Dakar, Senegal
The expat beach neighborhood with good security and nightlife. Expensive and not very authentic, but safe to walk around at night with beach access and lots of dining options.
Les Almadies is the expat beach area. Lots of NGO and embassy workers live here, including near the American Embassy, which means good security and well-lit streets. Restaurant staff speak English because they're used to serving foreigners. You'll see women eating alone with laptops or books - totally normal here. Beach clubs, rooftop bars, and restaurants serve everything from Senegalese food to Italian and Asian. The nightlife goes late - places like Yoka Lounge and Cosmo Beach Club. Everything costs more than local neighborhoods though, and it doesn't feel very Senegalese. But if you want safety, beach access, and nightlife in one spot, this is where to stay.
Daytime Safety
ExcellentNight Walking Safety
GoodHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
LowScam Risk
ModeratePolice Visibility
ExcellentEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ExcellentSolo Dining
ExcellentDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
LowGetting By in English
Excellent"Felt safe walking around at night"
"So many foreigners here, you don't stand out at all"
"Easy to eat alone at beach clubs and restaurants"
"Pricey but I slept better knowing the area was secure"
"Most people speak some English"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Upscale residential area with high security and quiet atmosphere. Safe and peaceful but far from beaches and tourist sites. Good if you want security over location.
Quiet residential area with central location and low prices. Safe and local, but you'll go elsewhere for beaches, nightlife, and tourist sites.
Safe central area that's cheaper than Almadies but still has security and amenities. Mix of expats and locals, various restaurants, easy to get taxis. Good value option.
Help other women stay safe in Les Almadies
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.