Tourism in Senegal

Tourism in Senegal is a vital part of this West African nation's economy.

Known for its mild climate, attractive beaches and great fishing, Senegal has long been highly regarded by European tourists, [http://www.buyusa.gov/westafrica/en/senegal_ccg.pdf Senegal Country Commercial Guide 2008] . U.S. Commercial Service (2008). PD-notice] mostly French and Italian.Fact|date=September 2008 U.S. tourists - often African-Americans - are increasing in numbers, drawn in particular by the historic slave trading post of Goree Island.

Principal cities of interest include the capital, Dakar; Saint-Louis, an old colonial town; and the Mouride holy centre of Touba. Gorée Island, formerly a centre of the West African slave trade and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, draws many visitors. The main entrance point is Dakar-Yoff International Airport. Senegal’s capital city of Dakar, on the westernmost point of the continent, is strategically located. Delta has selected Dakar as its first destination of choice on the African continent by opening in December 2006 the Atlanta/Dakar/Johannesburg/Dakar/Atlanta route. The Open Skies Agreement between the U.S. and Senegal signed in January 2001 laid the foundation for direct routes between the U.S. and Senegal by U.S. carriers.

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