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Dakar

Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal, serving as the country's primary cultural and economic hub. Located on the Atlantic coast, this dynamic West African city offers a blend of colonial history, modern development, and coastal charm.

Quick facts

Population
2,396,800 (city, 2011)
Currency
West African CFA franc (XOF)
Language
French
Timezone
GMT (UTC+0)
Local time now
02:58:42

Hotels in Dakar

Dakar offers a range of hotel accommodations to suit different preferences and budgets. Options in the city include establishments such as Wakola, Motel du Lion, Wakola Hôtel Cheikh Anta, Hôtel Le Fouta, and Hôtel Le Fouta Toro. See all hotels →

Wakola
673 m from centre
Motel du Lion
971 m from centre
Wakola Hôtel Cheikh Anta
1.0 km from centre

Airports in Dakar

We're still gathering airports listings for Dakar — check back soon.

Car Hire in Dakar

Dakar offers several car hire options for visitors and residents needing vehicle rentals. Companies such as Loxea, Kama, Panne, Coseloc, and Ada provide car hire services throughout the city, making it convenient to arrange transportation for your stay. See all car hire →

Loxea
1.4 km from centre
Kama
1.9 km from centre
Panne
2.1 km from centre
Coseloc
2.5 km from centre

Things to Do in Dakar

Dakar offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors to explore. From historical monuments like Monument de l'Indépendance to cultural and recreational venues, the city provides diverse experiences for travelers. See all things to do →

Monument de l'Indépendance
103 m from centre
C'est htmi
614 m from centre
Raw Material Company
921 m from centre
Notre Dame des Grâces
986 m from centre
Sale de jeux
1.4 km from centre
CEJTD
1.6 km from centre

Restaurants in Dakar

Dakar offers a diverse dining scene with restaurants ranging from traditional Senegalese cuisine to international fare. Established venues like Espace Taïf, Darou salam, Dibitetie le Mboté, and Brescia provide options for various tastes and occasions throughout the city. See all restaurants →

Espace Taïf
134 m from centre
Darou salam
240 m from centre
Dibitetie le Mboté
414 m from centre

Swimming Pools in Dakar

We're still gathering swimming pools listings for Dakar — check back soon.

Spas in Dakar

We're still gathering spas listings for Dakar — check back soon.

Nightlife in Dakar

Dakar's nightlife offers a dynamic mix of clubs, bars, and entertainment venues that reflect the city's energy and culture. From established spots like Penc Mi and Calypso to venues such as Écurie Sénégal and Castel, the city provides diverse options for an evening out. See all nightlife →

Penc Mi
1.7 km from centre
Calypso
3.0 km from centre
Le Calypso
3.0 km from centre

Bars in Dakar

Dakar's bar scene offers a variety of local drinking establishments where visitors and residents can enjoy beverages and socialise. From casual buvettes to named venues like Bar de la Gendarmerie, Chez Diamy, and Le Ngalam, there are options to suit different preferences across the city. See all bars →

Bar de la Gendarmerie
606 m from centre
Chez Diamy
967 m from centre
Le Ngalam
1.1 km from centre

Cafes in Dakar

Dakar offers a variety of cafes where visitors and locals can enjoy refreshments and meals. Establishments like Lamine café and McCeasers provide dining options throughout the city. See all cafes →

Lamine café
570 m from centre
Lamine café
570 m from centre
Restaurant
604 m from centre

Shopping in Dakar

Dakar offers a variety of shopping options, from modern commercial centres like Centre commercial SAHM and SENTRADE to local boutiques and specialist retailers. Whether you're looking for everyday essentials or unique finds, the city's shopping districts cater to diverse needs and budgets. See all shopping →

ETS GAYEMARAKHIB
866 m from centre
Centre commercial SAHM
1.0 km from centre
SENTRADE
1.0 km from centre

Nature & Wildlife in Dakar

Dakar offers several natural spaces where visitors can experience greenery and outdoor environments. From the gardens at Jardin Zone A and Jardin Zone B to public squares like Place de l'Obélisque and Rond-Point de Colobane, the city provides areas to explore nature and enjoy the surroundings. See all nature & wildlife →

Place de l'Obélisque
122 m from centre
Rond-Point de Colobane
663 m from centre
Bopp
1.1 km from centre
Jardin Zone B
1.2 km from centre
Jardin Zone A
1.2 km from centre
jardin COUD
1.5 km from centre

Climate snapshot

Dakar experiences a tropical climate with a warm season and a cooler dry season. The Atlantic Ocean moderates temperatures year-round, keeping the city cooler than many other inland regions of West Africa.

Interesting Facts About Dakar — Weird & Wonderful

  • Dakar's metropolitan area had a population of 4.0 million in 2023, making it one of West Africa's largest urban centres.
  • As Senegal's capital and largest city, Dakar serves as the nation's primary political and economic centre.
  • The department of Dakar has a population of 1,278,469, reflecting the city's significant concentration within the broader metropolitan region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dakar

What currency is used in Dakar?

The currency used in Dakar is the West African CFA franc (XOF), the official currency of Senegal.

What language is spoken in Dakar?

French is the official language of Senegal and widely spoken in Dakar, though Wolof is also commonly spoken among locals.

How large is Dakar's population?

Dakar's metropolitan area had approximately 4.0 million people in 2023, making it one of West Africa's largest urban centres.

What region of Africa is Dakar in?

Dakar is located in West Africa, serving as the capital of Senegal on the Atlantic coast.

Is Dakar on the coast?

Yes, Dakar is a coastal city located on the Atlantic Ocean in Senegal.

Map of Dakar

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