Saint-Louis Region

Saint-Louis Region stretches along the Senegal River in northwestern Senegal, combining desert landscapes with wetlands and river deltas. The territory shows a mix of dry inland areas and green riverside zones that shape its overall appearance.

The region's capital served as the administrative center of French West Africa from 1673 until 1902, shaping colonial history across the continent. This extended period as a power center left deep marks on urban layout and infrastructure.

The Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary within the region functions as a migration point for numerous African and European bird species.

The region is best explored by car, as a main road follows the river toward Mauritania and local routes connect the villages. The best time to visit is between October and April, when weather is dry and pleasant.

In villages like Gandiol, salt is harvested from evaporation basins that create naturally pink-tinted deposits during the dry season. This traditional method uses the river's local conditions and remains a rare craft practiced by families in the area.