Coming to Dakar

All our guests traveling from afar deserve a smooth journey. Here's everything you need to know.

Flights

From Europe, Dakar is about a 6-hour flight away.

Dakar's airport is AIBD (Blaise Diagne), 45 km from the city center.

Visa & Entry

EU citizens (Germany, France, Belgium…) do not need a visa for Senegal for tourist stays of up to 90 days. A valid passport is enough.

🇨🇲 Cameroonian citizens: a visa can be issued on arrival at Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS). As requirements and fees may change, we recommend checking the official formalities before you travel.

In all cases, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your arrival date.

Getting around

From the airport:

  • Official AIBD taxi: fixed fare ~25,000 FCFA (€38) to the city center
  • TER (regional express train): connects AIBD airport to central Dakar

In Dakar:

  • Yango (Uber equivalent): app to download, recommended for all your trips
  • Traditional taxi: negotiate the price before getting in

Money

The currency is the CFA Franc (FCFA). €1 ≈ 655 FCFA.

Withdrawals: ATMs available at major banks (Ecobank, CBAO, BIS). Notify your bank before you travel.

Card payment: accepted at hotels, major restaurants and shops. Keep cash for markets and small shops.

Phone & SIM

Local SIM cards are very cheap. Carriers: Orange Sénégal (best coverage), Free Sénégal, Expresso. Available at the airport or any shop in town. 10GB data plan: ~5,000 FCFA (€8). 4G coverage is good throughout Dakar.

Weather in August

August is the rainy season in Senegal, but in Dakar rainfall stays moderate (a few evening showers). Temperatures: 28–32°C during the day, 24–26°C at night. Fairly high humidity. Pack light, breathable clothing. A light raincoat can be useful.

Health & Vaccines

Recommended vaccination (check with your doctor):

  • Yellow fever: mandatory to enter Senegal

Malaria: preventive treatment recommended for Dakar (moderate risk). Bring mosquito repellent. Drink bottled water only.

Recommended accommodation

We recommend booking an Airbnb in one of these neighborhoods:

Of course, we're here to help: whether you'd like to share accommodation with other guests, need help finding a place to stay, or have any questions about accommodation, just write to us — it won't be a problem!