Touba
Not been yet
At a glance
- Country
- Senegal
- Region
- Diourbel Region
- Population
- 750,000
- Best time to go
- November to May
- Main airport
- None — nearest is Dakar Blaise Diagne International (DSS)
- Coordinates
- 14.85°N, 15.88°W
Visited Still to go Click a pin or country to read more. Zoom with + and −, a double-click or a pinch.
Overview
Touba is the holy city of the Mouride Sufi brotherhood, founded by Cheikh Amadou Bamba at the end of the 19th century. It has grown into one of Senegal's largest cities, yet it is governed largely by the brotherhood and feels quite unlike anywhere else in the country.
Visitors are welcome, but respect local rules: smoking and alcohol are banned, and modest dress is expected. A guide from the mosque can show you around and explain the city's history.
Things to see
-
Photo: zivax, CC BY-SA 3.0 Great Mosque of Touba
One of the largest mosques in Africa, with marble courtyards, green domes and the towering Lamp Fall minaret.
-
Photo: Unknown photographer, Public domain Mausoleum of Amadou Bamba
The tomb of the brotherhood's founder, inside the mosque complex, is the spiritual heart of the city.
-
Ocass Market
A huge, crowded market where you can find almost anything, from cloth to cooking pots.
Things to do
-
Photo: © Franco Visintainer, CC-BY-3.0 Grand Magal of Touba
The annual pilgrimage marking Amadou Bamba's exile draws millions of pilgrims. Expect huge crowds and booked-out transport.
-
Photo: EquipeTKN, CC BY-SA 4.0 Drink café Touba
The city's namesake coffee, spiced with Guinea pepper, is sold from stalls and carts across Senegal.
-
Photo: USAID Africa Bureau, Public domain Visit Mbacké
The neighbouring town, now merged with Touba's sprawl, has more conventional shops and guesthouses.
Where to stay
Touba
Accommodation is very limited; many visitors stay with local hosts arranged through contacts.
Hotels in ToubaMbacké
A few simple hotels and guesthouses, a short taxi ride away.
Hotels in Mbacké
Getting around
Taxis and horse-drawn carts serve the city. A local guide is the best way to visit the mosque.
The Ila Touba motorway links the city to Dakar and its airport, a drive of around two and a half to three hours.
When to go
The dry season from November to May is the most comfortable time to visit. The rainy season runs from July to October. Avoid the Grand Magal unless you are coming specifically for it, as the date follows the Islamic calendar.
Plan your trip to Touba
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.