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Dakar

Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal, serving as the nation's economic and cultural hub on the Atlantic coast. This dynamic West African city blends colonial heritage with modern development, offering visitors a unique gateway to Senegal and the wider region.

Quick facts

Population
2,396,800 (city, 2011)
Currency
West African CFA franc (XOF)
Language
French
Timezone
GMT (UTC+0)
Local time now
21:19:14

Hotels in Dakar

Dakar offers a range of hotel options for visitors exploring Senegal's vibrant capital. From establishments like Wakola Hôtel Cheikh Anta and Hôtel Le Fouta Toro to Motel du Lion, accommodation choices cater to different traveller preferences. 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 providers to help you explore the city and surrounding regions at your own pace. Options include companies such as Loxea, Kama, Panne, Coseloc, and Ada, giving you flexibility for your transportation needs. 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 visitors a rich variety of attractions to explore. From historic monuments like the Monument de l'Indépendance to cultural and religious sites such as Notre Dame des Grâces, the city provides memorable experiences for travelers seeking to discover Senegal's vibrant capital. 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 a range of restaurants serving local and international cuisine. From Espace Taïf to Brescia, the city's restaurant options reflect its vibrant culture and culinary traditions. 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 diverse range of venues where locals and visitors can enjoy music, drinks, and entertainment. From established spots like Penc Mi and Calypso to casual hangouts such as Écurie Sénégal and Castel, the city's after-dark scene reflects the vibrant energy and cultural spirit of Senegal's capital. 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 offers a variety of bars where locals and visitors can enjoy drinks and socialise. From casual buvettes to established venues like Bar de la Gendarmerie, Chez Diamy, and Le Ngalam, the city has options to suit different tastes and atmospheres. 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 meals and beverages. Options in the city include establishments such as Lamine café and McCeasers, providing different atmospheres for dining and socializing. 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 established commercial centres like Centre commercial SAHM and SENTRADE to independent boutiques and specialist retailers scattered throughout the city. Whether you're looking for everyday goods or local products, Dakar's shops cater to diverse shopping needs. 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 and outdoor areas for visitors to explore, including Jardin Zone A and Jardin Zone B, as well as notable landmarks like Place de l'Obélisque and Rond-Point de Colobane. These locations provide opportunities to experience the city's green spaces and natural environment. 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 distinct dry and rainy seasons. The dry season brings cooler, more comfortable weather, while the rainy season brings warm, humid conditions with occasional precipitation.

Interesting Facts About Dakar — Weird & Wonderful

  • Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal, anchoring a metropolitan area of 4.0 million people as of 2023.
  • The city is strategically located on the Atlantic coast, making it a major port and gateway to West Africa.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dakar

What is the currency used in Dakar?

The currency 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 Dakar, though Wolof is widely spoken among locals.

How large is Dakar?

Dakar is Senegal's largest city with a metropolitan population of 4.0 million as of 2023, making it a major urban centre in West Africa.

Is Dakar on the coast?

Yes, Dakar is located on the Atlantic coast and serves as a major port city for Senegal and the region.

What region of Africa is Dakar in?

Dakar is located in West Africa on the westernmost peninsula of Senegal, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.

Map of Dakar

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