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.
