Senegal 5 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dakar

  • Arrive at Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport
  • Transfer to hotel in the city center (e.g. Hotel Mermoz or similar)
  • Spend the afternoon exploring the Marché HLM, a bustling marketplace selling local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Visit the nearby Place de l’Hôtel-de-Ville, a historic square with a beautiful fountain and colonial-era architecture
  • Enjoy a traditional Senegalese dinner at a local restaurant (e.g. Le Poulain or similar)

Day 2: Dakar to Saint-Louis

  • Take an early morning bus or taxi from Dakar to Saint-Louis, a charming coastal town ( approx. 3 hours, 30€-50€)
  • Visit the historic center of Saint-Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
  • Explore the Place du Gouvernement, a picturesque square with colonial-era buildings and a beautiful fountain
  • Take a boat tour on the Gorée River to see the local wildlife ( approx. 10€-20€)
  • Spend the night in Saint-Louis at a local guesthouse or hotel (e.g. Hotel de la Plage or similar)

Day 3: Dakar

  • Return to Dakar by bus or taxi ( approx. 3 hours, 30€-50€)
  • Visit the Musée Théodore Monod, which showcases Senegalese art and culture
  • Explore the lively Guinawelt Market, a bustling marketplace selling local handicrafts and souvenirs
  • Enjoy a sunset view of the Atlantic Ocean at the Pointe des Almadies (free admission)
  • Spend the night in Dakar at your original hotel

Day 4: Bandia National Park

  • Take an early morning bus or taxi from Dakar to Bandia National Park, a beautiful wildlife reserve ( approx. 2 hours, 20€-30€)
  • Go on a guided safari tour to see the local wildlife, including monkeys, antelopes, and birds
  • Visit the nearby Lake Bandia, a picturesque lake with a beautiful beach
  • Return to Dakar in the evening and enjoy a traditional Senegalese dinner

Day 5: Dakar

  • Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market (e.g. Marché HLM)
  • Visit the Palais de Justice, a historic building with beautiful architecture
  • Enjoy a farewell lunch at a local restaurant and reflect on your time in Senegal

Important Information

  • Visa requirements: Citizens of most countries do not need a visa to enter Senegal for tourism or business purposes. However, it is always best to check with the Senegalese embassy or consulate in your home country to confirm.
  • Transportation: Public transportation in Senegal is relatively affordable and includes buses and taxis. However, traffic can be heavy in urban areas, so consider hiring a car or taxi for long trips or short excursions.
  • Safety: As with any foreign travel, take necessary precautions to ensure your safety while traveling in Senegal. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and use reputable transportation services.

Currency and Exchange Rate

  • The official currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF). Credit cards are widely accepted in tourist areas.
  • Exchange rate: approximately 1€ 700-800 XOF

Weather and Best Time to Visit

  • Senegal has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: wet and dry. The best time to visit is from December to March, when the weather is cooler and drier.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Senegal!