Senegal: Capital, Flag and Fun Facts

About Senegal

Senegal is on the western tip of Africa, along the Atlantic Ocean. It has sandy beaches, river deltas and savannas dotted with baobab trees. It is known for its music, colourful fabrics and warm hospitality called teranga.

About Dakar

Dakar sits on the Cap-Vert peninsula, the westernmost part of mainland Africa. It is a busy port city known for its music, markets and the African Renaissance Monument.

Fun facts about Senegal

1. Pointe des Almadies near Dakar is the westernmost point of mainland Africa.
2. Lake Retba, also called the Pink Lake, can look bright pink because of tiny algae living in its salty water.
3. The African Renaissance Monument in Dakar, about 49 metres tall, is often called the tallest statue in Africa.
4. Senegal's national dish, thieboudienne, is made with fish, rice and vegetables and is recognized by UNESCO.
5. Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, a UNESCO site, is a winter home for huge numbers of pelicans, flamingos and other birds.
6. Senegal's football team, the Lions of Teranga, won its first Africa Cup of Nations title in 2022.