Things to do & places to visit in Dakar Region, Senegal

Dakar Region #1 destination in Senegal 2023. The average rating score is 4.20 based on 4.946 traveler reviews, of 42 attractions. Timezone: Africa/Dakar, current date and time: Sunday, May 12, 2024, 20:29.

Top things to do (46)

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Loman Art House - Art Gallery (24 reviews)
- Urban Refuge
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

Loman is an australian artist, born in Cape Town. She moved to Dakar in 2007. Passionate about African art, she felt connected with Dakar, its vibrancy of colors, its people, their generosity and hope. She tries, through her art, to make something new and different, and teach other artists to open their eyes and imagination. After a few years in Dakar, she decided to open her home, the Loman Art, to create collective exhibitions, hosting people in the rooms and open an art cafe. This place has several rooms on the second floor of the Loman Art House. The guests can expect to enjoy a tranquil stay in any of the rooms in addition to using the spacious downstairs kitchen at their leisure. As any visitor to the art house, guests also have access to the house's art gallery, the swimming pool, the garden, the pop-up restaurant and the Art Café itself. You'll love it ! See more..
5.0 Tiguérétours (18 reviews)
- The History of Goree's Island
Multi-day Tours • Day Trips

We had such a beautiful moment with Gabar. He made the history of the island alive and we will come back this summer again. See more..
5.0 Galerie Arte (12 reviews)
- Beautiful collection
Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

This art gallery has beautiful works, from jewelry to furniture. We bought small nesting tables that they are shipping to Canada for us. The carvings they have are wonderful. See more..
5.0 L'esprit des lieux (4 reviews)
- Abdoulaye Diallo et sa maison magique
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM Art Galleries • Art Museums

Je connais Abdoulaye Diallo et sa maison depuis plus de 10 ans, cet homme est très cultivé, du passé et du présent, j'ai pû consulter chez lui un livre disparu "L'empire Peul du Massina" de Amadou Empaté Ba, je l'en remercie chaleureusement.
La Maison... Des chambres magnifiques où sont ses tableaux... C'est toujours un tel bonheur de le rencontrer, de partager avec lui, de la regarder peindre... Allez y, je n'ai pas de mots, allez y... See more..
5.0 Musée des Forces Armées du Sénégal (4 reviews)
- SUPERB ... a "must see" in Dakar ..
Military Museums
I was astounded how well set up the museum is. There are many artifacts and original army uniforms in excellent condition. Also many wonderful photographs, displays and videos to be seen. We were fortunate to have one of the Sergents show us through at a leisurely and very informative pace. After the museum interior, you will also be shown the previous Presidential limousines, all in good condition. See more..
5.0 Pape Amadou FALL (2 reviews)
- « THE » guide, inoubliable.
Multi-day Tours • Hop-On Hop-Off Tours • Taxis & Shuttles • Boat Tours • Walking Tours • Fishing Charters & Tours • Hiking & Camping Tours • Private Tours • Bus Tours • Day Trips

J’étais avec un groupe de 40 étudiants qui « débarquaient » à Dakar, n’y connaissant rien ou pas grand-chose. Quelle chance j’ai eue de tomber sur Pape au débarcadère de Gorée, de le prendre lui plutôt qu’un autre guide - ce n’est pas ce qui manque pourtant. Pour mener un groupe, Pape est génial, il a une dynamique pas possible et un « pep » pas possible, il est drôle, il a de ces mots d’esprit qui vous restent en tête: « Aujourd’hui, Gorée est « blanche de monde » - car, de fait, les touristes sont surtout européens. Bien sûr, il sait tout sur tout, mais sans jamais être indigeste. Je le recommande absolument, c’est le meilleur guide que j’ai connu dans ma carrière d’accompagnateur de voyages scolaires. See more..
5.0 Les Chevaux du Lac (1 review)
- Une promenade magique !
Spent 1-2 hours Horseback Riding Tours

On the dune cord and the endless beach of the great coast, the forests of casuarinas and the peul villages, you will discover the happiness of riding robust Arab horses and good character, native of the stable, very seasoned with sandy ground and accustomed to the area. The team welcome you all year long for walks from 1h30 to several days on the shores of Lake Rose, Senegal. See more..
4.5 La Maison des Esclaves (1.557 reviews)
- Not to be Missed!!
Speciality Museums

This centuries-old house served as a processing center for African slaves. See more..
4.5 Island of Gorée (198 reviews)
- Feels a world away from Dakar
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Islands

Very nice little island in Dakar bay. Many colourful houses and baobab trees. Up on the hill people have converted the old war bunkers into houses, which was interesting. The house of slaves is not that interesting to visit, but still of historical significance. It feels like a world away yet Easily accessible from the Dakar port, although it can get busy queuing up for tickets as ferries are not that regular, so come 30 min in advance. It’s very tourist with many sellers See more..
4.5 Accrobaobab Adventure (165 reviews) from $7.77
- Amazing
Amusement & Theme Parks

