Pointe des Almadies

The Pointe des Almadies is the western end of the African mainland, a low volcanic headland at the top of the Cap-Vert peninsula where the rock runs out into the Atlantic and the swell breaks on it constantly. There is no monument to speak of, just a marker, a line of seafood restaurants along the shore and a surf break offshore. The geography is the point: at 17.5 degrees west it is the westernmost point of the Afro-Eurasian landmass, eight degrees further west than Cabo da Roca in Portugal. Offshore an oceanic front separates water two or three degrees warmer on the equatorial side.

What you'll find

• The westernmost point - the tip of continental Africa, marked but undeveloped.
• The rock shore - black volcanic rock with the Atlantic breaking on it.
• The seafood restaurants - a line of places along the shore serving the day's catch.
• The surf - a reef break offshore, worked through the winter swell season.

When to go

November to May is the dry season and the most comfortable. Swell is largest from October to March. Sunset is the hour people come for, facing straight out west.

Before you go

There is very little built here and no interpretation; the significance is geographical rather than visual. The restaurants vary and prices are Dakar prices. The rocks are sharp and the sea is not for swimming.

Nearby

Ngor and its island are just north, and central Dakar is south along the corniche.

Key facts