Touba

Touba is the holiest city of the Mouride brotherhood, Senegal's largest Sufi order. It was founded in 1887 by Sheikh Amadou Bamba and is one of the most important religious centres in West Africa. The city's centrepiece is the Grand Mosque, one of the largest in Africa, with its seven towering minarets. Touba is a city of pilgrims: the Grand Magal pilgrimage brings millions of Mouride followers annually. Unlike other Senegalese cities, Touba is governed by religious authorities; alcohol is prohibited and strict codes of conduct apply.

By Plane

Dakar Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS IATA), then 160 km east (2.5 hours) by road.

By Car / Road

Accessible via the N3 highway from Dakar. Bush taxis and minibuses from Diourbel (15 minutes).

Touba is a large city but the holy areas around the Grand Mosque are walkable. Taxis connect the mosque to the market and outer districts. Alcohol is prohibited in the holy city.

• Grand Mosque of Touba — The largest mosque in Senegal and one of the largest in Africa, with seven minarets and a capacity for tens of thousands of worshippers. Non-Muslims may not enter but can admire from outside.

• Mausoleum of Sheikh Amadou Bamba — The founder's tomb within the mosque complex.

• Touba Market — One of Senegal's largest markets, surrounding the mosque.

• Visit the Grand Mosque and the mausoleum of Sheikh Amadou Bamba.

• Shop at the Touba Market for religious artefacts, textiles, and local goods.

• Attend the Grand Magal pilgrimage (annual event in the Islamic month of Safar).

Restaurants in Touba serve Senegalese and Mouride cuisine. Thiéboudienne and yassa are local staples. All food is halal.

Café Touba (spiced coffee) is the signature drink of the Mouride brotherhood. Bissap juice and bottled water are also available. Alcohol is strictly prohibited.

Several pilgrim hostels and guesthouses are available near the mosque. Modest but clean options.

Touba Market is one of Senegal's largest, selling textiles, religious items, household goods, and fresh produce. Bargaining is expected.

• Diourbel (15 km west) — Regional capital.
• Mbacke (adjacent) — Administrative centre.