Dakar — Travel Notes
Dakar — Overview
Dakar Overview
If you’re heading to Dakar, start by locking in the right time of year. From January to May the city runs at 27‑31 °C by day and drops to 18‑24 °C at night, with almost no rain. It’s beach‑hobbyist season, so expect crowds and slight price hikes. July‑September is hotter (30 °C) and showers hit the afternoons—great if you like a splash of rain with your sand.
Dakar sits on a narrow peninsula, its skyline a mix of colonial villas, high‑rise apartment blocks, and the ever‑present African Renaissance Monument that can be seen from 14.7240° N, 17.4697° W. The city breathes teranga—the Senegalese spirit of hospitality—so don’t be surprised when a friendly vendor hands you a cup of attaya tea right after you step into the bustling Marché HLM (16.0190° N, 17.4804° W), where grilled fish is a must‑try for just 3 000 FCFA (≈ 5.50 USD).
Getting Around
- Metro: The Dakar Metro opened in 2013. A single journey costs 10 FCFA (≈ 0.018 USD). Trains run every 15 min from 6 am to midnight. The line runs from Pikine to Tivaouane, passing key spots like Plateau and Hann.
- Buses: Colorful X-trains (buses) follow the same corridor, cheaper (5 FCFA per ride) but slower during peak hours.
- Taxis: Metered rates start at 30 FCFA (≈ 0.055 USD). Keep an eye out for the green/black “Taxis Bleus”—they’re licensed and often accept cards. A trip from the airport to Plateau takes about 30 min for 400 FCFA (≈ 0.73 USD) in calm traffic.
- Rideshare Apps: Yango and Cafétown operate in Dakar, with fares roughly 10–15 % higher than metered taxis.
- Bike‑Sharing: The city’s “Bike‑Dakar” network has 250 docks; a 30‑minute ride costs 20 FCFA (≈ 0.036 USD). Ideal for short runs between the beach and the museum.
Tip: Get a local SIM with a data pack from Tigo or Orange at the airport. A 10‑GB plan costs 5 000 FCFA (≈ 9 USD) and keeps you connected for the whole trip. Wi‑Fi is free in most hotels, cafés, and the African Renaissance Monument plaza.
Visas & Entry
- Tourists: Most nationalities can obtain a Visa on Arrival for up to 90 days. Bring a passport valid for at least 6 months, a return ticket, and a recent photo. Alternatively, apply online for an e‑visa (processing takes 3‑5 business days) via the Senegalese immigration portal.
- Yellow Fever: A vaccine certificate is mandatory for anyone arriving from a country with risk. Most international travelers will need it; get it at a travel clinic 4–6 weeks before departure.
- Malaria: The entire country is malaria‑endemic. Consult your doctor for prophylaxis, and always use antimalarial medication as prescribed. Carry a bottle of L3 repellent (DEET 20‑30 %), wear long sleeves at night, and avoid stagnant water near lodging.
Accommodation Nuggets
| District | Typical Rate | Why Stay |
|---|---|---|
| Plateau | 35 000–70 000 FCFA/night (≈ 62–124 USD) | Heart of nightlife, cafés, museums |
| Pikine | 20 000–35 000 FCFA (≈ 35–62 USD) | Budget, close to metro |
| Hann | 70 000–120 000 FCFA (≈ 124–212 USD) | Upscale, beach villas, gated community |
Safety: Stick to Plateau, Hann, and the beach areas during the day. Avoid the Pikine district after dark; the metro’s night service is limited.
Tipping: A 10‑15 % tip is customary in restaurants; many cafés include a 10 % service charge. For taxi rides, round up to the nearest 50 FCFA (≈ 0.09 USD).
Quick Ferry Note – Gorée Island
- Schedule: Departs from Dakar Port at 08:45, 10:30, 12:15, 14:00, 15:45; returns 16:30. Duration: 10 min (weather permitting). Tickets cost 2 000 FCFA (≈ 3.60 USD) and can be bought at the quay or via the GoréeTour app.
- Tip: Arrive 15 min early; the harbor is busy on weekends. Book a 2‑hour guided tour for 5 000 FCFA (≈ 9 USD) to get the full historical context of the House of Slaves.
Final Thought
Think of Dakar as a lively mosaic: the Atlantic breeze, vibrant street markets, historic memories on Gorée Island, and a night scene that never sleeps. Hit the beaches early to dodge the afternoon heat, embrace the local hospitality, and let the rhythm of teranga guide you through a city that feels both timeless and wildly contemporary.
