Day Trip Goree Island and Dakar City Tour

Setting out on a journey to Goree Island and Dakar City can be a deeply moving experience. Visitors will explore the haunting history of the Atlantic slave trade at poignant landmarks, while also seeing Dakar’s vibrant street life and local cuisine. With highly-rated guides and a flexible itinerary, this tour promises an enriching adventure that blends the past and present. Whether you’re a history buff or simply seeking a culture, this day trip offers an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Senegalese heritage.

This experience made our list of the 17 Best Tours In Dakar.

Good To Know

• Highlights of the day trip include visiting Goree Island’s slave house, memorial, and church, as well as exploring Dakar’s Presidential Palace and Independence Square.
• Goree Island is a significant site in the history of the Atlantic slave trade, serving as a former slave-trading center and a reminder of past inhumanity.
• The tour offers an engaging experience that blends rich history with vibrant Senegalese culture, including exploring local markets, traditional cuisine, and lively street life.
• The tour is accessible, with all fees and taxes included, and accommodations for wheelchair users, strollers, and service animals.
• Travelers consistently praise the tour’s knowledgeable guides and the overall educational and uplifting experience, with 95% recommending the tour.

Tour Overview and Highlights

The day trip to Goree Island and Dakar city tour provides an immersive experience exploring the region’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Rated 4.9 out of 5 based on 21 reviews, the tour is highly recommended by 95% of travelers.

Visitors can explore the history of Goree Island, a significant site in the Atlantic slave trade, and discover the island’s colonial buildings and serene environment.

The tour also includes a visit to the vibrant streets of Dakar, blending modernity and tradition.

Highlights include the slave house, memorial, and church on Goree Island, as well as sightseeing at the Presidential Palace and Independence Square.

History of Goree Island

Goree Island holds a significant place in the history of the Atlantic slave trade. As a former slave-trading center, it serves as a poignant reminder of the inhumanity of this dark chapter. Visitors can explore the House of Slaves, a museum that documents the experiences of those who were forcibly taken from Africa.

Year	Estimated Enslaved Africans Transported
1625	1.5 million
1800	8 million
1870	12 million
1900	15 million

The island’s colonial buildings and serene atmosphere provide a stark contrast to the tragic history, making it an important site for reflection and commemoration.

Exploring Goree’s Landmarks

Visitors can explore several iconic landmarks on Goree Island, starting with the imposing House of Slaves, a museum that powerfully chronicles the experiences of those who were forcibly taken from Africa during the transatlantic slave trade.

Other notable sites include:

• The Slave Memorial, a somber tribute to the victims of the slave trade
• The Goree Island Church, a stately colonial-era structure
• The Presidential Palace, a symbol of Senegalese independence
• The Karmel Market, where travelers can browse local crafts and souvenirs

These landmarks offer a window into Goree’s complex history and the resilience of its people.

Street Life in Dakar

After exploring the solemn history of Goree Island, travelers can enjoy the vibrant street life of Dakar. The city’s bustling markets, such as the Kermel Market, offer a glimpse into the blending of modernity and tradition. Visitors can browse stalls selling handcrafted souvenirs, clothing, and local produce, while taking in the lively atmosphere. Traditional meals can be enjoyed at the nearby beach restaurants, allowing travelers to savor the flavors of Senegalese cuisine. Dakar’s streets are a hub of activity, where the rhythms of music and the energy of the people create an unforgettable cultural experience.

Kermel Market	Traditional Meals	Music and Culture
Handcrafts	Senegalese Cuisine	Vibrant Atmosphere
Clothing	Beach Restaurants	Rhythmic Sounds
Local Produce	Flavorful Dishes	People-Watching

Savoring Local Cuisine

Travelers delight in savoring the flavors of traditional Senegalese cuisine at the beach restaurants near the Kermel Market.

These eateries offer a lively setting to enjoy authentic local dishes. Key highlights include:

• Thieboudienne, the national dish of Senegal, featuring seasoned rice, fish, and vegetables
• Yassa, a tangy chicken or fish dish simmered in an onion-lemon sauce
• Mafe, a peanut-based stew with meat, vegetables, and spices
• Fresh seafood platters, perfect for sampling the bounty of the Atlantic Ocean

The vibrant atmosphere, friendly service, and mouthwatering flavors make these beachside restaurants a must-visit for an immersive cultural experience during the Dakar city tour.

Accessibility and Inclusions

Notably, all fees and taxes are included in the tour price, ensuring a hassle-free experience.

The tour is wheelchair accessible and welcomes strollers and service animals, catering to diverse needs.

Pickup is provided in front of the Chambre de Commerce, with the guide holding a sign for easy identification.

Alcoholic beverages are also provided, adding to the enjoyment of the day.

This private tour is suitable for most travelers, allowing you to explore Goree Island and Dakar at your own pace with your group.

With these inclusive features, the tour makes for an accessible and well-rounded exploration of the region.

Booking and Cancellation

The tour is priced at $159.49 per person, with the cost varying based on group size.

Booking is flexible, as visitors can take advantage of the free cancellation option up to 24 hours before the experience starts. A "Reserve now, pay later" option is also available, providing convenience. Confirmation is received immediately upon booking.

Key booking details include:

• Price: $159.49 per person, varies by group size
• Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience
• Reserve now and pay later option available
• Confirmation received at booking

Traveler Experiences and Feedback

Visitors consistently praise the tour’s friendly and knowledgeable guides, who bring the history of Goree Island to life through emotional storytelling, particularly at the House of Slaves.

Travelers describe the experience as educational and uplifting, making it a must-do activity in Dakar. The island’s serene environment and colonial architecture provide a captivating backdrop, while the vibrant street life of Dakar blends modernity and tradition.

With 95% of visitors recommending the tour, it’s clear this day trip offers an impactful and memorable exploration of Senegalese culture and history.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

While the tour includes alcoholic beverages, you’re welcome to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks. However, consuming outside items at the included lunch stop may not be allowed. Check with the tour operator for their policy.

Is There a Minimum Group Size Required?

There’s no minimum group size requirement for this tour. It’s a private tour just for your group, so you can book with as few or as many people as you’d like. The price per person may vary based on the group size.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any age restrictions – it’s open to travelers of all ages. Children are welcome, and the tour is accessible for families. Group size doesn’t matter, as it’s a private tour tailored to your party.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to My Preferences?

Yes, the tour can be customized to your preferences. The operator offers a private tour experience, allowing you to tailor the itinerary to your interests and needs within the overall tour highlights.

How Reliable Is the Public Transportation From the Meeting Point?

The public transportation from the meeting point is reliable. The tour provides pickup details, indicating a designated meeting spot where the guide will meet travelers. This ensures a convenient and organized start to the tour.

The Sum Up

The Day Trip to Goree Island and Dakar City Tour offers a captivating blend of history, culture, and immersive experiences. Visitors can explore the poignant legacy of the Atlantic slave trade on Goree Island, then enjoy Dakar’s vibrant street life and local cuisine. With flexible itineraries and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking to connect with West Africa’s rich heritage.