Drinking and nightlife in Senegal

Top ChoiceNightlife in Dakar

On the hilltop in front of Dakar's iconic lighthouse, this open-air bar draws a dance-loving crowd on Friday nights, when it hosts live music jams. On Saturday nights DJs rule the roost (the cover for either night is CFA5000). At the moment, the Phare is one of the best places to be on a weekend night.

Nightlife in Dakar

Head upstairs to this stylish, open-sided drinking den near the beach for well-made cocktails, delicious sharing plates (including a tangy red tuna ceviche) and breezy views over the shore. There's also a blackboard menu of well-executed dishes like grilled octopus. It draws a mostly expat crowd. Occasional nights of DJs and live jazz.

Nightlife in Dakar

One of the anchors of the Dakar club scene, Duplex draws a well-dressed crowd who come to show off their moves on the dance floor. Although it's mostly DJs on rotation here, the occasional live band here takes the stage on Friday or Saturday night.

Nightlife in Dakar

A great option in the Plateau, Calypso has a little of everything – sports matches on the big screen, billiards tables, happy-hour specials, Belgian beers and dance parties (from 10pm onwards). Generally draws a fun crowd.

Nightlife in Saint-Louis

Any night out in this town starts at the pool-adorned riverside bar and restaurant Flamingo. Always packed, it's Saint-Louis' best place for live music – and not a bad place for a meal (mains from CFA5500) around sunset.

Nightlife in Dakar

Black & White is the place for cold drinks served at tables right on the sands, with reggae and West African beats playing overhead. You'll have to go early to score a table before sunset.

Nightlife in Dakar

This lively eatery and drinking space with a colourfully decorated patio draws a mix of locals and expats, and hosts quite the lively salsa parties (happens on periodic Fridays).

Nightlife in Cap Skirring

Sit back in a carved wooden chair and watch village life unfold from this upper-storey bar overlooking the main road. It's a laid-back spot, and a good place to catch the game.

Nightlife in Dakar

Past the broad-shouldered bouncers and across the red carpet, this large outdoor place serves well-made cocktails within strolling distance of the nightclubs.

Nightlife in Dakar

A lively daytime spot for drinks and snacks, with a great open-air setting over the ocean. You can also rent surfboards and bodyboards.

Nightlife in Dakar

At this old-style, beer-scented pub, the pints spill over and the guests are red-faced. (Women will feel safer if they've come with a few friends.) Live bands play downstairs on weekends.

Nightlife in Saint-Louis

Smart and glittering, La Chaumière is the best and closest nightclub (and occasional live-music venue) to the town centre. Pick the right night: it's liveliest on weekends.

Nightlife in Tambacounda

A friendly watering hole with decent food on hand (such as omelette sandwiches) and a back patio.

Nightlife in Ziguinchor

Has the most raucous party in town for nightclubbers.