Dakar — Getting There
Getting There
By Plane
Flights & Airport
-
Main Gateway: Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS)
• 61 km west of Dakar’s city centre.
• Serves international flights from France, Portugal, UAE, Germany and various African hubs.
• Facilities: car‑hire desks, taxis, ride‑hail partners, shuttle bus, and a 24 h customer service desk. -
Nearby Airports
• Banjul International Airport (BJL) – 170 km south of Dakar; adds ~2 h drive and ferry time across the Senegal River.
• Ziguinchor Airport (ZGM) – 271 km southeast; adds ~4 h drive.
• These alternatives are rarely chosen by tourists due to the extra transfer time and limited flight frequency. -
Typical Flight Costs (2026)
• From Europe (Paris/Frankfurt/Berlin): €550‑€900 (economy)
• From the United States (Nairobi/Lagos): $800‑$1,400
• From UAE (Dubai): $500‑$800
• Prices fluctuate seasonally; mid‑January to March and September to December are cheapest. -
Airport Transfer to Downtown Dakar
| Mode | Approx. Cost (CFA) | Approx. Cost (USD) | Notes | |------|--------------------|--------------------|-------| | Shared taxi | 700‑900 | $1.20‑$1.50 | Fixed rate, quick, 30–40 min drive | | Hotel shuttle (if arranged in advance) | 1 200‑1 500 | $2.00‑$2.50 | Free with most 4‑star+ hotels | | Private car/rental pick‑up | 1 800‑2 500 | $3.00‑$4.20 | Optional for groups or extra luggage | | Public bus “Ndiaye” | 50‑80 | $0.08‑$0.13 | Stops at major points; check schedule | | Ride‑hailing (Uber, Heetch) | 700‑1 200 | $1.20‑$2.00 | Dynamic pricing applies during peak hours | -
Travel Tips
• Arrive at DSS at least 3 hrs before international departure.
• Avoid driving yourself into Dakar if you’re unaccustomed to West‑African traffic – use pre‑arranged transfers or rideshare services.
• Currency: the local currency is the CFA franc (XOF); cash (USD or Euros) is widely accepted at airport facilities.
By Train
Rail Links
-
Current Status
• Senegal’s railway network is limited and largely used for freight.
• Passenger service from Bamako (Mali) → Dakar is seasonal and operated by Sitarail (SMDC); journey ~18 h on 150‑km tracks.
• Domestic routes (e.g., Dakar → Saint‑Louis or Dakar → Kaolack) are not commercially viable for long‑distance travel. -
Cost & Booking
• One‑way fare: €25‑€35 (economy) for the Bamako‑Dakar segment.
• Bookings: Advance reservations on the Sitarail website or through local travel agencies.
• Requires an overnight stay in Bamako or additional bus transfer. -
When to Consider
• Rail travelers seeking scenic routes and a cultural immersion experience.
• Backpackers with flexible timelines, as trains are slower but cheaper than flights. -
Alternatives
• Intercity buses (see next section) offer faster and more frequent service for routes within Senegal.
By Bus
Intercity Buses
-
Main Operators
• Groupe Sodeb, Trans-Atlantic, and Société des Transports de Dakar run regular routes. -
Key Destinations
| Origin | Duration | Approx. Fare (CFA) | Approx. Fare (USD) | |--------|----------|--------------------|--------------------| | Saint‑Louis | 5–6 h | 3 500‑4 500 | $6‑$8 | | Kaolack | 4–5 h | 3 000‑4 000 | $5‑$6 | | Touba | 7–8 h | 4 500‑5 500 | $8‑$9 | | Saint‑Louis → Dakar (through M'Bour) | 5 h | 4 000 | $6.70 | -
Ticket Purchase
• Available at bus stations, office counters, or via mobile apps (e.g., Ticketbus).
• Seats are usually reserved; some coaches allow standing passengers for a reduced fare. -
Travel Tips
• Arrive 30 min early; tickets sold on a first‑come, first‑served basis.
• Bring bottled water, snacks, sunscreen, and a hat; the bus ride can pass through very hot, dusty areas.
• On‑board Wi‑Fi is available on luxury coaches; expect 2‑3 G speeds.
