Getty Images/Lonely Planet Images
With its lush tropical landscapes watered by the graceful, winding Casamance River, this area seems far from Dakar and its surroundings in every sense. Between the sleepy capital, Ziguinchor, and the wide, sandy beaches of Cap Skirring, the banks of the Casamance River are dotted with tiny, community campements that nestle between mangroves and lagoons. You'll find plenty of reason to linger here, whether basking on sandy shorelines, overnighting on forest-covered islands or taking in the beat of traditional villages – all of which are the proud homeland of the fascinating and fiercely independent Diola people.
These are our favorite local haunts, touristy spots, and hidden gems throughout Casamance.
Museum
Set amid towering kapok trees on the main road between Oussouye and Elinkine, this striking case à impluvium houses an exhibition dedicated to Diola culture. A guide on hand can explain some of the rustic, crafted objects: hoops used for climbing palm trees, baskets that serve as fish traps, mortar and pestle for making palm wine, and shields made of thick hippopotamus skin.
Cultural Centre
This is easily Ziguinchor's most stunning building, a giant case à impluvium (a large, round traditional house) decorated with blindingly busy South African Ndebele and Casamance patterns. Inside are exhibitions, a large concert hall (shows take place at least once a week) and a welcoming restaurant and bar (with a weekday lunch special for CFA1000).
Architecture
The city's post office is one of Central Ziguinchor's colourful colonial buildings. Although you can go inside, there isn't much to see at the small postal center.
Historic Building
One of Ziguinchor's colonial buildings today houses the region's excellent tourism office.