Daytrips from Dakar are easy to do, and Joal Fadiouth is another excellent option. You can watch the fishermen returning from their nightly or early morning tour on the beach. The fishermen set out in the dark with small wooden boats into the dark depths of the Atlantic. Unfortunately, the global fishing industry, especially Europe’s fishing industry, has weakened the West African seas, and the people on the coast are also suffering. Nevertheless, it is spectacular to watch how the locals pull their wooden boats out of the water.

Joal Fadiouth is not only known for its fishing culture but also its shellfish islands. The most famous island is Ile Jaol. An impressive footpath leads over a long wooden bridge to the place built on shells. It is said that every year a ton of shells are washed up on the coast, which is then used to build houses or lie around as decoration. It is a beautiful place everyone should have seen once in their life!

The population around Joal Fadiouth is predominantly catholic, the only place in Senegal where schooling is compulsory. 

You can only visit the shell island with a mandatory guide. 

Joal Fadiouth is diverse and very different from Dakar. The people are curious and communicative. Remember, though, the village is impoverished. During the day you can move around the beach or the village without worry. But it would be best if you did not carry objects that look expensive too obviously. There is not much to do when it gets dark, so you should avoid being alone.

When you finally leave Joal Fadiouth, you will have experienced a different side of Senegal than in Dakar. The hustle and bustle of the big city will probably seem much more bearable after this day. Daytrips from Dakar are something you should consider if you want to get to know the country and its people better!