Lake Retba (Lac Rose)

Overview

Lake Retba, also known as Lac Rose, is a striking pink-colored lake located north of Dakar, Senegal. Its vibrant color, caused by high concentrations of bacteria and salt, makes it a unique natural wonder and a popular tourist attraction.

Lake Retba is renowned for its distinctive pink color, which changes with the sunlight and the seasons. It is also a significant site for salt production and traditional pirogue racing.

Lake Nature Reserve

Location

Address

Coordinates: 14.83998582, -17.23414814

Neighborhood: Lac Rose

Coordinates

14.839986, -17.234148

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

Free (guided tours extra)

Children

Free (guided tours extra)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

November to May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Optimal lighting for photography and fewer tourists

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

3-4 hours

Full Experience

Half-day trip

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Warm and pleasant

• Vibrant pink color
• Pirogue racing

summer

Hot and humid

• Intense pink color
• Hot weather

autumn

Pleasant and cooling

• Cooling temperatures
• Fewer tourists

winter

Mild and pleasant

• Mild weather
• Few tourists

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book a guided tour
Bring ID
Check weather conditions

What to Bring

essential

ID Water Sun protection

seasonal

Jacket (winter) Umbrella (rainy season)

not allowed

Large bags Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Low

• Sun exposure
• High salt concentration

Medical facilities: Basic first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Cards

Currency

West African CFA franc (XOF)

Typical Costs

entry Free

guided tour $20

pirogue race $15

souvenirs $10

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable shoes, swimwear, Sandals or water shoes, Inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• Local tour operators or official website
• 48 hours
• Available with guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Senegal Travel Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Tourist information, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport

Distance: 50 km

Travel Time: 1 hour

taxi

$50 1 hour

public_transport

$10 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 30 km

taxi

$30 45 minutes

public_transport

$5 1 hour

rental_car

Varies 45 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Cultural significance and natural beauty

Historical Significance: Important for salt production and traditional pirogue racing

Insider Tips

Best views from the main viewing area
Local markets for souvenirs

Local Recommendations

• Try local fish dishes
• Ask for guide Ibrahima

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Salut

thank_you Jërejëf

where_is Naan dégg?

how_much Ñuut?

beautiful Ñuñáy

ticket Billet

Guide Languages: French, English, Wolof

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main viewing area

Best Time: Sunrise or sunset

Tips: Wide-angle shots to capture the vibrant pink color

Result: Stunning landscape photos

#LacRose #PinkLake #Senegal

Photography Rules

allowed areas Viewing areas, Beach

prohibited areas Restricted salt harvesting zones

flash photography Allowed

commercial photography Permit needed

drone policy Prohibited without permission

tripod policy Allowed in designated areas

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Saly Beach