Dakar in 1 Day for Couples - Monument of the African Renaissance — viewpoint & photos
In Collaboration with Diallo Tours Services. Updated on February 8, 2026.
A relaxed, romantic full-day guided tour of Dakar that includes the Monument of the African Renaissance, colorful Soumbédioune market and local art galleries, then a scenic ferry ride and lunch on Île de Gorée with a guided visit to the Maison des Esclaves and a leisurely island stroll.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Diallo Tours Services, inspired by the tour Dakar City Tour and Goree Island. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Monument of the African Renaissance — viewpoint & photos
- Soumbédioune Fish Market & local art galleries
- Scenic ferry crossing to Île de Gorée
- Lunch on Gorée with sea views
- Maison des Esclaves guided visit and island stroll
Itinerary
Day 1
Full-day guided city tour with ferry excursion to Île de Gorée. Start at 09:00 — hotel pickup and return included.
Hotel pickup (example meeting point: Radisson Blu Sea Plaza)
Your driver-guide will pick you up from your Dakar hotel. Pickup window begins approx. 30–60 minutes before the tour start—driver will confirm exact time. If you prefer, meet at the Radisson Blu Sea Plaza in central Dakar.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide for the exact pickup time the evening before — pick-up windows can vary by hotel location.
- Dress code note: the tour mentions formal dress; pack a light scarf or smart-casual jacket for photos and museum respect.
- Bring a small bag with sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat — morning light is perfect for couple photos.
Drive to the Monument of the African Renaissance
Short scenic transfer along Dakar’s coast up to the monument. Enjoy seaside views en route while your guide outlines the monument's cultural significance.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit on the left side of the vehicle for the best coastal photo opportunities during the drive.
- Ask your guide to pause at a good vantage point for a quick cliff-top couple photo.
- Morning light is soft — keep cameras ready; sunglasses may help reduce glare for portraits.
Visit: Monument of the African Renaissance
Guided stop at the Monument of the African Renaissance. Learn about the symbolism and history, and take skyline photos over Dakar and the Atlantic.
Tips from local experts:
- For dramatic couple photos, use the wide steps and position the monument behind you — morning shadows add depth.
- There are stairs and uneven ground — wear comfortable shoes; the monument area has limited shade.
- Ask your guide about the best angle for photos that include the city and ocean; they often know quieter spots for private shots.
Transfer to Soumbédioune (fish market) and nearby galleries
Drive back toward central Dakar and the Corniche to visit the lively Soumbédioune market and nearby art spaces.
Tips from local experts:
- Keep water handy — short drives and market walking can heat up, even in the cooler season.
- If you bought small souvenirs, store them in your daypack before entering crowded streets.
- Ask the driver to drop you as close as possible to the market entrance to minimize walking.
Explore Soumbédioune Fish Market & coastal art stalls
Wander the colorful fish market and adjacent craft stalls. Your guide will point out fresh catches, local vendors and compact art galleries along the Corniche.
Tips from local experts:
- For a romantic moment, step to the small rooftop cafes above the market for a sea-view coffee together.
- Respect vendors if you photograph them; a small tip or asking permission goes a long way.
- If you want a souvenir, pick small, easily packed items (hand-carved ornaments or prints) that travel well.
Quick visit: Village des Arts (local artist studios)
A short guided stop at Village des Arts to see contemporary Senegalese art — small studios and galleries perfect for buying a print or two.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask gallery owners about lightweight prints or postcards for easy packing and intimate mementos.
- The village is quieter than the market — a lovely spot for a calm, shared art moment.
- If you want a custom sketch, ask early; artists can often do quick personalised pieces while you wait.
Transfer to Gare Maritime (ferry terminal)
Drive to Dakar’s ferry terminal to board the short ferry crossing to Île de Gorée.
Tips from local experts:
- Request a window seat on the ferry for the best shared views; the crossing is short but scenic.
- Keep your light jacket handy — wind off the water can be cooler than on land.
- Have your camera ready as the ferry approaches Gorée — the island’s pastel buildings and boats are picture-perfect.
Ferry crossing to Île de Gorée
Short 25–30 minute ferry across the bay to the UNESCO-listed Île de Gorée — enjoy the sea breeze and skyline views.
Tips from local experts:
- Sit together on the outer deck for unobstructed sea views; hold hands and enjoy the breeze!
- If either of you is prone to seasickness, sit mid-ship and focus on the horizon — ginger sweets can help.
- The crossing is a great time for candid couple photos — wide-angle shots capture the island approach beautifully.
Lunch on Île de Gorée (seaside table arranged)
A relaxed one-hour lunch at a local island restaurant with sea views (local specialties and vegetarian options available). Time to savor Senegalese flavors together.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask the restaurant for a seaside table — island dining with ocean sounds makes a lovely romantic moment.
- Vegetarian option available — confirm with your guide when booking if you need special meals.
- Pace the meal to enjoy dessert and coffee; island service is unhurried and perfect for lingering conversations.
Guided visit: Maison des Esclaves (House of Slaves)
An important, reflective guided visit to the Maison des Esclaves museum. The guide provides historical context — a solemn stop on the island.
Tips from local experts:
- This is a quiet, emotionally significant site — speak softly and allow moments of reflection together.
- Wear respectful attire (shoulders and knees covered) out of respect for the site and local customs.
- Photography is permitted in some areas, but avoid flash in interior rooms and follow museum signage.
Leisurely island stroll & colonial sites
Wander Gorée’s narrow lanes, colonial facades and small shops. Enjoy a quiet moment together watching fishermen and island life.
Tips from local experts:
- Take the quieter side streets for intimate moments — you’ll find shaded courtyards and hidden viewpoints.
- Buy a small local artwork or a shell keepsake as a shared memory; small purchases support island livelihoods.
- Look for rooftop terraces for a private moment; many have short flights of steps—plan for that when choosing a spot.
Ferry back to Dakar
Return crossing to the Dakar ferry terminal. Relax on deck and enjoy late-afternoon city views.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want sunset photos, keep your camera ready — coastal light can be magical in late afternoon.
- Pick seats on the side facing Dakar for the best approach shots of the city skyline.
- Gather your belongings before docking — disembarkation can be quick and crowded.
Return drive & drop-off at your hotel
Private transfer back to your Dakar hotel. End of the guided experience — ask your guide for recommendations for the evening.
Tips from local experts:
- Ask your guide for a recommended rooftop bar or seaside promenade for a late romantic stroll after the tour.
- If you plan dinner out, request a reservation through your guide — they can advise quieter, romantic spots.
- Confirm exact drop-off location with the driver (many hotels have multiple entrances) to ensure a smooth end to your day.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Couples |
| Transfers | 5 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 8 |
| Total Places | 8 |
| Activities Types | Hotel, Transfer, Attraction, Neighborhood, Experience, Meal, Culture |