Top reasons to visit Dakar
- Beautiful Beaches: Dakar boasts stunning beaches with crystal clear waters, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
- Rich Cultural Heritage: Experience the vibrant culture through local markets, historical monuments, and traditional ceremonies.
- Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy eco-friendly activities and outdoor excursions that cater to families and adventure seekers alike.
- Lively Atmosphere: Explore downtown Dakar, known for its dynamic vibe and friendly locals.
- Diverse Accommodations: Choose from luxury hotels to cozy guesthouses that suit all budgets and preferences.
Find great hotels in Dakar
Explore a variety of hotel accommodation options in Dakar, Senegal, catering to every type of traveler. From luxurious hotels to cozy guesthouses, you'll find the ideal place for business trips, family vacations, or beach getaways. Whether you're searching for hotels in Dakar or looking for specific amenities, this vibrant city offers numerous choices to ensure a comfortable and memorable stay.
- Noom Hotel Dakar Sea Plaza, a member of Radisson Individuals: Embrace luxury at this 5-star hotel, rated 8.2 out of 10 by guests. Nestled in a prime location in Dakar, Noom Hotel Dakar Sea Plaza is ideal for families seeking a lavish vacation experience. The hotel offers a range of amenities designed for children, including supervised childcare services and safety features like window guards. Guests can unwind in elegantly furnished rooms while enjoying the hotel’s array of facilities, ensuring a memorable stay surrounded by sophistication.
- Yaas Hotel Dakar Almadies: This 3.5-star hotel, also rated 8.2 out of 10, is perfect for business travelers looking for a city-themed experience. Located in the heart of Dakar, Yaas Hotel Dakar Almadies provides easy access to bustling urban attractions. The hotel boasts modern accommodations and essential business amenities, ensuring a productive environment. Enjoy a comfortable stay with a focus on convenience, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a blend of work and leisure.
- Ibis Styles Dakar: A 3-star hotel that offers a delightful beach getaway, Ibis Styles Dakar is well-rated for its family-friendly atmosphere. With direct access to the beach, this hotel invites guests to soak up the sun and enjoy the ocean breeze. Children are well catered for with amenities such as a free children’s club, shared playground, and breakfast options tailored for younger guests. Experience a fun and relaxing vacation by the sea while enjoying the hotel’s welcoming ambiance.
Where to stay in Dakar
Dakar is a vibrant city perfect for outdoor and family-friendly vacations. Explore downtown Dakar, where you'll find a dynamic atmosphere and friendly locals. For budget-conscious travelers, there are plenty of affordable options in the area. Choose a convenient location to easily access various attractions, from cultural sites to beautiful coastal views. Whether you're wandering through lively neighborhoods or enjoying eco-friendly activities, Dakar offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
- Grand Dakar: Nestled within the vibrant city of Dakar, Grand Dakar offers a unique blend of urban charm and local culture. This village attracts a moderate number of travelers throughout the year, with peak times in April, June to August, and December. Visitors come for a mix of city-themed, business, and family experiences. The bustling public market is a must-visit, where you can immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Nearby, you’ll find scenic beaches, parks, and a tranquil lagoon, perfect for relaxation and leisure activities.
- Dakar-Plateau: As one of the lively neighborhoods of Dakar, Dakar-Plateau is a cultural hub that draws visitors year-round, peaking in September and during the holiday season from December to January. This area is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers looking for family-friendly activities. Explore the vibrant markets and educational venues that showcase the local lifestyle. Don’t miss the stunning beaches and parks nearby, as well as event venues that host various conferences and cultural events, making it a dynamic place to experience Senegalese culture.
- Ngor: Known for its stunning beaches and eco-friendly vibe, Ngor is a charming village that attracts visitors throughout the year, with its peak seasons in January to February and September. This area is perfect for those seeking outdoor adventures, beach relaxation, and eco-tourism. Popular activities include golf and exploring local markets. The picturesque family beach and the nearby island offer a serene escape where you can soak in the sun and enjoy the natural beauty of the coastline, making Ngor a delightful destination for beach lovers.
Things to do in Dakar
Shopping
In the heart of Dakar, you can explore the vibrant Marché Sandaga for local crafts and textiles. If you're up for a drive, check out the Centre Commercial Dakar, located about 16km away, where you can find a mix of international brands and local shops.
Recreation
Explore the serene ambiance of the Les Almadies Wellness Center, where you can indulge in rejuvenating massages and holistic therapies. Afterward, take a stroll along the beautiful Plage de N'Gor, enjoying the lively atmosphere and breathtaking ocean views.
Adventure
Explore Gorée Island, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its historical significance and beautiful landscapes. Engage in water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding along the coast, or hike through the scenic trails of the nearby Parc National de la Langue de Barbarie for stunning coastal views.
Nightlife
Dakar's nightlife is vibrant, featuring venues like Le Zanzibar, where lively music and a relaxed atmosphere invite socializing. At La Maison des Esclaves, you can enjoy cultural performances in a historic setting. For dancing, Les Almadies offers beachfront clubs with pulsating beats, creating an energetic night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Dakar
Dakar offers numerous ways to save while exploring the city. Enjoy free attractions like Ile de Goree Beach and Village des Arts. For transportation, consider using the local bus system, which is budget-friendly. The cheapest months to visit are January and August to September, with Fridays being the most affordable days to stay. Utilize Expedia to compare hotel rates, find exclusive deals, and save by bundling flights and activities. Look for eco-certified hotels for sustainable options and ensure you sort results by price to find the best deals quickly.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Dakar are January and August to September, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March and May to June, where prices are slightly higher.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Dakar is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Dakar is Wednesday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and much more. You can easily arrange the results to display prices from the lowest to the highest, ensuring you see the most affordable hotels right away. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels that you can book.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservations in Dakar with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Dakar
Dakar offers a vibrant blend of outdoor and cultural experiences, perfect for families and eco-conscious travelers. You can explore beautiful beaches, significant monuments, and intriguing history museums. Whether you're seeking a taste of local culture or a relaxing city getaway, Dakar has something for everyone. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the city itself, where you can immerse yourself in its rich heritage and lively atmosphere.
- Ile de Goree Beach: Experience the tranquil vibes at Ile de Goree Beach, where soft sands meet clear waters. This serene beach offers a perfect retreat from the bustling city, allowing visitors to relax, swim, or simply soak in the sun while enjoying stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
- Place de l'Indépendance: Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Dakar at Place de l'Indépendance. This lively square serves as a central hub for locals and visitors alike, surrounded by historical buildings, shops, and cafes, making it an ideal spot to observe the city's dynamic atmosphere.
- Presidential Palace: Visit the majestic Presidential Palace, an architectural marvel that reflects Senegal's rich history and political significance. While the palace itself is often closed to the public, its impressive exterior and surrounding gardens are worth admiring for their beauty and grandeur.
Best time to go to Dakar
The best time to visit Dakar is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. October is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is sunny with no rain. March and April are its coolest month on average. At the time of April, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Dakar
Arriving in Dakar is convenient via Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), situated 43km from the city. Nearby hotels include the 5-star Radisson Hotel Dakar Diamniadio, located 16km from the airport, and the 3.5-star Les Manguiers de Guéréo, 18km away. Transportation options from these hotels to the airport include 24-hour airport shuttles and transfer services, though fees may apply. For a more budget-friendly option, Campement Baobab, a 3-star guesthouse, is located just 13km from the airport and also offers accessible shuttle services. These accommodations ensure a comfortable stay while being close to the airport for easy access.