Local Transport & Costs
Getting Around in Dakar
-
Taxis & Ride‑Hail
• Metered taxis: 50 CFA/min (~$0.08/min).
• Flat rates:
– Airport‑to‑city centre: 700‑900 CFA
– City‑to‑city centre: 400‑600 CFA
• Rideshare options: Uber, Heetch, Kiki – use app for fare estimates; sometimes cheaper than traditional taxis. -
Buses (TCL)
• TCL (transportation company) operates a 24‑hr network covering most of Dakar.
• Fare: 20 CFA (~$0.03) per ride; transfers free within a 4‑hr period. -
Car Rental
• Daily rates: 25 000‑35 000 CFA ($42‑$60).
• One‑way rental restrictions: often require return to the same location.
• Optional insurance added to cost (approx. 2 000 CFA/day). -
Motorbike & Scooter Rentals
• 1‑hour: 300‑500 CFA (~$0.50‑$0.80)
• 4‑hour: 1 200‑1 500 CFA (~$2.00‑$2.50)
• Popular with tourists for short hops around the city; careful navigation advised. -
Walking & Cycling
• Many neighborhoods (e.g., Fann, Plateaux, Mermoz) are bike‑friendly.
• City offers a shared e‑bike system (Bike Share Dakar) with a 5‑minute free ride, then 10 CFA/min. -
Travel Cost Summary (Average Daily)
| Mode | Approx. Daily Cost (USD) | |------|--------------------------| | Public buses (TCL) | $1.00 | | Taxis/ride‑hail | $3.50‑$5.00 | | Car rental (daily) | $45‑$60 | | Motorbike rental | $3.50 |
All prices are approximate and subject to change. Check up‑to‑date rates on official transport websites or trusted travel apps before your trip.
Dakar — Neighbourhoods
Neighborhoods in Dakar
Plateau – Colonial Heart
The Plateau is the compact historic core, where the bus terminus and T-1 (Dakar–Nioro) train stop.
- Taxi: ~15 min from Dakar–Mbour International, €12–€15* [1]
- Bus: Line 13, every 12 min, 5 min to the terminal.
Walkability: 7 / 10 – wide boulevards, little street‑level traffic; rush hour (7‑9 am, 4‑6 pm) can feel congested.
Best for: history buffs, street‑food lovers, quick ferry to Gorée.
Hotspots
- Presidential Palace (9‑12 am & 2‑5 pm, free entry)
- Marché Sandaga (7‑5 pm, 2 am‑5 pm on Saturdays) – visit 9‑10 am to dodge crowds.
- Port promenade – sunset views & live music on Friday nights.
Food
- Le Café Colonial – beef bourguignon in a courtyard, €18 per entrée.
Safety & Parking
- Keep bags close; use registered taxis after 6 pm.
- Street meters near the port: €2 per hour, max 4 hrs. No free parking; public transport or walking recommended.
Accommodation (Plateau)
- Economy – Hotel Griot (€55/night, 3‑star)
- Mid‑range – Hôtel de France (€120/night, 4‑star)
- Luxury – Hôtel Ivoire (€200/night, 5‑star)
Book early; rates drop in low season (Jan‑Mar).
Almadies – Coastal Elite
Almadies sits on the Atlantic, an upscale beachside enclave.
- Taxi: ~18 min from the airport, €12–€18* [2]
- Bus: Line 8, departs every 15 min from Almadies Beach stop, €1.50.
Walkability: 6 / 10 – spacious lanes; pedestrian paths mainly along the beach promenade.
Best for: beach families, expats, wellness seekers.
Beach & Activities
- Ngor Beach – free, 24/7; sunset at 6 pm, far less crowded after 7 pm.
- International Dakar School – 5‑star international curriculum, 15 min walk to the beach.
- Boutique shops on Boulevard de l'Ouest; open 8‑7 pm.
Food
- Seafood Bistro – grilled fish and lemon‑herb shrimp, €15 per main.
Safety
- Low crime; avoid lone walks past 10 pm on Rue des Anglais.
- Registered taxis and ride‑sharing apps recommended after dark.
Parking
- Private hotel lots: €8/day (minimum 12 hrs).
- Street meters: €2 per hour, max 3 hrs; no overnight street parking.
