Book Cheap Flights to Dakar from UK

Cheap Flights to Dakar from the UK

Flights from London to Dakar typically take 8-10 hours with one stop. Most routes connect via Lisbon or other major hubs. Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) is the gateway to Dakar, located 47km from the city centre.

No direct flights operate from London to Dakar. Popular routing options include TAP Air Portugal via Lisbon, Royal Air Maroc via Casablanca, Brussels Airlines via Brussels. Each offers different layover durations and price points, so compare before booking.

Return fares from London to Dakar typically range from £320-420 in low season to £580-800 during peak periods. April-June / September-October generally offers the best deals, while November-March (dry season) / December holidays sees higher demand and prices.

Dakar operates on GMT (UTC+0), Same as London in winter, 1 hour behind in summer. Airport shuttle (2,500 XOF) or taxis (25,000-35,000 XOF). New airport opened 2017. Journey 45-75 minutes.

Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) – Facilities & Travel Guide

Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) is the primary gateway to Dakar, the capital city of Senegal. Located approximately 47km from the city centre, it handles both domestic and international flights. Modern single terminal with excellent facilities. Old Leopold Sedar Senghor airport now closed.

Blaise Diagne International Airport provides various facilities for travellers:

Currency Exchange: Available in the arrivals hall.
Shopping and Dining: Duty-free shops, restaurants, and cafes.
Wi-Fi: Free or paid Wi-Fi available in terminal areas.
Car Hire: Major rental companies have desks in arrivals.
Lounges: Business lounges available for premium passengers.

Blaise Diagne International Airport offers various transport options to the city:

Taxis: Airport shuttle (2,500 XOF) or taxis (25,000-35,000 XOF). New airport opened 2017. Journey 45-75 minutes.
Private Transfers: Pre-bookable for a direct journey.
Car Hire: Available at the airport for independent travel.

Tips for a smooth journey through Blaise Diagne International Airport:

Arrive Early: Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights.
Currency: Carry some West African CFA Franc (XOF) for initial expenses.
Visa: Check visa requirements before travel.
Flight Updates: Monitor departure boards for any changes.

Flight Times to Dakar

There are currently no direct flights from the UK to Dakar. All routes require at least one connection through major hub airports.

If you're flying with a layover, here are typical flight durations:

Via Lisbon (TAP Air Portugal): Around 8-10 hours total.
Via Casablanca (Royal Air Maroc): Around 7-9 hours total.
Via Brussels (Brussels Airlines): Around 9-11 hours total.
Via Istanbul (Turkish Airlines): Around 11-13 hours total.

It's recommended to have a minimum layover time of 2–3 hours.

Overnight layovers can sometimes offer cheaper fares.
Lisbon and other major hubs offer transit hotels and lounges for comfort during longer waits.

Dakar operates on GMT (UTC+0) (which is Same as London in winter, 1 hour behind in summer).

Airlines Flying to Dakar

TAP Air Portugal

Royal Air Maroc

Brussels Airlines

Turkish Airlines

Air France

Iberia

Dakar Flight Prices

Category	Period	Average Return Fares
Economy - Low Season	April-June / September-October	£320-420
Economy - Mid Season	Shoulder months	£420-580
Economy - High Season	November-March (dry season) / December holidays	£580-800
Business - Low Season	April-June / September-October	£1,500-2,200
Business - High Season	November-March (dry season) / December holidays	£2,200-3,200+

Booking Tips:

Book 6–8 weeks before travel to save up to 15–25%.
Fly midweek (Tue–Thu): Fares are often cheaper.
Compare connecting flights: They can offer better value than direct options.
Sign up for fare alerts to track price drops.

Best Time to Book Dakar Flights

Price Patterns

Prices typically drop Tuesday/Wednesday for bookings

Best fares during April-June / September-October

Prices rise during November-March (dry season) / December holidays

Sweet Spot

6-8 weeks before travel for best combination of availability and price.

Avoid Booking

Less than 2 weeks out (premium pricing)

During school holidays if travelling with families

Peak holiday periods without advance planning

Things to do in Dakar

Gorée Island

Take a ferry to Gorée Island to explore colonial streets and powerful history.

City Monument

Visit the African Renaissance Monument for panoramic views and modern symbolism.

Cultural Museum

Explore IFAN Museum to discover West African art, masks, and traditions.

Coastal Walk

Stroll along the Dakar Corniche for ocean views, cafés, and sunset scenes.

Music & Food

Experience Dakar’s vibrant music scene and enjoy Senegalese dishes like thieboudienne.

Frequently Asked Questions

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