Plizio Visual Lab
Dakar Botanical Garden
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
kid-landmark
The Jardin Botanique de Hann in Dakar, established in 1903, is one of West Africa's oldest and most significant botanical institutions. Spanning 60 hectares, it serves as both a vital recreational area and a center for botanical research and species conservation. Geographically located in the Hann Bel-Air district, the garden acts as a green lung amidst the urban sprawl of Senegal's capital. The facility houses an impressive collection of tropical plants, including rare tree species and medicinal plants from across the region. Historically, the garden was founded during the colonial era as an experimental forestry station to promote reforestation efforts in Senegal. Today, it is an important site for environmental education, where students can learn about local flora and fauna. The inclusion of a small zoo and large ponds makes it a popular destination for families. Maintaining this facility is crucial for protecting urban biodiversity in a rapidly expanding metropolis like Dakar.
- Location: Senegal
- Nearby: Pikine (11 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 22 | 21 | 21 | 21 | 22 | 25 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 11 | 9 | 3 | 6 | 3 | 14 | 79 | 191 | 170 | 49 | 9 | 13 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Dakar Botanical Garden is a quiet park with many plants, convenient for families. Entry is usually free or for a small fee; the park is open during daytime.
Typical hours
Urban parks in Dakar are usually accessible from sunrise to sunset. Exact hours may vary seasonally, so a local check is advisable.
Photography
Photography in the park is allowed for private use. Commercial photography requires a permit from the park administration.
Time needed
A relaxed visit takes about one hour. For picnics or longer stays, you can plan for two hours.
Combine with
Combine the park visit with a trip to nearby Gorée Island or the Dakar Mamelles Lighthouse. The big market of Dakar is also not far away.
Getting there
The garden is located in the Hann Bel-Air district, reachable by taxi or bus line 7. From central Dakar it is about 20 minutes by car.
Insider tip
Bring a picnic blanket and snacks as there are shady spots in the park. Go early to avoid the midday heat and enjoy the tranquility.
Geography
Facts
- The garden was officially established on June 1, 1903.
- It covers a total land area of approximately 60 hectares.
- The facility is home to over 250 different plant species.
- It serves as the headquarters for the Senegalese Institute of Agricultural Research.
- The park includes a small zoo featuring various African animal species.
- It is the largest contiguous green space within the city of Dakar.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Dakar Botanical Garden (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is there to see in the Botanical Garden?
A collection of rare tropical plants and shaded paths.
Is the garden a good place for kids?
Yes, it gives plenty of space for running and playful learning about nature.
What are the opening hours?
Usually open during the day until sunset.
Is there a guided tour?
Information boards are available, but official guided tours are rare.
Is the entrance expensive?
The entrance is very inexpensive.
Dakar Botanical Garden: where is it located?
Dakar Botanical Garden is located in Senegal.
Dakar Botanical Garden: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Dakar Botanical Garden: why is it worth visiting?
The Jardin Botanique de Hann in Dakar, established in 1903, is one of West Africa's oldest and most significant botanical institutions.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in Africa
More places in Senegal →
Nearby cities
Dakar
The vibrant capital of Senegal is located on the Cap-Vert peninsula and serves as the political and economic center of the country.
Pikine
The largest suburb of Dakar, which became one of the most densely populated zones due to rapid population growth.
Rufisque
A historic port city near Dakar that played a key role in the peanut export during the colonial era.
Somone
A peaceful resort town set by a beautiful lagoon, known for its bird sanctuary and relaxed beach-side bars.
History & landmarks
Sandaga Market
The largest and busiest market in Dakar, known for its building in the Sudano-Sahelian architectural style.
Museum of Black Civilisations
A major museum in Dakar dedicated to African art and cultural history worldwide.
National Grand Theatre
The Grand Théâtre National Doudou Ndiaye Rose in Dakar is one of the largest cultural centers in West Africa.
Iba Mar Diop Stadium
An important athletics and football stadium in the heart of Dakar, regularly used for local tournaments.
🗺️
Dakar City Hall
A notable colonial-era building in Dakar, serving as the seat of the municipal government.
Kermel Market
A historic market in downtown Dakar, housed in a striking round building from the colonial era.
Daniel Sorano National Theatre
A historic theatre in Dakar, opened in 1965, serving as a center for Senegalese performing arts.
Dakar Independence Square
The central square in Dakar, surrounded by important government buildings and commercial centers.
More places
Great Mosque of Dakar
One of the most important Islamic sanctuaries in Senegal with impressive Moroccan architecture.
Dakar Zoo
An urban zoo with a focus on West African wildlife.
Dakar Adventure Park
A climbing park for kids with various difficulty levels.
Dakar Children's Museum
An interactive museum that promotes playful learning about culture and nature.
Port of Dakar
The Autonomous Port of Dakar is the most important seaport in Senegal.
Historic Dakar Railway Station
A magnificent colonial-style building that was the terminus of the historic Dakar-Niger Railway.
🗺️
IFAN Museum of African Arts
One of the oldest art museums in West Africa, preserving cultural and ethnographic history.
Dakar Oceanographic Museum
A museum explaining the underwater world of Senegal to kids.