Marché Colobane - Image 1
1 / 2

Marché Colobane Dakar

4.6
·491k reviews·Dakar, Senegal

Dakar's bustling Marché Colobane is a vibrant marketplace famous for its 'friperies' (second-hand clothes) and electronics.

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better selection

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Marché Colobane - Image 1

Marché Colobane Dakar

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, better selection

CrowdLow

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dakar's bustling Marché Colobane is a vibrant marketplace famous for its 'friperies' (second-hand clothes) and electronics.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Discover unique fashion and tech bargains in this energetic heart of Dakar's commerce."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Haggling is part of the experience! Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate with a smile.

📱 Phone Deals Galore

Looking for a new phone? Colobane is a go-to spot for affordable mobile devices and accessories.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Thrifted Fashion Paradise

Thrifted Fashion Paradise

Throughout the market

Discover unique, pre-loved clothing and vintage gems. Score amazing deals on stylish outfits and one-of-a-kind pieces.

Electronics Hub

Electronics Hub

Designated stalls

Find a wide array of mobile phones, accessories, and other electronics. Great for budget-friendly tech upgrades.

Local Atmosphere

Local Atmosphere

Market pathways

Immerse yourself in the lively energy of Dakar's commerce. Experience the authentic hustle and bustle of a true Senegalese market.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Navigate the Bustling Market

Marché Colobane is a vibrant hub for clothing, electronics, and more. Be prepared for crowds and enthusiastic vendors. Haggling is expected, so have fun negotiating prices for the best deals on fashion and tech.

Best Buys and What to Expect

Known for its incredible selection of 'friperies' (second-hand clothing), you can find unique fashion pieces. It's also a hotspot for electronics, especially phones. Go with an open mind and be ready to explore!

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better selection
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Vendors may be more flexible
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

#Tallafriperiedakarcolobane📍 @Toutou Astou @🇸🇳🇺🇸🇹🇷 @Adja 112l @Frip’in Shop @FIA 🇨🇳🇦🇪🇲🇦🇸🇳🥰@Maïmouna SMf business 🇸🇳 @Mrs FRIPERIE 🎊 @Gaïndé Diop @Friperie Authentic
@tallafriperie
47.2K likes • 770.4K views

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Haggling is part of the experience! Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate with a smile. Reddit

📱 Phone Deals Galore

Looking for a new phone? Colobane is a go-to spot for affordable mobile devices and accessories. TikTok+1

#television #smart #dakar #colobane #sénégalaise🇸🇳
@keur.sokhna.diarr2
43.2K likes • 1.2M views
balade au marché aux puces de Colobane, à Dakar #réel #instagram #viralvideos #china #blackpanther #southafrica #senegalaisebeauty_girl🇸🇳🇸🇳😊 #indonesia #india
babacar_patrick
55 likes • 1.4K views

👚 Vintage Fashion Finds

Explore the 'friperies' for unique second-hand clothing and vintage treasures. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must! TikTok

🚩 COLOBANE - DAKAR 🇸🇳🇸🇳 Avec celui de Sandaga, c'est le marché aux puces le plus ancien de Dakar. Des fripes, des fripes et encore des fripes. On y trouve du tout. Des habits aux téléphones portables en passant par les fournitures scolaires et la friperie. #roadtripsenegal #Senegal #Dakar #kebetu #Sénégal #colobane
road_trip_senegal_
2 likes • 94 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Bargain Like a Pro

Haggling is part of the experience! Start lower than you're willing to pay and negotiate with a smile. Reddit

📱 Phone Deals Galore

Looking for a new phone? Colobane is a go-to spot for affordable mobile devices and accessories. TikTok+1

👚 Vintage Fashion Finds

Explore the 'friperies' for unique second-hand clothing and vintage treasures. Instagram+1

🚶‍♀️ Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be doing a lot of walking and exploring, so comfortable footwear is a must! TikTok

💧 Be Prepared for Rain

If visiting after heavy rain, be aware that some areas might be wet or muddy. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Marché Colobane is a vibrant and essential Dakar experience, celebrated for its incredible selection of affordable clothing and electronics. Visitors love the thrill of finding unique items and the lively atmosphere, though some find the crowds and vendor persistence overwhelming. It's a must-visit for bargain hunters and those seeking authentic local commerce.

