African Renaissance Monument
Africa's tallest statue, a bronze family gazing towards the future, symbolizing pride and progress.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More relaxed vibe, tours may be available.
African Renaissance Monument
Best Time
More relaxed vibe, tours may be available.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Africa's tallest statue, a bronze family gazing towards the future, symbolizing pride and progress.
"Must visit place in Dakar. Grand statue. Was fun with friends."
Climb the Steps!
Enjoy the nearly 200 steps to the base, with benches to rest and admire the view. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tour Times
Tours inside the monument are organized on a first-come basis. Be aware of potential breaks. :ticket:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Monument Itself
Africa's tallest statue, a striking bronze depiction of a family, symbolizing progress and unity.
Panoramic City Views
Ascend to the top for breathtaking vistas of Dakar and the Atlantic Ocean.
Inside the Monument
Explore the interior, which houses a museum showcasing African cultures and history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Climb the Steps!
Enjoy the nearly 200 steps to the base, with benches to rest and admire the view. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tour Times
Tours inside the monument are organized on a first-come basis. Be aware of potential breaks. :ticket:
Bring Snacks
Popcorn and drinks are available at the top, but bringing your own is an option. :popcorn:
Photo Opportunities
The monument and surrounding views offer fantastic photo ops, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Climb the Steps!
Enjoy the nearly 200 steps to the base, with benches to rest and admire the view. :athletic_shoe:
Check Tour Times
Tours inside the monument are organized on a first-come basis. Be aware of potential breaks. :ticket:
Bring Snacks
Popcorn and drinks are available at the top, but bringing your own is an option. :popcorn:
Photo Opportunities
The monument and surrounding views offer fantastic photo ops, especially at sunset. :camerawithflash:
Free Entry to Grounds
Wander the grounds and enjoy the exterior for free; tickets are only for interior access. :moneywithwings:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by the monument's impressive scale and the breathtaking panoramic views of Dakar and the Atlantic Ocean from its summit. The symbolic representation of African unity and progress resonates deeply. However, some note that the surrounding grounds could benefit from better maintenance, and inconsistent opening hours for interior tours can be a point of frustration.
"This place is so worth a visit. There was a lovely vibe all around last Sunday, with lots of people enjoying themselves. The steps are fun, great for photos and the view. People at the top were relaxed and many were buying boxes of popcorn.
We decided to go into the statue itself and we're glad that we did. You just stand around listening out for when they will organise the queue for the next tour. When you eventually get to the top, you're actually in the hat of the man in the statue, and have great views all around of the city and the Atlantic Ocean."
Luke W
"Not sure why the Google listing gives you options for tickets. Maybe it is for tours, but you can literally walk up the stairs and look around. You do not need a ticket to walk up the stairs, take pictures, so forth and so on."
Briana H.
"Must visit place in Dakar. Grand statue. Was fun with friends. One can go inside the status by paying some entrance fees."
Anupam Shukla
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Taxis are a popular and convenient way to reach the monument from Dakar. Some visitors mention that taxis can drop you off closer to the top.
If you're feeling energetic, you can walk up the nearly 200 steps to the base, with resting benches along the way.
Yes, there is a parking area available, and taxis can also drive you up closer to the monument.
While it's a significant distance from central Dakar, you can walk to the monument if you are in the vicinity. However, most visitors opt for taxis for convenience.
Taxis are widely used and relatively affordable for getting around Dakar. Negotiate fares beforehand or ensure the meter is used.
Information on direct public transport to the monument is limited, with taxis being the most recommended option for tourists.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a ticket to walk around the grounds and admire the monument from the outside. However, a ticket is required to enter the monument and visit the museum inside.
The cost for entry into the monument and museum is a small entrance fee. Specific prices can vary, so it's best to inquire on-site.
Opening hours can be inconsistent, and there may be breaks during the day. It's advisable to check on arrival or ask locals for the most up-to-date information.
Tickets for tours inside the monument are typically organized on a first-come, first-served basis. You'll need to wait for a tour group to be formed.
Currently, there is no widely advertised online ticketing system. Tickets are usually purchased on-site.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
The base of the monument offers great perspectives, and the panoramic views from the top are spectacular. Sunsets are particularly beautiful here.
Yes, photography is generally allowed inside the monument and museum, though it's always good to be mindful of any specific restrictions.
From the top, you'll get stunning panoramic views of Dakar city and the vast Atlantic Ocean.
While drone usage regulations can vary, capturing aerial shots of the monument can be impressive, showcasing its scale and location.
Generally, photography is permitted for personal use. Professional or commercial photography might require special permits.
🎫 🏛️ History & Meaning
The monument symbolizes African pride, unity, and the continent's bright future. It depicts an idealized African family looking towards the horizon.
The monument was built by Mansudae Overseas Projects, a North Korean construction firm. +1
The African Renaissance Monument was completed and inaugurated in 2010, marking Senegal's 50th anniversary of independence.
Commissioned by then-president Abdoulaye Wade, it was intended to celebrate African heritage and progress after 50 years of independence.
Yes, the African Renaissance Monument is significantly taller than the Statue of Liberty, standing at 52 meters compared to the Statue of Liberty's 46 meters.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are eateries at the base and a shop at the top selling items like popcorn, water, juices, and burgers.
You can find local snacks like popcorn and drinks at the monument itself. For a full meal, there are eateries at the bottom street level.
While there are designated eateries, enjoying a picnic on the grounds might be possible, but check local regulations.
Dakar offers a wide range of restaurants serving delicious Senegalese cuisine. Exploring local eateries is highly recommended.
Popcorn is a popular snack available at tourist sites like the monument. You might also find other local street food options.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and water, as available options might be limited or pricey. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🌍 History Buffs
The interior museum offers insights into Africa's rich heritage and diverse cultures, making it a valuable stop for those interested in learning more about the continent's past and present. Understanding the context of its construction and its intended message adds a deeper layer to the visit. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Monument's Construction and Symbolism
It was unveiled in 2010 and was commissioned by Senegal's then-president, Abdoulaye Wade, to commemorate 50 years of independence. The monument depicts an idealized African family: a man, a woman, and a child, gazing resolutely towards the horizon. This powerful imagery symbolizes Africa's bright future, its resilience, and its ongoing journey of progress and self-determination. +1Interestingly, the construction of this iconic landmark was undertaken by Mansudae Overseas Projects, a state-owned North Korean firm.
Its sheer scale and symbolic meaning have made it a must-visit attraction for those seeking to understand Senegal's cultural identity and aspirations. Experiencing the Monument: Views and Interior
For those who choose to go inside, a ticket is required, and tours are organized on a first-come, first-served basis.
Reaching the very top places you within the 'hat' of the man in the statue, offering unparalleled panoramic views of Dakar and the vast Atlantic Ocean. Visitor Experience and Maintenance
However, some reviews point to a perceived lack of maintenance in the surrounding areas, with mentions of waste and flags in poor condition.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit