Visit Dakar: highlights, itineraries & day trips

What to do in Dakar? Highlights, 1–3 day itineraries, practical tips and top day trips: Gorée and Bandia safari.

Dakar is a vibrant city, shaped by the Atlantic, where colorful markets meet the calm of the oceanfront corniche. It’s also the best base for day trips in Senegal: Gorée Island for history and emotion, or Bandia for nature and wildlife. This guide covers must‑see sights, simple 1–3 day itineraries, practical tips, and our best day trips from Dakar.

Ideal stay: 2–3 days (or a well‑planned 1 day)
Vibes: ocean, culture, markets, art, history
Top day trips: Gorée (culture) & Bandia (safari)

See top tours from Dakar

Top sights in Dakar

The Corniche & viewpoints

Best at sunrise or sunset. Stroll, photos, sea breeze — the postcard side of Dakar.

Plateau (downtown)

Administrative and historic heart. Great for understanding the city and walking between key spots.

Markets (local atmosphere)

Crafts, textiles, spices, fruit, street food — a true slice of local life.

Art & creativity

Galleries, studios, murals, fashion, design — a dynamic creative scene.

Beaches & the ocean

Even in town, the ocean is everywhere: choose chill or more active spots by season/area.

Lively neighborhoods

Each district has its own vibe. Visit at different times of day for contrast.

A day trip to Gorée Island

History, memory, lanes and views. A must if you have a day.

A nature break: Bandia

Giraffes, rhinos, antelopes — an excellent option from Dakar.

Food scene

Grilled fish, thieb, local juices, street food — Dakar eats well.

Sunset life

Terraces, seafront, music, vibe — sunset is prime time in Dakar.

What to do by travel style

Dakar for couples

Corniche at sunset
Coffee break with sea view
A day on Gorée
Relaxed evening + nice restaurant

Dakar for families

Short activities + breaks
Seafront stroll
Bandia safari (often a big hit)
Market during daytime (not too late)

Dakar on a budget

Walks (corniche, neighborhoods, viewpoints)
Markets + street food
Museums/cultural spots as you like
Gorée the simple way (transport + walking)

Dakar premium

Private driver/guide
Tailor‑made plan
Stress‑free Gorée
Early Bandia with comfort

Sample itineraries

Dakar in 1 day (efficient)

Morning: Plateau + walk + market (local vibe)
Lunch: grilled fish or your favorite
Afternoon: Corniche + viewpoint + break
Evening: sunset + dinner
Tip: swap the afternoon for Gorée for a ‘signature’ day

Dakar in 2 days (balanced)

Day 1: Dakar city (Plateau, market, Corniche)
Day 2: Day trip — Culture option: Gorée Island
Day 2: Day trip — Nature option: Bandia Reserve

Dakar in 3 days (comfort + depth)

Day 1: Dakar city (Plateau + markets + Corniche)
Day 2: Gorée (culture & history)
Day 3: Bandia (nature & wildlife) + free late afternoon

Practical info

Transport

Taxi / ride‑hailing / private driver: convenient to optimize time. Traffic can be slow at peak hours: plan longer rides early in the morning.

Where to stay

Where to stay: seafront for chill, Plateau/downtown for walking access, residential areas for calm.

Budget

Dakar fits any budget: street food + simple transport, or a premium setup (driver, restaurants, organized tours).

Best time

Best time: year‑round destination with different vibes by season. For comfort + sightseeing, choose milder periods.

Safety & culture

Safety (common sense): generally welcoming; avoid flaunting valuables, prefer organized rides at night, stay aware in busy areas.

FAQ

How many days to visit Dakar?

Ideally 2–3 days: one for the city, one for Gorée Island, and one for a nature trip like Bandia or downtime.

What to do in Dakar in 24h?

Plateau + market + Corniche + sunset. For a signature day, take the Gorée Island excursion.

Best day trip from Dakar?

Gorée for culture/history; Bandia for nature and wildlife.

Is Dakar worth it?

Yes, especially if you enjoy lively cities: ocean, culture, markets, art and a unique energy.

How to organize Gorée from Dakar?

Easiest is to book a tour (pickup + optimized timing) or arrange transport + ferry + a walking visit.

Why book with Safari Sénégal?

Simple organization (no stress), local guides/partners, WhatsApp support, tried‑and‑tested experiences adapted to your schedule.