Full Day Private Tour in Dakar: move, eat, act like a local

Dakar , Senegal

Full Day Private Tour in Dakar: move, eat, act like a local

Active

(9 reviews)

7h - 9h

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Visit Dakar like a local with your guide, Malou-P, a singer-writer during the night and a guide during the day. With his simple, sociable and teasing nature, Malou-P is a Senegalese proud of his culture, his country and his language. On the back of his vespa or in his car if you feel more comfortable, discover the life in the streets of working-class neighborhoods and interact with the people who live in Dakar. In complete safety with Malou, regular Touba coffee stops and laughter guaranteed! A friendly stroll to get to know Dakar's neighborhoods better and exchange about Senegalese culture, beliefs and the hard reality of the working market for the young people, whether you're just passing through or have lived here for several years!

Available options

Full Day Private Tour in Dakar: move, eat, act like a local

Pickup included

What's included

Bottled water

Lunch

Breakfast

Detailed itinerary

Have breakfast in a small vendor near the high school of the neighborhood.

Walk in the streets of Medina and visit street workers - steel workers, carpenters and different kinds of informal market merchants. At one special street vendor, your guide will teach you about local beliefs and mystical lucky charms. You may buy your own lucky charm to bring back with you !

Visit the mechanic workers and learn about work conditions in Senegal

Visit the market and eat at a local dibiterie crowded with senegalese customers.

See the Grand Mosque of Dakar and learn about religion and beliefs.

Visit the house of Ousmane Sow, a famous senegalese sculptor showing strong and impressive sculptures of the life style of various ethnies.

Go to the fish market as a normal customer, find the perfect fish just coming from the fishermen's pirogues and all the necessary ingredient for a perfect grillade.

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

7 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

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.