Travel Guide for Dakar Senegal: 5 Amazing Days

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Introduction

Are you looking for a travel guide for Dakar Senegal? Then look no further. The tourism in Senegal is growing every single day and I am so happy that I have visited but worked there too.

For me Senegal was an emotional trip for me as there is so much pain that existed on Gorée Island but there is also the a vibrant hum to the streets of Dakar. In every corner of the Island I felt the souls taken away, the pain, and the layered, and alive history. It’s a place that made me reflect deeply on colonialism, language, and identity. Here is a detailed guide for Dakar Senegal, because you have you to go at least once or twice in your life.

Senegal challenged me in so many ways. So many ways. I knew French was the main language here, but I assumed I’d meet people who also spoke some English. The reality of the language barrier hit me harder than expected, but in the best way. Travel has a way of challenging your assumptions, and Senegal did exactly that. Leaving Senegal, I knew I had to learn French so I could speak to more people across Africa.

This was the final stop on my West African trio tour, and what a way to end it. It was what really showed me that I love Africa and want to keep coming back again and again. Here’s a guide for Dakar, Senegal, of what I got up to and why I think this destination deserves to be high on your Africa bucket list.

Related post: Gorée Island: A Painful But Must-Visit in Senegal

About Senegal

Senegal is another West African country on the Atlantic Ocean coastline. The city is Dakar. I would say that Senegal has been my favourite out of the West African countries. Senegal is a cultural hub for the continent of Africa. It is a mecca of robust arts, rich traditions, historic landmarks, and remarkable natural landscapes.

The current population of Senegal is 19.31 million people, in 2026. Senegal, being an ex-colonisation of France, I was very much challenged in Senegal with everyone speaking French, so if you are going to learn some essential words, which is what I will be doing this year! 

Things to make note of below:

• Currency: Senegal uses the West African CFA Franc (XOF). This is widely accepted across several West African countries. ATMs are widely available in cities, but I would advise carrying cash for smaller vendors.
• Visa: British, American, and Canadian passport holders do not need a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days.
• Plug type: Senegal uses the European style, so you will need an adapter if you’re coming from the UK or the US.

Travelling to Senegal from The Gambia

I travelled from The Gambia to Senegal via a private bus, which can be booked via Rome2Rio. The journey is around 7 hours max. Take some light snacks and water for your travels, as it is a long journey.

A 5-Day Travel Guide for Dakar, Senegal

• Day 1: Visit the Fathla Wildlife Reserve and see a wide range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and baboons. You can book the tour via Viator here.
• Day 2: Relax after a bus day, you can then go to the Pink Lake (only need a few hours) and then have dinner at La Plancha you can order the Thiéboudienne which is one the famous national dishes of Senegal.
• Day 3: Spend a day at Gorée Island. If you have an ECOWAS passport then this will be useful.
• Day 4: Explore Dakar, visit the African Renaissance Monument, Sufer Paradise where you can have brunch and if you have time visit the Massalikoul Djinane Mosque.
• Day 5: Relax, purchase some souvenirs and head to the airport.

Things to Do in Dakar Senegal

Senegal has so much to offer; When I am back I would definitely recommend exploring more than just Dakar. And I saw there was trains so I would be popping on one of those. Here is what I did during my stay: 

Visit Gorée Island

This small island, located off the coast of Dakar, is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a popular tourist destination. It has a deep history of the slave trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. Book the tour here. I have also written a full guide for the Gorée Island: A Painful But Must-Visit in Senegal.

Explore Dakar, Senegal

Senegal’s capital city is a vibrant and bustling metropolis with plenty of things to see and do, including restaurants, museums like:

• The African Renaissance Monument – the tallest statue in Africa, with panoramic city views
• The Massalikoul Djinane Mosque – an architectural masterpiece
• Street art in the Medina district
• The beaches at Sufer Paradise for a relaxing break and beautiful views.

There is a real mix of modern city life and deep cultural heritage. Book a tour here.

Go To The Safari

Senegal is home to several national parks and reserves. Visit the Fathla Wildlife Reserve and see a wide range of wildlife, including lions, elephants, and baboons. You can book the tour here.

See the Pink Lake

This saltwater lake gets its name from the pink hue of the water caused by algae and bacteria. It’s a beautiful and unique natural wonder. I suggest going from November to June to see its pinkness. I went in October and it wasn’t as pink as I would have liked it to be. Book here.

Other things to do in Senegal: 

• Explore Saint-Louis
• Relax on the beaches.
• Visit the Bandia Reserve

What to eat in Senegal   

Senegalese food varies. The cuisine is full of character. The country is known for its fresh seafood, including grilled or fried fish, lobster, and shrimp. Senegalese cuisine is often semi-spicy and flavorful, with a wide range of herbs and spices used in cooking.

• I was first introduced to Thiéboudienne, which again is their own version of Jollof rice and is where it originated. It has been dubbed the country’s national dish. 
• Yassa is always widely eaten in Senegal, a famous chicken or fish dish marinated in lemon and onions and served with rice.
• Ice cream at Mammamia Gelato Rufisque has to be the best cream I have ever tasted! Honestly, I had it every day while in Senegal. I also got a burger from the next-door restaurant, which was DELICIOUS!
• Bissap is similar to Wonjo and is a refreshing drink made with hibiscus flowers and sugar.
• Like suya or kebab, Dibi is a grilled lamb chop or skewered meat with spicy mustard sauce.

Where to Stay in Senegal 

There are lots of accommodation options in Senegal. I was not a huge fan of where we stayed in Senegal, so I wouldn’t advise you to stay there. If I were going back to Senegal, I would remain in Résidence Blue hôtel. Check out Booking.com for more options. Below is a map for you to locate hotels around Senegal.

Some helpful resources for your travels in Africa: 

• My Instagram page has detailed reels and guides on visiting Senegal.
• I mentioned that I travelled with Ajala Travel Tours, so I recommend going with them if you are considering a group trip within Africa. 
• Book with Viator or GetYourGuide if you want specific tours. 
• Before going to any of these countries, I recommend visiting the Foreign Advice Page for U.K. travellers. Check if you need visas here.
• In terms of taxis, they mainly use Bolt but you can also use Uber.
• I used Airlo, an e-SIM card, for data. You can purchase it here and use the code ADEBOL5279.
• If you are looking for travel insurance then I would highly recommend SafetyWing which can you purchase here.

Final Views

Senegal was a cultural dream full of flavour, colour, and depth. I’ll never forget walking with lions, sipping Bissap, or tasting the best gelato of my life. This country reminded me that beauty lies in contrast. I will definitely visit again, maybe even move there!

If Senegal is calling you, I say answer the call. Use this guide for Dakar, Senegal and explore this beautiful country.

Have a question about visiting? Pop it in the comments or DM me on Instagram. And if you enjoyed this post, read A West Africa Travel Guide for Nigeria, The Gambia and Senegal.

Until next time,

MBV x