Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Dakar is during the dry season, namely from November through May, when the average temperature is around 20°C/68°F and rain is basically non-existent. Of course, this is also the high season. The period from June through October is the wet season, with hot, humid days and frequent rainfall. During this period, you can find good deals and still have a pleasant stay, but be prepared that business may be closed.

The new airport serving the city of Dakar is the Blaise Diagne International Airport (IATA code: DSS), which is located about 43 km (27 mi) east of the city centre. Blaise Diagne International Airport is a modern and well-equipped facility that opened in 2017 to replace Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport as the main airport serving Dakar and the surrounding region. The airport has a single terminal building that serves both domestic and international flights, and offers a range of amenities and services for travellers, including shops, restaurants, and lounges, as well as a number of banks and currency exchange offices. The airport also has a range of transportation options for travellers, including car rentals, taxis, public buses and a train called Train Express Regional (TER).

Navigating public transport in Dakar may initially seem daunting because of its apparent disarray. The city's streets are awash with colour, mirroring the vivid hues of the local buses. Traditional attire, particularly the wax fabric dresses worn by women, adds to the kaleidoscope of colours. Dakar's public bus system is called Dakar Dem Dikk. It is relatively reliable and very affordable, but the bus network can be very difficult to figure out if you're not already familiar with it. Be sure to ask a local if you're not sure which bus to take to get where you're going. Public buses, distinguishable by their blue paint and numbering, are a common sight. While affordable, with fares around 200 CFA francs, they require some getting used to. Routes are not clearly mapped, and schedules are unpredictable, leading to sporadic service. Despite these challenges, these buses are a mainstay for locals, connecting various parts of the city, including the airport. In contrast, the multicoloured buses, a more informal mode of transport, offer a different experience. Fares range from 50 to 100 CFA francs, depending on the distance. These buses are typically crowded, with passengers boarding from the rear and finding space wherever possible. Vigilance is advised, as the close quarters can lead to petty theft.

Taxis are ubiquitous in Dakar and can be flagged down anywhere. They are fast and safe as well, but you must haggle and agree on the fare before getting in. Taxis can also be caught in front of major hotels. They are usually yellow and black with a printed number on the side.

Senegal uses type C, D, E and K power plugs and sockets. All four types use round pins. The standard voltage is 230 V at a frequency of 50 Hz.