Getting around Dakar during the Youth Olympic Games 2026: a practical guide

The Summer Youth Olympic Games take place in Senegal from 31 October to 13 November 2026, the first Olympic event ever held in Africa. Competitions are spread over three zones: Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.

Diamniadio hosts the opening ceremony and the equestrian centre, while Saly hosts beach and water events such as beach handball, rowing, sailing and triathlon. About 2,700 athletes are expected from nearly 200 national Olympic committees, along with coaches, officials, volunteers, journalists and families.

For two weeks, thousands of people will travel between venues spread over several dozen kilometres. Competition schedules, security checks and normal traffic in the Dakar region can lengthen journeys, so allow a comfortable margin.

Official information on shuttles, access and schedules is published by the organisers; check it daily as arrangements may change. King Car Services is not an official partner of the Games. We offer private transport that complements the official arrangements.

Self-drive rental suits visitors who already know the city and want full flexibility. Renting with a driver is often calmer: the driver knows the routes and handles parking. A one-off transfer (airport, Dakar–Saly, Dakar–Diamniadio) covers a single need without a multi-day rental.

For a family or a small group, an SUV or 7-seater from our catalogue can be more practical than two cars. For delegations and media teams, contact the agency to prepare a suitable schedule.

Book as soon as your dates are known: demand rises sharply during major events and the catalogue is limited. For arrivals at Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD), give us your flight number so delivery matches your landing time.

Carry your contract, documents and the agency number at all times. You can reach us on WhatsApp at +221 78 106 57 57.

A good day starts the evening before: check the schedule of the events you want to attend, locate the venue, estimate the journey time from your accommodation and add at least 45 minutes for checks and access. With children or reduced mobility, plan a drop-off point as close as possible to the entrance.

With a driver you can agree a pick-up point and time at the end of the event. If you drive yourself, identify parking in advance and keep a plan B in case the area is closed to traffic.

A longer journey, a closed access, a schedule change: this is normal at an international event. Tell the agency as soon as possible, keep your phone charged and carry copies of your documents. Our team answers on WhatsApp at +221 78 106 57 57.

Dakar concentrates most hotels, residences and restaurants and is the natural starting point to reach the other zones. Diamniadio, to the east, is a recent town built around large facilities; you go there mainly for a specific event. Saly, on the Petite Côte, is a seaside resort where people usually stay rather than just pass through.

If your programme covers several zones on the same day, plan ahead: it is better to group events in one zone than to chain round trips. For Saly, consider staying locally for a few days rather than returning to Dakar every night.

Catalogue availability is shown live. Booking is made without online payment: the agency validates, then a 50% deposit is agreed. The summary details each line: daily rate, number of days, any fees, deposit and balance. If an amount is not defined it shows "to be confirmed".

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