Gorée Island transforms from slave trade outpost to dark tourism destination in Senegal

Gorée Island, located just off the coast of Dakar, Senegal, was a key site in the Atlantic slave trade from 1536 until 1848. It served as a control point for merchants, with its small size and deep waters limiting escape options. After the abolition of slavery, Gorée became a port for legitimate trade, particularly peanuts and gum arabic. The island changed hands multiple times, ultimately becoming part of France until Senegal's independence in 1960. Today, Gorée is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, attracting tourists to its museums and historic sites, including the Maison des Esclaves. The island is home to about 2,000 residents and features restaurants and hotels catering to visitors.