Thiès: Discover the Coast, Wildlife and Crafts

The Région de Thiès has two coastlines: one in the north and one in the south, separated by the coast of the Région de Dakar. The main tourist attractions also differ. In the Département de Mbour, tourism is focused primarily on the beach; the Département de Tivaouane is known for religious tourism, including Gamous and Ziarras. When choosing a holiday apartment or holiday home, it is therefore worth first considering which travel theme interests you most: the coast, wildlife watching, handicrafts or religious traditions.

Coast, Pirogues and Shell-Paved Lanes

The bay of Ngaparou has a large sandy beach. In Joal-Fadiouth, pirogue trips are offered through the mangroves and along the granaries. The lanes of Fadiouth are paved with shells and oyster shells. Different coastal experiences are therefore at the heart of the region: the sandy beach in Ngaparou, a trip through the mangrove landscape near Joal-Fadiouth, or a walk through the distinctive lanes of Fadiouth. Planning your trip around these interests can help you decide more clearly which experiences you would like to shape your stay.

Wildlife and Fishing Port

The Bandia Reserve offers family safaris to observe African wildlife. Which animals you see can vary depending on conditions. Mbour’s fishing port is considered Senegal’s second-largest fishing port; this ranking may change over time. Alongside nature watching, the region also offers a maritime experience. Another natural attraction can be found in the forest of Nianing: a large baobab with a diameter of 32 metres. Its age is estimated at 18 centuries.

Handicrafts in Thiès

The Manufactures sénégalaises des arts décoratifs in Thiès was founded in 1966. A visit to its workshops offers insight into the making of colourful tapestries. If you are interested in how these wall hangings are made, this is a specific cultural focus for your trip. If you are planning a workshop visit, it is advisable to check the visiting arrangements in advance. This helps keep your choice of accommodation connected to your travel interests: the beach and pirogue trips, wildlife watching or handicrafts each bring a different emphasis to your trip.

Senegal in the Broader Travel Picture

Senegal as a whole offers a broad geographical and cultural setting. The country has 700 kilometres of coastline as well as rivers, lakes, lagoons and numerous islands, providing a variety of water-based experiences. In the Saloum Delta, you can explore the islands by pirogue and discover the mangroves. Ceebu Jën is also part of Senegal’s culinary heritage: the dish originated in the fishing communities on the island of Saint-Louis in Senegal and is typically prepared with a fish steak, broken rice, dried fish, molluscs and seasonal vegetables. In most Senegalese households and restaurants, it is served as a midday meal.

When looking for a holiday apartment in the Région de Thiès, it helps to decide first what you want to focus on. A stay centred on coastal scenery brings different interests to the fore than a trip focused on pirogue rides, wildlife watching or learning about tapestry making.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Mbour, Kebemer, Thiès, Sindia, Merina, Mboulem, Bountou Pole and Diourbel.

Return to the main travel overview: Senegal.