Returning to Senegal After More Than a Decade

Senegal will always hold a special place in my heart. I first came here as a college student studying abroad and the experiences I had shaped me in ways I’ll forever be grateful. I’ve been back once since then but this most recent visit was the first time in more than a decade—and it felt like coming home to a piece of myself I hadn’t realized I’d been missing.

From the moment I landed, I was filled with excitement. On my very first day, I set out for an adventure at Fathala Wildlife Reserve where, believe it or not, I walked with lions. Yes, lions. I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t nervous, but the staff guided us every step of the way and reminded me to just breathe and take in the moment. Smiling in the photos, I looked calm, but inside I was sending every prayer I knew. Still, the experience was unforgettable and something I’ll always carry with me. For anyone thinking about doing it, I recommend packing a pair of comfortable sneakers you can walk in all day and a small crossbody bag to keep your hands free. (You can find my favorites in my LTK and Amazon stores.)

But my trip wasn’t only about thrills. Visiting Gorée Island brought me back to history that is painful but necessary to acknowledge. The island, once a hub for the transatlantic slave trade, holds a heaviness that can’t be put into words. Walking through the House of Slaves, standing in the Door of No Return, and realizing how many lives were taken from this very spot was powerful and sobering. I visited on July 4th, America’s Independence Day, and as a Black woman, freedom felt complicated. Yet in that space, I also felt resilience, survival, and strength.

Dakar brought a different kind of energy, from climbing the 200-plus steps to the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa, to exploring Marché Sandaga, one of the busiest markets in the city. I bargained for treasures, soaked up the colors and sounds, and reminded myself that comfort matters when exploring places like this. A good pair of walking shoes and protective sunglasses (my go-to is always Zenni) make a world of difference.

Of course, no trip back could be complete without indulging in my favorite Senegalese dishes. From ceebu jën to dibi, every bite reminded me of my student days in Dakar, when these meals were part of my daily rhythm. Street food still holds a special place in my heart, though I also enjoyed ocean-view dinners that were the perfect way to close out a day of exploring.

Coming back after more than a decade reminded me that travel isn’t just about the places we see—it’s about how those places stay with us long after we’ve left. Senegal is etched into my heart, and this trip proved just how much it still shapes the way I see the world. I can’t wait to return again, but until then, I’ll keep carrying the joy, memories, and reflections from this journey with me everywhere I go.

BTW, here is some of the gear I am currently using to capture my content.

• DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro for smooth, dynamic shots

• DJI Osmo 360 for immersive perspectives

• DJI Mic 2 for crisp, clear audio

• iPhone 17 Pro Max for quick, handheld shots

• DJI Osmo Mobile 6 Smartphone Gimbal for stable walking sequences

And for deets on my outfits and other faves, you can check always check out my LTK and Amazon stores.

***Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them. This comes at no extra cost to you.***