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Senegal · West Africa · City

Dakar and Gorée Island

A lively Atlantic capital, plus the island symbol of the slave trade.

Best timeNov to May
Ideal stay3 nights
GatewayDakar (DSS)
Month by month
  1. JAnuary (good)
  2. FEbruary (good)
  3. MArch (good)
  4. APril (good)
  5. MAy (good)
  6. JUne
  7. JUly
  8. AUgust
  9. SEptember
  10. OCtober
  11. NOvember (good)
  12. DEcember (good)

Dakar has surf breaks, art galleries and a big music scene. A short ferry away, Gorée Island’s colourful houses and House of Slaves are a UNESCO site.

Highlights

  • Gorée Island
  • African Renaissance Monument
  • Surfing at Ngor
  • Live mbalax music

Where to stay

Hotels in Plateau, Almadies and Ngor.

Getting there

Dakar’s Blaise Diagne Airport is about an hour from the city.

Tips

  • Take the morning ferry to Gorée before it gets busy.
  • Try thieboudienne, the national dish.
  • Combine with the Sine-Saloum Delta.

Best time to visit

Nov to May. See where to go in Africa in November and our guide to the best time to visit Africa.

Plan your stay

Hotels on Booking.com Tours on GetYourGuide Tours on Viator

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Frequently asked questions

When is the best time to visit Dakar and Gorée Island?

Nov to May. Take the morning ferry to Gorée before it gets busy.

How long should I spend at Dakar and Gorée Island?

3 nights.

How do I get to Dakar and Gorée Island?

Dakar’s Blaise Diagne Airport is about an hour from the city.

Have you been to Dakar and Gorée Island?

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