Lac Rose — The only pink lake in Africa

Located in Senegal, Lac Rose (meaning Pink Lake) is the only pink lake in Africa.

Originally known as Lake Retba, this is a stunning coral pink lake nestled between white sand dunes and the Atlantic Ocean. It has been a source of livelihood for thousands of people from around Senegal and the west coast of Africa who come there for salt harvesting. Its distinct pink colour is caused by the Dunaliella Salina bacteria, which is attracted by the lake’s salt content. The bacteria produces a red pigment in order to absorb the sunlight, thus giving the lake its unique colour.

Getting to Lac Rose is about 45 minutes drive from Dakar, and the best time to visit the lake is November – June, primarily because its colour is visible during the dry season (which lasts from November to June) and less during the rainy season (July-October). Be sure to get there between 9am – 1pm so you can experience the dazzling colour in all its glory!