Best Airports & How to Get from the Airport to the City in Dakar, Senegal
1. Le Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD)
Newly constructed airport serving Dakar, offering modern facilities and efficient services, solving the challenge of handling increasing passenger traffic.
- Location: Located in Rufisque, about 50km east of downtown Dakar.
- Terminals: Two terminals serving domestic and international flights.
- Transportation: Reliable airport taxi services, buses, and car rental options available.
2. Dakar-Yoff International Airport (DKR)
Older airport located in the heart of Dakar, providing direct connections to several African destinations, solving the challenge of domestic connectivity.
- Location: Centrally located in Dakar's Yoff district.
- Terminals: One terminal handling domestic and international flights.
- Transportation: Taxis, buses, and car rental services available for city access.
3. Grand Taxi (Yellow Taxis)
Affordable and widely available yellow taxis serving as the primary means of transportation between the airport and the city.
- Cost: Generally, affordable prices compared to other transport options.
- Availability: Available throughout the city, including at both airports.
- Safety: Registered taxis are generally safe, but always negotiate prices upfront to avoid issues.
4. Bus (Car Rapide)
Affordable public bus service connecting the airport and various city destinations.
- Cost: One of the cheapest ways to travel between the airport and the city.
- Route: Multiple routes connecting the airport to various districts in Dakar.
- Safety: Busy routes are generally safe, but use caution when traveling at night.
5. Car Hire (Rental Cars)
Convenient car rental options for travelers seeking independence and flexibility during their stay in Dakar.
- Flexibility: Allows travelers to explore the city and surrounding areas at their own pace.
- Cost: Varying costs depending on the rental company, car type, and duration of rental.
- Requirements: Requires a valid driver's license and credit card for booking and pickup.
6. Shared Taxis (M'Sounis)
Shared taxis offering an affordable transportation option with multiple stops along the way.
- Cost: One of the cheapest ways to travel, especially for solo travelers.
- Availability: Available throughout the city, including at both airports.
- Scheduling: Departs when full, so wait times may be unpredictable.
7. Train (Chemin de Fer Dakar-Niger)
Rail service connecting Dakar with several cities in Senegal and beyond, providing an alternative mode of transportation.
- Destinations: Connects Dakar to various destinations including Thies, Rufisque, and Bambey.
- Cost: Generally inexpensive compared to other transportation options.
- Time: Journey times vary depending on the destination but can be longer than other modes of transport.
8. Water Taxis (Pirogues)
Traditional Senegalese boats providing water taxi services along the coast and rivers, offering unique travel experiences.
- Experience: Offers a traditional and unique way to explore Dakar's coastline.
- Cost: Prices vary depending on the distance traveled and negotiation skills.
- Safety: Always ensure the boat is seaworthy, and negotiate prices upfront to avoid issues.
9. Bargaining for Taxis and Transportation
Negotiating taxi fares and transportation costs can save travelers money, solving the challenge of affordability.
- Savings: Potential for significant cost savings when negotiating prices.
- Language Skills: Fluency in French or Wolof can help during negotiations.
- Respect: Always be respectful and courteous when negotiating prices.
10. Uber (Taxi-Mobility)
Modern ride-hailing service offering safe and reliable transportation options in Dakar.
- Safety: Registered drivers and vehicles ensure a safer ride.
- Cost: Competitive prices compared to traditional taxis.
- Availability: Available throughout the city, including at both airports.
11. BlaBlaCar (Covoiturage)
Car-pooling service connecting travelers with drivers heading in similar directions, reducing travel costs and promoting eco-friendliness.
- Cost: Significant cost savings compared to solo travel.
- Eco-Friendliness: Promotes carpooling and reduces carbon footprint.
- Safety: Ensure the driver has a valid license and good reviews before traveling.
12. City Tours (Guided Tours)
Organized city tours offering insights into Dakar's rich culture, history, and attractions.
- Knowledge: Provides valuable information about Dakar's sights, culture, and history.
- Experience: Offers a unique and enriching way to explore the city.
- Cost: Varying costs depending on the tour provider and duration of the tour.
13. Local Markets (Marchés)
Colorful markets showcasing Senegalese produce, crafts, and culture, offering authentic shopping experiences.
- Authenticity: Provides an authentic taste of Senegalese culture and lifestyle.
- Variety: Wide variety of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs available for purchase.
- Bargaining: Bargaining is expected and encouraged at the markets.
14. Restaurants (Cafés & Restaurants)
Various dining options offering traditional Senegalese cuisine, seafood specialties, and international dishes.
- Cuisine: Offers a wide variety of cuisines, including traditional Senegalese dishes.
- Cost: Varying costs depending on the restaurant and menu selection.
- Atmosphere: Provides a vibrant, lively atmosphere perfect for both casual and formal dining experiences.
15. Senegalese Hospitality (Teranga)
Warm and welcoming Senegalese hospitality showcasing the country's rich cultural values.
- Welcome: Guests are warmly welcomed and made to feel at home.
- Respect: Respect is shown for guests, their families, and their communities.
- Honor: Hospitality is an expression of honor and respect to both the guest and host.