Destinations
Flights to Dakar from New York
Delta nonstop from JFK in under eight hours, one-stops via Paris and Casablanca. Visa-free entry, yellow fever, the new airport and seasons, verified September 2026.
Dakar is the closest African capital to New York, under eight hours on Delta's nonstop from JFK, and the home of the Senegalese community of Harlem and the Bronx. French speakers from Haiti find the city easy: French is the official language, the food is familiar, and Gorée Island's history connects directly to the Caribbean's.
Entry requirements
US and EU passport holders enter Senegal visa-free for up to 90 days. Haitian passport holders should check current requirements with the Senegalese embassy; rules have changed recently. A yellow fever certificate is checked on arrival.
Airports
Blaise Diagne (DSS) opened in 2017 about 45 km east of Dakar near Diamniadio; the toll highway makes it 45 to 75 minutes from the city. It is modern and uncrowded; three hours ahead is enough.
Airlines
Best time to fly
December and the summer are peak. November to February is the dry, pleasant season; the rainy season is July to October. February to May is the value window.
Baggage realities
Delta Main includes two 50 lb bags to Dakar. Air France Economy Standard includes two 23 kg bags; Royal Air Maroc two on most fares.
Safety
Senegal is Level 2, Exercise Increased Caution, with the Casamance region flagged separately. Dakar is one of the safer capitals in West Africa; watch for petty theft on the Corniche and in markets.
Money, SIM cards and getting around
CFA franc; ATMs in Dakar, cash in the regions. Orange and Free SIMs at the airport. Airport taxis and the Dakar Dem Dikk airport bus run to the city; the TER train reaches Diamniadio.
Routes to Senegal
Total price includes taxes and the Jetvala service fee; baggage fees may apply.