Thiès Market in Thiès, Senegal is a vibrant and bustling marketplace that is filled with amazing sights, sounds, and smells. It is a great place to find unique souvenirs, sample local cuisine, and get a taste of authentic Senegalese culture. Whether you are visiting for a few hours or a few days, here are 10 things to do at Thiès Market that will make your stay unforgettable.
1. Explore the Souvenir Stalls: Thiès Market is a great place to find unique souvenirs and gifts for your friends and family back home. From hand-crafted jewelry and colorful fabrics to traditional masks and leather goods, you’ll find something for everyone.
2. Sample Local Cuisine: Thiès Market is a great place to sample some of the best Senegalese cuisine. Try some traditional dishes like thieboudienne (a fish and rice dish) or mafé (a peanut-based stew). If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also sample some of the more exotic dishes like grilled antelope or fried termites.
3. Shop for Fresh Produce: Thiès Market is a great place to buy fresh produce. You’ll find a variety of fruits and vegetables, as well as some unique local items like baobab fruit and hibiscus flowers.
4. Visit the Artisans: Thiès Market is home to a variety of artisans who specialize in creating traditional Senegalese crafts. From wood carvings and basket weaving to metalwork and pottery, you’ll find something unique to take home with you.
5. Take a Tour: Thiès Market offers a variety of guided tours that will give you an in-depth look at the market and its history. You’ll learn about the culture, the people, and the products that make this market so unique.
6. Try Some Street Food: Thiès Market is a great place to sample some delicious street food. From spicy grilled meats to sweet pastries, you’ll find something to satisfy your taste buds.
7. Buy Local Art: Thiès Market is full of talented local artists who specialize in creating traditional Senegalese art. From paintings and sculptures to textiles and jewelry, you’ll find something unique to take home with you.
8. Visit the Local Shops: Thiès Market is full of unique local shops that sell everything from traditional clothing and accessories to handmade crafts and souvenirs. You’ll find something to fit any budget.
9. Haggle with the Vendors: Thiès Market is a great place to practice your haggling skills. You’ll find that the vendors are willing to negotiate on prices, so don’t be afraid to try and get the best deal.
10. People Watch: Thiès Market is a great place to people watch and get a feel for the local culture. From the vendors selling their wares to the locals going about their daily lives, you’ll find something interesting to observe.
Whether you’re visiting for a few hours or a few days, Thiès Market is a great place to experience authentic Senegalese culture. From sampling local cuisine to shopping for unique souvenirs, you’ll find something to make your stay unforgettable.