30+ List of Epic Things to Do in Dakar

Looking for fun things to do in Dakar? Living in Dakar was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. There are so many interesting things to do. This magical city has something for everyone, from historic sites to restaurants to kid-friendly activities.

If you’re planning a trip to Dakar but don’t know where to start, read this first.

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30+ Fun and Interesting things to do in Dakar

Dakar is easily the most magical city in Africa. From its beautiful mosques, hot cups of cafe touba, and gorgeous fabrics and boubous, to its historic landmarks and relaxing beaches, Dakar offers something for every traveler. Explore the colorful reefs in Ngor, shop in Sandaga, or explore Dakar’s colonial history in Gorée Island. Most importantly, eat thiebu jeen for lunch and fresh beignets straight out the pot while the sun goes down. Dakar is a delight to the senses in every way. Here are a few things to do in Dakar.

Visit Goree Island & the Door of No Return
Visit the Museum of Black Civilizations
Walk with the Lions at Fathala Reserve
Visit the Pink Lake/ Lac Rose
Visit the Rennaisance Monument
Visit Ngor Island
Shop for art and souvenirs at Sandaga Market (Marche Sandaga)
Go Surfing in Ngor or Yoff
Sip coconut water on the Corniche
Go swimming at Plage de Mamelles

scultupre depicts a dark skinned man and woman standing on a djembe freedom drum. Man raised his hands up in a victory motion while the woman is holding on to the man's waist.

Go snorkeling/ scuba diving
Go ziplining at Accrobaobab Adventure
Visit Les Mamelles Lighthouse at sunrise
Go to a Full Moon Party
Eat dibi
Visit the Mosque of the Divinity (dress modestly & ladies bring a scarf)
Visit the Cathedrale du Souvenir Africain
Visit the Museum of Armed Forces
Go on a photo rando
Watch movies at Canal Olympia or Cinema Ousmane Sembène
Eat brunch at Melo’s Patisserie au Mamelles
Eat Dakar’s BEST pizza & donuts from Yum-Yum Ouakam
Go fabric shopping in HLM
Sit in on an engaging forum at the West African Research Center
Bowling at Red Bowl

Senegal Flag on the Background of the Sea

Visit the French Institute of Dakar
Workout on the Corniche or watch people workout on the Corniche
Eat seafood straight from the fisherman in Soumbédioune
Escape to Saly for the Weekend
Go Camping at Sine Saloum
Take the train to the historic Saint Louis
Go to Touba to explore Islam and the Baye Fall teachings
Desert camping in Lompoul
Take a dance class at Miss Aisha’s Dance Studio
Play basketball, football, or tennis on the corniche
Listen to a concert at Just 4 U

Fun Things to do with Children in Dakar, Senegal

Senegal has a lot of fun activities for children. Kids can explore the historic island of Gorée, where they can learn about Senegal’s past or play on the beach. Magic land is the only outdoor amusement park in Senegal with bumper cars and lots of snacks.

For little ones who love nature, visiting the Bandia Wildlife Reserve allows children to witness animals like giraffes and rhinos in their natural habitat. Or rent a villa in Saly for a few days to build sandcastles and swim in the Atlantic Ocean.