We were on holidays with the kids en decided to let them discover another face of Senegal. They were much more than happy with the cables bands, climbing... Attractions are based on the age and even my child of 4 was able to challenge herself. Very great experience between the "baobabs" and food as well was very tasty (hamburger, pancake) See more..
4.5 Ngor Island (115 reviews)
- Mesmerizing ...
Spent More than 3 hours Islands

This small yet beautiful island steeped in culture is a treat for the senses. I loved the ornate doors and the intricate mosaic work on the houses. This coupled with the narrow alleys lined with beautiful trees and flowers makes it a memorable experience. See more..
4.5 Lompoul Desert (63 reviews)
- I enjoyed it
Deserts

We went to Lompoul Desert for one night from Dakar. I think it was worth it. More than one night might have been pointless unless you are with a fun group. We stayed at the Eco Lodge. The weather was perfect! Warm enough during the day and cooler at night. All we needed was one blanket and were comfortable all night. We took a camel ride and enjoyed a drumming presentation before dinner. Our main guide took care of booking everything (transportation, meals, accommodations) and the food was pretty good. The desert, while small, is a beautiful sight! The accommodations at EcoLodge were surprisingly quite nice. See more..
4.5 La Galerie Antenna (42 reviews)
- the very best in town
Sunday: Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries • Antique Shops

Set up in 1972, this gallery is a "MUST" while visiting Africa. It is dedicated to African tribal art. On 4305 Ft2 are displayed the late Marthe Everlé and Claude Everlé Collections dated from 1963 : wooden masks, figures,stools & beds from West & Central Africa, Benin & Dogon bronzes, Terracottas... We exhibit artists from the Dakar School of paintings and sell 18th Century glass beads' necklaces. See more..
4.5 Le Village des Tortues (16 reviews)
- Great cause and must see
Nature & Wildlife Areas

Our guide took us to the Village of the Tortoises today. We have learned tjat many tortoises are being mistreated in all sorts of ways. Luckily this reservation with very dedicated people from all over the globe make sure the rescued animals are being cured and preserved. A great cause and a must see if you happen to be near Dakar. See more..
4.5 Muse Des Covilisations Noire (14 reviews)
- Will be great once all the floors are open.
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Speciality Museums • History Museums

The building is beautiful and the art that is already present is very interesting. When it comes to the practical side of the museum however, there is no ticket booth that is part of the museum. Instead you have to get tickets from a little temporary booth-type thing. Credit cards are not accepted and if you arrive in the morning they won't have any change, so come prepared. Inside the museum, I wish they had air circulation. With such a large building, it is certainly unnecessary to cool the whole place, but having some ventilation would make the visit more enjoyable. See more..
4.5 Îles de la Madeleine (10 reviews)
- Lovely Island
Spent More than 3 hours Islands

Took my kids on a boat trip to the Island. It’s was out of this world. The rocks, the birds, the little cute beach and the water are really totally beautiful. The guide was also super good. I would love to go again if I have time. See more..
4.5 Explore Goree (6 reviews)
- The best tour and tour guide in Dakar! EXCELLENT English!
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins • Architectural Buildings

This historic tour is SOLELY conducted in ENGLISH.You will be awestruck at the incredible view of this little island with a big History in the past while allowing yourself to enjoy an informative lecture of the History of the Slave Trade from an African perspective.You will have a vision of millions of African men,women and children being led onto the Slave ships yelling and screaming for mercy. See more..
4.5 House Ousmane Sow (3 reviews)
- Un coup de coeur
Art Museums

Maison construite par Sow. Expo depuis sa mort de ses sculptures monumentales un personnage très engagé et attachant. Sur ,a terrasse son atelier avec ses outils. Passionnant
Maison construite par Sow. Expo depuis sa mort de ses sculptures monumentales un personnage très engagé et attachant. Sur ,a terrasse son atelier avec ses outils. Passionnant See more..
4.0 Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (950 reviews)
- Iconic
Monuments & Statues

If ever in Dakar, you have to visit this place.The African Renaissance Monument (French: Monument de la Renaissance Africaine) is a 52 m (171 ft) tall copper statue located on top of one of the twin hills known as Collines des Mamelles, outside Dakar, Senegal. Built overlooking the Atlantic Ocean in the Ouakam suburb, the statue was designed by the Senegalese architect Pierre Goudiaby after an idea presented by president Abdoulaye Wade and built by Mansudae Overseas Projects, a company from North Korea.[1] See more..
4.0 Lago Rosa (753 reviews)
- A truly fantastic experience
Spent 2-3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

