Dakar City Tour and Goree island (from 3 people)

Dakar , Senegal

Dakar City Tour and Goree island (from 3 people)

Active

(2 reviews)

4h - 6h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

. Sure, you will see a lot but, in all probability, the Dakar experience will escape you without the expertise of a knowledgeable guide to show you the hidden spots. As I take you on this popular tour combination, my whole goal is not to make you love DAKAR the way I do, but to make you understand it in order to turn your visit into a long-lasting memory. However, you cannot visit Dakar without seeing Goree island. The last place African Slaves saw before being shipped across the ocean never to return. A visit to the Door-Of-No-Return in the Slave House will give you a sense of why GOREE is the most visited place in the country. However, you cannot visit the island and remain the same person you were previously.
PS: REMEMBER TO BRING YOUR PASSPORT WITH YOU.

Available options

Dakar City Tour and Goree island (from 3 people)

Pickup included

What's included

Professional guide

Driver/guide

Local taxes

Transport by private vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Start at 8:am.You will take a guided Dakar city tour as an introduction to the city. During the tour you will view some of Dakar’s colorful markets like kermel fruits markets, Sandaga, Soumbedioune art craft and fishing market. The city features beautiful contemporary buildings, combined with historical colonial houses. With a population estimated around three millions Dakar is a vibrant and bustling city with active open-air markets, cafe terraces, and delicious food. It is a shopper's paradise, where exquisite crafts can be found in markets, on the streets, and in stores throughout the city. Among the highlights you will see: The Presidential Palace, Independence square garden, Monument of African renaissance, Old French cathedral, old tren station, the Institut Fondamental d'Afrique Noire Museum (IFAN), which is a cultural and scientific institute in the nations of the former French West Africa. Founded in Dakar, Senegal in 1938, it was headquartered in what is now the building of the IFAN Museum of African Arts. Its charge is to study the language, restore African history, and promote local cultures of the peoples ruled by French colonialism in Africa.

Transfer to Dakar dock around midday and take a Ferry boat to Goree Island. Goree Island is deeply rooted in the history of the slave trade. From the beginning of the sixteenth to the mid-nineteenth century, men, women, and children were gathered on this small piece of land and locked up in cells, before being shipped away to the New World, West Indies and South America. The island was seized by the Portuguese, the Dutch, the French, and the British all of whom participated in the trade. Forts and cannons attest of the island's violent past. Most of the buildings were used as warehouses or slaves' houses, and today many have been turned into museums. You will visit the most famous museum «La Maison des Esclaves, which used to hold up to two hundred captives. You will visit the slave cells and the apartment of the slave dealers upstairs. From the "Door of no Return" countless African caught a last glimpse of their homeland before boarding the slave ships. Another museum to visit is: The historical museum. After our moving and informative tour you will get onbaord the ferry at 4:pm for Dakar and drop you off at your location.

End of the excursion.

What's not included

Lunch

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Drinks

Available languages

Audio guide

EN FR

Guide guide

EN FR

Written guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

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.