Senegal-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Dakar

  • Arrive at Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DSS)
  • Visa requirements: Most nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival or online prior to departure
  • Transportation: Taxi or shuttle to your accommodation, approximately 10-15 minutes and 5,000-7,000 XOF (~8-12 USD)
  • Activities:
    • Explore the city’s vibrant markets and try some local street food
    • Visit the famous Dakar Grand Mosque (Mosquée de la Grande Mosquée) and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean
    • Check-in to your accommodation and rest after your journey

Day 2: Dakar City Tour

  • Breakfast at a local café or bakery
  • Transportation: Walk, taxi, or rent a bike (approximately 1,000-2,000 XOF / ~2-4 USD per hour) to explore the city
  • Activities:
    • Visit the IFAN Museum of African Arts (Musée IFAN des Arts d’Afrique), which showcases Senegal’s rich cultural heritage
    • Explore the bustling streets of the Medina and shop for local handicrafts and souvenirs
    • Visit the Monument de la République, a historic landmark that commemorates Senegal’s struggle for independence

Day 3: Gorée Island

  • Transportation: Take a ferry from Dakar to Gorée Island (approximately 1 hour, 10,000-15,000 XOF / ~18-25 USD return)
  • Activities:
    • Explore the charming island and its historic architecture
    • Visit the famous House of Slaves (Maison des Esclaves), a UNESCO World Heritage Site that commemorates the transatlantic slave trade
    • Enjoy lunch at one of the local restaurants and take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean

Day 4: Tambacounda

  • Transportation: Fly from Dakar to Tambacounda (approximately 1 hour, 150,000-200,000 XOF / ~250-350 USD return)
  • Activities:
    • Visit the picturesque village of Mboye and its stunning views of Lake Sihok
    • Explore the nearby village of Boffia and try some local cuisine
    • Relax at your accommodation and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere

Day 5: Niokolo-Koba National Park

  • Transportation: Drive to Niokolo-Koba National Park (approximately 2 hours, 20,000-30,000 XOF / ~35-50 USD return)
  • Activities:
    • Take a guided safari tour and spot some of the park’s incredible wildlife, including elephants, lions, and antelopes
    • Explore the park’s beautiful scenery and take in the stunning views of the surrounding landscape

Day 6: Return to Dakar

  • Transportation: Drive back to Dakar (approximately 2 hours, 20,000-30,000 XOF / ~35-50 USD return)
  • Activities:
    • Visit any last-minute sights or shops before departing
    • Depart for the airport and head home

Things to know:

  • Senegal is a relatively safe country, but petty theft and pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting mosques or other cultural sites.
  • Try some of the delicious local cuisine, including dishes like thieboudienne (a hearty fish stew) and mafe (a rich peanut sauce-based dish).
  • Don’t drink tap water and avoid eating from street vendors that may not have proper hygiene standards.

Other tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines at popular attractions.
  • Try to learn some basic Wolof or French phrases, which are commonly spoken in Senegal.
  • Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the strong African sun.
  • Respect the local environment and wildlife, especially when visiting national parks.

Budget breakdown:

  • Accommodation: approximately 50,000-70,000 XOF / ~80-120 USD per night for a mid-range hotel or guesthouse
  • Transportation: approximately 20,000-30,000 XOF / ~35-50 USD per day for taxis and shuttles
  • Food: approximately 5,000-10,000 XOF / ~8-18 USD per meal for local cuisine
  • Activities: approximately 1,000-2,000 XOF / ~2-4 USD per person for entrance fees and guided tours

Note: Prices are approximate and may vary depending on the time of year, location, and other factors.