Dakar

Dakar

Senegal

Wander through the colorful colonial architecture of Gorée Island and trace Africa's poignant history at its centuries-old slave trade sites.

Currency West African CFA franc (XOF)
Language French
Time Zone GMT (UTC+0)
Best Time to Visit Dec–Apr
Typical Duration 8-43 nights
Price Range From $2,350 pp
Port Type Departure & Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Gateway to West African exploration and a key departure point for transatlantic and African coastal cruises visiting Cape Town, the Bissagos Islands, and beyond.

Cruises that visit Dakar

Build Your Day in Dakar

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 6:00 PM
Usually about 10 hours ashore
Embarkation port — worth arriving early
Getting around:
African Renaissance Monument Artistic status, huge and really something to visit when in Dakar Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 10k Closes soon · 6:45 PM
Pullman Dakar Teranga A must for who is visiting Dakar in Senegal! Hotel · ★ 4.6 · 7k
Sea Plaza Onsite services Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 5k Open · Closes 8 PM
Hann Zoological Park Ideal for a day with friends, school activities, picnic or family! Tourist attraction · ★ 3.8 · 5k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
King Fahd Palace Hôtel A Senegalese Gem: King Fahd Palace Hotel Dakar's Royal Retreat. Hotel · ★ 4.1 · 4k
Bandia Reserve A must see for visitors in Senegal, just 30 min from Dakar. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 4k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Place du Souvenir Africain Senegal has really done well with its corniche development. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 4k
La Plage de BCEAO Lovely sandy beach stretching several miles Public beach · ★ 3.9 · 4k
Magic Land All fun, though some of the activities are scary. Tourist attraction · ★ 3.8 · 4k
House of Slaves Has a private guide who was very informative thru SenegalStyle TOUR Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 3k Closed · Opens 10:30 AM Tue
L'Adresse Dakar Trendy hotel featuring dining & a pool Hotel · ★ 4.8 · 3k
Phare des Mamelles A must see in Dakar, the food service and entertainment were amazing! Tourist attraction · ★ 4.3 · 3k Closed · Opens 5 PM Tue
Marché soumbédioune Great selection of souvenirs from around Senegal. Tourist attraction · ★ 3.9 · 2k Closes soon · 7 PM
Restaurant le Bazoff Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Bar · ★ 4.1 · 2k
Restaurant Le Lagon 1 Dine-in·Drive-through·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 2k
Chez Fatou Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4 · 2k
Sandaga Shoes, sandals, clothes, radio, food items and many more Market · ★ 3.8 · 2k Closes soon · 7 PM
The Museum of Black Civilisations Surprisingly, a world class museum nestled away in Dakar. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.4 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM Tue
Seven Seven Dakar Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 2k Closed · Opens 7 PM
Restaurant La Pointe des Almadies Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Restaurant · ★ 4 · 2k
Melo's Patisserie aux Mamelles Dine-in·Curbside pickup·Delivery Brunch · ★ 4.3 · 2k
The Union Club Dine-in·Takeout Bar · ★ 4.2 · 2k
La pampa Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Argentinian · ★ 4.1 · 1k
Le Cabanon Dakar Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM Tue
La Fourchette Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 7:30 PM
Chicken Nekh Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Chicken · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Le Comptoir Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4 · 1k
Alkimia Dine-in·Takeout·No-contact delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 PM
Restaurant La Terrasse Dine-in·Takeout Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 1k
Restaurant Chez Loutcha Dine-in·Takeout·No-contact delivery Restaurant · ★ 3.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 7:30 PM
Club de pêche Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Seafood · ★ 4.2 · 1k
La Parrilla Dine-in·Drive-through·No-contact delivery Argentinian · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM Tue
Lulu Cafe Delivery Cafe · ★ 4.3 · 1k
Cathedral of Our Lady of Victories Beautiful Cathedral in the diplomatic center of Senegal. Catholic cathedral · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Ô POULET BOUKANÉ LIBERTÉ 6 Dine-in·Curbside pickup·Delivery Barbecue · ★ 4.3 · 1k
Beluga restaurant Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 7:30 PM
MALIBU BEACH Beach · ★ 4 · 1k
Place de l'Indépendance Place de l’Indépendance is the heartbeat of Dakar. Garden · ★ 4.3 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 AM Tue
Kotao Coffee Plateau Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Village Des Arts Now its Dozens of ateliers full of artists and their art. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.1 · 0k Closes soon · 7 PM
Grill Time Dakar Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Eclectic · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Le Coste dakar Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.2 · 0k
Coffee Loft Dakar Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Cafe · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Restaurant Terrasse Farid Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k
Plage de l'Anse Bernard Beautiful and cristal clear water Beach · ★ 4.2 · 0k
Halo Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Coffee shop · ★ 4.8 · 0k
ILEA Café Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Cafe · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Plage de Yoff Sandy beach with fishing boats & more Beach · ★ 4.2 · 0k
Plage de Yoff Tongor Beach · ★ 4.1 · 0k
The Original Drip Dine-in·Curbside pickup·No-contact delivery Coffee shop · ★ 4.7 · 0k Closed · Opens 8 AM Tue
Wakanda Lounge Dakar Dine-in·Takeout·No-contact delivery Lounge bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Diamalaye Beach Promenade · ★ 4 · 0k Open now
Plage du Terrou Bi Beach · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Plage de Fann A walk on this beach at night can be quite cathartic. Beach · ★ 3.9 · 0k
Food corner Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Tukky Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Bar · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Le Chic Restaurant & Night club Night club · ★ 4.3 · 0k
Onyx Bar Bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Dakar is an embarkation port. Many cruises start or end here — it's worth arriving a day early or extending your stay to explore beyond a single port day.

