Arriving at Leopold Sedar Senghor International Airport and planning to explore Dakar and beyond? Renting a car offers fantastic freedom, but the pickup process, costs, and local driving conditions are good to understand beforehand. This guide covers everything you need to know to get on the road with confidence.
Rental car desks are generally located within the main airport terminal building, usually near the arrivals area. Follow the signs for ‘Car Rental’ or ‘Rental Cars’ – they are typically grouped together for convenience. Most companies offer a shuttle service to their off-airport parking facilities where the cars are kept, so be prepared for a short transfer. Several well-known companies commonly operate at DKR, including Avis, Budget, Europcar, Hertz, and Sixt. Smaller, local agencies may also be present.
The best car for you depends on your travel plans. For city driving and fuel efficiency, an economy or compact car is a great choice. If you plan on exploring outside of Dakar, particularly on unpaved roads, a small SUV is recommended. Here’s a general idea of what’s available:
| Car Class | Typical Daily Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| Economy (e.g., Fiat 500) | $25 - $40 |
| Compact (e.g., Toyota Yaris) | $35 - $50 |
| Intermediate (e.g., Toyota Corolla) | $45 - $65 |
| SUV (e.g., Dacia Duster) | $60 - $90 |
| Luxury (e.g., Mercedes C-Class) | $100+ |
Prices change by season and availability.
Generally, you’ll need a valid driver’s license, and for many companies, a passport is also required. The minimum age to rent a car is usually 21, but drivers under 25 may face additional fees. A credit card in the renter’s name is almost always required for the deposit, which can range from $300 to $800 or more, depending on the car class. Debit cards are sometimes accepted, but often with stricter conditions. Be sure to understand the deposit terms before you finalize your booking.
Rental companies will offer various insurance options. Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car itself. Theft Protection covers the vehicle if it’s stolen. Often, these come with an ‘excess’ – the amount you’re still responsible for in case of damage or theft. You can reduce the excess by purchasing additional insurance, but this adds to the cost. Check if your credit card or existing car insurance provides coverage in Senegal, as this could save you money. Don’t hesitate to ask the rental agent to clearly explain the insurance details before you sign anything.
Road conditions in Senegal vary. Major roads are generally well-maintained, but roads outside of Dakar can be rougher. Tolls are collected on some highways, usually with cash. Parking in Dakar can be challenging, especially in the city center. Be aware of your surroundings and consider using secure parking facilities when available. Speed limits are generally 110 km/h on highways, 80 km/h on main roads, and 50 km/h in urban areas, but these are not always strictly enforced. Defensive driving is recommended.
You’ll typically need a valid driver’s license and your passport. Some companies may ask for additional identification.
Some rental companies accept debit cards, but often with more restrictions than credit cards. Expect a larger deposit or proof of return travel.
Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) covers damage to the rental car, but usually has an excess amount you’re still responsible for.
Basic insurance is rarely included. You’ll usually be offered additional insurance options at the rental desk.
Yes, but they are less common and often more expensive than manual transmission vehicles.
In Senegal, they drive on the right side of the road.
Yes, tolls are collected on some highways. Have cash ready for payment.
Parking in Dakar can be difficult, especially in the city center. Look for secure parking options.
Rental cars should come with a spare tire, jack, and wheel wrench. Check with the rental company for assistance if you’re unsure how to change a tire.
Yes, but you’ll usually need to pay an additional daily fee and the extra driver must be listed on the rental agreement.
Report any damage to the rental company immediately and obtain a damage report form.
A GPS or smartphone with offline maps is highly recommended, especially if you plan to explore outside of Dakar.