Lac Rose is beautiful; much like the rest of Senegal! The best time of the day to go is the early afternoon, when the lake has had enough time to warm up (this maximises the chance that the lake will have its famous pink appearance). The quad-biking along the beach and near the sea was an amazing experience and one I strongly recommend if you visit Dakar. My tour guide, Pascal, is a local to the area around the lake, and he was knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and helpful on my trip. We had many conversations about a wide range of topics, his local area, and Senegalese history. I highly recommend him if you visit Lac Rose for the pirogue tour on the lake, along with the quad bike or 4x4 excursion over the sand dunes (near where the Dakar Rally takes place)! His phone number is +(221) 776427521. He can speak both English and French. See more..
4.0 Les Mamelles Lighthouse (138 reviews)
- REST FOR YOUR SOUL
Sunday: 9:30 AM - 12:00 AM Lighthouses

I recommend a climb or a run instead of taking the bus at the base of the hill. It allows you enjoy the scenery while getting a good workout. And then take a climb onto the top of the beacon and see the city. See more..
4.0 Cathedrale du Souvenir Africain de Dakar (118 reviews)
- Beautiful Church
Churches & Cathedrals

I was so excited to visit this church. I stopped here on my trip to pray and reflect. The doors were wide open and I love that, a church should try to always have the doors open and be welcoming. And I felt very welcomed. I wish I could've attended mass here but I definitely will on my next visit to Dakar. The angels on the front of the church in the images of Black people give a nice touch. That is something you don't see in the States and it made me feel very good. See more..
4.0 Village des Arts (103 reviews)
- Peaceful and inspiring! not to be confused with village artisanal
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Amazing place where you will find real artists painting. No hassle. No hard sellers. To the contrary none lf them would adress you unless you do. Sadly this place is being confused by some reviewers with Village Artisanal which really is unfair as the latter is a very commercial touristic area with no original art creator (and very pushing traders!). Some of the reviewers actually visited Village Artisanal instead of Village des Arts! See more..
4.0 Mosque of the Divinity (84 reviews)
- Mosque by the sea!
Religious Sites

Visiting this mosque is interesting because of the area around it, the fish market and the local boats - the boatmen are friendly and kind. Our driver was really nice to take us down to the mosque but also to walk and interact with the people in the locality. If you need a driver/guide there, we really enjoyed our time in Dakar because of our driver - Mr. Ibrahim +221777207783 who took us to all the sites in the city without rushing us and understanding our likes and needs of travelling. Dakar is an amazing destination for people who like - the off the beaten track - places. Its one of the countries I really want to return to! See more..
4.0 Lake Retba (72 reviews)
- Pink lake ... Salt lake
Bodies of Water

A true natural phenomenon located only 30 miles from Dakar, the highly saline Pink Lake lives up to its name. See more..
4.0 Marche HLM (47 reviews)
- THE PLACE to get all your fabric
Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Flea & Street Markets

I love “mar-shay ah-sh el emme”! It is the place for you to get all the African fabric you could ever want. The fabric that’s the “worst” quality is 3500 CFA for 6 meters. And it goes up from there. It’s really fun to walk around and see all the fabrics and speak with the vendors. Be prepared, sometimes the “stores” may just be shipping containers so it can be hot in the summer to early fall months. So bring water and a bag to put all your goodies in! See more..
4.0 Dakar Railway Station (33 reviews)
- Stunning colonial station
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Architectural Buildings

Now if they could only get the trains running! Hopefully there will soon be airport connection. Traffic in Dakar is insane! See more..
4.0 Oceanium Dakar (32 reviews)
- Delicious lunch with magnificent sea views
Nature & Wildlife Areas

We wanted to find out more about the diving and decided to have lunch as well. This place has modern decor, big spacious setting and fine views of the sea, We took the menu of the day which comprises of beef carpaccio and grilled prawns I also ordered tuna poke bowl - with fresh vegetables and accompanying sauce We had Dessert - profiteroles which was really good Overall it was really well plated, with big portions and value for money. I will come back again to try the other dishes. See more..
4.0 Grand Mosque of Dakar (26 reviews)
- Worth a visit
Religious Sites

Interesting place to visit while in Dakar. It is an impressive mosque and a memorable time was spent here. See more..
4.0 Paroisse Saint Charles Borromee (15 reviews)
- Interesting place for a historical visit
Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Churches & Cathedrals

Although its dark history permeates throughout the visit, the island is simply beautiful. Made of Charming little streets full of flowers and well preserved historical buildings. You can expect to see Locals going about their day, doing laundry outside, kids playing ball, shop keepers making sales which give the place a lot of character. We had a tour guide with us, who explained the history of the island as well as its customs and curiosities. It is a fun day trip, where you can eat a lovely lunch of fresh seafood for about 10usd. The house of slaves memorial can be a bit intense, as you see the conditions the slaves were put through; it's an emotional site for many with its "door of no return". Beware of the shop keepers that chase you down the streets , they can be intimidating and you may feel forced to buy something once you enter their shops. See more..