Dakar Safety Guide
Health, security, and travel safety information
Emergency Numbers
Save these numbers before your trip.
Healthcare
What to know about medical care in Dakar.
Healthcare System
Dakar has the best healthcare facilities in Senegal, with a mix of public hospitals, private clinics, and international medical centers. The public healthcare system is under-resourced and often overcrowded, while private facilities offer significantly better quality care at higher costs. Many private clinics cater to expatriates and tourists with modern equipment and French or English-speaking staff.
Hospitals
Recommended facilities for tourists include: Clinique de la Madeleine (Route de la Corniche Ouest), SOS Médecins Sénégal (multiple locations), Clinique Casahous, and Polyclinique Sangomar. Principal Hospital (Hôpital Principal de Dakar) is the main public facility but is best avoided unless absolutely necessary. Most private facilities require upfront payment or proof of insurance.
Pharmacies
Pharmacies (pharmacies) are widely available throughout Dakar, marked by green crosses. They stock French and international medications, though some may require prescriptions. Many common medications are available, but bring sufficient supplies of prescription medications with documentation. Pharmacies operate on a rotation system for 24-hour service (pharmacie de garde). Counterfeit medications can be an issue in informal markets.
Insurance
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and emergency evacuation is strongly recommended and often required by private medical facilities. Ensure your policy covers medical evacuation to Europe, as this may be necessary for serious conditions. Keep all receipts and documentation for insurance claims.
Healthcare Tips
- Bring a complete supply of prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter
- Private medical facilities require upfront payment or insurance guarantee before treatment
- Keep contact information for your embassy and insurance provider readily accessible
- Water-borne and food-borne illnesses are common; stick to bottled water and well-cooked food
- Malaria prophylaxis is recommended; consult a travel medicine specialist before departure
- Ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date; Yellow Fever vaccination is required for entry
- Consider registering with SOS Médecins or similar service for the duration of your stay
Common Risks
Be aware of these potential issues.
Pickpocketing, bag snatching, and theft of personal belongings are the most common crimes affecting tourists. Thieves often work in pairs or groups, with one creating a distraction while another steals. Mobile phones, cameras, and bags are primary targets.
Thieves on motorcycles or mopeds may snatch bags from pedestrians or reach into vehicles stopped at traffic lights. This can result in injury if victims resist or are dragged. Smash-and-grab thefts from parked or slow-moving vehicles also occur.
Theft of belongings from beaches is common, especially when items are left unattended while swimming. Thieves target phones, wallets, and bags left on the sand.
Traffic in Dakar is chaotic with poorly maintained roads, aggressive driving, inadequate street lighting, and pedestrians, animals, and vehicles sharing roads unpredictably. Accidents are common. Many vehicles lack proper safety features, and traffic rules are rarely enforced.
Tourists, particularly women and those appearing wealthy, may experience persistent approaches from vendors, self-appointed guides, and individuals seeking money. While usually non-threatening, this can be uncomfortable and occasionally escalate to aggressive behavior.
Tourists are frequently targeted for various scams and overcharging, particularly in taxis, markets, and tourist attractions. Unofficial guides may demand excessive payment after services.
Traveler's diarrhea and other gastrointestinal illnesses are common due to different food preparation standards and water quality. Typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera are present in Senegal.
Malaria is endemic in Dakar, particularly during and after the rainy season (July to October). Dengue fever has also been reported. Mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk.
Scams to Avoid
Watch out for these common tourist scams.
Individuals approach tourists claiming to be official guides or offering to show them around for free or a small fee. After the tour, they demand exorbitant payment or become aggressive. Some may lead tourists to shops where they receive commission on purchases, or to isolated areas for robbery.
Taxi drivers claim their meter is broken or simply refuse to use it, then charge inflated fares at the destination. Some take deliberately long routes to increase the fare. Others may claim not to have change for large bills.
Someone approaches offering a 'free' bracelet, necklace, or small gift as a gesture of friendship or welcome. Once accepted, they demand payment, sometimes aggressively or claiming it's for charity. They may tie it on your wrist making it difficult to return.
