Photo: Gregor Rom, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
It was named by the Dutch after taking over the island from the Portuguese in the late 1600s. Today it's listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Goree was a minor location used for the transport of slaves headed to the Americas, though its prominence is often overplayed. The island has interesting colonial architecture, mostly in ruins, including the landmark "House of Slaves" museum. Ferries can be taken from the terminal north of Place de l'Independence and cost CFA5000. The trip takes 10-20 minutes. There are many small restaurants and a handful of places offering lodging. Just walk around and explore. It's a small island, so you can easily stroll around it in an hour. You can buy cheap beer and lounge on the beach when you're done, or stroll some more and buy art-work from the locals.
Île de Gorée is one of the 19 communes d'arrondissement of the city of Dakar, Senegal. It is an 18.2-hectare (45-acre) island located two kilometres at sea from the main harbour of Dakar, famous as a destination for people interested in the Atlantic slave trade.
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Quiet, peaceful beach with smaller wave break so okay for swimming.
French cultural institute offering theater, library, French lessons, dance, exhibitions, buffet.
Focus on African civilization and culture, the Nubian way of life. May need a little French understanding to comprehend the placards. Nice rotunda building.
Musée Théodore Monod d’Art Africain
Grand Théâtre National de Dakar
One of the largest theaters in West Africa, hosting major concerts.