From Dakar port, you can travel to Gorée Island by ferry, and it takes less than 30 minutes. Get there about 30 minutes in advance to get a ticket and go through to the waiting room. Luckily, at the ferry port shop I finally found some postcards!
Once you arrive on Gorée Island, you can move around by foot because it is only 900 by 350 metres. It’s mostly flat except for the Castle hill. The walk up is worth it for the beautiful views. And you will also find old canon and an African-American monument. Interestingly, our guide Abu also told us that people live inside the tunnels within the hill. Indeed, we saw people emerging from the tunnels. A visit to the slave house is a must, and a part of the sad history of slavery on the island.
Highlights
- Beach and seaside views
- Slave house
- Cathedral
- Sand painting demonstration
- Castle hill and canon
- African-American monument
- Colourful houses
- IFAN Historical Museum
Before you go
- Goree island is approximately 30 minutes by ferry from Dakar Port
- There are no cars allowed and the island is small and walkable with only one hill
- Tourism is a big part of the economy so it is best to support by hiring a local guide
- On the ferry, it can be windy but you get the best view!
Transport
- The ferry leaves often from Dakar Port, and the schedule is posted. Arrive about 30 minutes in advance of departure to buy a ticket. Plan in advance for your return. As of April 2024, it costs foreigners 5200 CFA for a roundtrip
Accommodation
- We didn’t stay on Gorée island although there are a handful of hotels available.
- As usual I recommend checking reviews on Booking.com or using AirBnB
Food
We had a delicious lunch at Restaurant Chez Kiki on the island. While dining outside, we could enjoy the ocean view. The menu had a great selection. I had the daurade and rice, which also came with a side of the yassa onion sauce. My friend had the grilled gambas and rice.
Prices were very reasonable and the service was friendly. There are a few other restaurants, mostly located near the seaside and port.
We passed La Crêpe Saint-Louisienne and it looked very tasty, but we didn’t have time to try it. Something for next time.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a tour guide?
A: No, you don’t need a guide but I strongly recommend having a local guide. You will get a richer experience and get to learn more about life on the island. Also, you can support the local economy which is based on tourism
Q: Do people speak English?
A: Some people speak English, and there will always be some tour guides who speak English
Q: Is it a walkable city?
A: Yes, the island is walkable and mostly flat, except for the hill up to the old castle
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