Daily costs per person in US dollars. Dakar offers excellent value for budget travellers — these ranges cover backpackers through comfortable mid-range visitors.
Daily cost breakdown
Currency: XOF (CFA Franc) (Cash preferred, cards at upscale venues)
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Splurge | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10–20 | $25–60 | $80+ | Hostel → guesthouse → boutique hotel |
| Food | $5–10 | $10–25 | $35+ | Gargotte → local restaurant → upscale dining |
| Transport | $3–8 | $8–15 | $20+ | Shared taxi → Yango → private car |
| Activities | $3–10 | $10–25 | $40+ | Self-guided → group tours → private guides |
| Entry Fees | $2–5 | $5–10 | $10–15 | Gorée ferry, monument, museums |
| Daily Total | $25–55 | $60–135 | $185+ | Budget backpacker → comfortable mid → luxury |
Money-saving tips
Eat at gargottes
Local eateries (gargottes) serve thiéboudienne, yassa, and mafé for 1,000–2,500 XOF per plate ($1.50–4). This is the cheapest and most authentic way to eat in Dakar.
Use Yango for transport
The Yango ride-hailing app works well in Dakar and is often cheaper than negotiating with taxi drivers. Most city rides cost 1,500–3,000 XOF ($2.50–5).
Stay in the Plateau or Médina
Budget accommodation in the Plateau or near Sandaga starts from 10,000–20,000 XOF per night ($15–30). The Almadies district is more expensive but quieter.
Ferry to Gorée early
The first ferry to Gorée is the quietest. Return tickets cost 5,200 XOF for foreigners — there is no way to reduce this, but the island is worth every franc.
Share taxis to Lac Rose
A private taxi to Lac Rose costs 15,000–20,000 XOF return. Share with other travellers or join a group tour for 5,000–8,000 XOF per person including transport and guide.
Drink café Touba
Street vendors sell café Touba for 100–200 XOF per cup — cheaper than any cafe and delicious. This spiced coffee is Senegal's national drink and the best value caffeine in West Africa.
