Article updated on April 9, 2025
Located on the Cap-Vert peninsula, the Almadies district in Dakar is an iconic place. Even in 2025, Almadies remains a legendary neighborhood in Dakar. In this article, we invite you to discover this multifaceted district, exploring its history, unique characteristics, tourist appeal, landmarks, and real estate market. Get ready to explore Almadies and discover everything this exceptional district has to offer, whether you're a Dakar resident, an expat, or simply a visitor looking for unique experiences.
History of Almadies 📍
Les Almadies , located in the Senegalese capital, Dakar, is a neighborhood rich in history and cultural heritage. To better appreciate this iconic district, it is essential to understand its origins and evolution over the years.
Origins and foundation of the neighborhood
The name " Almadies " originates from the Portuguese word "Almadias," which refers to a type of traditional fishing boat used by the local people. The Portuguese, who were the first Europeans to reach the region at the end of the 15th century, were impressed by the ingenuity of these boats and therefore named the place in their honor.
Initially, Almadies was mainly populated by Lebou , a Senegalese ethnic group living on the Cap-Vert peninsula . This community lived autonomously, in harmony with nature and the resources of the sea.
Evolution and development of Almadies
The modern history of Almadies begins at the start of the 20th century, when Dakar became the capital of French West Africa (AOF) in 1902. This decision led to rapid growth of the city, and Almadies quickly attracted the attention of French settlers due to their privileged geographical location on the Pointe des Almadies , which represents the westernmost point of the African continent.
Over the years, the district has undergone considerable development and has become a popular resort area for the French and other expatriates, who have built sumptuous villas along the coast. Almadies has also benefited from the construction of modern infrastructure, such as roads, schools, and hospitals, which have helped to improve the quality of life for its residents.
After Senegal's independence in 1960, Les Almadies continued to develop, attracting not only local but also diplomats and expatriates from around the world. The district thus became a true cultural melting pot, where diverse architectural styles and different nationalities coexist.
Today, Les Almadies is considered one of Dakar's most prestigious and sought-after neighborhoods . It offers a pleasant and safe living environment while being close to the city's main tourist attractions and business centers. The neighborhood continues to evolve and develop, with new real estate projects and urban developments designed to preserve its charm and quality of life.
Almadies: A peaceful area of Dakar 🌊
The Almadies district, located at the far western tip of the Cap-Vert peninsula, has several distinctive features that make it a unique and attractive place within Dakar. Among these characteristics are the Pointe des Almadies, a secure residential area, and the cultural and architectural diversity that characterizes this sector.
The Almadies Point
As we mentioned earlier, the neighborhood is located on Pointe des Almadies, the westernmost point of the Cap-Vert peninsula and the African continent . This picturesque spot offers spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and is a favorite for walks and family picnics. Pointe des Almadies is also a popular spot for local fishermen who come to practice their trade, offering visitors an authentic spectacle. Its location makes it a highly sought-after area.
A residential and secure neighborhood
Les Almadies is also known as a sought-after residential area of Dakar, offering a peaceful and secure living environment for its residents. The numerous embassies, consulates, and diplomatic residences in this area contribute to the neighborhood's security and prestige. The tree-lined streets and spacious villas appeal to both local families and expatriates, who appreciate the tranquility and quality of life offered by Les Almadies.
A very diverse neighborhood
The Almadies district is also distinguished by its cultural and architectural diversity . Strolling through its streets, one can admire buildings in a variety of styles, ranging from modern villas to more traditional houses. This diversity is also reflected in the daily life and businesses of the district, with a multitude of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries that testify to the cultural richness of Senegal and the global influence that characterizes Almadies.
In short, Les Almadies is a multifaceted neighborhood with a very pleasant living environment. It stands out as a true gem of Dakar and a must-see for visitors who wish to discover the charms and unique features of this iconic district of the capital .
An undeniable tourist attraction 🌞
Les Almadies in Dakar is an essential stop for tourists, with so much to discover! The district charms visitors with its picturesque features and breathtaking seaside spots!
Beaches and relaxation 🏖️
The beaches of Almadies are among the most beautiful and popular in Dakar. These stretches of fine sand bordering the Atlantic Ocean are ideal for relaxing, sunbathing, or swimming. Among the most popular beaches is Ngor Beach , located near Ngor Island, an iconic landmark of the neighborhood.
Water sports enthusiasts will also find plenty to enjoy. A multitude of options are available, including sailing , surfing , scuba diving , and jet skiing . Almadies is renowned for its surf spots, which attract surfers from all over the world seeking thrills and impressive waves.
