How to Plan Your Dakar Private City Tour
If you are looking to explore the vibrant city of Dakar, a private city tour is the perfect way to do it. With a professional guide, you can learn about the culture of Senegal and see the main sights of the city. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan your Dakar private city tour.
The Experience
This private city tour is a 4-hour guided trip that starts with a pickup from your hotel. You will be met by your professional guide, who will take you on a tour of the main sights of the city. During the tour, you will learn about the history of Senegal’s capital and explore the culture of the city.
The Highlights
Here are some of the highlights of the tour:
See the Renaissance Monument
The first stop on the tour is the Renaissance Monument. This 49-meter-tall bronze statue is a symbol of Africa’s renaissance and a testament to Senegal’s pride in its cultural heritage.
Explore the Kermel Market
The Kermel Market is one of the most famous markets in Dakar, with many stalls known for their high-quality produce and goods. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to explore this vibrant market and discover its many treasures.
Visit the Palace of the Republic
The Palace of the Republic is the official residence of the President of Senegal. During the tour, you will pass by this magnificent building and learn about its history and importance.
Discover the National Assembly
The National Assembly is where the government bodies convene. During the tour, you will see the building and learn about the role it plays in Senegal’s political system.
The Full Description
After pickup from your hotel, you will meet your professional guide, who will take you on a tour of the main sights of the city. During the tour, you will explore the culture of Dakar and learn about the history of Senegal’s capital.
The first stop on the tour is the Renaissance Monument. This 49-meter-tall bronze statue is a symbol of Africa’s renaissance and a testament to Senegal’s pride in its cultural heritage. Your guide will give you a brief history of the monument and explain why it holds such significance in Senegal.
The next stop on the tour is the Kermel Market. This vibrant market is famous for its high-quality produce and goods. During the tour, you will have the opportunity to explore the market and discover its many treasures. Your guide will help you navigate the market and point out the best stalls to visit.
After exploring the market, the tour will continue with a visit to the Palace of the Republic. This magnificent building is the official residence of the President of Senegal. During the tour, you will pass by the palace and learn about its history and importance in Senegalese politics.
The final stop on the tour is the National Assembly. This is where the government bodies convene. During the tour, you will see the building and learn about the role it plays in Senegal’s political system.
The tour lasts approximately 4 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off, a comfortable vehicle, and lunch.
What’s included?
The Dakar private city tour includes the following:
– Hotel pickup and drop-off
– 4-hour guided tour
– Comfortable vehicle
– Lunch
What’s not included?
The tour does not include the following:
– Personal expenses
– Gratuities
Who is the tour not suitable for?
This tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments. If you have any concerns about the tour’s suitability for you, please contact the tour provider before booking.
How to book the tour
To book the Dakar private city tour, visit here and follow the instructions on the booking page.
How to Plan Your Dakar Private City Tour: An Insider’s Guide
For those who want to experience Dakar beyond the traditional tourist spots, this insider’s guide will discover the hidden gems, local cuisine, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.
Local Attractions
While most tourists flock to Goree Island for its history as a former slave trading center, Dakar has more to offer visitors. One such hidden gem is the African Renaissance Monument, an awe-inspiring bronze statue that stands over 150 feet tall on a hill in the Ouakam area. It offers a breathtaking view of the city and its surroundings.
Another must-see for art lovers is the Dakar Art Museum, which features works from Senegal and across Africa. A unique spot to experience the diversity of African art.
For outdoor enthusiasts, a visit to Ngor Island is a must. It is home to some of the best surf breaks in the world, with crystal blue waters, and white sandy beaches. It also features trendy beachside cafes serving local cuisine and refreshing drinks.
Dining Spots
For culinary delights, Dakar will spoil you with a variety of delicious seafood, street food, and local delicacies. One of the must-try dishes is thieboudienne, a national dish made of rice, fish, and vegetables.
Locals rave about the Chez Loutcha restaurant in Mermoz, which serves traditional Senegalese food like Thiou and Yassa, and another place to visit is the Spot Etoile, which offers tasty street food.
Don’t miss getting a cup of flagrant Senegalese coffee! Try Café Touba, rich in aroma and flavor and a staple in most Senegalese households.
Cultural Experiences
Dakar is filled with music, art, and cultural traditions that make for unforgettable travel experiences. For those looking for cultural immersion, make sure to catch a local music concert or dance performance.
A recommended spot is Village des Arts, a center for visual and performing arts, showcasing the creativity and diversity of Senegal’s art scene. Another must-see is the vibrant Sandaga market, where you can find spices, fabrics, and handcrafted goods.
Visitors can also explore the Gorée Island House of Slaves Museum, a UNESCO World Heritage site that tells the harrowing story of transatlantic slave trade.
Local History
A captivating story from Dakar’s past involves the last queen of Senegal, Ndate Yalla Mbodj, who resisted French colonial rule in the mid-19th century. She led the Toubabs to victory on several occasions using guerilla tactics, before being captured by the French and exiled to Gabon.
Another fascinating historical site to visit is the Dakar Grand Mosque, built in the early 20th century. The structure combines traditional Islamic and West African architecture.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions
Dakar is bustling with life, and there are always new things to discover. One of the unique experiences that visitors can try is a ‘Rapide’ trip. These colorful buses ply the streets with loud music and an inimitable style, giving an authentic Dakar experience.
Another off-the-beaten-path opportunity is watching traditional Senegalese wrestling. It’s a sport that embodies the strength and tenacity of the Senegalese people.
To beat the urban city’s heat, head to lagoons for a swim, explore Lake Retba with its pink hue, or Bango Beach with its dunes of white sand.
In summary, Dakar is a vibrant mix of history, culture, and hospitality, and it offers so much more than just the traditional tourist spots. The unique experiences, hidden gems, and rich cultural fabric make it appealing and unforgettable to visitors.
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