Dakar , Senegal

Half Day Tour : Explore Goree island

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Gorée island is world heritage site classified by the UNESCO. In other words ,this famous island was very active in slave trade ,and will from 1536 to 1848 ,year of the abolition of slavery ,the main transit center ,where 15 to 20 slaves will be shipped for the America's. Slavery will first start on the island practiced by the Portuguese in 1536 .On Gorée island ,we will open a chapter of the history of mankind with the visit of THE SLAVES HOUSE and its famous "DOOR OF NO RETURN",which was the last link of the slave with the Motherland or Africa .Here you learn how Black people were abused,downgraded,brutalized by the slaves merchants ,and their collaborators for nearly 4 centuries .You will also see the 1830 French church ,the former French strongholds ,the birth house of the first black deputy at the french Parliament, the French governor's residence.In short you will learn a lot about the country's history, slavery, colonization and so on .

Available options

Half Day Tour : Explore Goree island

Pickup included

What's included

And we take you back to your hotel in Dakar for free

Pick up offered from your hotel in Dakar to ferry Station for Goree island back l

Slaves house and museum fee

Ferry fees

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

From your hotel,we will go to the ferry station ,to take the ferry for Goree island ,where we have an appointment ,with the history of mankind. Goree island was one of the important places ,where the slaves were shipped for Europe and The America's. There we visit the slave ,where you will see the famous" gate of return " and the cells ,where the slaves were shackled ,while waiting for the boats to come back and carry them .Then we will tour around the island to discover the world heritage.Then we will the 1830 French church, the place ,where the Portuguese had built their 1481 chapel ,used at the time as cemetery for the Portuguese missionaries, the French governor residence ,the historical museum,the former French fortifications. In short all the heritage.Lunch on the island in a unique and typical restaurant near the sea,and back to your hotel or ending location.
Please come with your passport !

What's not included

Beverage

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

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Tripadvisor 1.0

1 reviews

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Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

About Dakar

Dakar, the vibrant capital of Senegal, is a dynamic city where African tradition meets French colonial influence. Known as the westernmost point of continental Africa, it offers stunning ocean views, rich cultural experiences, and a lively arts scene.

Top Attractions

Île de Gorée

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Île de Gorée is a small island known for its role in the Atlantic slave trade. It features historic buildings, museums, and a serene atmosphere.

Historical Half day Moderate

African Renaissance Monument

This towering statue is one of the tallest in Africa and symbolizes the continent's renaissance. It offers panoramic views of Dakar and the Atlantic Ocean.

Architecture 1-2 hours Free

Marché Sandaga

One of the largest markets in Dakar, offering a vibrant array of local goods, crafts, and food. It's a great place to experience the city's bustling market culture.

Market 1-2 hours Free to enter, bargaining expected

Dakar Cathedral

A striking example of modernist architecture, the Dakar Cathedral is a prominent landmark in the city. It's known for its unique design and cultural significance.

Religious 30 minutes Free

Mamelles Lighthouse

One of the oldest lighthouses in Africa, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the city. It's a great spot for photography and enjoying the ocean breeze.

Historical 1 hour Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Thieboudienne

Senegal's national dish, made with fish, rice, and vegetables in a tomato-based sauce.

Main dish Contains fish, can be made vegetarian with tofu.

Yassa Poulet

Chicken marinated in lemon and onion sauce, served with rice.

Main dish Contains chicken, can be made with fish or vegetables.

Mafé

A rich peanut stew made with meat (usually chicken or beef) and vegetables.

Main dish Contains meat, can be made vegetarian with tofu or vegetables.

Bissap

A refreshing drink made from hibiscus flowers, often served cold.

Drink Vegan, gluten-free.

Popular Activities

4x4 tours to Pink Lake Surfing at Yoff Beach Beach lounging at Yoff Beach Spa treatments in luxury hotels Visiting Île de Gorée Exploring local markets Attending cultural festivals Surfing

Best Time to Visit

November to June

This is the dry season, offering pleasant weather with clear skies and minimal rain. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

24°C to 32°C 75°F to 90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: French
Widely spoken: Wolof, English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas

Currency

West African CFA franc (XOF)

Time Zone

GMT

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Dakar is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and scams can occur. Be cautious of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.

Important Precautions:

• Keep your belongings secure.
• Use reputable taxi services.
• Avoid walking alone at night.

Getting there

By air

Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport • 8 km from city center

By train

Available

By bus

Gare Routière de Dakar

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is the primary mode of public transport in Dakar. It is affordable and covers most of the city.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Car Rapid

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Plateau Sandaga Ouakam Yoff

Day trips

Île de Gorée

3 km from Dakar • Half day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich history and beautiful ocean views.

Pink Lake (Lac Rose)

40 km from Dakar • Full day

A stunning pink lake known for its unique color and salt extraction activities.

Saint-Louis

200 km from Dakar • Full day or overnight

A historic city known for its colonial architecture and cultural heritage.

Festivals

Dakar Festival of African Cinema (FCSA) • Annually in May Dakar Biennale • Biennially in May Tabaski (Eid al-Adha) • Varies annually (Islamic calendar)

Pro tips

Learn a few basic phrases in French or Wolof to enhance your experience and connect with locals.
Visit local markets for authentic shopping experiences and to practice bargaining.
Explore the city's vibrant arts and music scene, including the popular Mbalax genre.
Take a day trip to Île de Gorée for a historical and cultural experience.
Try traditional Senegalese dishes like Thieboudienne and Yassa Poulet.