Dakar, Senegal
The historic center with markets, museums, and the ferry to Gorée Island. Busy and cultural during business hours, but empties out at night. Come for daytime sightseeing, go elsewhere for dinner.
Plateau is the city center with colonial buildings, office blocks, and busy markets. During work hours it's packed - government workers, vendors at Kermel Market, tourists heading to the Gorée Island ferry. The Presidential Palace and Independence Square are here, along with Sandaga Market which spreads across several streets. The IFAN Museum and art galleries are the main cultural draws. Restaurants include French places like Le Kermel, Korean BBQ at The Seoul, and cafe Bidew with its garden. Less English spoken than in Almadies, though tourist sites have multilingual staff. The problem with Plateau is it empties out after 6pm when offices close. It's busy and reasonably safe during the day with police around, but side streets get dark and quiet at night. Main areas near tourist sites have decent lighting.
Daytime Safety
GoodNight Walking Safety
ModerateHarassment Risk
ModeratePublic Transport Safety
GoodPickpocketing Risk
HighScam Risk
HighPolice Visibility
GoodEmergency Services
ExcellentEvening Venues
ModerateSolo Dining
GoodDrug Activity
LowHomelessness Visibility
ModerateGetting By in English
Moderate"Good for markets and sightseeing during the day, dead at night"
"Kermel Market is nice but vendors get pushy"
"Convenient for the Gorée Island ferry"
"Sandaga Market has lots of pickpockets - kept my bag zipped"
"Interesting to see during the day but I left before dark"
Areas with comparable safety profiles for solo female travelers
Local atmosphere at lower prices, close to beaches and Almadies. Budget option for being near tourist areas, but less English and more local feel.
Authentic and cheap with real local life. Crowded, persistent vendors, almost no English, safety concerns at night. For adventurous backpackers who prioritize culture over comfort.
Surf village with international backpacker scene and access to Ngor Island. Cheaper than Almadies, more casual vibe. Good if you want beach and surf culture.
Help other women stay safe in Plateau
Neighborhood conditions can change. Check recent news, ask locals or your accommodation about current safety, especially for nighttime plans.