A modern coastal city

Located on the westernmost tip of Africa, in the same time zone as London, Dakar was established on historic Atlantic shipping and trade routes and is still the busiest seaport in Africa. A modern coastal city with nearly three million inhabitants, it is the capital of Senegal.

A truly international city, Dakar offers an illuminating window on the world and is an ideal setting for global education.

Senegal is the most stable democratic state in Africa, yet it remains culturally diverse. It’s rich history was shaped by its African heritage and by French colonialism. Today, it continues to change in the cross-currents the global economy. It is easily accessible by air from Europe and the United States.

Rich in historical and cultural significance, it is also a center of trade and culture for French West Africa.

Our climate is among the most pleasant in all of Africa—and Dakar is a safe, welcoming place for all who live here, and for our visitors.

A city of pleasant surprises

People say that Dakar is the Paris of West Africa.  Here, you’ll find a rare, open feeling reflected in this cosmopolitan city’s distinctive urban culture. There is a wide selection of restaurants, bars and nightclubs.

In Marché Sandaga, the busiest market in Dakar you can find almost anything, from French fashion and American jeans to traditional boubous, as well as hand-woven fabrics, masks, traditional art, and paintings.

You can feel the excitement in the vibrant artists’ communities. And the IFAN museum contains displays treasures that represent the source of West African art and culture.

Wherever you stand in Dakar, the sea is close by. The coastline is beautiful from almost any vantage point, and a trip to Goree Island impresses the visitor with the contrast between its terrible history and its natural scenic beauty.