Next Departures from Dakar

About Dakar

Dakar stands as one of Africa's most vibrant and welcoming cruise ports, offering travelers an authentic introduction to Senegalese culture and the broader West African region. As the capital of Senegal and the westernmost point of continental Africa, this dynamic port city serves as a fascinating port of call for eight major cruise lines, including luxury operators like Silversea, Seabourn, and PONANT Explorations. With 53 upcoming cruises calling here, Dakar has become an increasingly popular stopover for explorers seeking something beyond the typical Caribbean itinerary.

Most cruises featuring Dakar are eight-night voyages that combine this West African gem with equally compelling destinations like Cape Town, the Bissagos Islands, Walvis Bay, and even European ports such as Lisbon. The peak season runs from November through April, when weather conditions are ideal for coastal exploration. Whether you're embarking on a full African circumnavigation or enjoying a shorter regional journey, Dakar's strategic location makes it an ideal launching point for discovering the continent's rich heritage.

Upon arrival, you'll find a port with excellent facilities and convenient access to the city's most compelling attractions. The vibrant medina, historic colonial architecture, and world-class museums lie within easy reach, while the nearby island of Gorée—a UNESCO World Heritage site steeped in poignant history—makes for an unforgettable excursion. Dakar's warm hospitality and colorful markets ensure every visitor leaves with memories as rich as the city's cultural tapestry.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Gorée Island's Haunting History

Take a short ferry to this UNESCO World Heritage site, where the restored colonial architecture and House of Slaves museum offer profound insights into Senegal's past. Wander cobblestone streets lined with vibrant art galleries and studios, then enjoy fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants while watching the Atlantic sunset paint the island golden.

2

Vibrant Medina Market Experience

Dive into the sensory chaos of Dakar's bustling Medina district, where colorful fabrics, traditional crafts, and local artwork fill every stall. Haggle for authentic souvenirs—from intricately carved masks to vibrant textiles—while sampling street food like thieboudienne and fresh tropical fruits from friendly vendors.

3

Plateau's Colonial Charm

Stroll through Dakar's historic Plateau neighborhood to admire French colonial architecture, including the striking Presidential Palace and the serene Cathedral of Dakar. Browse boutique shops and galleries showcasing contemporary Senegalese art, then relax at a sidewalk café sipping traditional mint tea while observing local life.

4

Ngor Island Beach Escape

Escape to pristine Ngor Island, just offshore, where golden sand beaches and crystal-clear waters invite swimming and relaxation. Local fishermen still use traditional wooden pirogues, creating an authentic scene perfect for photography, and beachside restaurants serve grilled fish caught that morning.

5

Dakar's Contemporary Art Scene

Explore the Musée de l'IFAN to discover West African art, archaeology, and ethnography, or visit independent galleries in the Plateau district showcasing cutting-edge Senegalese contemporary artists. Dakar's creative energy rivals major African art capitals, offering genuine cultural immersion beyond typical tourist attractions.

Cruise Lines at Dakar

Cruises Departing From Dakar

Cruises Visiting Dakar

Ship Schedule at Dakar

Dakar Location

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Dakar known for?

Dakar is renowned for its culture, music, markets, and historical sites like Goree Island.

What is the best time to visit Dakar?

The dry season from November to May offers milder weather and less rain.

What are top attractions in Dakar?

Goree Island, African Renaissance Monument, and Dakar’s markets along the Plateau.

How do I travel to Goree Island?

Take a ferry from Dakar's port; plan ahead and check tide times.