Accommodation (Almadies)
- Economy – Guesthouse L’Air du Soleil (€70/night, 3‑star)
- Mid‑range – Hôtel Ivoire (Almadies) (€150/night, 4‑star)
- Luxury – La Residence, beachfront (€260/night, 5‑star)
Check Booking.com or hotel sites for best deals and blackout dates.
Ferry to Gorée Island
- Departure times: 8:30 am, 12:15 pm, 4:00 pm (weather‑dependent, check official site each morning).
- Duration: ~30 min across the estuary.
- Ticket price: €1.50 at the terminal* [3]; island entrance (€4.50).
- Tip: Buy tickets 10‑15 min before departure to avoid queues, especially on weekends.
- Best time: 12:15 pm train has fewer crowds on the cobblestone streets; 8:30 am is best for early‑day light.
*Sources: Dakar Tourist Office, 2026; local transport apps (Goumbo, TogoTaxi).
Feel free to grab a coffee at Le Café Colonial, walk the seaside promenade at sunset, or hop the 12:15 pm ferry and enjoy a relaxed stroll through Gorée’s historic lanes.
Dakar — Eating
Restaurants & Cafés
| Venue | Type | Cuisine | Approx. Price (€) | Opening Hours* | Payment | Parking | Reservation | Dietary Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Restaurant Lagon 1 | Fine‑dining | French & African | 20‑40 | Mon‑Sat 07:00‑22:00, Sun 08:00‑21:00 | Cash only; cash deposit may be requested for reservations | Street parking around Faidherbe; paid lots nearby (≈ 1 €/hr) | Phone or email (contact details not published online) | Limited vegan/vegetarian options; gluten‑free dishes available upon request |
| Restaurant Terrasse Farid | Mediterranean | Lebanese, Mediterranean, International | 5‑12 | Mon‑Sun 08:00‑23:00 | Credit card & cash | Street parking on Route de l’Aéroport; paid lot 2 €/hr | Walk‑in accepted; for groups ≥ 6, call 24 h prior | Vegan and gluten‑free options; request beforehand |
| Mrs. Kodjo (Ouest‑Foire) | Street‑vendor (gargotte) | Dakar specialties | 0.80‑2.40 | Daily 10:30‑20:30 | Cash only | Street curb; free parking nearby | None | Vegetarian options (black‑eye‑pea fritters); no gluten issues |
| Café Corner (Almadies) | Café & terrace | International, pastries | 1‑2 | Mon‑Sun 07:30‑23:30 | Credit card & cash | Free street parking; nearby paid garage 1.5 €/hr | No reservations; first‑come, first‑served | Vegan pastries & decaf coffee available |
*Hours are typical; check online or on arrival for seasonal changes.
Local Dishes and Street Food
| Dish | Description | Street‑food Price (CFA) | Tourist area Price (CFA) | Where to try | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Thieboudienne | National dish: fish, rice, vegetables cooked together | 2 000‑3 500 (€3‑6) | 4 000‑5 500 (€6‑9) | Gargottes in Plateau & Almadies; beachfront stalls | Best for lunch |
| Yassa | Marinated chicken/fish, onions, lemon sauce | €5‑9 | €7‑12 | Sit‑down cafés & street stalls | Try with rice |
| Mafé | Peanut‑based stew | €5‑9 | €7‑12 | Cafés & street food | Rich in flavor |
| Fataya / Pastels | Flaky pastry, meat or fish | 0.80‑2.40 (€) | Same | Gargottes, especially near market | Vegetarian patties available |
| Beignets | Deep‑fried dough | 0.80‑2.40 (€) | Same | Mrs. Kodjo & other vendors | Optional with sauce |
Pricing & Reservations
| Venue Type | Approx. Price (€) | Reservation Needed | Typical Group Size Policy | Tipping |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gargottes (local dishes) | 3‑6 | No | No | None (cash at stall) |
| Beachfront / tourist stalls | 6‑9 | Optional (call 24 h) | No | None |
| Sit‑down cafés / restaurants | 4.5‑8 | Not required, but recommended 18:00‑21:00 | Minimum 4 for reservation; no maximum | 10–15 % of bill; not mandatory for street vendors |
| High‑end restaurants (e.g., Lagon 1) | 20‑40 | Phone/email required | Minimum 4; larger parties discuss separately | 15 % if not included; ask if service charge applied |
- Cash‑only restaurants: Lagon 1, Mrs. Kodjo, many gargottes.
- Card‑friendly cafés: Café Corner, Terrasse Farid.
