At the arrivals exit of Blaise Diagne Airport, several options are available, with significant differences in price and comfort. Here's an honest comparison to help you choose based on your budget, luggage and flight time.
Overview of the available options
| Option | Indicative rate | Strengths | Limits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Official AIBD taxi | ≈13,000 FCFA daytime / 18,000 FCFA nighttime to Dakar | Available without booking, regulated rate | Possible waiting time, negotiation sometimes needed |
| Dakar Dem Dikk (DDD) bus | ≈1,500 to 6,000 FCFA depending on the line | Very economical | Fixed schedules, multiple stops, bulky luggage impractical |
| Aerobus Direct AIBD shuttle | Fixed rate, online booking | Serves Dakar, Mbour and Thiès | Scheduled departure times, less flexibility |
| Car with private driver | Fixed rate confirmed in advance | Named pickup, flight tracking, door-to-door | Higher cost than a bus, must be booked ahead |
The official taxi, the fastest option without booking
An official taxi counter is located at the arrivals exit, with a regulated rate that varies according to the time of day or night and the destination. It's the simplest solution if you haven't booked anything in advance, but expect a bit of waiting during busy periods, and keep in mind that the motorway toll, if the driver takes it, is generally added to the fare.
Buses and shuttles, the economical option
The Dakar Dem Dikk network serves the airport with regular departures, a rate significantly lower than a taxi, but with fixed schedules and several stops before reaching the city centre. The Aerobus Direct AIBD shuttle, meanwhile, links the airport directly to Dakar, Mbour and Thiès, an interesting option for those travelling light with no tight schedule constraint on arrival.
- ▸You're travelling with little luggage and a tight budget.
- ▸Your flight arrives at a time compatible with the shuttle departure schedules.
- ▸You don't have young children or bulky equipment to carry.
- ▸Dakar with a private driver: why it's the best choice
The private driver, for a trip without surprises
For a first trip after a long flight, with luggage, children or simply the wish not to manage anything, a car with driver booked in advance remains the most comfortable solution: named pickup right from the exit, flight tracking in case of delay, and drop-off directly at the final address, with no change of vehicle or queuing.
Beware of unofficial touts offering attractive rates at the exit: favour the official taxi counter or a booking made in advance to avoid any unpleasant surprise on the final price.
Frequently asked questions
The Dakar Dem Dikk bus remains the most economical option, with a rate significantly lower than a taxi, but fixed schedules and several stops.
Yes, the official rate is higher at night than during the day towards Dakar: it's best to check at the official counter before getting in.
Yes, that's one of the main advantages of booking in advance: the driver tracks the actual flight schedule and adjusts the pickup at no extra cost.
In summary
Between the official taxi, economical bus, scheduled shuttle and private driver, the right choice mainly depends on your budget, your luggage and your flight's arrival time. For a first trip without surprises, a car with driver booked in advance remains the most stress-free option.
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