Are you planning a trip to Senegal’s colonial city? You might want to consider staying in these cosy, comfortable hotels in Saint Louis!
While I was road tripping across West Africa, beelining for Europe, we made a two-night stop in Saint-Louis. We soon discovered it to be a fantastic city filled with history, colonial architecture and friendly people.
In this post, I’m sharing my top picks for accommodation, including a review of the hotel I stayed in, beachfront lodgings and the best hotels on Ile Saint Louis, Senegal. For the discerning traveller, these are cosy and comfortable hotels which you’re gonna love.
Quick Links: No time to read the whole article? That’s fine – here are my top two hotels in Saint Louis recomendations:
Hotel Siki Saint Louis >> A modern and stylish hotel with African flair; perfect for a stay in the heart of Ile Saint-Louis.
Hotel Cap Saint Louis >> A beautiful beachfront accommodation on the Saint-Louis spit with direct access to the beach.
Why Choose Hotels on Ile Saint Louis, Senegal
For the best experience and accommodation in Saint-Louis, I recommend choosing a hotel on the Île Saint-Louis or along the Saint-Louis spit. The island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the heart of the city. It’s where you’ll find the old colonial architecture and charming atmosphere I enjoyed so much.
The accommodation on the Saint-Louis spit, which is formed towards the southern end of the island, is best for a beachfront experience while still within walking distance to the old town.
Alternatively, I’ve included the best place to stay near the airport, a highly rated guesthouse in Ndieben and one of the most popular hotels in Tare, an hour south of Saint-Louis; perfect if you’re looking for somewhere outside the city.
Bear in mind that all these hotels in Saint Louis, Senegal, are basic to mid-range. The standard in Senegal is lower than that at home, so prepare for some unexpected issues, such as power shortages, and travel with an open mind.
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Getting From Dakar to Saint Louis
Getting to Saint-Louis from Dakar is straightforward. Most international flights will enter Senegal via the capital, although Saint Louis does have an airport.
Flying from Dakar to Saint Louis takes approximately 45 minutes, Mondays to Fridays, with Air Senegal, who offer a direct morning flight from Dakar Yoff (DSS) to Saint-Louis (STL). It’s possible to book flights online with Skyscanner or directly at the airport.
Alternatively, there is a good road between Dakar and Saint Louis. Driving takes around 3.5 hours in a private car or taxi, and roughly 4.5 hours by bus.
🌟 My top pick >> If you are flying into Dakar, consider booking a convenient transfer from Dakar to Saint Louis for a smooth and hassle-free journey with a pre-booked private driver.
If you’re coming straight from the airport in Saint-Louis, I recommend taking a taxi to Saint Louis Island, which takes about 20 minutes, as there are no direct buses (that I know of).
The majority of the accommodations below offer a shuttle to and from Saint-Louis airport for an additional charge, excluding the Siki Hotel, Campement Lodge Océan & Savane and the House of Arts.
10 Best Hotels in Saint Louis, Senegal You Need To Stay In
1. Hotel Siki Saint Louis, Senegal
A modern hotel with an African flair, Siki Hotel is one of the best hotels on Ile Saint Louis. Located in the heart of the island, this is a fantastic option if you want a comfortable hotel in Saint-Louis while being in the midst of it all.
Guests have rated this accommodation highly. Close to attractions, like the Mupho Saint-Louis Museum, it really is in a great location; the beach is also only a 15-minute walk away.
✔️The rooms are modern and cosy, featuring balconies, private bathrooms, air conditioning and free wifi.
✔️ The hotel offers a modern, family-friendly onsite restaurant and bar, terrace and room service.
✔️Breakfast is included.
2. Hotel Cap Saint Louis, Senegal
Hotel Cap is a charming 3-star hotel located on the Saint-Louis spit with direct access to Hydrobase beach. This is the perfect place to stay if you want to be beachside.
Overall, guests have been happy with their stay, mentioning the friendly staff, good customer service, and great value for money.
