Overview
Dakar, Senegal's lively capital, sits on a peninsula reaching into the Atlantic — a colourful, musical city known for its markets, coastline and warm West African welcome. UK travellers arrive into Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), which serves Dakar.
Best time to fly to Dakar
The most pleasant, driest months run from November to May; the wet season peaks around August. Fares ease outside the busy winter period — see the price charts on this page for the cheapest dates.
Airlines and routes
UK travellers reach Dakar via a single hub. Air France (via Paris), Royal Air Maroc (via Casablanca), Brussels Airlines, TAP Air Portugal and Iberia connect London and other UK airports, typically in around 7–9 hours including a stop.
Things to do in Dakar
- Gorée Island: a moving UNESCO World Heritage site off the coast.
- African Renaissance Monument: a towering city landmark.
- Marché Sandaga & Kermel: vibrant markets and crafts.
- Lac Rose (Lake Retba): the famous pink lake nearby.
- The Corniche: a scenic Atlantic coastal drive.
At the airport (DSS)
Blaise Diagne Airport is about 45 km from central Dakar, with a toll motorway, shuttles, taxis and hotel transfers into the city; allow time for the journey.
Top tips for finding cheap flights to Dakar
- Book several weeks ahead for the best value.
- Travel outside the winter peak where possible.
- Compare European and North African hubs.
- Midweek departures are often cheaper.
Travel essentials
- UK travellers do not need a visa for short tourist stays in Senegal (up to 90 days).
- The local currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF).