Dakar - Discovering Senegal

What to see, events, costs and every info for the perfect holiday
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Travelling to Dakar

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Dakar, a pretty good destination in Senegal (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Dakar and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Dakar, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Senegal, here's everything to know about Dakar for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Dakar

Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal, located on the westernmost point of the African continent. It is a bustling city with a population of over 1 million people, and is known for its vibrant culture, vibrant music scene, and diverse cuisine. Dakar is also an important economic hub in West Africa, with a major port and numerous industries. The city is home to several important landmarks, including the Presidential Palace, the African Renaissance Monument, and the Dakar Grand Mosque. Overall, Dakar is a fascinating destination for travelers interested in history, culture, and adventure.

Travelling
Travelling to Dakar and around: discovering Senegal

What to visit in Dakar

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Dakar, Senegal: 1. Goree Island - This historic island was once a center of the transatlantic slave trade. Visitors can take a ferry from Dakar to Goree Island and visit the House of Slaves, a museum that tells the tragic story of the transatlantic slave trade.
2. African Renaissance Monument - Standing at 49 meters tall, this monument is one of the tallest statues in Africa. It depicts a man, woman, and child emerging from the continent and symbolizes Africa's rise to a position of power and influence.
3. Dakar Grand Mosque - This stunning mosque is one of the largest in Africa and features an impressive minaret that stands over 67 meters tall. Visitors can tour the mosque, but should dress modestly and remove their shoes before entering.
4. IFAN Museum of African Arts - This museum showcases a collection of traditional West African art, including masks, textiles, and sculptures. It also includes a section on contemporary African art.
5. Lake Retba - This unique lake is known for its bright pink color caused by the high concentration of salt in the water. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake and even swim in the salty water.
6. Dakar Cathedral - This beautiful cathedral is built in a neo-Gothic style and features stunning stained glass windows and intricate carvings. Visitors can attend mass or admire the architecture and artwork.
7. Hann Park - This urban park offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. It features lush greenery, walking paths, and a lake where visitors can rent a paddle boat.
8. Sandaga Market - This bustling market is a great place to shop for local handicrafts, fabrics, and souvenirs. Visitors should be prepared to haggle for the best price and watch for pickpockets.
9. African Renaissance Palace - This presidential palace is known for its opulent interior and beautiful gardens. Visitors can only tour the palace by appointment, but it's worth it to see the incredible architecture and art. 10. Ngor Island - This small island is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe. Visitors can relax in the sun, dine on fresh seafood, and take boat tours of the surrounding waters.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Senegal, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Dakar.

When to go on holiday to Dakar

The best time to visit Dakar, Senegal is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. During this time, you can expect sunny days with minimal rain, comfortable temperatures, and low humidity levels. The high tourist season in Dakar is from November to February, so you may want to plan your trip accordingly. Keep in mind that from June to October, the weather is hot and humid with frequent rain showers, which may make outdoor activities less enjoyable.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Dakar

There are a few different ways to get to Dakar, Senegal depending on where you are coming from: By air: Dakar's international airport, Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), serves a number of airlines from around the world. You may find direct or connecting flights depending on your location.
By sea: Dakar is a major port city and has regular ferry services to surrounding West African countries. You can arrive by ferry from cities in Morocco, Spain, and Cape Verde.
By land: It's possible to drive from many neighboring countries, but cross-border transportation can be difficult. Bus services also operate between Senegal and nearby countries, but schedules can be unpredictable.
If you're planning to visit Dakar from within Senegal, you can take a local bus or hire a taxi. It's also possible to take a domestic flight to the city if you prefer not to spend too much time on the road.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Dakar, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Dakar

Sure thing! Here are some typical foods of Dakar, Senegal: 1. Thiéboudienne - This is a popular Senegalese dish that consists of rice cooked in tomato sauce, with fish and vegetables.
2. Mafe - Mafe is a hearty stew made with peanut butter, meat (usually chicken or beef), and vegetables such as carrots and sweet potatoes.
3. Yassa - Yassa is a spicy, tangy dish that is typically made with chicken or fish marinated in a blend of onions, lemon juice, and mustard.
4. Fataya - Fataya is a type of savory pastry filled with meat (usually beef or chicken), onions, and sometimes vegetables like carrots and potatoes.
5. Thiebou yapp - Thiebou yapp is a dish made with rice cooked in tomato sauce and and caramelised onions, with chunks of tender meat like beef or lamb.
6. Ndambé - Ndambé is a hearty bean stew made with black-eyed peas, onions, and thyme, typically served with bread.
7. Bissap - Bissap is a popular drink made from hibiscus flowers. It's usually served cold and sweetened with sugar or honey.
Hope this helps, let me know if you have any other questions!
You can find general info about typical foods in Senegal here.

