Senegal combines Dakar’s city life, Gorée Island, the Saloum Delta and long beaches. US service has changed several times in recent years, so route planning is worth a specialist’s time.
Senegal at a glance
- Main gateway: Blaise Diagne International (DSS), serving Dakar.
- Busiest fare periods: December to early January, and July to August for family travel.
- Often better-value periods: the rainy months and outside the holidays.
- Climate: comfortable and dry from about November to May, humid and rainy from about July to October.
When to fly
The dry season is the most popular time for visitors, and December and January are the busiest. Religious events and holidays move each year, and travel to the holy city of Touba around the Grand Magal is especially heavy, so check the dates if you plan to travel then.
Routings and baggage
Delta has flown non-stop from New York to Dakar, and other airlines, including United from Washington and Air Sénégal from New York, have announced or operated US routes that have changed, so we confirm what is flying for your dates. Others connect through Europe, North Africa or other West African hubs. Baggage allowances vary by airline and fare, so check before you pack.
Airports and getting around
Blaise Diagne is roughly 45 km east of central Dakar and replaced the older airport. Arrange a taxi or private pickup before you travel, and use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps in the city. Ferries run to Gorée Island, and shared transport and domestic flights link other regions.
Before you go
Check passport validity and Senegal’s current entry rules through the official government portal for every traveler. A yellow fever certificate is needed if you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk, and the CDC recommends the vaccine for most travelers. The CDC lists malaria risk, which is higher in the rainy season. Hepatitis A and typhoid vaccines are commonly recommended. See the CDC page for Senegal. Book a travel clinic visit four to six weeks before departure, because some vaccine courses take time. Health notes reflect the CDC’s Travelers’ Health pages as last checked in October 2026, and notices change quickly.
Last reviewed: October 27, 2026. Airline routes, schedules, baggage rules and entry requirements change, so your specialist confirms the current options when they quote your trip.
Planning a trip? See our Senegal flights page, or send us your dates for a quote.
Questions, answered.
When is the best time to fly to Senegal?
The drier, cooler months from about November to May are the most comfortable. The rainy season runs from about July to October.
Are there non-stop flights from the US to Dakar?
Delta has flown non-stop from New York, and other airlines have started and ended US routes in recent years, so schedules have changed often. Many travelers connect through Europe or North Africa. We confirm what is operating when we quote.
Where is Dakar’s airport?
Blaise Diagne International Airport is roughly 45 km from central Dakar, so allow plenty of time for the transfer.
