A Guide to Dakar: Senegal's Vibrant Capital

Must See Attractions

Gorée Island:

Gorée Island is a crucial site for understanding the African slave trade and is now a beautiful tourist destination. Spend around four hours here, starting with the House of Slaves museum. Then, explore the IFAN Historical Museum for more on Senegal’s history and culture. Enjoy the old colonial buildings and the island’s relaxing atmosphere.

Tip: There's an artist near the Guns of Navarone who crafts handmade souvenirs from sand. He offers demonstrations of his creative process, and you can purchase his souvenirs at very reasonable prices.

Ngor Island:

Ngor Island is ideal for a relaxing day. Just a short boat ride from Dakar, it has a beach, clear waters, and a laid-back atmosphere. You can stay overnight in one of the guesthouses or hotels if you want to extend your visit. If you’re interested in surfing, Ngor Island Surf Camp offers excellent lessons for both beginners and experienced surfers.

Tip: A boat ride from Dakar to Ngor should only cost 1000 -2000 cfa ($1.60- $3.20), be sure to negotiate the price before boarding.

Marché HLM and Sandaga Market:

These lively markets are my favorite part of visiting Dakar, they have everything from handmade baskets to colorful fabrics. Haggling is part of the experience here—remember, the first price is usually the highest, but aim to negotiate fairly. These markets provide a glimpse into daily life in Dakar and are perfect for picking up unique souvenirs.

Tip: I like to buy fabric from the market and take it back to my seamstress in Dublin who creates custom pieces for me. This is an excellent option if you don't have time to get something tailored in Dakar.

Boutique Shopping:

Dakar is a very fashion-forward city, hosting events like Dakar Fashion Week, which showcases top Senegalese designers from Senegal and Paris. Beyond the markets, Dakar has some fantastic boutique shopping. Sisters of Afrika, Baax, and Le Sandaga Boutique are my favorites. These boutiques put a modern twist on traditional African styles and the quality is amazing.

Tip: These boutiques are spread out, so I recommend hiring a driver to take you on a shopping trip for an hour or two to easily visit each one.

OH Gallery:

Dakar has a vibrant art scene, featuring numerous galleries that are well worth a visit. My personal favorite is OH Gallery, which specializes in contemporary art and champions emerging Senegalese artists. The gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions and events, so be sure to check their website for the latest happenings.

Tip: OH Gallery is located in Dakar-Plateau, which is the busy downtown area. I recommend having a guide do a walking tour with you around the Plateau! It is one of my favorite areas and gives you a real feel of the city.

Renaissance Monument:

A visit to Dakar wouldn’t be complete without seeing the Renaissance Monument. This is a 52-meter bronze statue that symbolizes African liberation and rebirth. It offers an incredible view of the city from its base, and you can climb to the top for an even better panorama.

Tip: Don't miss stopping at the Mosque Divinity when visiting the Renaissance Monument.

Unique Activities

Ceramics Workshops:

Take a ceramics class at Ban Workshop, run by a collective of Senegalese ceramicists. The workshop offers two-hour classes where you can learn the basics of ceramics and create your own piece of art. After your class, enjoy a meal at Ban Café, which serves delicious local dishes. The hibiscus chicken with plantain salad was really good, and be sure to try the bissap which is a traditional juice.

Cooking Class:

To truly experience Senegalese culture, take a cooking class hosted by a local family. This experience starts with a trip to the market, where you'll buy fresh ingredients and learn about local produce and spices. Back at the family's home, you'll cook a traditional Senegalese dish, guided by your hosts.

Underwater Museum:

One of Dakar’s hidden gems is the Underwater Museum, a unique attraction for art lovers and adventure seekers. Located at Oceanium Diving School, this permanent exhibition features sculptures installed on the ocean floor, viewable only by diving.

Tip: Make sure your driver shows you the presidential Palace on the way to Oceanium.

Phares des Mamelles:

This is my favorite spot for dinner, cocktails, and great vibes. Located at Dakar's highest point, it has an historical lighthouse that once guided ships around the western point of Africa. You can even take a guided tour inside the lighthouse, which I highly recommend. It's an excellent evening destination for dining, drinks, and dancing. I suggest trying the Thiof, a type of fish served with rice, vegetables, and plantains.

Le Lagoon 1:

The best restaurant for seafood and ocean views. It's perfect for a leisurely lunch or a fancy dinner often accompanied with jazz music. If you're in the mood for something special, try the lobster. Le Lagoon also has a private beach that is available to restaurant guests.

Chez Loutcha:

For an authentic African dining experience and local specialties, this restaurant is a must-visit. It’s not fancy, but the friendly staff, generous portions and atmosphere are great. I recommend the chicken Mafe, a traditional peanut and tomato-based stew with chicken and vegetables.

Kotao Coffee:

My favorite spot in the city for brunch! They have 2 locations in Dakar; one in the Almadies and the other in the Dakar Plateau. Both locations are lovely but I would highly recommend the location in Almadies because the outdoor seating is amazing.

Surfer Paradise:

I recommend spending an afternoon at Surfers Paradise for relaxation and stunning views. The pool is one of the most beautiful you'll ever see. Spend a few hours swimming and enjoying cocktails. Then, have dinner at the restaurant and enjoy music and dancing in the evening.

La Cabane du Precheur:

A local favorite in Dakar, this beachside spot is renowned for hosting BBQ events and serving up fresh seafood.

Keliba Café:

A great family-run spot for brunch and lunch, offering healthy gluten-free and vegan options. Their menu features interesting items like baobab juice and baobab rolls, along with delicious salad bowls selection.