Taxis in Dakar: realistic prices by route + negotiation tips

In 30 seconds

• No meter in Dakar: always agree on the final all‑in price before getting in.
• If you want zero negotiation: use Yango (most used) or Heetch (less popular).
• Carry cash and small bills to avoid “no change”.
• If a driver insists or changes the price, politely walk away and take the next taxi.

Alternative to taxi: Yango / Heetch (zero negotiation)

If you want to avoid “tourist pricing”, use an Uber‑like app: Yango (most used) or Heetch (less popular).

• Price shown upfront; fewer surprises.
• Compare Yango vs Heetch quickly — prices can vary with demand.
• Pick an easy pickup point (hotel entrance, gas station, big crossroads).

Realistic prices in town

Indicative ranges; they vary with hour, traffic, rain, pickup area.

From/to Plateau (downtown)

Other useful ranges

• Mamelles ↔ Almadies : ~1 000 XOF
• Point E ↔ Mamelles : 1 000 – 1 500 XOF
• Point E ↔ Ngor / Almadies : 1 500 – 2 500 XOF

If someone quotes 2–3× without reason (except heavy rain/traffic, very late at night), it’s often testing for “tourist pricing”.

Night, rain, traffic: how to adjust

• Moderate increase is normal when it rains, during major jams or very late at night.
• Accept a reasonable bump (e.g., +500 to +1,000 depending on distance), refuse “magical” x2/x3 hikes.

Negotiation techniques (no meter)

1. State your price calmly (“I can do 2,000”).
2. Confirm: “final, all‑in price?”
3. If hesitation/insistence: thank them and take the next taxi.
4. Don’t show you’re in a rush.
5. Prepare the district name (Plateau, Point E, Almadies, Ngor, Ouakam…)

Useful phrases (to say in French)

• “Combien jusqu’à [district] ?” — ask “How much to [district]?” before the ride.
• “Prix final, tout compris ?” — confirm it is the final, all‑in price.
• “Je préfère fixer maintenant.” — say you prefer to lock the fare right now.
• “Je connais les prix : je peux faire [amount].” — calmly state your reference price.

Common pitfalls (and how to avoid them)

• Price changes at arrival → agree beforehand + repeat “final price”.
• Intentional detour → open Maps and ask for the direct route.
• “No change” → carry small bills.
• Unsafe driving / car in bad shape → you can refuse and switch.

Taxi Dakar checklist

• Have the address + neighborhood ready (Plateau, Point E, Almadies, Ngor, Ouakam…).
• Agree on the fare before getting in.
• Confirm it is the final “all‑in” price.
• Carry small bills for change.
• Keep Maps open for the direct route.
• If you want zero negotiation, order via Yango / Heetch.

Mini‑FAQ

• Why no meter? Most rides are negotiated — always agree first.
• Is Yango better than taxis? For many tourists yes: upfront price, less stress.
• Is Heetch reliable? Yes, but often fewer drivers than Yango.

Ultra‑short version “hotel / concierge”

In Dakar, assume no usable meter: agree on the price before getting in (“final all‑in price”). Ranges: Plateau–Point E/Fann 1,000–1,500; Plateau–Mamelles 1,500–2,000; Plateau–Almadies/Ngor/Yoff 2,000–3,000 (traffic‑dependent). Alternative without negotiation: Yango (most used) or Heetch (less popular) with upfront pricing.