Cheap Flights To Dakar

Dakar is an ideal travel destination for those that like variety and balance. This bustling city in Senegal has a population of around 2,5000,000 and is around 100 miles to Banjul.

Dakar is the perfect place to take time out if you're been exploring other bustling places in Senegal and are looking to relax, with the beautiful Ile de Goree Beach and Lake Retba to relax by. You can spend a peaceful day exploring the well-manicured gardens of Hahn Park, a favourite place for locals to take time out from the bustling crowds, or head to the Presidential Palace. This beloved attraction acts as a time capsule to Dakar's past, showcasing some of the best architectural design and craftsmanship of its era. Another excellent cultural attraction is the IFAN Museum of African Arts, where you can take in local exhibits by talented artists both established and up-and-coming. To round out your trip nicely, head to the Sandaga Market to browse the huge variety of fresh produce, fashion accessories and clothing and enjoy a traditional Senegalese dish.

Things To Do

The city's cosmopolitan, diverse mix of people and cultures make for an intriguing variety of places to see and things to do. There are plenty of opportunities to learn about West-African culture here at one of the city's museums or historic attractions, too.

• Le Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (African Renaissance Monument)

The African Renaissance Monument is a huge 49-metre tall bronze statue that stands atop one of the pairs of hills known as the Collines des Mamelles just outside Dakar. Dedicated in 2010, the statue commemorates the country's 50th anniversary of independence from France and is the tallest in all of Africa.

• La Maison des Esclaves (House of Slaves)

This historic attraction has a solemn heritage, having served as a processing centre for African slaves. Many visitors from around the globe continue to visit the House Of Slaves to learn more about the history of the Atlantic Slave Trade and, most importantly, to reflect upon the huge human toll of African slavery.

• Presidential Palace

This majestic building serves as the official residence of Senegal's Head of State and is also renowned as one of the country's foremost architectural icons. The palace holds an important place in the country's heritage, as one of the main places where important public protests have taken place throughout Senegal's history.

Calendar Of Events

Dakar has an impressive roster of annual events ranging from cultural celebrations to art festivals, drawing in visitors from around the globe.

• Senegal Independence Day: Senegal celebrates its independence day every 4th April, with schools shutting for two weeks and impressive military marches taking place in the streets.

• La Tabaski- Aid el-Kebir: This religious festival is one of the most important for Senegalese Muslims and is known as 'La Tabaski' in French-speaking West Africa. This festival begins 70 days after the end of Ramadan and sees spectacular mass crowd prayers, with the worshippers dressed in vibrant, multi-coloured boubou dresses.

• Dak'Art Biennale: Set in a number of stunning locations across the city, this art festival is an ideal opportunity to see the work of the best up-and-coming modern artists.