Live and rent in Dakar, Senegal
Senegal's bustling capital offers a variety of unique experiences for expats. From affordable accommodation to inexpensive transportation options, the city has something for everyone.
Rents
As a tourist or resident, renting in Dakar can be affordable. The average monthly rent in the city is 100,000F, and you can easily find low-cost accommodation if you are willing to sacrifice amenities or location.
The cost of living in Dakar is lower than in other major African cities. However, it is still more expensive than in developed countries. For this reason, it's important to research housing prices in your chosen city before moving abroad.
Vacation rental listings from Visit Senegal include 71 houses and 391 apartments in Dakar. Most users book rentals for 7 days or more. Prices vary according to the time of year and the size of the rental. During the off-season, you'll find cheaper rentals than during the high season. If you want to save money on your Dakar trip, consider booking a vacation rental in the off-season. That way, you'll have more room in your rental and can avoid the crowds. It's also a good option if you're traveling with a group of people. You'll be able to split the cost of rent while enjoying your space together.
Food
The city offers a variety of restaurants, from budget to mid-range. Most local dishes cost around 500F per plate. Drink prices in bars and nightclubs are a little higher.
Expatriates can enjoy a wide selection of social activities in Dakar. The expatriate community is active and well-integrated, with many groups meeting regularly for different purposes. There are also a number of sports clubs offering courses and events.
Although petty crime is quite common, it is usually limited to specific areas of the city. Women should avoid walking alone after dark and should keep valuables out of sight.
Visitors can get an idea of the rich Senegal history the Maison des Esclaves (Slave House) and the Museum of Black Civilization. They can also visit the Grand Mosque, which features 107,639 square feet of marble and gold decorations. The mosque is also a short boat ride from Ile de Goree, the site of one of the most important slave-trading ports on Africa's Atlantic coast.
Beverage
Dakar's cuisine is diverse, fusing French and North African influences with ancient local traditions. Street food is popular, as are exotic juices and tempting sharing platters. The capital's many restaurants range from budget options to high-end fine dining.
There are many transport options in Dakar, from cabs to buses and motorcycles. The city is also home to a growing number of car-sharing services such as Uber, Heetch and Yango. The main airport is Blaise Diagne International Airport, around 3 km from the city center.
A national driving license is required to drive in Senegal, although international drivers can apply for a special license. Roads are in good condition in and between major cities but become muddy during the rainy season.
The best way to get around Dakar is on well-maintained and safe main roads. On the other hand, secondary roads are often in poor condition and can be dangerous at night. Buses are a great option for traveling in and out of the city and they run regular routes throughout the day.
Transportation
You can easily find free street parking in most neighborhoods, and restaurants have their own small private parking areas available for customers. Alternatively, a cab ride can cost up to 3,000 F depending on the distance. As a general rule, car rental is recommended when traveling in Dakar, as the public transport system can be slow and unreliable.
The average daily expenditure for a person on a week's trip to Dakar is between 100,000 F and 300,000 F, including sightseeing, hotels, food and local transport. You can stay close to this price range by booking standard hotels and eating in mid-range restaurants.
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Entertainment
Whether it's music or shopping, Dakar has plenty of options to keep its residents entertained. Cinemas and live music are popular in the city, and there are also several galleries to visit. For a more casual experience, visit one of the many small stores or restaurants. These places allow you to get to know the locals on a more personal level.
Dakar also boasts an active cultural scene, with many Senegalese musicians attracting worldwide attention. Youssou N'Dour is a prime example, and his group, Super Etoile de Dakar, has fused traditional African rhythms with Latin styles to become mbalax music.
The city's HLM market is a lively hub where you can find anything from spices to clothes. It's a great place to buy souvenirs or try your hand at bargaining. Another popular spot is Sandaga Market, a chaotic market where you can find almost anything. Other popular attractions include the African Renaissance monument and the rocky beach on Ile Goree.