✔️The rooms are well-kept, clean and spacious, although the furnishings are a little dated. The accommodations are stand-alone beach bungalows that feature private bathrooms, air-conditioning, daily housekeeping, and free Wi-Fi.
✔️The hotel offers a large outdoor pool, free parking, a tennis court, laundry services and a beautiful garden area.
✔️There is an on-site restaurant and bar/lounge with an optional continental breakfast served between 7 Am and 10:30 AM.
✔️Other onsite amenities include a concierge service and tour and ticket assistance.
3. Hotel Residence Saint Louis, Senegal
The 3-star Hotel La Residence is where I stayed during my visit to Saint Louis. It’s centrally located in the middle of Saint-Louis Island and is perfect for exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I enjoyed my stay here, although we did have to change rooms since our bathroom began leaking onto the floor below. We were given a junior suite on the rooftop terrace at no additional cost, which was excellent.
Overall, this is a very conveniently located and comfortable hotel in Saint-Louis.
👉 Read my full review of Hotel La Residence.
✔️The rooms are well-maintained and offer a cosy feel, featuring free wifi, air conditioning, a safe, a fridge, a mini bar and a welcome tray with tea, coffee and biscuits.
✔️Other on-site amenities include a laundry service, daily housekeeping, roadside parking and tour and ticket assistance. Although there is mention of a pool, there was none on site when I visited.
✔️The hotel features a wonderful rooftop terrace with panoramic views (there is no lift), a games room and a highly recommended restaurant and bar area with live music.
✔️Breakfast is included and served continental buffet-style.
4. Hotel House of Arts, Saint Louis, Senegal
The House of Arts is the best holiday home on Saint-Louis Island, located towards the northern tip of the island, overlooking the Senegal River.
Guests have highly recommended this property, which features four bedrooms and three bathrooms. It’s the entire house; however, a minimum of two nights is required.
✔️The holiday home features a well-maintained, beautiful Mediterranean, tropical decor with an airy and bright atmosphere. There is a garden, a terrace and a rooftop with a small hot tub overlooking the island.
✔️House amenities include laundry facilities, a kitchen, fridge and cooking facilities. There is air conditioning throughout the property, as well as a smart TV and a stereo. Housekeeping upon request.
✔️A daily breakfast is available upon request. There are also numerous restaurants close by and within walking distance.
5. Hotel Oasis Saint Louis, Senegal
The Eco-Lodge Hotel Oasis is a 3-star hotel located on the Saint-Louis spit surrounded by beach, ocean and the Senegal River. It’s one of the best budget options if you’re backpacking or looking for cheaper accommodation in Saint Louis.
The guest reviews are a real mix, but overall, most visitors enjoyed their stay. For the price, it’s worth checking out.
✔️All rooms are located in cute but basic round huts with thatched roofs offering private bathrooms, air conditioning and free wifi (although guests have complained the signal is not strong).
✔️The eco-lodge is directly on the beach and about a 20-minute walk to central Saint Louis.
✔️The hotel features an onsite restaurant and bar, a small swimming pool and live music nights.
✔️ Breakfast is offered at an additional price, or you can include it at checkout via your online booking.
6. Hotel Diamarek Saint Louis, Senegal
If you’re looking for a beachfront bungalow, Hotel Diamarek is another option. Also located on the quiet southern spit of Saint Louis Island, overlooking the Senegal River and the Atlantic Ocean.
Guests have noted it to be a peaceful and relaxing place to stay, although, much like most accommodation in Saint Louis, it is still a little tired and could do with some sprucing up.
✔️The beach bungalows include bright and clean rooms featuring private patios, air conditioning and free wifi. The bathrooms feature a rainfall shower, complimentary toiletries and daily housekeeping.
✔️The hotel offers a large swimming pool, garden, terrace and on-site cafe and restaurant. There is direct access to the beach, and the use of a nearby health club is available.
✔️A daily breakfast is available and can be requested for an additional charge, featuring a continental option from 7 AM to 9:30 AM.
✔️Other on-site amenities include a bar/lounge area, games room, free parking, tennis court, a laundry service and family-friendly facilities. Concierge services are also available to help plan tours.
