Les Mamelles Lighthouse, Dakar

Les Mamelles Lighthouse is the westernmost point of Africa, on the outskirts of Dakar. Completed in 1864, it has been a crucial navigational aid for ships around the western tip of Africa.

The lighthouse features a 16-meter cylindrical tower attached to a two-story building. The ground floor houses the machine room with a generator and battery backup. The second floor contains the watch room used by duty keepers at night. A spiral staircase leads to the lantern room with a 2nd order Fresnel lens illuminated by a 1000-watt halogen lamp. The light, which produces a white flash every five seconds, has a focal height of 120 meters and a range of 57 km, making it one of the most powerful in Africa.

Initially oil-fueled, the light is now electrified but remains manned as it is not automated. The lighthouse is open to the public, offering guided tours by the lighthouse keepers. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the peninsula, including Almadies, N'Gor, Ouakam, and the African Renaissance Monument.

The lighthouse also features a nearby open-air eating and drinking spot that hosts live music on Friday nights and Sunday brunch. The Restaurant Phare des Mamelles offers food, drinks, and stunning views, making it a worthwhile visit for both its historical significance and scenic beauty.