Dakar, Senegal: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Dakar, Senegal? If you're planning to go to Dakar, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Dakar
- Important essentials for Dakar
- Activities for Dakar
- Dakar in January: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in February: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in March: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in April: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in May: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in June: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in July: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in August: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in September: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in October: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in November: weather and what to pack
- Dakar in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Dakar, Senegal
Based on the climate and weather in Dakar, Senegal, the best time to go is April. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Dakar, Senegal
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Dakar, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Dakar, Senegal by month
January
January for Dakar is warm and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Bug repellent
Breathable footwear or sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Be careful to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most areas.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
February
If you are traveling to Dakar in February, you will notice that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sunscreen lotion
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For additional peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Be sure to choose the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters available are just plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
March
March in this region is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
Extra socks
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Sunscreen lotion
Breathable footwear or sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Ensure that you pick the necessary type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
April
If you visit Dakar during April, you may notice that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Short pants or heavy shorts
Bug repellent
Light skirts
Breathable footwear or sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Extra socks
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Safety + Security
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
Our fave is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
May
May is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Sandals
Bug repellent
Short pants or heavy shorts
Breathable footwear or sandals
Extra socks
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Check that you choose the correct kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are just plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
June
June is pretty consistently hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Sandals
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Bug repellent
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Light skirts
Sunscreen lotion
Short pants or heavy shorts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Be sure to pick the correct kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
July
If you vacation in Dakar during July, you are likely to notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and keep you cool.
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisBreatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use rain boots:
Rain pants
These are vital in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.
Travel neck support pillow
Our favorite is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
August
If you vacation in Dakar during August, you will probably find that it is pretty consistently hot and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 70 and 80% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from skin damage:
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also filters contaminants:
thisSkirts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain coat to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These can be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a great option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Check that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters available are just plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most areas.
Travel neck support pillow
A great choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
September
September in Dakar can be very hot. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) to 80s F (low 30s C), although night temperatures can dip into the 70s F (mid 20s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Insulated water bottle
Our best choice also filters dangerous contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses to provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can make you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
A great choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Be careful to find the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available are simply plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
October
If you visit Dakar during October, you will probably notice that it is extremely hot and dry with little rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 70s F (mid 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Sunglasses
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is a perfect one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your belongings remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel neck pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. Take care to find the correct type. Many adapters available online are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
November
November in this region is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can make you comfortable and guard against skin damage:
Insulated water bottle
Our first choice also removes harmful contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses offer UV protection and help you stay cool.
Skirts
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb choice.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Travel pillow
Our favorite is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. It's important that you choose the correct kind. Most adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
December
If you visit Dakar during December, you might notice that it is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Sandals
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
Sunscreen lotion
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Travel shoe storage
To protect your other stuff from dirty shoes and sandals,
travel shoe storage.If you're going to the beach
If you're going to the beach:
Health
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good one.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For added peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
Pickpocketing is an issue here, so wear a money pouch.
Room protection door lock
If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Dakar may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Given current world events, Senegal has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D, E and K. It's important that you get the necessary type. Many adapters currently sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Mosques often require certain dress, so if you are planning to visit the majestic Dakar Grand Mosque, take the following:
Note that there may be restrictions on who can enter the building; you should check with the Dakar tourism authority.
Long sleeve shirts/blouses
Socks
You will need to take your shoes off.
Scarf for women
You may need to wear something to cover your head. This is a good option.
Dressy pants/trousers
Your pants should cover your knees:
If you go to Hann Park and Zoo, you will do a lot of walking. These are a must:
Good hiking shoes
These are designed for this kind of walking, and can breathe and can get wet
Binoculars
Small portable cooler
Save money on drinks with this portable cooler.
Ultralight day pack
Like this, so you don't have to lug around a heavy suitcase.
What to do in Dakar, Senegal
Dakar, the capital city of Senegal, is one of the most interesting and diverse cities in Africa that draws tourists from all over the world. With its rich history, vibrant culture, stunning coastline, and unique attractions, this city has something to offer everyone looking for an unforgettable adventure. Here is a list of top tourist attractions in Dakar to help you plan your trip.
1. Gorée Island
One of Senegal's most popular tourist destinations, Gorée Island is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a testament to the country's dark past. The island which was once the center of the African slave trade, is now a symbol of resistance and hope. Visitors can explore the island's old colonial buildings, museums, and artifacts that tell the story of the slave trade and the resilience of the African people.
2. Dakar's Markets
Dakar's vibrant marketplaces are a great way to experience the city's culture and interact with locals. Sandaga Market, one of the largest markets in West Africa, is known for its colorful stalls selling everything from textiles, shoes, and jewelry to traditional medicines, spices, and produce. Other popular markets include Kermel Market, HLM Market, and Soumbedioune Craft Market.
3. African Renaissance Monument
This towering bronze statue was built to commemorate Senegal's 50th anniversary of independence, offering panoramic views of the city beyond. At 160 feet tall, it is one of the largest monuments in Africa, and its striking design makes it one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dakar.
4. Dakar Grand Mosque
The Dakar Great Mosque is a marvel of Islamic architecture and a significant religious center in the city. The mosque is known for its impressive 249-foot-tall minaret, which overlooks the city and is a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Dakar.
5. Plage de N'Gor
Situated on the small island of N'Gor off the coast of Dakar, Plage de N'Gor is a beautiful and serene beach that embodies the essence of West African paradise. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, surfing, and tasting the local cuisines offered in the quaint restaurants and cafes lining the beach.
6. IFAN Museum of African Arts
This museum is the oldest and most prestigious in West Africa, providing a vast collection of African art from across the region. Its exhibits showcase everything from traditional ceramics and textiles to contemporary paintings and sculptures, making it a great place to explore the rich and diverse history and art of Dakar.
Dakar is a city with a rich and diverse history that boasts a unique cultural heritage and an impressive collection of attractions. This makes Dakar one of the most interesting tourist destinations in Africa, a city that continues to draw travelers from all over the world. With the tourist attractions listed above, visitors can experience the best that Dakar has to offer and create unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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