IATA Code
DSS
ICAO Code
GOBD
Airport Type
Large Airport
Class
International

Blaise Diagne International Airport serves Dakar and replaced the city’s older Léopold Sédar Senghor airport for scheduled passenger services. It handles international and regional flights and functions as the principal gateway for Senegal; traffic is focused on international connections and regional routes.

Blaise Diagne International Airport
Elevation: 88 m
14.6709, -17.0728

Terminal Guide for Blaise Diagne International Airport #

The airport operates from a modern single passenger terminal complex that centralises check‑in, immigration and security for international and domestic services. Facilities include a range of shops and restaurants in landside and airside zones; airline lounges are available for eligible passengers. The layout is linear with clear signage between check‑in, security and the gates.

Getting to and From Blaise Diagne International Airport #

The airport is located outside Dakar (Diass/Plane area); travel time to central Dakar is typically around 45-60 minutes by road depending on traffic and the route.

  • Bus/shuttle: Several coach services and private shuttles link the airport with Dakar; scheduled public coaches operate on main routes and private airport shuttles run to key hotels.
  • Taxi: Metered and fixed‑rate taxis are available outside arrivals - agree the fare or use an official airport taxi.
  • Ride‑share: App‑based ride‑sharing availability varies; check local services prior to travel.
  • Driving: The airport is served by the main toll road; car hire desks are available at the terminal.

Facilities, Shopping, and Dining at Blaise Diagne International Airport #

The terminal offers a good selection of food and retail outlets in both landside and airside areas and several airline and independent lounges. Free Wi‑Fi is generally available with registration or a time limit; charging points are provided in seating areas. Duty‑free shopping is offered on international departures. Luggage storage and shower facilities may be available through paid lounges or nearby hotels; accessibility services are provided on request.

Hotels and Layovers at Blaise Diagne International Airport #

There are a number of hotels and guesthouses in the Diamniadio/Diass area close to the airport as well as more options in Dakar. For overnight connections, search major chains on their parent sites (for example [accor.com] or [marriott.com]) to find properties offering shuttle or private transfers.

Tips for Blaise Diagne International Airport #

  • Allow around 45-60 minutes to reach central Dakar - the drive uses the toll road and can be busy at peak times.
  • The airport replaced Dakar’s older airport for scheduled passenger flights; ensure your transfer is booked to Blaise Diagne rather than the old airport site.
  • Buy a local SIM (arrivals hall) if you need mobile data - vendors are usually available landside.
  • Expect immigration and baggage queues to be busiest on international arrival banks; plan accordingly.

Weather & Climate near Blaise Diagne International Airport #

Climate

Blaise Diagne International Airport's climate is classified as Hot Semi-Arid - Hot Semi-Arid climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from 16°C to 34°C. Semi-arid with limited rainfall with a pronounced dry season.

Air Quality: AQI 92 Moderate
Best Time to Visit
JanuaryMarchApril
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
42°
Warmest Month
11°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January Ideal 16° - 30° 23° 1 mm some cloud 39% 3.6 m/s 1.6 very high 11.3h
February Ideal 17° - 32° 24° 1 mm partly cloudy 44% 4.0 m/s 1.9 very high 11.6h
March Ideal 18° - 33° 25° 0 mm some cloud 50% 4.2 m/s 2.3 extreme 11.9h
April Ideal 18° - 32° 25° 0 mm some cloud 57% 4.0 m/s 2.5 extreme 12.3h
May Ideal 19° - 33° 26° 1 mm partly cloudy 61% 3.7 m/s 2.5 extreme 12.7h
June Very Good 22° - 33° 29° 18 mm partly cloudy 66% 3.2 m/s 2.3 extreme 12.8h
July Good 23° - 32° 30° 79 mm overcast 73% 3.4 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.8h
August Acceptable 23° - 31° 30° 184 mm overcast 80% 2.7 m/s 2.2 extreme 12.5h
September Good 23° - 32° 31° 148 mm partly cloudy 82% 2.2 m/s 2.1 extreme 12.1h
October Excellent 23° - 33° 31° 31 mm some cloud 75% 2.2 m/s 2.0 extreme 11.7h
November Excellent 20° - 34° 27° 3 mm some cloud 59% 2.8 m/s 1.7 very high 11.3h
December Ideal 17° - 31° 24° 1 mm some cloud 46% 3.2 m/s 1.6 very high 11.2h

Nearby Cities #