If you are looking for an action-packed holiday in Africa, then Dakar is one of the best places to visit. This vibrant city is a mix of West African culture and European influences. Dakar is also famous for its music and has been described as the Brazilian Capital of Africa. If you are into extreme sports, then there is no better place to be in Africa than Dakar.
Before you travel to Dakar, give this article a thorough read to know all about places to visit, things to do, travel tips, and information about buying travel medical insurance or travel insurance.
Dakar Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
For many people, the thought of medical care in another country can be unnerving. A travel medical insurance plan is a form of temporary health coverage for international travel that can help cover your healthcare expenses if you require medical attention during an international trip.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Dakar?
It is not legally mandatory to buy a travel medical insurance plan before traveling to Dakar. However, a travel medical insurance plan is something you should have even if there is not an obligation. It enables you to access the treatment you need without worrying about money.
Consider that many public hospitals and healthcare facilities in Dakar may not be able to provide timely care, or meet the standards you may be used to. In order to get the best care immediately, you may need to be admitted to a private facility that could require payment upfront. With travel medical insurance, you can take advantage of this option with less concern about the resulting bill.
Why buy travel medical insurance for Dakar?
Any international vacation can come with risks. Something as benign as a slipping and falling in your hotel room could land you in the hospital. You also have to consider the possibility of contracting a disease like malaria or typhoid in Dakar. The treatment for these diseases can be time-consuming and expensive. In a worst-case scenario, you may be afflicted with something that cannot be treated in Dakar, and expensive emergency medical evacuation could be necessary. When you consider all the risks and their associated costs, it only makes sense to have travel medical insurance.
Dakar Trip Cancellation Insurance for International Travelers - FAQs
Planning a vacation is exciting, but if you're not careful, it can also be stressful and costly. For example, nonrefundable deposits may mean you'll lose a large chunk of money if you need to cancel your trip. These deposits usually come in the form of expenses like airline tickets, event tickets and hotel reservations. It's usually necessary to make these purchases ahead of time, so it's important to protect your investment in them if you need to cancel. With trip cancellation insurance, you can do exactly that.
Why buy trip cancellation insurance for Dakar?
Of course, no one makes plans to travel internationally if they think a trip will need to be canceled, but the reasons for cancellation are often unpredictable. For example, Dakar can experience flooding that cancels incoming flights. There could also be health-related travel restrictions put in place that require you to cancel. Even a sudden illness or family emergency at the last minute could result in you staying home.
If you do have to cancel, you'll likely discover that many of your prepaid travel expenses are either nonrefundable, or they charge cancellation fees, effectively making you pay for a trip you can no longer take. With trip cancellation insurance, you can be reimbursed for these costs if your trip has to be canceled for a covered reason.
What all is covered under trip cancellation insurance for Dakar?
Trip cancellation coverage can help protect your finances in case of a canceled trip, but the coverage offered by travel insurance can go beyond this. Compare the plans available to you, and look into these coverage options:
- Trip interruption coverage
- Flight insurance
- Flight delay coverage
- The option to cancel for any reason
- Coverage for lost travel documents, emergency cash transfer, and other ancillary benefits
Things to Do for Travelers in Dakar
Travel To Île de N'Gor
Ile de N'Gor is an island off the coast of Senegal, in western Africa. This island is known for its wild beauty and pristine nature. The island's dense vegetation and the presence of wild animals like monkeys and snakes, coupled with its proximity to mainland Africa, make it a popular tourist destination for adventure travelers.
Visit the Musée Théodore Monod
The Musée Théodore Monod is a museum in Dakar, Senegal, that is dedicated to African ethnology and archeology. It is named after the French entrepreneur Théodore Monod. There are over 9,000 objects on display for visitors which include carvings, artwork, musical instruments, and dresses.
Have a Drink at Phare des Mamelles
The Phare des Mamelles lighthouse is located on the east of the island, in the commune of Saint-Louis. It is 48 meters high and was built in 1857 from bricks and mortar. The hilltop beside this lighthouse houses an open-air bar where you can watch a live performance while drinking in the stunning view of the city.
Enjoy Seafood at Le Lagon
Good food and great location: what else do you need in a great travel destination? Enjoy seafood at Le Lagon, which is situated on a strip that overlooks the sea. It will be an experience you are not likely to forget.
Spend an Evening at Just 4 U
Just 4 U is a live music venue in Senegal that hosts concerts featuring both local and international artists. Grab a drink, enjoy some great music, and dance the night away at Just 4 U.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in Dakar
Visiting during Ramadan
During Ramadan, many places serving food remain closed during the daytime. Many bars remain closed throughout the month. If you visit during Ramadan, you may not be able to enjoy the marvelous cuisine or the happening nightlife fully.
Learn some phrases in French
Before you travel, learn a bit of French so that you can communicate better with locals. Keep in mind that very few people outside of staff in tourist areas are likely to speak English.
Avoid Tap water
Tap water in Dakar is unsafe, and consuming it may lead to water-borne diseases like typhoid. Always drink bottled water, and carry a bottle so that you do not risk dehydration during long days of sightseeing.
Wear sunscreen
You will be spending long periods outdoors. During the daytime, the sunlight can be harsh and lead to sunburns. To make sure your skin is protected, use sunscreen amply and reapply it from time to time.
Hire a guide
While sightseeing, hire a guide, especially if you do not speak French. Traveling without a guide can be stressful for non-French speakers since communication can become difficult.
Before you Travel to Dakar - Do This
- Stay hydrated. The climate in Dakar can be quite warm, so it's important to drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Get your vaccines. Consult your doctor and make sure you have all the appropriate vaccinations and boosters before you go.
- Protect your finances. Purchase travel medical insurance or travel insurance so you can enjoy your trip to Dakar with less worry about unexpected expenses.