Summer is coming to an end, and the start of the new school year is just around the corner for those who haven’t yet returned to work or school. Whether you’re a newcomer or a longtime resident of Dakar, September is the perfect month to discover new activities. Our article offers 5 practical suggestions for things to do in Dakar in September.
Transparent Canoes and Kayaks for an Active Start to the School Year
How about extending summer with some canoeing and kayaking— but this time in a transparent boat? This activity is offered by Sénégal Nautique. The excursion departs from Ouakam, behind the Mosque of the Divinity. It’s a fun and active outing that lets you admire the seabed of the Atlantic Ocean and the city from a different perspective. For those who aren’t comfortable in the water, the activity is supervised by guides who provide life jackets. The experience lasts about 30 minutes.
Tip: For more information, contact Sénégal Nautique directly. The tour is also available at the Pink Lake.
Visit the Museum of Black Civilizations
The start of the school year is also a time to enrich yourself. Why not take a trip to the Museum of Black Civilizations? Located in the Plateau neighborhood, the museum opened in 2018 and showcasesthe continent’s history andart. Spanning 1,400 square meters, it features both ancient artifacts and contemporary works.
Tip: The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday.
Things to Do in Dakar in September: Stroll Through the Kermel Market
We continue our stroll, staying in the Plateau neighborhood. Built in the late 19th century, the Kermel Market is one of Dakar’s most iconic markets. It combines colonial architecture with a local atmosphere. Under its wrought-iron dome, the colorful stalls will awaken all your senses. You’ll have the chance to breathe in the aromas of Sahel spices and admire the fresh vegetables from the Niayes. You can also sample exotic fruits from Casamance while listening to the lively chatter of the vendors. The market is also a treasure trove of seafood: shrimp, thiof, and capitaine—all caught that very day. Here you can find everything you need to prepare the national dish, thiéboudiène, a chicken yassa, or a shrimp curry. As the start of the school year approaches, Kermel invites you to take control of your diet once again.
Tip: After a stroll through the market, find a seat at one of the eateries around the market to enjoy a delicious thiep.
A Back-to-School Season Marked by Senegalese Dance
How about starting September with a dance? The sabar, a traditional Senegalese dance, blends energy, culture, and camaraderie. Accompanied by percussion, this dance helps release pent-up stress and restore a new sense of vitality. There are classes available for all skill levels. They invite you to reconnect with your body, work on your coordination, and improve your physical fitness while sharing a unique group experience. It’s a real boost to start the year with energy and a positive attitude.
Tip: There are many sabar classes in Dakar, such as those at Cité Comico in Ouakam. Check directly with dance schools and performers for more information.
Treat Yourself to a Break at Hann Forest Park in Dakar
If you’re looking for a quiet moment, Hann Park is a great option. Just a few kilometers from downtown, it offers trails for walking, running, or biking. It’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle. It’s also one of the capital’s few green spaces. It’s a pleasure to stroll through the park and enjoy the century-old trees and the diversity of plant life. A place far from traffic jams and the city’s commotion.
Tip: You can enjoy a picnic while respecting the site’s flora and fauna.
Conclusion: A Back-to-School Season Full of New Experiences in Dakar
A transparent canoe ride to kick off the end of the year with energy, a cultural visit to the Museum of Black Civilizations, a sensory immersion at the Kermel Market, renewed vitality thanks to sabar, or a soothing stroll through Hann Park… This top 5 list shows that Dakar offers a thousand ways to start September off on the right foot.
In response to the question, “What is there to do in Dakar in September?”, our team offers a variety of unique experiences that are accessible and suitable for everyone. Whether you’re a sports fan, a culture lover, or simply looking to explore the capital, Dakar has something to charm you.