Spending the night at the airport
Dakar's new airport is open 24 hours a day, making it possible for passengers with an early morning connecting flight or a delayed flight to spend the night inside the premises. Keep earplugs and a sleep mask handy for a more comfortable rest.
Where to rest: In the baggage claim area, there are some benches, but you may need to lie on the floor. To the left of the terminal entrance, you’ll find a few long benches you can combine. The Departures area, on the other hand, has some carpeted zones if you can access them, though entry is typically restricted to boarding pass holders and only 3 hours before your flight. The terminal also has VIP lounges with more amenities, some of which are open around the clock. Additionally, some city hotels offer shuttle services for their guests.
Baggage: There are currently no left-luggage services at this airport.
Eating and drinking: The terminal's eateries close at night.
Wi-Fi: Free access.
Overnight stay at the airport
Can you spend the night at Dakar Blaise Diagne airport (DSS)? Opening hours, rest areas and services for long layovers. See also the airport guide for general information.
Services and opening hours can change. If you plan to sleep in the public area, have a plan B: some airports only let passengers with a flight stay overnight.
Hotels at and near DSS
Although there are no accommodations within the premises, some nearby hotels provide shuttle services for their guests.
Ker Lep Jamm (11 km/6.8 miles)
Chez Mimi (11.1 km/6.9 miles)
Begue Pokai (11.1 km/6.9 miles)
Hôtel Blak and White de Toubab Dialao (11.3 km/7 miles)
Residence le Belier (11.4 km/7.1 miles)
Book a hotel near DSS
See hotels near DSS on Booking.com
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Tips for a long layover
- Check whether you can leave the airport: it depends on your nationality, the visa rules of Senegal and whether your bags are checked through.
- If you sleep airside, you will usually need a boarding pass for a flight that day. Ask your airline before you go through security.
- A lounge with day access can be cheaper than a hotel for a few hours: see VIP lounges at DSS.
- Keep your valuables with you, set an alarm and carry a light layer: terminals are often cold at night.
- Going to a hotel in town? See transportation from DSS (58 km to Dakar), and check which services run at night.
Content written by German Giudici
Creator of the Aeropuertos del Mundo website network since 2007.