Dakar’s cruise port sits at Mole I, the westernmost harbor in Africa, just a mile from the heart of downtown.
Customs officers will come aboard your ship, so keep your passport handy. Locals use the West African CFA Franc, and most places prefer cash over cards.
You’ll spot yellow taxis waiting at the port – but make sure to haggle over the price before you hop in!
If you need accessibility options, you can easily connect to local transport right from the terminal.
There’s tons more to discover about this fascinating port city – from its colonial history to modern attractions just waiting to be explored.
Map of Dakar, Senegal Cruise Ship Port
Where is The Port Located?
Dakar’s cruise port is at Mole I Port de Dakar on the northern edge of Cape Verde Peninsula – it’s actually Africa’s westernmost port at 14°40’N, 17°25’W. You’re just 1 mile from downtown, so most folks can easily walk there.
The port sits in a natural Atlantic harbor in the Gulf of Guinea, with nice protection from the open sea and some pretty decent city views. Cruise ships dock at Mole 1 terminal, which can handle ships up to 300 meters long. It’s a great jumping-off point if you want to check out the ĂŽle de GorĂ©e UNESCO site or explore Senegal’s gorgeous Petite CĂ´te beaches and towns.
How to get to the port, by air, train, road
Now that you know where the port is located, let’s check out how to get there.
Flying in? You’ll land at Blaise Diagne International Airport, about 52 km from the port. Your best bet is booking a private transfer ahead of time through Dakar Private Transfers or similar companies – it’ll cost around 20,000 CFA (about $33). The drive takes 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. There are direct flights from Europe, Africa, and North America, so you’ve got options.
If you’re already in Dakar, just grab a taxi from the city center. Super quick – only 6 minutes to reach the port – and dirt cheap at about $1. Can’t beat that if you’re staying nearby!
Port Parking Options
Port Parking Options
Parking at Dakar’s cruise port is pretty underwhelming, to be honest. There’s no special parking zones for cruise passengers at Mole I, and what little parking exists is basically a free-for-all without proper organization or any clear info about security.
Back in 2017, you could find some informal spots to park for free, but I wouldn’t count on them. For your sanity, you might want to just grab a taxi or use a ride-share app – they’re easy to find right outside the port.
Flying in before your cruise? Dakar Blaise Diagne Airport offers long-term parking with shuttles to get you around. It’s probably a safer bet than whatever random spot you might find near the port.
Local Transport & Transfers
Local Transport & Transfers
Parking at the port? Pretty much a headache. But getting around Dakar isn’t too bad once you’re there. Yellow taxis hang out right by the port entrance – just make sure you haggle before hopping in! You’ll typically shell out $5-10 to get downtown.
If you’re watching your wallet, try the Dakar Dem Dikk buses at only 150-300 CFA francs. Fair warning though – they’re usually packed and run whenever they feel like it.
Don’t even think about walking the mile into town. Between the heat, crazy traffic, and safety issues, it’s just not worth it. For a hassle-free experience, book transfers through your cruise line or a decent tour company. At least you’ll get some A/C!
Port Terminal Facilities and Accessibility
Located at Mole I Port de Dakar, the cruise terminal is just a mile from downtown Dakar – super convenient for exploring the city. The place has all the essentials: customs clearance, warehouses where you can store your luggage safely, and easy road access through Boulevard de la Liberation.
Security-wise, they follow the ISPS Code standards with water depth of 8.5m at the passenger terminal. You’re right next to the Gare Maritime Internationale and only 2km from where you catch ferries to GorĂ©e Island. If you have trouble getting around, don’t worry – the terminal has accessibility features that connect directly to local transportation options.
Things to Do Before Your Cruise in a Day
Got a day in Dakar before your cruise? Lucky you! This buzzing capital is perfect for a quick dip into Senegalese culture that’ll make you feel like you’re actually exploring, not just checking boxes.
