political and economic center of the country.
Pikine
The largest suburb of Dakar, which became one of the most densely populated zones due to rapid population growth.
Rufisque
A historic port city near Dakar that played a key role in the peanut export during the colonial era.
Somone
A peaceful resort town set by a beautiful lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary and relaxed beach-side bars.
History & landmarks
Dakar Arena
A multi-purpose indoor arena in Diamniadio, used primarily for basketball and other major events.
Abdoulaye Wade Stadium
An ultramodern sports stadium in Diamniadio, opened in 2022, seating up to 50,000 spectators.
Diamniadio Ministerial Spheres
A modern government complex in the new city of Diamniadio, housing several Senegalese ministries in futuristic buildings.
Memorial of the Martyrs of Thiaroye
A memorial commemorating the massacre of West African Tirailleurs by French forces in 1944 at Thiaroye.
Great Mosque of Guédiawaye
An impressive and architecturally significant mosque in Guédiawaye, one of the most densely populated suburbs of Dakar.
Léopold Sédar Senghor Stadium
A large multi-purpose stadium in Dakar, frequently used for football matches of the Senegalese national team.
Massalikoul Jinaan Mosque
A massive mosque in Dakar, built by the Mouride brotherhood, considered one of the largest in West Africa.
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Dakar City Hall
A notable colonial-era building in Dakar, serving as the seat of the municipal government.
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The vegetable pantry of Senegal with intensive agricultural use.
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Mbao Forest
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Diamniadio Industrial Park
A special economic zone designed to attract investors and promote industrialization.
Old Town of Rufisque
A port town that was once a major center for the peanut trade and has old warehouses.
SOCOCIM Cement Factory
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Port of Rufisque
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Cap des Biches Power Station
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