# Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR) > Dakar, SN · 17 km (10 mi) northwest of Dakar city centre Web: https://airport.flights/airport/dkr JSON: https://airport.flights/api/airport/dkr.json ## Facts - **IATA**: DKR - **ICAO**: GOOY - **Timezone**: Africa/Dakar - **Runways**: 1 - **Terminals**: 1 - **Passengers**: .627M/yr - **Official site**: http://www.asecna.org/ ## Overview ## Welcome Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR) stands as a monument to Dakar’s aviation past, remembered for its strong connection to West Africa’s aviation era. Despite its storied heritage, the airport today is more like a barebones local field than a conventional international hub—an aspect that surprises many travelers. The striking immediacy with which travelers transition from the arrivals terminal into the hustle and bustle of street-level transport is a defining feature, setting the stage for an atypical airport experience. ## At a glance Situated 17 kilometers northwest of Dakar's city center, DKR handles approximately 627,000 passengers per year with just one runway. The airport houses a single terminal—Main—servicing airlines like Air Senegal, Corsair International, and Transair. Notable for its minimalistic infrastructure, the airport offers negligible retail or dining facilities, emphasizing the pure transit aspect of air travel. With this setup, the airport reflects its West African roots, free from the trappings of an "airport village" seen in many international counterparts. ## Terminals & layout DKR consists of the Main Terminal, characterized by an essentialist layout that delivers basic functionality without frills. The terminal primarily handles flights for airlines such as Air Senegal, Corsair International, and Transair. Travelers often find an airside filled with essential services only, which further enforces the efficiency-driven vibe of the airport. ## Getting to and from the city Ground transportation forms the true test of such a streamlined airport environment. Official taxis, identifiable by their 24/7 availability at designated ranks, provide a formal but flexible transfer option, typically costing around 3,000 CFA to reach downtown Dakar. Alternatively, the DDD bus, noted as “bus line 8,” offers a cost-effective transfer option at approximately 250 CFA, though it may require subsequent transportation once it reaches the city bus station. For smoother and faster transit, arranging a private driver or hotel transfer in advance is an advised, albeit pricier, strategy. ## Traveller essentials With an absence of traditional airport amenities such as lounges or extensive shopping options, travelers should prioritize essentials. A deep reliance on personal planning is critical here: charge devices preemptively and carry small-denomination CFA for your transport and small purchases, as the airport offers limited options to address immediate needs. The official website provides flight status information, invaluable due to a lack of comprehensive terminal screens. ## Dining & shopping highlights Given the lack of dedicated dining and shopping options, travelers should plan accordingly. While in-transit shopping and meals are not a feature here, this simplicity aligns with the straightforward approach of Léopold Sédar Senghor. Thus, bringing snacks or purchasing items before arriving at the airport may be wise for those who need sustenance during their journey. ## Lounges This airport does not host any lounges, whether public or airline-affiliated, further emphasizing its no-frills atmosphere. Travelers seeking relaxation or a quiet spot should adjust expectations and consider preboarding alternatives in the city for comfort prior to arrival at the airport. ## Insider tips - **Insider:** Taxi fares are often negotiable even with posted rates—plan time for haggling. - **Money:** For city transfers, the DDD bus option at approximately 250 CFA is your budget-friendly alternative to taxis. - **Time:** Arrive 3 hours early for international flights, as suggested by general guidance due to potential procedural delays. - **Local:** The official taxi rank offers a smoother pickup as it operates 24/7 and reduces negotiation hassles. - **Avoid:** Ignore informal taxi offers outside the official ranks to ensure a safer, more structured travel experience. - **Quiet:** The lack of airport amenities means tranquil travel is best found outside the terminal, prior to arrival. - **Time:** Keep cash handy in smaller denominations since exact or near-exact change is often required for public transport. - **Insider:** Check live flight status on the airport’s official site for timely updates directly from source. ## Terminals (1) - **Main Terminal** — Air Senegal, Corsair International, Transair ## Ground transport (2) - **DDD Bus** — Airport shuttle/bus · 250 CFA for the city bus noted as “bus line 8” between airport and city[2] - **Official Taxi Rank** — Ground transport · ≈3000 CFA to Dakar city (posted ‘official’ rate, used as reference in traveler reports)[2] ## Insider tips - _Insider_: Taxi fares are often negotiable even with posted rates—plan time for haggling. - _Money_: For city transfers, the DDD bus option at approximately 250 CFA is your budget-friendly alternative to taxis. - _Time_: Arrive 3 hours early for international flights, as suggested by general guidance due to potential procedural delays. - _Local_: The official taxi rank offers a smoother pickup as it operates 24/7 and reduces negotiation hassles. - _Avoid_: Ignore informal taxi offers outside the official ranks to ensure a safer, more structured travel experience. - _Quiet_: The lack of airport amenities means tranquil travel is best found outside the terminal, prior to arrival. - _Time_: Keep cash handy in smaller denominations since exact or near-exact change is often required for public transport. - _Insider_: Check live flight status on the airport’s official site for timely updates directly from source.