- Kick things off at GorĂ©e Island – wander through the UNESCO site with its old colonial buildings and dive into the heavy (but important) history of the slave trade
- Get your hands on some thiĂ©boudienne (trust me on this one) – it’s Senegal’s national dish and the seafood spots along the coast serve it up perfectly
- Hit up Soumbedioune Market and haggle a bit for cool stuff to take home – the handmade jewelry and colorful fabrics are where it’s at
- Cap your day watching the sunset from the African Renaissance Monument – the views of Dakar’s coastline are killer from up there
Walks near the port
Hopping off your cruise ship in Dakar puts you right where the action is. The port’s just a short walk from the buzzing city center, with decent sidewalks leading you into Dakar’s old colonial streets.
Take a quick walk to Place de l’IndĂ©pendance, the main square with some pretty impressive old buildings, or check out the Cathedral nearby with its unique Byzantine look. If you’re after local goods, wander over to Sandaga Market (about 0.8km away) where you’ll find all sorts of colorful fabrics and handmade stuff.
You can totally explore on your own, but hooking up with a walking tour might give you more of the inside scoop. Just remember to bring some small bills for market vendors, and don’t forget to haggle if you need to grab a taxi for the farther spots.
Dining and Shopping
Dining and Shopping
Feeling hungry after wandering around Dakar’s bustling streets? You’re in luck! The city dishes up tons of mouthwatering options that show off its rich food scene.
- Dig into Senegalese classics like thieboudienne (that’s fish and rice) or yassa (chicken marinated with onions) at the restaurants near the port
- Head to La Cabane du PĂŞcheur for some Mediterranean flair – their octopus carpaccio is seriously good
- Swing by MarchĂ© Kermel where local sellers have pastels and fataya ready to go – perfect snacks to eat on the move
- Need to cool off? Grab a refreshing bissap (hibiscus drink) from one of the food stands by the port and chat with the locals
Accommodation near the port
After a day checking out Dakar’s cool spots, you’ll want somewhere comfy to crash. Don’t worry – there are plenty of options for all budgets close to the port.
If you’re splurging, Noom Dakar Sea Plaza has gorgeous ocean views, while Terrou-bi Resort offers beachfront luxury and all the fancy extras. Got a mid-range budget? Days Hotel & Suites is just a 5-minute walk from the port, with free breakfast and WiFi thrown in.
Watching your pennies? Hotel Jardin Savana gives you seaside vibes and a big pool without breaking the bank, though heads up – some rooms might need a bit of TLC.
Customs & Immigration at The Port
Customs & Immigration at The Port
So what actually happens when you dock at Dakar? Well, your ship gets boarded by a bunch of officials – Health folks, Immigration officers, and Customs agents. Trust me, you’ll want your paperwork ready to avoid headaches.
- Keep your passport and vaccine records (especially that yellow fever one) where you can grab them quickly
- They’ll definitely check any booze or cigarettes you’ve declared
- The Captain has to deal with Customs people face-to-face – no getting around it
- If something goes wrong, flag it to cruise staff or the port agent right away
Heads up – since 2024, they’ve jacked up the fines for paperwork mistakes. Double-check your stuff before you get there, or you might be stuck waiting around forever.
Local Currency & Payment Options
Local Currency & Payment Options
You’ll want to get the scoop on Senegal’s currency before hitting the streets of Dakar – trust me, it’ll save you some serious hassle. The country uses West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is shared by eight countries in the region.
Your best bet for exchanging USD or Euros is at the port, airport, or local banks where you’ll get decent rates (right now it’s about 1 USD = 609.48 XOF). Skip those random folks on the street offering to exchange money – that’s asking for trouble.
Cash is king in Senegal. Credit cards? They’re mostly just for fancy hotels and restaurants. You can grab local currency from ATMs around town, but expect to pay those annoying international fees.
Smart move is to keep smaller bills handy for market shopping and taxi rides. And maybe stash some dollars or euros somewhere safe – you know, just in case.
