DAKAR - FAQ`S
Dakar is a major West African hub, so there are lots of flights coming from and going to Europe, North America, and other African cities.
The airport that most tourists normally use if they plan to fly into the city of Dakar is Dakar-Yoff-Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR). This airport does receive flights from other countries and also has international departing flights.
If you have not booked a transfer with Tripmasters, you have a few options to get into the city. From the Dakar-Yoff-Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR), Bus Line 8 runs into town (XOF150) and taxis will cost about XOF5,000.
By car from the airport, follow the Route de l'Aeroport, then proceed onto the N1, which runs into the city center. If you are coming from Thies, take the N2 while the N1 runs from Kaolack.
Buses in Senegal tend to take the form of "Sept Places" (seven seater) minibuses, which run into Dakar's Gare Routiere Pompiers.
Bus and minibus services operate in Dakar. Blue public buses come every 30 to 60 minutes during the daytime. Smaller white public buses come more often but these buses do not stop at many places.
The colorful blue and yellow car rapide is one of Senegal's iconic symbols. Each one is painted differently and many state 'ALHAMDULILLAH' (Praise be to God) across their fronts. These are little minivans that are cheap to get around. You'll pay the equivalent of less than around forty cents for a short hop around town. The routes are usually fixed and direct, although the stops aren't signposted so you'll need to ask a local to point you in the direction of the nearest one. An apprentice always hangs from the back of the van, shouting out the destination and collecting money.
Taxis are plentiful in Dakar and they can be easily recognized by their signature yellow color and roof sign. Taxis can be flagged down in the street, or you can find taxis waiting around popular destinations. You can also call one of Dakar's taxi companies to request a ride.
If you take a taxi from the street, be sure to negotiate the price for your ride before hopping in the vehicle. If you have a great driver, it's not uncommon to request their number so you can organize a ride with the same person again.
Taxis in Dakar are a safe form of transportation and the easiest option for getting around. Dakar is generally a safe destination for tourists, though you should still take normal precautions when traveling.
Although the streets are sandy and potholed, Dakar is much more walkable than most big African capitals. Walking during the daytime is generally safe, and walking at night along well-lit arteries is typically fine as well.
We recommend avoiding the beaches and the Medina area, as well as market spots when walking alone after dark, and stay away from the Corniche coastal road if you're on foot late at night; there are long stretches between residential areas, and in the past, there have been isolated attacks outside the International School of Dakar.
Dakar is generally considered safe for tourists, but like any other city, it's important to remain cautious and be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
Visitors are advised to take necessary health precautions, such as getting required vaccinations before traveling and taking measures to prevent mosquito-borne diseases like malaria.
The official currency in Senegal is CFA Franc XOF (Franc of West African Communities) and is only available in West Africa. The euro and the US dollar can be easily changed in big cities, banks and some hotels.
What is the weather like in Dakar?Dakar has a tropical savanna climate, characterized by a dry season from November to May and a wet season from June to October. The temperatures are generally warm to hot throughout the year.
I don`t speak French. Will many people speak English?
French is the official language of, but there are 39 spoken languages in Senegal.
The lingua franca of the Senagalese administration is French but only a small number of people speak it fluently. Wolof, the language of Senegal’s largest ethnic group, is far more commonly spoken across the country, while Jola is the main language of the Casamance region in the south. Other languages include Pulaar, Mandinka and Balanta Ganja.
It’s worth familiarizing yourself with a few Wolof phrases before you travel including jerejef (thank you), waaw / deedeet (yes / no) and baal ma (sorry or excuse me). Some basic French might also come in handy for communicating with tour guides and airport staff.
Dakar is know for its delicious cuisine. You’ll find spicy street food, exotic juices, mouth-watering sharing platters and fish fresh from the Atlantic. The country gleans its culinary inspiration from far and wide, combining French and North African influences ith ancient local traditions.
What are some cultural norms to keep in mind while visiting Dakar?Respect for local customs and traditions is important. It's advisable to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites, and to ask for permission before taking photos of individuals.
What are the must-visit attractions in Dakar?Some popular attractions in Dakar include the African Renaissance Monument, Goree Island (known for its history in the Atlantic slave trade), Dakar Grand Mosque, IFAN Museum of African Arts, and the bustling markets like Sandaga Market.
Are there any cultural events or festivals in Dakar?Dakar hosts various cultural events and festivals, including the Dakar Biennale (Dak'Art), a major contemporary art exhibition, and the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival.
What should I do if I need medical assistance or need to go to the hospital?
Dial Emergency Services: In case of an emergency, dial 15 (SAMU - Service d'Aide Médicale d'Urgence) or 17 (Police) or 18 (Fire Brigade) from any phone within Senegal for immediate assistance.
Some well-known hospitals in Dakar include:
-Hôpital Principal de Dakar: Avenue Nelson Mandela, Dakar
-Hôpital Le Dantec: Avenue Cheikh Anta Diop, Dakar
-Clinique Pasteur: Avenue Nelson Mandela, Dakar