7. Hotel Maison D’hôtes Niokobokk Senegal
Hotel Maison d’Hotes Niokobokk is located on the mainland just south of Langue de Barbarie National Park, 13 miles from Saint-Louis. It’s one of the best-rated hotels near Saint-Louis.
✔️The rooms have a bright and airy atmosphere overlooking the beach with sea views. Each room features a balcony and private bathroom, and it is equipped with a fan and free Wi-Fi.
✔️There is no air conditioning.
✔️The guesthouse offers direct access to the beach, a swimming pool, bar and restaurant with a shared lounge and free on-site parking.
✔️Breakfast is offered at an additional price.
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8. Hotel Ocean Savane Saint Louis, Senegal
Camperment Lodge Ocean & Savane is a 3-star beachfront accommodation located in Tare, about an hour south of Saint-Louis. It’s a fantastic place if you plan on visiting the Langue de Barbarie National Park and don’t want to be in the city, but in a more secluded spot by the beach instead.
Overall, guests have been happy with their stay, mentioning good customer service; however, the organisation seems to be lacking in certain aspects.
✔️Accommodations are in the form of stand-alone beach huts/lodges, from single occupancy to doubles. Although quite basic, they are comfortable and perfect for relaxation.
✔️There is free wifi; however, guests have mentioned the signal is poor.
✔️The hotel features an outdoor swimming pool, beach shuttle, free onsite parking, a bar, restaurant and cafe. There is a terrace and a garden.
✔️Included is a continental breakfast served between 7 AM and 10 AM.
✔️Additional amenities provide entertainment for families, housekeeping and tour and ticket assistance for boat tours, snorkelling and scuba diving.
9. Hotel de la Poste Saint Louis Senegal
Hotel de la Poste is located on the east bank of Saint-Louis Island, overlooking the Senegal River and Faideherbe Bridge.
Guests have rated this 4-star hotel as good; however, it appears to need some updating in regard to the furnishings, but it is one of the few options within Ile Saint-Louis which has a swimming pool.
✔️ The rooms feature air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, complimentary toiletries, and daily housekeeping.
✔️ The hotel offers an outdoor swimming pool, terrace, a restaurant, a bar/lounge area, free parking, a laundry service, and tour and ticket assistance
✔️ An optional continental breakfast can be added and served between 7:00 Am and 9:00 AM
10. Hotel Escale Saint-Louis Senegal
This is the best 3-star hotel near Saint-Louis Airport and is located in the business district. If you’re looking for somewhere outside of Saint Louie Island, Hotel Escale is a fantastic option.
Guests have rated this accommodation highly. Attractions such as Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie is only a 10-minute drive away, while Saint Louis Island is a 9-minute drive away.
✔️Rooms feature a bright and airy decor, individually furnished with laptop-friendly workspaces, air conditioning, separate sitting areas, wardrobes, a kitchenette and private gardens.
✔️The bathrooms have rainfall showers.
✔️Hotel amenities include free parking, a laundry service, free in-room wifi, a concierge service and an onsite restaurant.
✔️A cooked-to-order breakfast is available for an additional cost between 8:30 AM and 10:30 AM
✔️ The ground floor is accessible; however, the upper floors are accessed by stairs only.
Best Day Trips In Senegal
✔️ Lac Rose (Pink Lake) – Salty, otherworldly and perfect for a day trip
✔️ Gorée Island – Historical, pretty, and easy to reach from Dakar
✔️ Bandia Reserve – A chance to spot giraffes, rhinos, and more
✔️ Ngor Island – Surf, seafood, and colourful alleyways near Dakar
The Most Cosy & Comfortable Hotels In Saint Louis, Senegal
Overall, I really enjoyed my time in Senegal and think it’s a fantastic country to visit. Saint Louis was a wonderful city, and probably my favourite stop in Senegal.
If I were to return, I would like to stay beachside, and I recommend Hotel Cap Saint Louis, which has direct access to the beach.
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