Map of Dakar, Senegal

🌴 What to do in Dakar

Dakar is a bustling city with a wide array of activities to suit every traveler's interests. From exploring vibrant markets to soaking up the sun on beautiful beaches, Dakar offers a mix of cultural and leisure experiences.

• Best Budget Activity in Dakar:

  Goree Island Tour: Take a ferry to Goree Island and explore its historic sites, including the House of Slaves and vibrant local markets.

• Best Mid-Range Activity in Dakar:

  African Renaissance Monument Visit: Admire the iconic African Renaissance Monument and enjoy panoramic views of Dakar from the observation deck.

• Best Luxury Activity in Dakar:

  Pink Lake Excursion: Experience the unique Pink Lake with a guided tour, where you can float effortlessly due to its high salt content and witness stunning pink hues at sunset.

🍽️ Where to eat in Dakar

Dakar is a culinary melting pot, offering a delightful mix of flavors and dishes that showcase Senegal's vibrant food scene. From savory grilled fish to flavorful jollof rice, Dakar's culinary delights are not to be missed.

• Best Budget Restaurant in Dakar:

  Chez Loutcha•$-$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Traditional Senegalese dishes

• Best Mid-Range Restaurant in Dakar:

  La Calebasse•$$-$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: International fusion cuisine

• Best Luxury Restaurant in Dakar:

  Lagon 1•$$$-$$$$:

  Cuisine specialty: Fine dining seafood specialties

• Best Budget Bar in Dakar:

  Just 4 U•$:

  Thieboudienne (Senegalese rice and fish dish)

• Best Mid-Range Bar in Dakar:

  Le Viking•$$-$$$:

  Bissap Cocktail

• Best Luxury Bar in Dakar:

  Skybar•$$$-$$$$:

  Champagne cocktail

🏛️ What to see in Dakar

Dakar is a city rich in history and culture, boasting an array of fascinating landmarks that showcase its unique heritage. From historic sites to contemporary art spaces, Dakar offers a diverse range of attractions for visitors to explore.

• Dakar Cathedral

  Imposing Catholic cathedral known for its striking architecture and serene atmosphere.

• Presidential Palace

  The official residence of the President of Senegal, offering a glimpse into the country's political history.

• African Renaissance Monument

  Iconic statue symbolizing Africa's quest for independence and self-determination, with panoramic views of the city.

• IFAN Museum of African Arts

  A renowned museum showcasing a diverse collection of traditional and contemporary African art and artifacts.

• Les Mamelles Lighthouse

  Historic lighthouse located on a cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, offering stunning views of the coastline.

🛍️ Where to go shopping in Dakar

Dakar is a vibrant shopping destination with a mix of bustling markets and modern boutiques, offering a unique shopping experience for every budget. From colorful fabrics to handcrafted souvenirs, Dakar's shopping venues are a treasure trove for shoppers.

• Best Budget Shopping Place in Dakar:

  Kermel Market: Authentic market selling a variety of goods including textiles, crafts, and fresh produce at affordable prices.

• Best Mid-Range Shopping Place in Dakar:

  Soumbedioune Artisanal Market: Artisanal market offering a wide selection of handmade jewelry, pottery, and textiles, ideal for mid-range shopping.

• Best Luxury Shopping Place in Dakar:

  Sea Plaza Mall: Upscale shopping mall featuring international brands, designer boutiques, and luxury goods for a high-end shopping experience.

🚌 Getting Around Dakar:

• Public Transport

  In Dakar, the primary mode of public transport is the bus system, with various routes covering the city and surrounding areas. The buses are affordable, with prices typically ranging from 150-300 CFA francs per ride. They operate from early morning until late at night, making it convenient for travelers to get around. Additionally, there is no fixed schedule for buses, so they might not run on a strict timetable.

• Main Transportation Hubs

  The main transportation hub in Dakar is the Gare Routière Pompiers, which serves as a central bus terminal for intercity and regional travel. For those arriving by air, Blaise Diagne International Airport is located around 50 kilometers east of Dakar and provides easy access to the city through taxis or shuttle services.

• 🚗 Rental Services

  Car Rental: Several car rental companies operate in Dakar, such as Avis, Europcar, and Hertz. Prices for car rentals start from around 20,000 CFA francs per day, depending on the type of vehicle and rental duration. 🚲Bicycle Rental: For a more eco-friendly way to explore the city, bicycle rental services are available in Dakar. Providers like Senvelo offer bike rentals starting from 5,000 CFA francs per day. Cycling around Dakar can be a fun and unique way to experience the sights and sounds of the city.