Port Guide | Senegal | Dive Deep
Dakar
Samantha Cruz | Editor
Published on 2025-01-06
Welcome to Dakar, the cosmopolitan, slightly chaotic, unapologetically vibrant jewel of West Africa. Stepping off your floating condominium onto Senegalese soil, you've traded shuffleboard and buffet lines for a sensory carnival that lands emphatically far from generic cruise ship cliches. Dakar greets you with warmth, charisma, and a dash of organized chaos-all against a soundtrack ranging from traditional sabar drums to the latest Afrobeat hits pulsing through market stalls. Once the strategic darling of European powers, Goree Island now humbles visitors with its poignant past, just a short ferry ride away. And if you've ever wondered what a 160-foot bronze statue of a family dramatically pointing seaward looks like (who hasn't?), head straight to the imposing-some might say gloriously kitschy-African Renaissance Monument. Wander among bursts of color and spice at Marche Sandaga, dodge scooters like a professional pedestrian athlete, and indulge shamelessly in plates of flavorful Thieboudienne. One last tip: Senegalese hospitality is legendary, but so is their politeness-greet strangers warmly with a smile and a "Salaam Alaikum," and you'll transition smoothly from wide-eyed tourist to honorary local in no time.
Senegal has 8 Travel Advisories
Stay up to day with regional travel advisories.
Notes from the Editor
Dakar is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and lively markets. Port visitors should explore the historic Goree Island and the African Renaissance Monument. Local cuisine is a highlight, and travelers should be mindful of local customs.
Where do cruise ships dock in Dakar?
Port Name Dakar
Country Senegal
Region West Africa
Ship Terminal Port of Dakar
Port Type Dedicated port
Accessibility The cruise terminal is located approximately 1.5 km from the city center, easily accessible by foot, taxi, or shuttle services provided by cruise lines.
What's the weather like in Dakar?
Best Season to Visit Winter Months (December to February)
Climate Tropical climate with a dry season and a rainy season. The dry season features lower humidity and comfortable temperatures.
Weather Notes Cruises typically visit during the dry season when the weather is mild and pleasant, avoiding the heavy rains of the summer months.
Temperature Range 68F - 85F (20C - 29C)
High Temp 90F
Low Temp 60F
Average Temp 75F
What do I need to know about Dakar?
Language French
Currency CFA Franc (XOF)
Card Widely Accepted 1
Population 1,100,000
Timezone GMT
How do I get around Dakar?
Taxis, local buses, and motorbike taxis (Jakarta) are available for transit; shuttles may be offered by cruise ships.
What are The Best Things to do in Dakar?
Discover what you should do while you're in Dakar.
Historical and cultural landmarks
Goree Island
N/A
Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its historical significance as a major slave trading center.
Distance from Terminal: 3.5 miles
Dakar Grand Mosque
Avenue Malick Sy, Dakar
Built in 1964, this majestic mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture in West Africa.
Distance from Terminal: 2 miles
African Renaissance Monument
Ouakam, Dakar
A colossal bronze statue overlooking Dakar; it's the tallest statue in Africa.
Distance from Terminal: 6 miles
IFAN Museum of African Arts
Place Soweto, Dakar
Discover a rich collection of African art and cultural artifacts at this established museum.
Distance from Terminal: 1.2 miles
Experiences you can't replicate elsewhere
Lac Rose (Pink Lake) | Editor Highlight
Samantha Cruz | Editor
Published on 2025-01-06
Best Time to Go
Afternoon
Cost
< $50 USD
Activity Level
Easy
Where to Book
On Arrival
Visiting Lac Rose-Senegal's famed Pink Lake-is a bit like stumbling onto Nature's eccentric art installation after a particularly spirited night out. Situated just northeast of Dakar in the Rufisque Department, this surreal magenta lagoon owes its vibrant hue not to Photoshop trickery or whimsical paint jobs, but to a hearty strain of algae cheerfully thriving in absurdly salty waters. Historically, this lake was the finish line for the gritty, iconic Paris-Dakar Rally, where exhausted drivers would squint confusedly at the shimmering rosy waters and wonder if dehydration had finally messed with their sanity. Aim to arrive mid-morning or late afternoon, when sunlight strikes the lake at just the right angle, transforming the water into a shade best described as "flamingo-after-a-few-drinks." Book a local boat tour in advance (a week usually does the trick), budget around CFA 15,000-20,000 (about $25-35 USD) for entry and a guide, and don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen-you will roast harder than a peanut vendor's street-side batch. Is it touristy? Sure. Slightly weird? Absolutely. But the chance to casually drop "that time I floated atop a strawberry milkshake-colored lake in Senegal" into casual conversation is worth every salty, oddly pink splash.
Lac Rose (Pink Lake)
N/A
Visit the pink-hued lake and enjoy a unique natural phenomenon caused by algae.
Distance from Terminal: 18 miles
Dakar Biennale
N/A
Experience the largest contemporary African art exhibition held biennially, showcasing diverse artworks and performances.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Senegalese Wrestling Match
N/A
Attend a traditional wrestling match, witnessing an integral part of Senegalese culture.
Distance from Terminal: 5 miles
St. Louis Jazz Festival
N/A
Celebrate jazz music in the historic city of Saint-Louis, known for its colonial architecture and lively arts scene.
Distance from Terminal: 162 miles
Overnight Trips
Senegal River Safari
N/A
Enjoy a boat safari along the Senegal River, observing wildlife and picturesque landscapes.
Distance from Terminal: 125 miles
Toubab Dialaw
N/A
A serene coastal village known for its beautiful beaches and bohemian atmosphere, perfect for a getaway.
Distance from Terminal: 37 miles
Saloum Delta National Park
N/A
A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its diverse ecosystems, ideal for bird watching and kayaking.
Distance from Terminal: 91 miles
Adventure and Outdoor Activities
Bandia Wildlife Reserve
N/A
Enjoy a safari experience to see giraffes, rhinos, zebras, and more in a natural setting.
Distance from Terminal: 47 miles
Ngor Island
N/A
A small island off the coast of Dakar known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back vibe.
Distance from Terminal: 5.5 miles
Almadies Point
N/A
Africa's westernmost point, known for its stunning views and as a popular surfing location.
Distance from Terminal: 7 miles
Dakar Surf Session
N/A
Catch waves at some of Dakar's popular surfing spots, ideal for both beginners and experts.
Distance from Terminal: 6.5 miles
A Little Extra
Renowned Dakar Nightlife
N/A
Experience Dakar's vibrant nightlife with its lively clubs and unique blend of local music and dance styles.
Distance from Terminal: 3 miles
Senegal Regional Tip
Excessive quantities of alcohol or tobacco Strict import limits apply. Alcohol limited to 1 liter of spirits or 2 liters of wine; tobacco limited to 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.