DAKAR 2 WEEKS Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Morning: Arrive in Dakar and settle into your accommodation. Take a leisurely walk around Place de l'Indépendance to get your first feel of the city.

Afternoon: Visit the Dakar Grand Mosque and explore nearby markets, like the Kermel Market, for local crafts and souvenirs.

Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant featuring traditional Senegalese cuisine near Gorée Island ferry terminal.

Day 2: Gorée Island Exploration

Morning: Take the ferry to Gorée Island, touring the House of Slaves and learning about the island’s history.

Afternoon: Explore the island’s museums, colonial architecture, and artisan shops at a relaxed pace.

Evening: Return to Dakar and enjoy a sunset at Plage de N'Gor with seaside dining.

Day 3: Dakar City and Museums

Morning: Visit the IFAN Museum of African Arts to delve into West African cultural heritage.

Afternoon: Explore the vibrant district of Almadies and have lunch at a beachfront café.

Evening: Experience Dakar nightlife at a popular venue featuring live music, such as Just 4 U.

Day 4: Day Trip to Lake Retba (Pink Lake)

Morning: Depart early for Lake Retba and marvel at the striking pink hue of its waters.

Afternoon: Take a salt-harvesting tour and enjoy a picnic lunch by the lake.

Evening: Return to Dakar and have a relaxed dinner at your hotel or nearby bistro.

Day 5: Beach Day & Watersports

Morning: Spend the morning at Plage de Yoff, swimming and sunbathing.

Afternoon: Try water activities like windsurfing or paddleboarding available around the beaches near Ngor Island.

Evening: Join a barbecue beach party or dine at a beachside restaurant.

Day 6: Markets and Shopping

Morning: Visit the Sandaga Market for textiles, spices, and artisan goods.

Afternoon: Explore independent galleries showcasing contemporary Senegalese artists in the city center.

Evening: Attend a local theater or dance performance if available.

Day 7: Art and History Immersion

Morning: Visit the Village des Arts to meet local artists and view studios.

Afternoon: Explore the IFAN Theater and nearby cultural centers.

Evening: Dinner at a rooftop restaurant with views of the city skyline.

Day 8: Medina & Hann Park

Morning: Wander through the historic Medina District to experience the atmosphere and street food.

Afternoon: Visit Hann Park and its botanical gardens for a relaxing nature break.

Evening: Sample Senegalese street food at night markets or food stalls.

Day 9: Island Adventure - Ngor Island

Morning: Take a boat to Ngor Island for snorkeling and beach exploration.

Afternoon: Lounge on the beach and visit island cafes for light lunch.

Evening: Return to Dakar for a calm evening or optional nightlife visit.

Day 10: Cultural Villages & Workshops

Morning: Participate in a traditional dance or drumming workshop at a cultural center.

Afternoon: Visit nearby villages showcasing local crafts and customs.

Evening: Enjoy a home-cooked meal experience or cultural dinner event.

Day 11: Dakar Architecture & Urban Walk

Morning: Guided walking tour focusing on Dakar's colonial and modern architecture.

Afternoon: Visit prominent landmarks such as the Presidential Palace and Monument de la Renaissance Africaine.

Evening: Relax with coffee or tea at a café with city views.

Day 12: Day Trip to Joal-Fadiouth

Morning: Travel to Joal-Fadiouth to explore the unique shell island and its mixed religious heritage.

Afternoon: Visit local markets and enjoy fresh seafood by the coast.

Evening: Return to Dakar and rest after the day trip.

Day 13: Island Hopping & Fishing Village

Morning: Take a boat tour to nearby small islands and fishing villages.

Afternoon: Interact with local fishermen and try traditional fishing methods or fresh catches.

Evening: Sunset dinner cruise or waterfront dining experience.

Day 14: Relaxation & Departure Prep

Morning: Relax at your hotel or visit a local spa for a massage or wellness treatment.

Afternoon: Last minute shopping or visit a favorite spot for farewell photos.

Evening: Pack and have a quiet dinner in preparation for departure.

Time and Cost Estimates

• Gorée Island ferry & tour: 4-5 hours, $25
• Lake Retba visit: 6 hours, $40
• Water sports at Ngor Island: 3-4 hours, $30
• Sandaga Market shopping: 2-3 hours, varies (budget $20)
• Dakar museums (IFAN & Village des Arts): 3-4 hours, $15
• Joal-Fadiouth day trip: 8 hours, $50
• Cultural workshop: 2 hours, $20
• Island hopping and fishing village tour: 5 hours, $45
• Meals per day (average): N/A, $25 x 14 = $350
• Local transport and miscellaneous: N/A, approx. $100

Total estimated cost: $695

Tips

To extend your trip, consider adding excursions to Senegal’s northern areas like Saint-Louis or the wildlife reserves of Niokolo-Koba National Park for nature and safari experiences. If you prefer a shorter trip, focus on key highlights such as Dakar city attractions, Gorée Island, and Lake Retba, condensing some activities into your first week to maximize your experience within 7-10 days.