Excursions to Ngor Island ⚓
The Almadies area will also appeal to nature lovers. One of the main attractions is Ngor Island , located a short pirogue ride from the beach of the same name. This picturesque island is a must-see, where visitors can wander along lovely green trails, discover secluded beaches, or sample local specialties in traditional restaurants. We highly recommend it!
A neighborhood where you won't get bored 🙂
Almadies offers plenty of leisure activities to entertain visitors. Golf enthusiasts can enjoy the prestigious Almadies Golf Club , which features an 18-hole course in a pleasant, green setting.
The Almadies district is also renowned for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, discos, and clubs attracting a cosmopolitan and festive crowd. Dakar nights are something else! 🙂
Hotels and restaurants in Almadies 🏢🍽️
Les Almadies is a popular district thanks to its diverse range of hotels and restaurants. Visitors have plenty of choice: luxury establishments, more intimate settings, local specialties, and more… There's something for everyone!
Renowned Hotels in Almadies 🏢
The Almadies district is home to several renowned hotels offering high-end amenities for a comfortable stay. Among the most prestigious is the King Fahd Palace , located on the seafront and offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. This 5-star hotel features luxurious rooms and suites, a swimming pool, a spa, and several restaurants.
BOOK AT THE KING FAHD 🧡 PALACE - BEST RATES
You will also find other very good hotels in the area:
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For those who prefer a more intimate setting, La Villa Malaka offers elegant guest rooms and personalized service in a charming villa.
ALL HOTELS IN ALMADIES AT THE BEST PRICE ✅
Trendy restaurants and places 🍽️
The Almadies district is also renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, which reflects the area's cultural diversity. Restaurants offer typical Senegalese dishes, such as thieboudienne or yassa , as well as international cuisines like French, Italian, Lebanese, and Asian.
Among the trendy and unmissable spots in Almadies is Le Cabanon , a restaurant-bar located on Ngor beach, offering a relaxed atmosphere with live music and DJ nights. It's an ideal place to unwind and enjoy the ocean view.
Another must-visit is Chez Fatou , a seaside restaurant offering Senegalese and international dishes in a warm and friendly atmosphere. Seafood lovers and fans of creative cuisine will be delighted by the quality of the food served at this iconic Almadies establishment.
Finally, Sharky’s is another key spot in Almadies, where you can enjoy a wide range of dishes as well as sophisticated cocktails. Don't hesitate to go there to spend some time in good company.
Real estate in Almadies 🏠
The Almadies real estate market is very dynamic and attractive, particularly due to the quality of life offered by the neighborhood and the presence of numerous amenities (food, healthcare, banks, shops, etc.). In this section, we will discuss the demand for housing and office space, the types of properties available, and real estate investment in the area, providing you with some key figures to help you better understand market trends.
Demand for housing and offices
Demand for housing and office space in Almadies remains strong due to area's attractiveness . Secure residences and office buildings draw a large number of individuals and businesses seeking a peaceful and secure environment to live or work. This high demand translates into some prices per square meter in Dakar. By 2025, some villas for sale in Dakar were priced above 600,000,000 FCFA, while monthly rents ranged from 800,000 FCFA for a two-bedroom apartment to 2,500,000 FCFA for a villa with a swimming pool.
Types of properties available in Almadies
Les Almadies offers a variety of properties to meet the needs of different segments of the real estate market. These include spacious and luxurious villas with pools and gardens, modern apartments in secure residences, as well as offices and commercial spaces . The latter are a consequence of oversupply in the Plateau district , which has prompted some companies to relocate elsewhere.
The Almadies real estate market also offers building plots for those wishing to construct their own homes . In 2025, it was not uncommon to see serviced plots priced at over 2 million CFA francs per square meter!
Real estate investment in the neighborhood
Investing in real estate in Almadies can be a wise decision, given the sustained demand and the neighborhood's reputation. Investors can expect attractive rental yields, as well as long-term appreciation in the value of their properties. New developments and high-quality renovations are particularly sought after, attracting tenants willing to pay premium rents to enjoy the exceptional living environment that Almadies offers.
To discover apartments for rent in the Almadies district of Dakar , feel free to consult our selection of listings on Keur-Immo.com by clicking here .
All apartment rentals in Dakar.
All apartments for rent in Almadies.
This concludes our article on the many facets of the Almadies district. Now it's up to you to discover it for yourself and enjoy the many surprises it holds.
Feel free to check out all the real estate listings in Senegal on Keur-Immo .