Emergency Contacts
Emergency Contacts
Need help during your Dakar visit? Don’t panic – just keep these numbers on hand:
- Port Control: +221 33 849 45 45 – Call these folks first for any port problems
- Police Station: +221 33 889 30 00 – Got a security issue? These are your people
- Coast Guard: +221 33 839 78 03 – If you’re in trouble on the water
- General Emergency: 1515 or 800 00 15 15 – Senegal’s version of 911, always open
Stick these somewhere handy – you’ll thank yourself if things go sideways!
History of The Port
From tiny trading spot to buzzing harbor, Dakar’s port has seen it all over the centuries. You’ll be walking the same ground where Portuguese merchants set up a slave-trading post back in the 1400s, with GorĂ©e Island nearby becoming a dark chapter in history by the 1700s.
When you visit, you’re actually standing in what became the capital of French West Africa in 1902. During World War II, this place was hot property – both Vichy and Free French forces fought to control it.
Since Senegal broke free in 1960, the port has totally transformed into different zones that handle everything from massive cargo ships to the cruise ship that brought you here.
Best Times of Year to Cruise from The Port
The Port’s been around forever, and that history shows up in when people tend to visit nowadays. If you’re planning a cruise, take note: November through April is when you’ll want to hit Dakar. The weather’s dry and pleasant (think 70-86°F), and that’s when the cruise schedule really fills up.
- Peak season runs November-April with big boats like MSC Magnifica making regular stops – perfect timing for outdoor stuff and spotting wildlife
- The shoulder months (March, May) give you a nice middle ground – decent weather but fewer tourists crowding everything
- Steer clear of June-October when the rains come down – cruise ships basically disappear during this stretch
- If you hate choppy waters, April’s your best bet for smooth sailing
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Dakar Safe for Cruise Passengers Exploring on Their Own?
Heading into Dakar? You’ll need to keep your wits about you, just like navigating tricky waters. Stick to the touristy spots while the sun’s up and you’ll probably be fine, but keep an eye out for pickpockets and grab-and-run thieves. Don’t flash your cash or fancy phone around, and sort out your rides ahead of time to avoid any hassles. The city has its rough patches, but with some street smarts, you can explore without major problems.
What Cultural Etiquette Should Visitors Observe in Senegal?
When you’re in Senegal, try to embrace “teranga” (hospitality) by saying yes to drinks or snacks when offered, and stick to using your right hand for handshakes and eating. To blend in better, wear modest clothes, take time with your greetings (they’re not rushed here!), and show respect for religious practices – like kicking off your shoes before entering a mosque.
Are There Medical Facilities at Dakar’s Cruise Port?
Whoa! Heads up – Dakar’s cruise port actually doesn’t have dedicated medical facilities. Mercy Ships occasionally docks there, but they’re visiting hospital ships, not permanent port fixtures. If you need medical help while visiting, you’ll need to head into the city for care. The port itself just has basic first aid capabilities, so pack any medications you might need for your trip.
What Traditional Senegalese Souvenirs Are Worth Purchasing?
Looking for cool Senegalese souvenirs to bring home? Grab some hand-woven palm leaf baskets or those bright Bolga fans that practically scream “Senegal.” The Adama pouches make great gifts, and those silver tribal earrings are totally worth the splurge. Don’t walk past the wooden Harit sculptures – they’re conversation starters! Oh, and snag some cowrie shell bracelets too – fun fact: these pretty shells used to be actual money back in the day!
Can Visitors Swim at Beaches Near the Port?
Yes, there are some nice beaches for swimming near the port! You can hop on a 20-minute ferry to GorĂ©e Island where the waters are pretty calm. If you prefer something more developed, resort beaches like Terrou-Bi have lifeguards keeping an eye on things. Just be careful of the currents if you head to the public beaches – they can get a bit tricky.
