Things to Do in Dakar
28 curated spots from Dakar itineraries
Activities & Attractions
15 curated experiences
African Renaissance Monument
170-foot bronze statue symbolizing African rebirth, with an internal elevator to a viewing platform offering city and ocean panoramas.[6]
1h 30m · $5-10 per person
Afternoon Beach Time on Île de Ngor
Stay on the island after lunch to swim, rent chairs, or take a short walk across the village paths.
2h · Free (chair rentals small fee)
Corniche Ouest Sunset Walk
Stroll the coastal road and promenade as locals gather to exercise and relax along the cliffs and beaches.
1h · Free
Ferry to Île de Gorée
Take the public ferry from Dakar port to Gorée Island, enjoying views of the harbor and city skyline en route.[6]
1h · $5-15 per person
House of Slaves (Maison des Esclaves)
Historic museum site documenting the transatlantic slave trade, including the famed 'Door of No Return'.
1h 30m · $5-10 per person
Île de Gorée Village Walk & Beach
Stroll the narrow, colorful streets, visit small art galleries, and relax on the tiny beach before taking the ferry back.[6]
2h · Free
Île de Ngor
Small island reached by pirogue (boat) with sandy beaches, calm waters, and simple restaurants ideal for swimming and relaxing.[10]
2h 30m · $5-10 boat round-trip, beach free
Lac Rose (Lago Rosa)
Saline pink lake north of Dakar, famous for its color and salt harvesting; many tours include 4x4 rides on nearby dunes.[10]
3h · $30-60 per person (tour package)
Last Stroll in Plateau or Corniche
Take a relaxed walk near your hotel, pick up final souvenirs, and enjoy one last view of the Atlantic.
1h · Free
Magic Land & Beachfront Stalls
Older amusement park by the sea; walking the nearby path you’ll find numerous casual seafood vendors along the beach.[6]
2h · $5-15 per person (rides and snacks)
Mamelles Lighthouse (Phare des Mamelles)
Historic lighthouse on a hill with sweeping views and a breezy terrace; sometimes hosts cultural events.
1h · $3-5 per person
Museum of Black Civilizations
Large, modern museum dedicated to global Black heritage and African civilizations with impressive permanent and rotating exhibits.[6]
2h · $5-10 per person
Place de l’Indépendance & Plateau Stroll
Walk the central square and surrounding streets to see colonial-era buildings, banks, and lively city scenes.
1h · Free
Sea Plaza
Modern shopping center with boutiques, cafes, and a seaside promenade where kids can stretch their legs.
1h · Free (shopping extra)
Soumbedioune Artisanal Market
Seaside craft market where artisans sell paintings, sculptures, textiles, and jewelry, often with on-site workshops.[6]
1h 30m · Free to enter (shopping extra)Restaurants & Food
13 local favorites
Beluga Restaurant
Upscale spot known for fine Peruvian-inspired cuisine with international influences in a stylish setting.[6]
1h 30m · $25-50 per person
Chez Georges
Longstanding bakery-cafe known for croissants, pastries, and simple hot breakfast plates.
1h · $8-15 per person
Jungle Restaurant
Stylish Senegalese-owned restaurant by the sea, which also opens for brunch with local and international dishes.[6]
1h 15m · $15-30 per person
La Calebasse
Atmospheric restaurant and gallery combining Senegalese art with traditional dishes like thieboudienne and yassa.
1h 30m · $20-40 per person
Le Bideew
Casual oceanfront restaurant near the fish market serving grilled fish, rice dishes, and salads.
1h 15m · $12-25 per person
Le Cabanon
Casual-chic beachfront restaurant known for seafood, pizzas, and cocktails, with tables right on the sand.
1h 30m · $20-40 per person
Le Cozy
Charming cafe offering good coffee, crepes, eggs, and pastries in a calm setting near central Dakar.
1h · $10-20 per person
Le Gastronomique (Pullman Dakar Teranga)
Fine-dining restaurant inside Pullman Dakar Teranga offering elevated Senegalese and international cuisine in an elegant setting.
1h 30m · $40-80 per person
Le Lodge des Almadies
Oceanfront restaurant-bar with a wooden deck right over the waves, serving seafood, burgers, and international dishes.
1h 30m · $20-45 per person
Le N’Gor Restaurant
Seafront restaurant near Ngor beach offering grilled fish, seafood, and Senegalese classics with sunset views.
1h 30m · $20-40 per person
Le Ngor Diarama (Corniche Ouest)
Hotel restaurant facing the Atlantic, serving grilled meats, seafood, and simple pasta and salads.
1h 15m · $15-30 per person
Restaurant Chez Tonton
Simple island restaurant serving thieboudienne and grilled fish on a terrace overlooking the sea.
1h · $10-20 per person
Restaurant Le Lagon 1
Classic upscale seafood restaurant on a wooden pier with panoramic ocean views and refined service.
1h 30m · $35-60 per person