Things to do in Dakar

Activities, attractions and tours

Stunning ocean views from the Corniche promenade, Dakar, Senegal, West Africa
View to historic city at the Goree island in Dakar, Senegal, Shutterstock ID 693736381, SF SSA Case with Manager Approval: Case 07151371, Job: Prepay credit, Client/Licensee: , Other:
Fisherman sorting out his net on the beach in Youff. Yoff is a neighborhood in Dakar, but it is also a separate town with its own peculiarities. Yoff is known for its Muslim Community Council and its fishing villages and is considered slightly more conservative than more central parts of Dakar. To get a proper impression of traditional fishing and the beautiful pirogues a visit to the district Yoff is a good idea. Yoff is the most northeastern district of Dakar and adjoins the airport in the west. Read more on blog: http://www.travelwithallsenses.com/fishermen-of-yoff/
The Soumbédioune Fish Market is a place to observe life and commerce in Dakar, Senegal. It's busy and bustling, with ocean views and briny air that has the distinct smell of fish. Come on a Saturday afternoon when things are in full swing. Be respectful when taking photographs however and make sure you ask vendors if it's okay to capture them or their wares on film before you snap.
Goree island, Senegal. From the 15th to the 19th century, it was the largest slave-trading centre on the African coast. Ruled in succession by the Portuguese, Dutch, English and French, its architecture is characterized by the contrast between the grim slave-quarters and the elegant houses of the slave traders. Today it continues to serve as a reminder of human exploitation and as a sanctuary for reconciliation. #goree #senegal #unescoworldheritage #dakar #island
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Most popular experiences in Dakar

Tours & day trips

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Goree Island: discover Senegalese history and culture

Goree Island: discover Senegalese history and culture

Activity duration is 4 hours
9.8 out of 10 with 41 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 8,442 per adult
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Wildlife & nature

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Day tour Somone lagoon and Bandia park Safari

Day tour Somone lagoon and Bandia park Safari

Activity duration is 7 hours
9.4 out of 10 with 18 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 14,704 per adult
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Food, drink & nightlife

See all 4 activities
Senegalese Street Food Tour in Dakar

Senegalese Street Food Tour in Dakar

Activity duration is 2 hours
8.8 out of 10 with 3 reviews
Free cancellation available
Price is P 6,934 per adult
Senegalese Street Food Tour in DakarOpens in new tab

What to do in Dakar

Popular places to visit

île de Gorée, Insel, Senegal

Ile de Goree Beach

Why not spend a carefree afternoon at Ile de Goree Beach during your travels in Goree Island? Take in the museums while you're in the area.

Ile de Goree Beach
Sandaga market, Dakar, Senegal, West Africa

Sandaga Market

You can browse for the perfect souvenirs at Sandaga Market during your trip to Dakar-Plateau. Amble around the area's lakeside or visit its monuments.

Sandaga Market
Statue called Monument of the African Renaissance located in Dakar, Senegal

African Renaissance Statue

Find out about the history of Dakar when you spend time at African Renaissance Statue. Wander the rainforest or discover the area's desert landscape.

African Renaissance Statue
Distant view of the Presidential Palace Dakar, Senegal, West Africa

Presidential Palace

After visiting Presidential Palace, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dakar-Plateau. Discover the area's desert landscape and monuments.

Presidential Palace

Cheikh Anta Diop University

Explore the campus of Cheikh Anta Diop University, during your trip to Fann. While you're in the area, wander around the rainforest.

Cheikh Anta Diop University

Place de l'Indépendance

Find out about the history of Dakar-Plateau with a stop at Place de l'Indépendance. Wander the rainforest or discover the area's desert landscape.

Place de l'Indépendance

Dakar Grand Mosque

After visiting Dakar Grand Mosque, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Dakar-Plateau. Amble around the area's lakeside or visit its monuments.

Dakar Grand Mosque

Pointe des Almadies Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Pointe des Almadies Beach during your trip to Ngor?

Pointe des Almadies Beach

Nagor Island

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Nagor Island during your travels in Dakar. Wander the rainforest or discover the area's desert landscape.

Nagor Island

Areas of Dakar

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Les Almadies

While visiting Les Almadies, you might make a stop by sights like Pointe des Almadies Beach and Des Almadies Golf Club.

Les Almadies
Beach soccer on the beach ouakam Dakar Sénégal

Ouakam

While visiting Ouakam, you might make a stop by sights like African Renaissance Statue and African Renaissance Monument.

Ouakam
Infamous fortifications on Gorée Island, used to retain slaves before shipment to the Americas, Dakar, Senegal, West Africa

Goree Island

Frequently asked questions

Is Dakar worth visiting?
Known for its markets and festivals, discovering awesome things to do in Dakar is a breeze. Make sure to add Ile de Goree Beach to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in Dakar?
Once you've visited popular attractions like Ile de Goree Beach and Mamelles Beach, spend the rest of your day exploring the food and retail options in Dakar.
What is the top tourist attraction in Dakar?
You can't leave without checking out Ile de Goree Beach, ranked the top tourist attraction in Dakar.
Is three days enough to stay in Dakar?
Three days in Dakar is plenty of time to visit the city's key attractions. Many travelers spend four days on average. Ile de Goree Beach, Mamelles Beach and Museum of Black Civilizations are among the top-rated sights. Want to discover more? Stick around a little longer to explore nearby hotspots like Ngor.
Is Dakar a walkable city?
Some major attractions in Dakar, like Mamelles Beach and Stade Leopold Senghor, are within walking distance. You can also experience several of the city's neighborhoods on foot. Just 3 kilometers from the city center of Dakar is Ouakam and Colobane is 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Dakar with kids?
If you are after attractions and activities for all ages, we've got some fantastic ideas for what to do in Dakar with kids.

What to do in Dakar for adults?
Whether you're an avid foodie, culture enthusiast or outdoor adventurer, there are lots of things to do in Dakar for adults including House of Slaves and Castel.
Are there free things to do in Dakar?
In Dakar, Ile de Goree Beach is an unmissable spot for anyone wanting to enjoy the city without reaching for their wallet. Also, stroll around the green spaces and other neighborhoods, and speak with a local tour guide. It's an easy way to discover the best free things to do in Dakar.

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