Dakar Port Guide

DAKAR, SENEGAL

Senegal’s capital is a dynamic city where modern energy meets deep cultural roots. Situated on the westernmost point of Africa, Dakar is known for its bustling markets, historic sites, and thriving arts.

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KEY INFO

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PORT LOCATION AND FACILITIES

Ships dock at the Port of Dakar, 500m from the city centre (10-min walk). Shuttle bus services are sometimes arranged, dropping off at Place de l’Independence (5-min drive).

Facilities: Tourist information, souvenir market, and taxis.

Port Address: MHCH+M42, Av. de la Liberation, Dakar, Senegal

Getting Around: Dakar’s city centre is walkable, but taxis are recommended for longer distances. Public minibuses (“car rapides”) operate on set routes and schedules, with fares typically ranging from 100-300 XOF per ride.

Taxis: Operate on negotiated fares; a short ride costs 1,000-2,500 XOF. Cash payment. Ride-hailing apps like Yango are available. Visit www.yango.com.

Tourist Bus: There is no Hop-On Hop-Off bus service in Dakar. Private guided tours are available.

For more information: Visit https://www.visitezlesenegal.com/en/

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DAKAR HIGHLIGHTS

Musée des Civilisations noires: Showcases the achievements, diversity, and legacy of black cultures. 10a-7p (Tue-Sun) | 3000 XOF | 1km (15-min walk) from Place de l’Independence. www.mcn-sn.com

Le Musée International sur la Biographie du Prophète (PSL) et de la Civilisation Islamique: A new addition to Dakar’s cultural scene, and one of the largest Islamic museums in Africa.
9a-5p (Tue-Sun) | 3000 XOF | 1km (15-min walk) from Place de l’Independence.

Senegalese Armed Forces Museum: Tells the country’s military history, from pre-colonial warriors to independence-era forces. Includes a collection of historic presidential cars.
8a-5p (Mon-Thu), 8a-7:30p (Fri) | 1000 XOF | 1.3km (20-min walk) from Place de l’Independence.

Musée Théodore Monod d’Art Africain: One of West Africa’s oldest museums, showcasing traditional masks, sculptures, and textiles from across the continent.
9a-5p (Tue-Sun) | 5000 XOF | 1.2km (17-min walk) from Place de l’Independence.

Cathedral of Our Lady of Victories: Dakar’s main Catholic cathedral and the seat of the Archdiocese of Dakar. Completed in 1936, blending Romanesque and local architectural styles.
Hours vary | Free | 1km (15-min walk) from Place de l’Independence.

Dakar Grand Mosque: A prominent religious site featuring intricate Islamic architecture. Non-Muslim visitors may not be invited inside. All day | Free | 2km (25-min walk) from port.

Palais de la République Sénégalaise: Built in 1907 by the French. Now the residence of the President of Senegal. Videos not allowed. 24 hours | Exterior Only | 650m (10-min walk) from Place de l’Independence.

Gorée Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gorée Island is a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade, featuring the House of Slaves museum and colonial architecture.
9a-6p | 5200 XOF ferry + 500 XOF museum entry | 3km (20-min ferry) from port.

Monument to the Martyrs: A memorial honouring those who fought for Senegal’s independence from France in 1960, located in a tranquil park. 24 hours | Free | 4 km (15-min drive) from port.

African Renaissance Monument: This striking 52-metre bronze statue, erected in 2010, celebrates Africa’s rebirth and offers panoramic views of Dakar. 9a-6:45p | 5000 XOF | 10 km (20-min drive) from port.

Monument du Millénaire: On Corniche Road, overlooking the Atlantic. Built in 2001 to mark the new millennium. 24 hours | Free | 2.5km (33-min walk) from Place de l’Independence.

SHOPPING IN DAKAR

Sandaga Market: A bustling market where visitors can shop for traditional fabrics, crafts, and spices.
8a-6p | Free | 1km (15-min walk) from port.

Marché Kermel: A beautifully restored 19th-century market for fresh produce, seafood, and artisan crafts. 8a-6p | Free | 2km (25-min drive) from Place de l’Independence.

REGIONAL HIGHLIGHTS

Lake Retba (Pink Lake): A stunning saltwater lake known for its vivid pink hues caused by algae and high salinity. 9a-5p | 3,000 XOF | 40 km (1-hour drive) from port.

Bandia Wildlife Reserve: A nature reserve home to giraffes, zebras, and rhinos, offering guided safari tours. 7a-6p | 12,000 XOF | 65 km (1.5-hour drive) from port.

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TIPPING CUSTOMS

Optional. A 10% service charge is common in restaurants. Tips for guides and taxi drivers are appreciated.

FOOD & DRINK

Thieboudienne: The national dish, a flavourful mix of fish, rice, and vegetables cooked in tomato sauce.

Poulet Yassa: A tangy chicken dish marinated in lemon, mustard, and onions, served with rice.

Bouye: A creamy and tangy drink made from the fruit of the baobab tree, rich in vitamins and minerals.

Bissap: A sweet and refreshing hibiscus drink, often served chilled.

SOUVENIR TOP TIPS

Take home vibrant textiles, traditional wooden masks, and handmade jewellery. Senegalese coffee and baobab powder also make excellent gifts.

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LOCAL LINGO