Lake Retba: A Unique Destination in Senegal
What Makes Lake Retba Unique?
Lake Retba, also known as the Pink Lake, is located about 35 km (22 miles) northeast of Dakar, Senegal. Separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow corridor of dunes, this lake is renowned for its striking pink waters. The color is due to the presence of Dunaliella salina algae, which produce a red pigment to absorb sunlight and generate energy. The pink hue is most vivid during the dry season, from November to May, when the salt concentration is highest.
Salinity and Floating Experience
Lake Retba’s salinity levels can reach up to 40%, making it comparable to the Dead Sea. This high salt content allows visitors to float effortlessly on the water’s surface. The salt is primarily a result of seawater ingress and evaporation.
Salt Harvesting
The lake supports a thriving salt industry, with approximately 38,000 tonnes of salt harvested annually. Up to 3,000 collectors, including men and women from across West Africa, work long hours to gather salt, which is used in preserving fish for traditional Senegalese dishes like thieboudienne. Collectors protect their skin with shea butter to prevent tissue damage from the salt.
Impact of Flooding
In 2022, severe flooding caused by torrential rains in Dakar affected Lake Retba, turning its pink waters green and threatening the local ecosystem and economy. The flooding destroyed salt mounds and disrupted the livelihoods of salt farmers and local businesses. While the lake has partially regained its pink hue, the incident highlights the environmental challenges facing the area.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Lake Retba is during the dry season, from November to May, when the pink color is most pronounced. However, weather conditions can affect the lake’s appearance, so checking local forecasts is advisable.
How to Get There
Reaching Lake Retba from Dakar is straightforward. Here are some options:
- By Car: The lake is about a 45-minute drive from Dakar. Renting a car or hiring a taxi offers convenience.
- By Public Transportation: Public minibusses, known as “cars rapides,” provide an affordable way to reach the lake from Dakar’s city center.
- By Tour: Numerous tour operators offer day trips to Lake Retba, including transportation and guides.
Local Transportation
Once at Lake Retba, several options are available to explore the area:
- Boat Rides: Experience the lake’s beauty up close with a boat ride, enjoying the breeze and the unique pink waters.
- Quad Bikes: Rent a quad bike for an adventurous exploration of the surrounding sandy trails and panoramic views.
- Guided Tours: Local guides offer walking tours around the lake, sharing insights into its history, culture, and natural features.
Additional Information
Despite its high salinity, Lake Retba supports wildlife such as blackchin tilapia in its brackish sections. The lake has been under consideration as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2005. It also has a history with motorsport, having been a finishing point for the Dakar Rally and hosting a round of the Extreme E electric off-road racing series in 2021.
