Dakar Travel Guide - Visiting The Captivating Capital of Senegal

Travel Notes - Directory

Dakar, Senegal by Eyelit Studio on Unsplash.

Travel Notes: Destinations: Africa: Senegal - Dakar Travel Guide.

Short URL: https://tnot.es/DSS

Travel Guide For Visitors to Dakar

Dakar blends traditional and modern lifestyles, with bustling markets, lively nightlife, and a strong sense of community and hospitality; known locally as teranga. Share on Facebook

The Capital of Senegal

Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal, located on the Cap-Vert peninsula, which is the western-most point of mainland Africa.

Why You Should Consider Dakar

Discover why Dakar is West Africa's most captivating capital; from its buzzing markets and pristine beaches to world-class art and infectious music that'll have you dancing in the streets.

French West Africa

Forget everything you think you know about West African capitals. Dakar isn't just another stopover; it's a pulsating metropolis where French colonial architecture meets contemporary African art,;where you can haggle for traditional textiles in the morning and sip cocktails on pristine beaches by sunset.

This isn't your typical tourist trail destination, and that's precisely what makes it special.

Dakar offers authentic experiences that will leave you with stories your mates back home have never heard before.

Getting to Dakar - Your Journey Starts Here

Flying to Dakar

Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) is your gateway to Dakar, located about 50km from the city centre.

Major airlines including Air France, Turkish Airlines, and Royal Air Maroc operate regular flights from Europe.

Book flights well in advance, especially during the dry season (November to May) when prices can soar faster than a Saharan dust storm.

Airport to City Transport

Airport shuttle: Affordable option running every 30 minutes.

Car rental: Available but only recommended for confident drivers.

Taxi: 45-60 minutes to central Dakar (negotiate fare beforehand).

When to Visit Dakar - Timing Your Perfect Trip

Best Time for Weather

November to February offers the sweet spot; temperatures hover around 24-27°C with minimal rainfall and refreshing ocean breezes.

Budget-Friendly Periods

June to October sees fewer tourists and lower accommodation prices, though expect higher humidity and occasional downpours.

Festival Season

December to March brings the cultural calendar alive.

Dak'Art Biennale (even-numbered years): Africa's premier contemporary art festival.

Saint-Louis Jazz Festival (May): Worth the day trip north.

 

More City Travel Guides

City Guides: Cities in Africa - Cities in America - Cities in Asia - Cities in Australasia - Cities in Latin America - European Cities and Regions.

Travel Websites Reviewed.

Add a Business - Add a Location - Add a Lodging - Add Travel Content - Add URL - Travel Services.

More From Travel Notes

Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel

Africa - Asia - Caribbean - Europe - Middle East - North America - Oceania - South America.

The Travel Notes Online Guide to Travel helps visitors plan their trip with country and city travel guides, local tourist information, reviewed web sites, and inspiring travel content.