Criminals install skimming devices on ATMs to capture card information, or watch PIN entries. Alternatively, someone creates a distraction while you're at the ATM, and an accomplice steals your cash or card.
Individuals approach tourists with clipboards or documents claiming to collect for local charities, orphanages, or community projects. The charities often don't exist, or the money goes directly to the scammer.
Taxi drivers or individuals claim that your booked hotel is closed, full, or has problems, then offer to take you to a 'better' alternative where they receive commission. The alternative is often overpriced or substandard.
Street money changers offer better rates than banks but use sleight of hand to shortchange tourists, swap bills during counting, or provide counterfeit currency. Some work near official exchange bureaus to appear legitimate.
Restaurants add extra items to bills, charge for bread or water that appeared complimentary, or inflate prices for tourists. Some menus don't show prices, leading to surprise charges.
Safety Tips
Practical advice to stay safe.
Money and Valuables
- Use hotel safes for passports, extra cash, and valuables you don't need daily
- Carry only the cash you need for the day; keep the rest secured
- Use ATMs inside banks during business hours rather than street ATMs
- Divide money and cards between different locations on your person
- Keep a photocopy of your passport separate from the original
- Don't flash large amounts of cash when paying for items
- Be discreet when accessing your money belt or hidden pouch
- Keep emergency cash separate from your daily spending money
Transportation
- Use official taxis (yellow and black) or ride-sharing apps like Yango or Heetch
- Avoid cars rapides (colorful minibuses) as they're overcrowded and unsafe
- Always wear seatbelts in vehicles, even in the back seat
- Agree on taxi fares before departure or insist on using the meter
- Keep car doors locked and windows up, especially in traffic
- Don't accept rides from unmarked vehicles or strangers
- If renting a car, use a reputable international company and consider hiring a driver
- Avoid traveling by road outside Dakar after dark due to poor lighting and road conditions
Accommodation
- Choose hotels in safer neighborhoods like Almadies, Mermoz, or near the Corniche
- Ensure your room has working locks and use additional security measures
- Don't open your door to unexpected visitors; verify identity through hotel reception
- Use the hotel safe for valuables and important documents
- Keep your room number private; don't announce it in public areas
- Check that windows and balcony doors are secure, especially on ground floors
- Research accommodation reviews focusing on safety and security comments
- Inform hotel staff of your daily plans so someone knows your whereabouts
Personal Safety
- Stay aware of your surroundings at all times; avoid using phones while walking
- Walk with confidence and purpose; avoid appearing lost or vulnerable
- Trust your instincts; if a situation feels wrong, remove yourself from it
- Avoid walking alone after dark, especially in unfamiliar areas
- Stay in well-lit, populated areas at night
- Don't wear expensive jewelry or watches that attract attention
- Learn basic French phrases, especially for emergencies
- Keep your embassy's contact information readily available
- Register with your embassy's traveler program if available
- Avoid political demonstrations and large gatherings
Food and Water Safety
- Drink only bottled water; check that seals are intact before opening
- Avoid ice in drinks unless you're certain it's made from purified water
- Eat at established restaurants rather than street vendors when possible
- Choose freshly cooked, hot food over items that have been sitting out
- Wash your hands frequently, especially before eating
- Carry hand sanitizer for times when washing isn't possible
- Peel fruits yourself rather than buying pre-cut fruit
- Avoid raw vegetables unless you know they've been properly washed in safe water
- Be cautious with seafood; ensure it's fresh and thoroughly cooked
Communication
- Purchase a local SIM card for reliable communication and data access
- Keep your phone charged and carry a portable battery pack
- Save important numbers including emergency contacts, hotel, and embassy
- Share your itinerary with someone back home
- Keep copies of important documents in email or cloud storage
- Learn basic French phrases for common situations
- Consider downloading offline maps of Dakar before arrival
- Have your hotel's address written in French for showing to taxi drivers
Beach and Water Safety
- Never leave belongings unattended on the beach
- Swim only in designated areas with lifeguards when possible
- Be aware of strong currents and riptides along the Atlantic coast
- Avoid swimming alone or after consuming alcohol
- Watch your drinks at beach bars to prevent spiking
- Be cautious of unsolicited offers for water sports or boat trips
- Apply and reapply waterproof sunscreen regularly
- Protect feet from hot sand and potential hazards with water shoes
Cultural Respect
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or local neighborhoods
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially in markets or religious areas
- Remove shoes when entering mosques or homes if invited
- Use your right hand for eating and greeting (left hand is considered unclean)
- Be respectful during prayer times, particularly on Fridays
- Avoid public displays of affection beyond hand-holding
- Learn about local customs and religious practices before your visit
- Be patient and polite; raising your voice or showing anger is considered rude
Information for Specific Travelers
Safety considerations for different traveler groups.
