Maison des Esclaves

Overview

The Maison des Esclaves is a historic house museum on Gorée Island, Senegal. It serves as a memorial to the Atlantic slave trade and offers a poignant look into the past.

The museum is significant for its role in the slave trade and its efforts to educate visitors about this dark chapter in history.

Historical Cultural

Location

Address

Rue Saint-Germain, Dakar, Senegal

Neighborhood: Île de Gorée

Coordinates

14.692800, -17.445600

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Admission

Adults

3000 XOF

Children

1500 XOF

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

March-May

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

Pleasant

• Guided tours

summer

Hot and humid

• Extended hours

autumn

Cool and pleasant

• Special exhibitions

winter

Warm and humid

• Holiday decorations

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book tickets in advance
Bring identification
Check weather forecast

What to Bring

essential

ID Water bottle Tickets

seasonal

Light jacket Umbrella

not allowed

Large bags Food Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate

• Narrow staircases
• Confined spaces

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

West African CFA franc

Typical Costs

entry 5000 XOF

guided tour 3000 XOF

souvenirs 2000-10000 XOF

Dress Code

Casual, Comfortable clothing and shoes, Comfortable walking shoes, Inappropriate or revealing clothing

Booking Tips

• At least 1 week
• Official website
• 48 hours in advance
• Available for online bookings

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Gorée Island Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Blaise Diagne International Airport

Distance: 45 km

Travel Time: 1 hour 15 minutes

taxi

25000 XOF 1 hour 15 min

public_transport

1000 XOF 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 3 km

ferry

500 XOF 20 min

private_boat

5000 XOF 15 min

taxi

3000 XOF 10 min to ferry terminal plus ferry ride

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Important historical site that tells the story of Senegal

Historical Significance: Key location in the Atlantic slave trade

Insider Tips

Visit early to avoid crowds
Combined tickets for multiple sites are available

Local Recommendations

• Visit the nearby historical sites
• Try local seafood at the island's restaurants

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Salut

thank_you Merci

where_is Où est

how_much Combien

beautiful Beau

ticket Billet

Guide Languages: French, English, Spanish

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

The Door of No Return

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Wide shots to capture the ocean view

Result: Powerful and emotional photos

#history #travel #GoréeIsland

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Common spaces

prohibited areas Private exhibits, Restricted zones

flash photography Not allowed in indoor exhibits

commercial photography Permit required

drone policy Prohibited

tripod policy Allowed with permission

selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

Fort d'Estrées

Distance: 300m

Walking: 5 min

Type: Historical Site

European-style Houses

Distance: 500m

Walking: 10 min

Type: Architectural Landmark

Historic Slave Quarters

Distance: 700m

Walking: 15 min