Somone

Somone is the well-suited destination for travelers seeking relaxation in nature. The main highlight is the Somone Lagoon, a 700-hectare protected nature reserve. Here, visitors can hike through the mangroves at low tide or take a boat tour at high tide to spot pelicans, herons, and flamingos. The atmosphere in the village is welcoming and significantly quieter than in neighboring Saly. The beaches offer handy conditions for sunbathing and surfing. Gastronomically, the beachfront restaurants tempt visitors with grilled fish and fresh oysters sourced directly from the lagoon. The drive from Dakar takes about an hour via the highway. The best time to visit is from November to June, when sunshine is guaranteed and the lagoon is at its most beautiful. Somone perfectly balances a relaxing beach holiday with authentic natural encounters.

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.

History & landmarks

Diamniadio Ministerial Spheres

A modern government complex in the new city of Diamniadio, housing several Senegalese ministries in futuristic buildings.

Abdoulaye Wade Stadium

An ultramodern sports stadium in Diamniadio, opened in 2022, seating up to 50,000 spectators.

Dakar Arena

A multi-purpose indoor arena in Diamniadio, used primarily for basketball and other major events.

Cap Manuel Lighthouse

A historic lighthouse on the southernmost tip of the Cap-Vert peninsula in Dakar, guiding sailors for over a century.

Presidential Palace of Senegal

The official residence of the Senegalese president in Dakar, built in classical colonial style.

Memorial of the Martyrs of Thiaroye

A memorial commemorating the massacre of West African Tirailleurs by French forces in 1944 at Thiaroye.

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Dakar City Hall

A notable colonial-era building in Dakar, serving as the seat of the municipal government.

Dakar Independence Square

The central square in Dakar, surrounded by important government buildings and commercial centers.

Nature

Lake Retba

A salt lake colored pink by microorganisms, near Dakar.

More places

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Mbao forest area

An important forest belt near the capital Dakar.

Sendou Power Plant

A controversial coal power plant project in Bargny/Sendou to secure baseload power.

Sendou Mineral Port

A new port being developed specifically for the export of bulk goods such as ores and minerals.

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Diamniadio Industrial Park

A special economic zone designed to attract investors and promote industrialization.

Port of Rufisque

A historic port that was once the center of Senegalese peanut exports before Dakar gained importance.

SOCOCIM Cement Factory

The SOCOCIM plant in Rufisque is one of the largest cement producers in West Africa.

Old Town of Rufisque

A port town that was once a major center for the peanut trade and has old warehouses.

Cap des Biches Power Station

The Cap des Biches thermal power station in Rufisque is a major source of electricity for Dakar.