2nd International Conference on Sustainable Development in Africa

PRACTICALITIES

Please make sure you book your flight as early as possible to avoid high costs, as this year’s month of November is a pick time to travel to Dakar due to the Grand Magal de Touba celebration.

Taxi

The regular taxis are yellow coloured. Upon arrival at Dakar airport, you will find them lined up outside of the airport. The distance between the airport and the hotel is approximately 10 km and will take about 10 to 15 minutes. A taxi to Pointe des Almadies and Hotel des Almadies will cost about 10 euros. Before getting into the taxi, make sure you agree with the driver on the price, and underscore that you will stick to that price. Do not accept taxi proposals by individuals inside the airport as they may charge  excessive prices. If you don’t have FCFA (local currency) agree beforehand to pay in Euros or US Dollars.

Health and vaccination

Click here (English) or here (French) for an overview of recommended vaccines and health precautions. Health risks and pre-travel vaccination should be individually discussed with your doctor or with the doctor at a travel advice centre.

Weather and Climate

Dakar has a rainy and humid season from June to late September, when temperatures reach 30°C. From October to June, there is a dry ‘cool’ season with temperatures going down to 24°. Early October, though, we can still expect temperatures of about 28-30°C, with occasional showers. The Conference period was chosen to be in the dry season.

It is recommended to bring light cotton clothing. Long sleeves and clothes covering most of the body are recommended, especially in the evening, as a protection against mosquitoes.

Money

The unit of currency is the West African CFA franc (1 EURO is 655,957 FCFA; 1 USD is 586,23 FCFA). Banks are found in all larger towns across the country. Banks and exchange bureaus tend to offer similar rates. Bankcards commonly used: Visa, followed by MasterCard and American Express.

• MEDIA CREDITS

  Jeff Attaway / Flickr