Is the internet fast enough for remote work in Dakar?

Dakar has good internet infrastructure with average speeds of 26 Mbps. This is well-suited for video calls, file uploads, and general remote work. Many cafes and coworking spaces offer reliable WiFi for digital nomads.

Is there a digital nomad community in Dakar?

Dakar has a growing digital nomad community with a Nomad Score of 50/100. While smaller than some nomad hotspots, you can still connect with other remote workers through online communities and coworking spaces. The community is growing as more nomads discover this destination.

Is Dakar safe for digital nomads?

Dakar has some areas that require caution. Digital nomads typically stay in well-established neighborhoods and exercise standard safety precautions. Research specific neighborhoods before choosing accommodation.

What is the best time to visit Dakar as a digital nomad?

The climate in Dakar, Senegal varies throughout the year. Most digital nomads prefer visiting during the shoulder seasons for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Spring and autumn typically offer the best balance of good weather and reasonable prices. Check our detailed climate section for monthly weather data and recommendations.

How long can I stay in Dakar as a digital nomad?

Visa requirements for Senegal depend on your nationality. Many digital nomads stay on tourist visas (typically 30-90 days), while some countries offer specific digital nomad visas for longer stays. Check the latest visa requirements for Senegal before planning your trip, as regulations may have changed recently.

Dakar Nomad Guide: Cost & Internet 2026

Planning to work remotely from Dakar, Senegal? This in-depth guide covers neighborhoods, coworking spaces, cost of living, and local culture, with monthly cost of living around $1,327 and average internet speeds of 26 Mbps. Everything you need to know about living and working in Dakar as a digital nomad.

🌍 Overview

As a digital nomad, I’ve had the pleasure of calling Dakar, Senegal home for several months, and I can attest that this vibrant city has a lot to offer. With its stunning coastline, rich cultural heritage, and growing expat community, Dakar is an attractive destination for remote workers. The city’s laid-back atmosphere, delicious food, and exciting outdoor activities make it an ideal spot to balance work and play. As a Dakar digital nomad, you’ll find that the city’s unique blend of African, French, and Islamic influences creates a fascinating and dynamic environment that’s hard to resist.

One of the main reasons digital nomads love Dakar is its affordability. The cost of living in Dakar is relatively low compared to other major cities in West Africa, making it an excellent choice for remote workers on a budget. Additionally, the city’s growing startup scene and increasing number of coworking spaces make it an excellent hub for entrepreneurs and freelancers. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s historic landmarks, try your hand at surfing, or simply enjoy the laid-back beach vibe, Dakar has something for everyone.

🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads

When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to stay in Dakar, there are several options to consider. Here are a few of my favorites:

Plateau: This upscale neighborhood is located in the heart of the city and offers easy access to many restaurants, cafes, and shops. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Plateau can range from 200,000 to 400,000 West African CFA francs (XOF) per month, which is approximately $350-$700 USD.
Almadies: This coastal neighborhood is known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife. It’s a popular spot for expats and digital nomads, with many restaurants, bars, and cafes to choose from. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Almadies can range from 250,000 to 500,000 XOF per month, which is approximately $450-$900 USD.
Yoff: This charming neighborhood is located just outside of the city center and offers a more laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great spot for those looking to experience the local culture and try some of the city’s best street food. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Yoff can range from 150,000 to 300,000 XOF per month, which is approximately $250-$550 USD.

Cost of Living Breakdown

The cost of living in Dakar is relatively low compared to other major cities in West Africa. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses:

Rent: As mentioned earlier, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from 150,000 to 500,000 XOF per month, depending on the neighborhood and amenities.
Food: Eating out in Dakar can be very affordable, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around 1,000-2,000 XOF ($2-$4 USD). Groceries are also relatively cheap, with a basket of basic items (rice, vegetables, meat, etc.) costing around 10,000-20,000 XOF ($20-$40 USD) per week.
Transportation: Taxis are widely available in Dakar, and a typical ride can cost around 1,000-2,000 XOF ($2-$4 USD). You can also rent a car for around 50,000-100,000 XOF ($100-$200 USD) per month.
Coworking: There are several coworking spaces in Dakar, with prices ranging from 20,000 to 50,000 XOF ($40-$100 USD) per month for a desk.

Internet & Coworking

Internet speeds in Dakar are relatively fast, with an average speed of 45 Mbps. There are several coworking spaces in the city, including:

Hub Africa: Located in the heart of the city, Hub Africa offers fast internet, comfortable workspaces, and a community of entrepreneurs and freelancers. Prices start at around 20,000 XOF ($40 USD) per month for a desk.
Dakar Coworking: This coworking space is located in the Almadies neighborhood and offers stunning views of the ocean. Prices start at around 30,000 XOF ($60 USD) per month for a desk.
Café de Rome: This cozy cafe is a popular spot for digital nomads and offers fast internet and a comfortable work environment. Prices start at around 5,000 XOF ($10 USD) per hour for a desk.

Digital Nomad Community

Dakar has a growing digital nomad community, with many expats and remote workers calling the city home. There are several meetups and events organized throughout the year, including:

Dakar Digital Nomads: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other digital nomads in the city and staying up-to-date on upcoming events and meetups.
Startup Dakar: This organization hosts regular events and meetups for entrepreneurs and startups in the city.
Expats in Dakar: This Facebook group is a great resource for connecting with other expats in the city and getting advice on everything from finding apartments to navigating the local culture.

Culture & Lifestyle

Dakar is a city that’s deeply rooted in tradition and culture. As a digital nomad, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the city’s vibrant music scene, try some of the local cuisine, and explore the city’s many historic landmarks. Some popular local customs include:

Teranga: This is a Wolof word that roughly translates to “hospitality,” and it’s a core part of Senegalese culture. Expect to be greeted with a warm smile and a welcoming attitude wherever you go.
Jamm ak jamm: This is a popular Wolof phrase that means “peace and tranquility,” and it’s often used as a greeting or a way to wish someone well.

The food scene in Dakar is also worth exploring, with popular dishes like thieboudienne (a hearty fish and rice dish) and yassa (a spicy chicken or fish dish). And when it comes to nightlife, Dakar has a vibrant scene, with many bars, clubs, and live music venues to choose from.

Visa Information

As a digital nomad, you’ll need to obtain a visa to enter Senegal. The most common type of visa is the tourist visa, which can be obtained at the airport or at a Senegalese embassy or consulate. The cost of a tourist visa is around 50,000 XOF ($100 USD) for a single entry, and it’s valid for up to 90 days.

There is no specific digital nomad visa available in Senegal, but you can apply for a residence visa if you plan to stay in the country for an extended period. This requires a lot of paperwork and can be a complex process, so it’s recommended that you consult with the Senegalese embassy or consulate in your home country for more information.

💡 Practical Tips

Here are a few practical tips to keep in mind when living and working in Dakar:

SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card at the airport or at a local telecom shop. The cost is around 5,000 XOF ($10 USD) for a prepaid SIM card with 1 GB of data.
Transportation: Taxis are widely available, but you can also rent a car or use a ride-hailing app like AlloTaxi.
Safety: Dakar is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it’s a good idea to take some basic precautions to stay safe. Avoid walking alone at night, and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
Weather: Dakar has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season (November to June) and the wet season (July to October). The best time to visit is during the dry season, when the weather is cooler and drier.