Overview

On the tip of the western point of Africa sits Dakar, a massive bustling city with a unique culture encapsulating centuries of history into a melting pot of Portuguese, French, West African, Saharan and Islamic influences. Dakar is the capital of French West Africa, and because of its position on the westernmost part of the continent, it’s also a hub for Europe, America, and Asia. Some of those influences are more positive than others, the port of Dakar stands today as one of the most important seaports in semi-tropical Africa where ships transport millions of tons of cargo annually.

Dakar is the economic and cultural center of Senegal. It is currently experiencing strong economic development, with high-rise buildings being constructed in the more affluent parts of town (e.g. city center, Almadies, Ouakam). The architecture in Dakar is similar to many Saharan cities. The people are hospitable, warm, welcoming and family-focused. This city boasts a diversity of sights: the sobering history and crumbling colonial architecture of fascinating Goree island, and the beaches to the north of the city all are beautiful to explore.

Things to See and Do

Beaches and Outdoor Activities:

Visit Lac Rose to float in a Pink Paradise. Situated about 18 miles from Dakar’s downtown, Lac Rose is a saltwater lake near the Atlantic Ocean. The water's high salt content attracts the Dunaliella salina algae that give it its rosy color, which is most prominent from November to June, during the drier season. The water's high salinity means that it is easy to float, with opportunities for swimming and boating. Golden sand dunes on the ocean side of the lake add to the area's scenic beauty and make for great photo opportunities. There are also great souvenir shops and resorts with dining options in the area.

Take a boat ride to the stunning N'Gor Island known for its beaches, surfing spots, and relaxed atmosphere. This tiny island just off Dakar's north shore offers calm beaches, some legendary surf, and a downtown area of pastel colonial architecture that includes restaurants and shops. There are also many local markets with art, artisan work, and other souvenirs for sale.

Discover the scenic views at Corniche Ouest along the coastal road, lined with beaches, restaurants, and cafes.

There are various surfing and watersports in Dakar at the local beaches such as Yoff Beach and Ouakam Beach. Windsurfing and kiteboarding are also popular activities.

Cultural, Religious, and Historic Attractions:

The Grande Mosquée de Dakar is one of the city's most important religious institutions, and is an active place of worship. The building is notable for its intricate decorations both on the interior and exterior. The minaret rises about 220 feet in the air. The Mosque incorporates the the Institut Islamique, an institute of Islamic studies that is also open to the public. The Mosque is available to visit during specified hours that vary according to holidays and season.

Visit Independence Square (Place de l'Indépendance) surrounded by colonial-era buildings and monuments. This is Dakar's central square symmetrically laid out and home to the majestic colonial buildings, including the Gouvernance (the French governor's office) and the Chambre de Commerce (chamber of commerce).

Discover the Monument to the African Renaissance located on the second of the two hills just outside Dakar known as the Collines des Mamelles. The African Renaissance Monument is an impressive bronze statue that overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The statue is over 160 feet in height and was erected in 2010 to commemorate the country's 50th anniversary of independence. Taller than the Statue of Liberty, it was meant to portray the hopes of modern Senegal with a depiction of a man, woman, and child reaching upwards. The statue is lit up at night, creating a dramatic image.

Learn more about the history of Dakar at the Musée de l'Institut Fondamental d'Afrique Noire: IFAN Museum of African Arts. Also known as the Théodore Monod African Art Museum, this museum contains an internationally recognized collection of ancient artifacts that come from all over former French colonies in West Africa. Ground floor collections include weaponry, clothing and other textiles, musical instruments, and more. Temporary exhibits of contemporary art are shown on the second floor. The institution also hosts the Dakar Biennale, which showcases contemporary African art.

Markets & Shopping

From second-hand clothes and freshly caught squid to West African spices and dyed leather bags, Dakar’s markets offer up a variety of local, regional and knock-off products. Even with all the changes that Dakar has witnessed in recent years, the market life remains fundamental to the Dakarois’ daily life. From rainbow-colored fruit stalls to roadside weaving workshops, vendors sell their trades of all kinds at Dakar’s markets.

The Sandaga Market, Dakar’s largest market, brings a bustling atmosphere offering a wide array of goods, from local crafts to fresh produce. The original three-floored building is the hub of Sandaga market, however, today it has grown into the neighboring streets. The ease of access and array of goods make this market a go-to for tourists, which in turn has attracted a influx of fake products, high prices, pickpockets and hustlers. Prepare to bargain and keep your eye out, and discover the treasure trove of items to be found.

The Soumbédioune Market gives off a village vibe where you visitors can witness the daily activities of fishermen and buy fresh seafood. The market offers authentic souvenir wares – from small woven baskets to leather book covers – alongside cheaply made fridge magnets and factory-made ‘African’ trousers. For a great experience, it’s best to ignore the stalls near the entrance and head straight into the stalls further in where you’ll find artisans dyeing leather and carving bowls.

Cuisine

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. The staple dish for most families is thieboudienne (fish and rice). You’ll find thousands of different variations around the country. Other popular dishes include maffe (peanut stew) and chicken yassa, down glasses of refreshing juice made from bissap (hibiscus) or bouye (fruit of baobab trees). Every dish is served with great French-inspired flair, showcasing the French vibe still present in Senegal’s cuisine.