Faidherbe Bridge Travel Guide: Top Sights in Senegal, Tours & Travel

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Faidherbe Bridge- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Modern Urban; Senegal; 5 Reviews

Suggested Duration: 1 hours

Faidherbe Bridge is a 507.35-meter-long metal road bridge spanning the Senegal River, connecting Saint-Louis Island to the mainland. Completed in 1897, it replaced an earlier floating bridge overwhelmed by increasing traffic. The structure features eight spans, including a rotating section to allow ship passage. Financed through a French loan, it was built by Nouguier, Kessler et Cie after a competitive bid. Despite myths linking it to Gustave Eiffel or misplaced European bridge parts, historical records confirm its design and construction were specific to Senegal. A $27 million restoration in the 2000s addressed corrosion, ensuring its continued use. The bridge remains a key transport link with historical significance.

Operators offering tours in Senegal

Happy Explore Safari *

Attractions in Saint-Louis

Musée Jean Mermoz

4.4

Place Faidherbe

3.8

Reviews of Faidherbe Bridge

MUHAMMAD UMAIR

5
Reviewed: 2024-04-12

Pont Federbay, Saint-Louis One of the oldest bridges in West Africa. Initially built by French colonialists, the bridge was opened on 14 July 1897. Made of iron, it was built by the Gustave Eiffel Company. St. Louis connects the north side and the south side of the city. It is a true symbol of the city and attracts many tourists. It measures 511 meters and width: 6.20 meters and at night its lights color the landscape. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. was done. Another bridge should be planned for St. Louis. Once the bridge is worked on, everything is blocked. Walk, drive, cycle, crawl, however you decide to witness the magic of this bridge you will be blown away. I've included just a few of my favorite photos of this bridge and needless to say, it changed me for the better. I am a different man now. Alhamdulillah
mouhamadou sambe

5
Reviewed: 2023-10-12

Built since the colonial era, this bridge is a major attraction in Saint Louis Senegal. It is heavily relied on for people to cross the river. It offers a splendid view over the river and provides a beautiful broadwalk. Cars and pedestrians can go over the bridge.
Pierre Pascal DIENE

4
Reviewed: 2023-08-09

An extraordinary view during the night.
roddy mcgillivray

5
Reviewed: 2023-06-18

Wow. Just Wow. This bridge didn’t just meet my expectations, but surpassed them! Not only is it a stunning link between both parts of Saint Louis, but at night, oh at night! It lights up into a thing of utter beauty. Walking, driving, cycling, crawling, anyway you decide to witness the magic of this bridge you will be blown away. I have added only a few of my favourite photos of this bridge and needless to say, it changed me for the better. I am now a different man. Alhumdillah 🤩
Sean Ryan

4
Reviewed: 2023-02-17

As far as bridges go (and this is, of course, referring only to bridges I've actually been on), it lacks the grandeur of a bridge like the Golden Gate Bridge or the George Washington Bridge. It is, to be fair, far grander than the Great Eddy Covered Bridge in Waitsfield, VT, and unless things have changed dramatically since my last visit there, in far better repair (sorry, Mom)! *Note: I love when Google asks me to review places like this! See my review of Berthoud Pass Parking Lot for further context! Joking aside, though, the bridge has an interesting history and even more interesting legends (most of which, however, have been debunked). The walk across the bridge is very pleasant, offering much-needed fresh air when coming from the market area of Sor. Be aware if you're coming onto the island from the bridge, though: the hawkers and beggars will descend on you like vultures! The views both of and from the bridge are impressive, especially at night, thereby earning its reputation as a landmark well worth visiting!