Dakar

Dakar is Senegal's capital and most populous region, centred on the Cape Verde Peninsula, the westernmost point of mainland Africa. It is the political, economic, and cultural heart of Senegal, home to over 3 million people. The region includes the bustling capital city of Dakar, its densely populated suburbs of Pikine and Guediawaye, the historic old towns of Rufisque and Goree Island, and the new administrative city of Diamniadio. The coastline features dramatic cliffs, sandy beaches, and fishing communities. Dakar's climate is coastal Sahelian, moderated by the Atlantic Ocean.

November to May is the dry season and the best time. June to October is rainy and humid. January is the coolest month; September–October is hottest.

Dakar has a busy bus network, shared taxis, and the Train Express Regional linking Dakar to Diamniadio and Blaise Diagne Airport. Bush taxis and minibuses connect the region's towns.

• Dakar — Senegal's vibrant capital, with museums, markets, and the African Renaissance Monument.
• Pikine — Densely populated suburb, one of Africa's fastest-growing urban areas.
• Guediawaye — Coastal suburb with fishing communities.
• Rufisque — Historic colonial port town east of Dakar.
• Bargny — Coastal town and industrial port.
• Keur Massar — Rapidly growing eastern suburb.
• Sebikhotane — Town near the new airport and Diamniadio.
• Yene — Coastal fishing village with notable surf breaks.
• Diamniadio — New administrative and business hub.
• Goree — Historic island with the House of Slaves memorial.

Dakar has the most diverse food scene in Senegal: thiéboudienne, yassa, grilled fish at the beach, and street food such as dibbi (grilled meat) and fataya (fried pastries).

Dakar has a vibrant arts scene with the Dakar Biennale of Contemporary African Art, music venues in the Médina district, and the National Theatre.

• Visit Goree Island and the House of Slaves, a moving memorial to the Atlantic slave trade.
• Explore the Dakar Medina markets for textiles, crafts, and street food.
• See the African Renaissance Monument, the tallest statue in Africa.
• Walk the Corniche at sunset.
• Visit Dakar's IFAN Museum of African Arts.