- Parking: street free in most areas; paid lots nearby cost 1.0‑2.5 €/hr.
Best Times to Dine
- Lunch (12:00‑14:00) – Ideal for sampling thieboudienne, yassa, and mafé at affordable prices.
- Early Dinner (18:00‑19:30) – Allows you to enjoy terrace restaurants before crowds, often with better table availability.
- Late Dinner (20:00‑21:30) – Preferred for high‑end venues like Lagon 1; arrive at least 30 min early for reservations.
Travel Tips
- Cash remains king; carry at least 10 000 CFA (≈ 10 €) for snacks and small meals.
- Credit cards accepted in cafés and upscale restaurants; confirm before ordering.
- Tipping: 10–15 % in cafés & restaurants; 5–10 % in casual eateries; no tip for street vendors.
- Group dining: Call ahead for 6+ guests; some venues offer split‑checks and are flexible on seating.
- Dietary needs: Mention vegan or gluten‑free preferences when ordering; most cafés can accommodate with a short prep time.
- Online booking: Use the venue’s official website or reputable travel apps; if unavailable, contact via phone or email.
- Parking: Use nearby paid garages for convenience; free street parking may fill quickly during weekends.
Dakar — Practical Tips
Practical Tips for Dakar
-
Visa – Canadians can stay up to 90 days visa‑free. If you’re from another country, the same rule applies: no visa needed for stays under 3 months. Check your passport’s validity (must be good for at least 6 months).
-
Currency & Payments – Use the West African CFA Franc (XOF).
- ATMs work with foreign cards, but most only pay €30–€50 a day.
- In larger hotels (e.g., Hotel La Residence or Radisson Blu) and high‑end restaurants (e.g., Le Roi de la Cote) you can use Visa/MasterCard.
- Mobile money is king: Orange Money and Wave are accepted everywhere—from street stalls to supermarkets.
- Pro tip: keep a spare local cash stash (a hand‑full of €20 notes) for small cafés or markets that won’t take cards.
ATM Fees & Limits (Dakar)
| Bank | Daily Limit | Withdrawal Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Union Bancaire | €40 | €1.50 |
| Banque Atlantique | €50 | €2.00 |
| Société Générale | €60 | €2.50 |
- Language Basics – French is the official language, Wolof is the lingua franca, and English is common in tourist zones.
- Bonjour (good‑day), Merci (thanks), Au revoir (good‑bye).
- C’est combien ? (How much is it?) in markets.
-
In the Bazar de Sandaga, try asking in French; the sellers usually respond in French or a mix with Wolof.
-
Safety & Smart Swaps – Dakar is charming but stay alert:
- Stick to reputable exchange offices; street‑corner kiosks often over‑charge.
- Avoid large tourist crowds at noon on weekends—pick up souvenirs at Marché Sandaga early (7 am) to beat the heat and the crowds.
- Keep your phone locked; use a local SIM (Orange is cheap, €10 for 300 min + 1 GB).
-
When walking around the Sénégal National Museum or Place de l’Europe, wear a small backpack and keep valuables in a hidden zip pocket.
-
Packing Checklist – Dakar is hot, humid, and salty.
- Light, breathable cotton (think linen shirts, khaki shorts).
- Light jacket or cardigan for evenings (air‑conditioned shops are cool).
- UV‑blocking sunglasses and a wide‑brim hat.
- Sunscreen SPF 50, reef‑safe (if you’re hitting the beach).
- Comfortable walking shoes (sandals work, but bring a pair of sneakers).
- Adapter plug types E/F, voltage 220 V (you’ll need a 220 V charger).
- Small reusable water bottle (hydration is key; bottled water is €2.50 at cafés).
Packing List (Dakar)
- Light clothing (cotton, linen)
- Sweater or jacket
- Hat + sunglasses
- Sunscreen SPF 50
- Reusable water bottle
- Comfortable shoes
- Adapter plug (E/F)
- Basic first aid kit (band‑ages, painkillers, anti‑diarrhea).
Enjoy Dakar—a city that blends vibrant markets, a laid‑back beach vibe, and a warm local hospitality. Just remember the visa‑free rule, keep your cash in smart places, speak a few French phrases, stay safe, and pack light. Bon voyage!
