WEST AFRICA
Five of the best coastal city destinations in West Africa
Dakar, the capital of Senegal, is located on the Cap-vert peninsula on the Atlantic coast. Lake Retba (or Lac
Rose), which lies north of the Cap-vert peninsula, is known for its pink waters. Aside from the numerous beaches and islands to enjoy in Dakar, there are several holiday destinations, including the popular La Madrague-surf Beach Sea and Marina Bay. Dakar also has several culturally significant landmarks, most notably the House of Slaves, a museum telling the story of the Atlantic slave trade.
LAGOS, NIGERIA
Not only is Lagos the most populous city on the African continent, it is one of the continent’s cultural hubs. Lagos has rapidly developed into a major financial centre in Africa, boasting the highest GDP on the continent. There are plenty of regionally renowned beaches around Lagos. One is Tarkwa Bay, an artificial sheltered beach accessible only by boat or water taxis.
ABIDJAN, CÔTE D’IVOIRE
Dubbed the “Manhattan of the tropics” or “Pearl of the lagoons”, Abidjan is characterised by a high level of industrialisation and urbanisation, a lively night life and well-oiled transport and communication lines. It’s a city particularly popular with business travellers. Many of Abidjan’s beaches are beautifully decorated with palm and coconut trees.
ACCRA, GHANA
Boasting a host of glistening beaches with different sand and rock features Ghana’s capital, Accra, is a favourite for beach lovers. Its coastline is strewn with beautiful beaches such as Labadi Beach, a beach popular amoung locals and foreigners for its night-time parties. One of the hottest cities on the continent (mainly due to humidity), Accra is characterised by constant sunshine. Home to over 50 languages, Accra is also known to be one of the most diverse cities in Africa.
FREETOWN, SIERRA LEONE
Leicester Peak, which stands 550 metres above sea level, offers a panoramic view of Freetown. The gorgeous view shows, among other things, Sierra Leone River and its many inlets. The arrival into this city alone is stunning. Freetown’s airport, Lungi International, is across a sea estuary from Freetown. The most popular way into the city from the airport is by boat for just under R600 via the
Sea Coach or the Sea Bird. Among the city’s other draw cards are its incredible diversity of mangoes and a huge tree of cultural and historical significance located in Freetown’s centre.