Road-tripping Senegal: Experience Africa's west coast by car

The beachside pool at the Terrou-Bi hotel in Dakar, Senegal. From dizzying Dakar to vibrant Saint-Louis, Senegal pulsates with rich culture, history and charm. [Photo/Agencies]

Ferries leave regularly from Dakar's main port and cost $9 round trip.

Saint-Louis for day trippers

Craving a quick trip outside the city? Head 320 kilometers north to the French colonial settlement Saint-Louis.

This lively fishing community connects to the historic city center, a small island in the Senegal river brimming with colonial charm.

Reminiscent of New Orleans, Saint-Louis boasts boutique hotels, trendy restaurants, galleries and an annual jazz festival.

Don't miss Senegalese designer Rama Diaw's boutique, which features colorful and wearable clothing and accessories for women.

If you have the time, head farther north to the lush wetlands of the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, another UNESCO World Heritage site.

On your way back to Dakar stop by Lake Retba, Senegal's "pink lake", about an hour outside of the capital. The water may appear more murky than rosy depending on the season and time of your visit.

Glamping and wildlife

Fathala Wildlife Reserve offers glamping, with three-course meals and luxury air-conditioned tents, near the Gambia border, about 260 kilometers from Dakar, depending on your route.

Excursions range from jeep safaris to mangrove boat tours. The attraction started as a conservation project for an antelope, the Giant Derby eland, but animals from other parts of Africa can be seen here, too, such as zebras and giraffes.

The lone rhinoceros is known for his nightly pilgrimage to the smartly placed watering hole in front of the dining area.

It's dinner with a show.