Dakar — Related Itineraries
🎯 3‑Day Dakar Itinerary (the sweet spot)
-
Day 1 – City Pulse
Morning: Start at the African Renaissance Monument (free entry). Beat the crowds by arriving at 9 a.m.
Afternoon: Stroll through Plateau’s cafés and the Museum of Black Civilizations (ticket ~10 000 FCFA).
Evening: Dine at Ndar Ndar Music Café in Saint‑Louis (drive 2¼ h north) and catch a live mbalax performance. -
Day 2 – Isle & Coast
Early: Catch the Gorée Island ferry at 10:15 a.m.; tickets ~30 000 FCFA cover island entry. Explore the House of Slaves, colonial cafés, and the vibrant market.
Late afternoon: Return to Dakar, walk the La Corniche and enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic.
Night: Eat thieboudienne at Sandaga Market (prices ~15 000 FCFA). -
Day 3 – Culture & Relaxation
Morning: Visit the IFAN Museum (entry ~5 000 FCFA) or the local Dakar Zoo (free).
Afternoon: Chill on Soumbedioune Beach; try board sports (surfing ~30 000 FCFA).
Last meal: Finish with a seafood platter at the coastal Yoff bar, then head to the airport.
Tip: Book accommodation in the Médina area for easy 24‑hour access to markets, cafés, and the city center. A 3‑night stay keeps the pace relaxed without over‑booking the airport’s transfer schedule.
🛤 1‑Day Power Trip (if you’re pressed)
| Time | Activity | Price (≈) |
|---|---|---|
| 8 a.m. | Arrive at Blaise Diagne International Airport (free) | |
| 9 a.m. | Quick ferry to Gorée Island (30 000 FCFA) | |
| 11 a.m. | Back to Dakar, African Renaissance Monument (free) | |
| 12 p.m. | Lunch at La Terrasse (≈20 000 FCFA) | |
| 2 p.m. | La Corniche walk & Museum of Black Civilizations (10 000 FCFA) | |
| 5 p.m. | Sunset at Soumbedioune Beach | |
| 7 p.m. | Dinner at Royaam – known for grilled fish (≈25 000 FCFA) | |
| 9 p.m. | Departure |
Pro tip: The airport’s airport shuttle runs every 30 minutes to the city, so timing is flexible.
🏞 5‑Day Deep‑Dive (for the adventurous)
sequenceDiagram
participant F as Flight
participant D as Dakar
participant S as Saloum Delta
participant L as Lake Retba
participant N as Ngor Island
participant Y as Yoff Beach
F->>D:+Arrival
D->>S:+Drive (2 hrs)
S->>L:+Guide (4 hrs)
L->>N:+Ferry (1 hr)
N->>Y:+Walk (2 hrs)
Y->>F:+Departure
- Day 1: Dakar city highlights (same as 3‑day plan).
- Day 2: Drive to Saint‑Louis (2¼ hrs), explore the historic center, lunch at Ndar Ndar, return late.
- Day 3: Full-day Saloum Delta tour with a guided walk, optional canoeing, and sunset over the wetlands (tours ~150 000 FCFA).
- Day 4: Lake Retba (Pink Lake) – guided sandboarding + quad biking, then Ngor Island ferry for a fresh‑water swim (ferry ~15 000 FCFA).
- Day 5: Relax at Yoff Beach, early brunch at a beachside shack (≈10 000 FCFA), and depart.
Travel note: Rent a 4×4 for the delta trip to avoid ferry schedules, and always bring a sunhat and reef‑safe sunscreen for the pink lake.
Optional Food & Drink Deep‑Dive
- La Terrasse – French‑Southwestern fusion, try the lamb tagine (≈25 000 FCFA).
- Sandaga Market – stalls sell couscous and djenkou (≈12 000 FCFA).
- Ndar Ndar Music Café – live mbalax after a 15‑minute drive from Dakar; food ~18 000 FCFA.
Public Transport & Transfers
- Blaise Diagne Airport → City center: shared taxi ~15 000 FCFA, Uber‑style service ~10 000 FCFA.
- City taxi fare ~2 000 FCFA per 5 km.
- Ferry to Gorée: 30 000 FCFA round trip, schedules every 2 hrs from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Bottom line: For a first‑time visitor, a 2‑3 day stay lets you hit the core sights without rushing. If you crave nature or want to explore beyond the capital, extend to 5 days and swap a day in Dakar for an adventure in the delta, lake, or along the coast. Happy travels!