Is Dakar an expensive destination for tourists?

Generally speaking, Dakar can be considered a relatively expensive destination for tourists. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation are higher than in other destinations in West Africa. However, there are ways to travel on a budget in Dakar, such as staying in budget-friendly guesthouses or hostels, eating at local street food stalls, and using public transportation. Additionally, there are many free or low-cost activities to explore the city's culture and history, such as visiting the African Renaissance Monument, the Dakar Grand Mosque, or the IFAN Museum of African Arts.

Where to find accomodation in Dakar

There are several areas in Dakar where you can find good accommodation depending on your preferences. 1. Plateau: This is the financial and administrative center of Dakar and has many high-end hotels. It is a good location for business travelers or those seeking luxury accommodations.
2. Almadies: This is a coastal area near the international airport and is popular among tourists due to its proximity to beaches, restaurants, and nightlife.
3. Ngor: This is a small island located off the coast of Dakar, connected by a bridge. It is home to many boutique hotels and is popular among surfers.
4. Les Mamelles: This is a quiet residential area located on a hill overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. It has fewer accommodation options but offers a nice escape from the busy city.
Ultimately, the best area to stay in Dakar depends on your personal preferences and travel plans.
You can check hotel prices at Dakar here:
Booking.com


Is Dakar a safe destination for tourists?

Dakar is considered a relatively safe destination for tourists, but like any other city, caution should be exercised to avoid any kind of crime or potential dangers. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in busy areas and tourist attractions, so it's important to keep valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings.
It is also recommended to avoid certain areas during the night and rely on official taxis or transportation booked through the hotel for journeys.
Overall, Senegal has a reputation for being a safe and friendly country for visitors, and most tourists have a positive experience in Dakar.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Senegal here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Dakar.

What type of travelers will enjoy Dakar the most?

Dakar, Senegal is a diverse city with something for everyone. Here are my recommendations for which types of travelers would enjoy Dakar the most: 1. Couples: Dakar is a great destination for couples who are looking for a romantic and exotic getaway. The city has beautiful beaches, museums, markets, and restaurants that couples can explore together.
2. Young people looking for fun: Dakar has a vibrant nightlife scene with a range of bars, clubs, and music venues that young people will enjoy. There are also plenty of outdoor activities like surfing and kiteboarding.
3. Families: Dakar is a family-friendly destination that has a lot to offer in terms of culture, history, and adventure. Families can explore the city's many museums, parks, and beaches. They can also take day trips to nearby wildlife reserves or enjoy water activities like swimming and boating. Overall, Dakar is a great choice for anyone looking for an African adventure with a mix of cultural experiences, outdoor activities, and urban amenities.

How to get around Dakar

In Dakar, you can move around by using the following means of transportation: - Taxis: They are available throughout the city and are relatively cheap.
- Buses: They are also relatively cheap and cover a wide area.
- Car rentals: They are available from the airport or reputable car rental companies, but driving may be challenging due to traffic and road conditions.
- Motorbike taxis (also known as "Jakarta" or "car rapide"): They are a popular and cheap option and can navigate through traffic, but safety may be a concern.

What to see around Dakar

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Dakar (Senegal): 1. Goree Island - A UNESCO World Heritage Site 2. Pink Lake (Lac Retba) - A saltwater lake that appears pink due to the presence of algae 3. Bandia Wildlife Reserve - A sanctuary to see animals such as giraffes, zebras and antelopes 4. Ngor Island - A beautiful, serene island with clean beaches 5. Toubab Dialaw - A scenic town with amazing beaches and an artistic vibe 6. Joal-Fadiouth - A unique town built on two islands, joined by a wooden footbridge 7. Lake Guiers - A tranquil lake with beautiful natural scenery 8. Les Calanques de la Madeleine - A hidden gem with stunning cliffs, coves and beaches Hope that helps!
For every travel information about Senegal you can click here.

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