Women Travelers
Women travelers can visit Dakar safely but should be prepared for more attention than they might receive in Western countries. Senegal is a predominantly Muslim country with conservative social norms, though Dakar is more cosmopolitan than rural areas. Women, particularly those traveling alone, may experience verbal harassment, staring, and unwanted advances from men. While violent incidents are rare, persistent attention can be uncomfortable. Foreign women are often perceived as wealthy and may be targeted by scammers or those seeking relationships for economic gain. That said, many women travel to Dakar successfully by taking appropriate precautions and being culturally aware.
- Dress modestly to reduce unwanted attention; cover shoulders and knees, avoid tight or revealing clothing
- Wear a wedding ring (real or fake) and mention your husband if asked; this often discourages advances
- Be firm and confident when declining unwanted attention; don't feel obligated to be overly polite
- Avoid making extended eye contact with men, as this can be misinterpreted as interest
- Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than walking alone, especially after dark
- Stay in reputable hotels in safer neighborhoods with good security
- Don't share your room number or travel plans with strangers
- Be cautious about accepting drinks from strangers; watch your drink being prepared
- Consider joining group tours rather than exploring alone, especially for first-time visitors
- Trust your instincts; if someone makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself from the situation
- Keep your phone charged and accessible for emergencies
- Connect with other travelers through hostels or online communities for companionship
- Be aware that beaches may attract unwanted attention; consider beach clubs with security
- Avoid isolated areas, beaches, and poorly lit streets at all times
- Learn basic French phrases for firmly declining advances: 'Non, merci,' 'Laissez-moi tranquille' (leave me alone)
- Be cautious of men who approach claiming to be guides, artists, or wanting to practice English
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Homosexuality is illegal in Senegal, with laws prohibiting 'unnatural acts' that can result in prison sentences of 1-5 years and fines. These laws are actively enforced, and arrests do occur. Same-sex marriage is not recognized, and there are no legal protections against discrimination based on sexual orientation or gender identity.
- Exercise extreme discretion regarding sexual orientation and gender identity
- Avoid any public displays of affection with same-sex partners
- Do not discuss LGBTQ+ topics openly or with people you don't know well
- Be aware that hotel staff may refuse to provide double beds for same-sex couples
- Avoid LGBTQ+-specific apps and websites while in Senegal, as they may be monitored
- Remove any rainbow or LGBTQ+ symbols from luggage, clothing, or accessories
- Be extremely cautious about meeting people through dating apps; entrapment and blackmail occur
- Don't assume that Western embassies can provide protection from local laws
- Consider whether travel to Senegal is necessary given the legal and social risks
- If arrested, immediately contact your embassy
- Research your home country's travel advisories specifically regarding LGBTQ+ travelers to Senegal
- Consider traveling with a companion and presenting as friends or colleagues
- Be aware that even private behavior can be prosecuted if reported
- Understand that advocating for LGBTQ+ rights could result in arrest or deportation
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for visiting Dakar and Senegal. The public healthcare system is under-resourced, and quality medical care requires expensive private facilities that demand upfront payment or insurance guarantees. Medical evacuation to Europe can cost tens of thousands of dollars and may be necessary for serious conditions. Additionally, petty crime is common, and insurance can cover theft of belongings. Flight disruptions, lost luggage, and trip cancellations are also risks that insurance can mitigate. Many private medical facilities will not treat patients without proof of insurance or ability to pay.
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