Day 1: History, Markets & the Downtown Vibe
Morning: Time Travel on Gorée Island
Start your day by heading to the Dakar maritime station (Gare Maritime) to catch the first boat to Gorée Island. The 20-minute crossing offers a beautiful view of the Dakar skyline. Once there, the lack of cars, pastel colonial architecture, and deep historical resonance make for an unforgettable morning. Visit the House of Slaves, climb up to the Castel for a 360° view, and grab a grilled fish lunch right by the water before heading back.
Book a guided tour of Gorée →Afternoon: Kermel, Plateau & Medina
Back on the mainland, you are right next to the 'Plateau' (Dakar's downtown). Walk to the Kermel Market (Marché Kermel), famous for its colorful colonial architecture and vibrant stalls selling everything from spices to crafts. Stroll through Independence Square (Place de l'Indépendance) and check out the Presidential Palace. In the late afternoon, take a taxi to the Medina for an authentic slice of bustling local street life.
Day 2: Ocean, Culture, and Grand Views
Morning: Island Vibes on Ngor
Head to the Almadies Peninsula and take a 5-minute pirogue crossing to Ngor Island. This tiny, car-free island is a haven for artists and surfers. Walk its narrow, sandy pathways, explore local art galleries, and relax on the calm, protected beach. It's a completely different rhythm than downtown Dakar.
Afternoon: African Renaissance & Mamelles Lighthouse
In the early afternoon, visit the monumental African Renaissance Monument — taller than the Statue of Liberty! Ride the elevator to the top for dizzying scale. Then, end your afternoon by heading to the adjacent Mamelles Lighthouse (Phare des Mamelles). The sunset from up here, overlooking the vast Atlantic and the Almadies peninsula, is the perfect culmination of your 48 hours.
Practical Tips for Your 48 Hours
- Getting around: Use the Yango app (similar to Uber) to reliably book rides between neighborhoods without the stress of negotiating taxi fares. Check out our Taxi guide for details.
- Where to sleep: To optimize this itinerary, staying in the Almadies/Ngor/Mamelles area offers great nightlife and ocean views, while staying in Plateau puts you closer to historical sites.
- Extend to Bandia: If you find you have an extra half-day, booking a quick tour to the Bandia Reserve is a fantastic addition.