Everything you need to know in Senegal
Useful numbers, getting around and smart haggling tips — all in one place.
🆘 Emergencies & help
Free numbers, reachable 24/7 across Senegal.
- Save these numbers in your phone as soon as you arrive.
- Keep a copy of your passport and your embassy contact.
- For medical emergencies in Dakar, private clinics often respond faster.
- Note the exact address (neighborhood + landmark) — streets are rarely numbered.
🧭 Getting around
From ride-hailing to minibuses — how to move around Dakar and beyond.
Ride-hailing apps
Yango and Heetch cover Dakar: price shown upfront, pay cash or card. Easiest option for visitors.
Yellow-black taxis
Everywhere, no meter: agree the price BEFORE getting in. A city ride is often 1,500–3,000 FCFA.
BRT & DDD buses
The BRT (rapid bus) links Guédiawaye to downtown. DDD buses are cheap but crowded at rush hour.
TER regional express train
Links Dakar to Diamniadio and the airport (AIBD) fast at a fixed price — great to skip the traffic.
Cars rapides & minibuses
Colorful minibuses, very cheap, for the local experience. Informal routes — ask for help.
Car rental
Possible, but driving in Dakar is intense. A driver for the day is often more relaxing.
Need a precise route?
Plan a trip💬 How to haggle
Haggling is part of the culture — here’s how to do it well.
- Haggling is normal and expected in markets and with taxis — not in supermarkets or restaurants.
- Ask the price first, then offer around 50% and meet in the middle.
- Stay friendly and respectful: haggling is a conversation, not a fight.
- Learn the “fair price” in advance (ask your hotel or check Senefinder).
- Don’t be afraid to say no and walk away — you’ll often be called back with a better price.
- For a taxi, always fix the price before getting in; carry small change.
- Buying several items from the same seller gets you a better rate.
- A few words in Wolof (“Ñaata la?” = “How much?”) always help lower the price.