Is Dakar Safe for Solo Female Travelers?

Dakar is relatively safe at night compared to many other global cities but caution should always be exercised. It's recommended to stick to well-lit and populated areas, avoid flaunting valuables, and use trusted transportation rather than walking alone particularly after dark. It's also better to respect local customs and dress modestly. Always rely on your instincts to stay safe.

Public transportation within Dakar includes car rapides, taxis, and buses. While these are generally safe during daylight hours, take caution as they can be crowded and pickpocket incidents can occur. Taxis do not typically have meters, so be sure to negotiate a price before starting the journey.

Dakar, being the capital city of Senegal, receives plenty of tourists yearly, and while locals are generally friendly, it's not uncommon to encounter some level of street harassment. This could be in the form of persistent hawkers and sometimes unwanted attention, masking as friendliness from locals. However, the city is generally safe and harassment is often non-threatening. It's advisable to maintain an assertive demeanor and be cautious about your interactions. Remember, respecting local customs goes a long way in improving your experience.

Dakar experiences a moderate level of petty crime. These usually include snatch thefts, pickpocketing, and bag snatching, particularly in crowded areas such as markets and public transportation. Travelers are advised to keep their belongings secure at all times and be vigilant in their surroundings. Despite this, Senegalese people are generally hospitable and friendly towards visitors.

Drinking tap water in Dakar, is generally not advisable for travelers. The water treatment processes in place can be inconsistent and the local population may have built up a tolerance to microorganisms in the water that travelers have not. It is far safer to stick to bottled water or use a water filter or purifier if you plan on drinking tap water.

The United States government advises you to exercise normal precautions in Senegal, although, some areas might have an increased risk. Check the full travel advisory.

The Canadian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Senegal due to high crime levels. Check the full travel advisory.

The Australian Government advises exercising a high degree of caution in Senegal overall, due to the risk of civil unrest. Check the full travel advisory.