Sprawled across the southern banks of the Casamance river, life flows in Ziguinchor much like the water that gently ambles alongside. Wide-open streets, palm trees and low-rise buildings mark out the blueprint of this relaxed capital, which is becoming increasingly popular among expats thanks to the region’s warmer climate and greener surroundings.
Easily accessible by air and boat from Dakar, Ziguinchor is also well-connected to the Gambia, Guinea-Bissau, Kédegou in the south-east and, of course, the resort towns on Casamance's Atlantic coast. In the city itself, the influx of tourism coupled with the agribusiness, NGO and charitable organisations based in the region has led to a number of housing opportunities.
Neighbourhoods in Ziguinchor
The region of Ziguinchor is divided into three departments, namely Bignona, Oussouye and Ziguinchor. The former is north of the river and the latter two south of the river in the Basse-Casamance area. Oussouye is home to over 500 villages, but most visitors who venture in its direction come for the long white sandy beach of Cap-Skirring. There are many Francophone expats who have set up hotels and restaurants there, and the resort town is Casamance's main tourist attraction.
However, most of those that visit will first pass through the city of Ziguinchor, 67km away. The city stretches out from the banks of the river, with most action taking place either at the water's edge or near to the city's principal boulevards. Most of the side streets are residential, and the town is quiet at night with expats and tourists tending to live either near the riverside (the Santhiaba district) or in the western side of the city (west of the N4).
Features of Ziguinchor
Although a stone's throw from rural villages, dense forests and sandy beaches, the city of Ziguinchor also has a lot to offer. From its artisanal markets and ancient European architecture (the city was founded by the Portuguese in the 17th century) to its myriad of restaurants and the Alliance Française cultural centre, there is something for everyone. Meanwhile, the city is renowned for its cultural Diola heritage - including the impluvium-style buildings.
Finding accommodation in Ziguinchor
Ziguinchor is full of hotels and guesthouses, so the best thing to do is rent a room on arrival until you find the housing unit which best suits your needs. From picking up a local newspaper to ask at your hotel reception, harnessing local knowledge will give you the best chance of finding a great place to stay. You can also look online or register with a real estate agency, but that will incur agency fees.
Useful links:
Sene Logement (in French)
Planete-Senegal
Likibu
Jumia
Mamaison
We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.
