Heat and sun: health tips for Youth Olympic Games spectators

From 31 October to 13 November, the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games hold many events outdoors under a fierce sun, on the Corniche Ouest and at Saly plage ouest. Four habits keep you safe: drink often, cover up, rest in the shade and watch the most vulnerable. Keep handy the pharmacies and health services listed on SeneFinder.

What the weather is like in late October

The rainy season is ending, but daytime temperatures often top 30 °C and the humidity feels heavy. On the Corniche Ouest, home of the road cycling, the sea breeze is deceptive: you feel cool while the sun burns. At Saly plage ouest, sand and water reflect the light during beach volleyball or beach wrestling.

The hottest hours run from noon to 4 pm, so favor morning or late afternoon sessions. For schedules and tickets, check the organizing committee's official website or app.

Your heat kit: water, hat, sunscreen

• Water, and more water: at least 1.5 litres per person for half a day; neighborhood shops usually sell that size for 300 to 600 FCFA. Sip before you feel thirsty.
• A wide-brimmed hat or a cap: easy to find in markets such as Sandaga, HLM or Colobane, often for 1,000 to 3,000 FCFA.
• High-protection sunscreen: reapply often, especially after a swim in Saly; pharmacies charge roughly 5,000 to 15,000 FCFA.
• Sunglasses, loose light clothing and a hand fan for the stands.

Carry FCFA cash for vendors, small shops and taxis; Visa cards work best in supermarkets and hotels.

Spotting heatstroke

Heatstroke can come on quickly, even in a fit adult. Watch for:

• headache, dizziness, nausea;
• very hot, red skin, or sweating that stops;
• extreme tiredness, confusion, slurred or odd speech;
• cramps or a general feeling of being unwell.

Move the person into the shade, loosen their clothing, cool their skin and offer a drink if they are fully conscious. If symptoms are serious or persist, call SAMU on 1515 or the fire brigade on 18, and alert the first aid teams on site. For any question about your own health, consult a healthcare professional.

Children, older relatives and other vulnerable spectators

Families of athletes aged 15 to 18 often bring grandparents or younger siblings, who dehydrate faster. Give children a hat, covering clothes, suitable sunscreen and regular drinks. Older relatives should alternate the stands with shade and skip long midday walks.

From Mermoz, Sacré-Cœur, Liberté 6 or Ouakam, a taxi or Yango or Heetch ride (cash, Wave or Orange Money, not card) saves a tiring walk to the Corniche. For Diamniadio, take the TER from Dakar station in the Plateau. Saly is about 80 km away, 1 h 15 to 2 h on the toll motorway: keep water in the car.

Pregnant spectators and anyone with a chronic condition should talk to their doctor before spending long hours in the sun.

Mosquitoes and malaria: stay careful

Mosquitoes stay plentiful after the rains, especially in the evening, in Saly as well as Pikine or Guédiawaye, and malaria is present in Senegal. Use repellent, wear long sleeves after dark and sleep under a net. If you get a fever during or after your trip, see a healthcare professional promptly. Our guide to preventing malaria in Senegal goes into more detail.

Recommended addresses on SeneFinder

• Pharmacie Khaly Djibril Diagne : pharmacy in Diamniadio
• Pharmacie Saly : pharmacy in Saly
• Pharmacie Africaine : pharmacy in the Plateau
• Pharmacie Point E : pharmacy in Point E
• Pharmacie Cephas : pharmacy in HLM Fass

To find a pharmacy close to where you are staying, see all addresses in this category or explore the Dakar directory.

Useful tools

• SeneFinder Dakar 2026 page: the essentials for following the Games.
• Practical guide: SOS numbers, transport and practical information.
• Route planner: plan your trips to the Corniche, Diamniadio or Saly.
• Emergency numbers in Senegal: save them on your phone before the first event.

Frequently asked questions

How much water should I bring for a day of events?

As a rough guide, at least 1.5 litres per person for half a day outdoors, more for a full day. Drink before you feel thirsty.

What should I do if someone feels unwell from the heat?

Move them into the shade, cool them down and alert the first aid team on site. If their condition worries you, call SAMU on 1515 or the fire brigade on 18.

Do I need to protect myself from mosquitoes during the Games?

Yes, especially in the evening, since mosquitoes stay active after the rainy season and malaria is present in Senegal. Consult a healthcare professional before your trip for advice suited to your situation.