What People Like

Incredible thrift finds
Affordable electronics
Lively market atmosphere

What People Dislike

Crowded conditions
Persistent vendors

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Marché Colobane is a well-known landmark in Dakar. You can easily reach it by taxi or local public transport (like 'sept-places' or 'car rapide'). Many locals know the area, so asking for directions is usually straightforward. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it's a major market. Taxis will know it by name. If you're using a ride-sharing app, search for 'Marché Colobane'. TikTok

Taxis are readily available and relatively affordable for tourists. For a more local experience, try the 'car rapide' or 'sept-places' buses, but be prepared for a more crowded and adventurous journey. Instagram

It's located in the heart of Dakar. Some sources mention it's in front of '28' or near the 'Centre Commercial Cheikh Ahmadou Bamba'. TikTok+1

Yes, most navigation apps will recognize 'Marché Colobane' and provide directions. TikTok

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Marché Colobane is a public market, and there is no admission fee to enter. You can freely explore the stalls and browse the goods. Instagram

The market generally operates daily, but hours can vary. It's busiest during daylight hours, typically from morning until early evening. Some vendors might stay open later. TikTok

Weekday mornings are often recommended for a less crowded experience and better selection. Late afternoons can also be good as vendors might be more open to negotiation. TikTok

There are no entrance fees to the market itself. You only pay for the items you decide to purchase. Instagram

Yes, the market is open on weekends, but it can be significantly more crowded, especially on Saturdays. TikTok

🎫 🛍️ Shopping & Goods

You can find a vast array of goods, including second-hand clothing ('friperies'), new clothing, shoes, electronics (especially mobile phones), accessories, household items, and more. TikTokInstagram

Absolutely! It's famous for its 'friperies' where you can find unique and affordable clothing. You can also find new garments. Instagram+1

Yes, it's a major hub for electronics, particularly mobile phones and accessories. Many vendors specialize in these items. TikTok+1

While you can find good deals, it's wise to inspect electronics carefully and test them if possible. Buying from reputable-looking vendors can help. TikTok

The quality can vary greatly, as it's second-hand. You can find excellent condition items and hidden gems with careful searching. Instagram+1

🎫 💰 Prices & Payment

Prices are generally very affordable, especially for clothing. However, they are often negotiable. Don't hesitate to bargain. Reddit

It's best to carry cash, as most vendors at Marché Colobane primarily deal in cash transactions. TikTok

The currency in Senegal is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Ensure you have enough local currency on hand. TikTok

Yes, negotiation is a key part of the shopping experience at Marché Colobane. Be polite but firm in your offers. Reddit

While many items are negotiable, some vendors, especially those selling newer electronics, might have more fixed prices. Always ask or try to negotiate. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography & Experience

Generally, yes, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-up photos of their merchandise or them. Some may prefer not to be photographed. TikTok

It's a vibrant, energetic, and sometimes chaotic market. Expect a lot of activity, noise, and interaction with vendors. It's a true sensory experience. TikTokInstagram

Yes, it offers a very authentic glimpse into local commerce and daily life. Just be prepared for the bustling environment. TikTok

Dress modestly, be respectful of vendors, and be prepared for a lively atmosphere. Learning a few basic French or Wolof phrases can be helpful. TikTok

Its sheer scale, the variety of goods, and the lively bargaining culture make it a unique and memorable destination in Dakar. TikTokInstagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Marché Colobane can be an exciting, albeit overwhelming, experience for families. While there are no specific 'kid zones,' children might enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and the sheer variety of items on display. Focus on the clothing sections for potential fun finds. Keep a close eye on children due to the crowds and ensure they have comfortable shoes for navigating the market. It might be best for families with younger children to visit during quieter weekday mornings. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget travelers, Marché Colobane is a goldmine. The 'friperies' offer incredibly affordable clothing, allowing you to refresh your wardrobe without breaking the bank. Instagram+1 Electronics are also significantly cheaper here than in many other places, especially if you're willing to negotiate. Carry enough cash and be prepared to haggle to get the best possible prices. TikTok This is the place to find great value for your money. Reddit

🛍️ Fashion Enthusiasts & Vintage Lovers

Fashion lovers and vintage enthusiasts will find Marché Colobane a paradise. The second-hand clothing stalls ('friperies') are legendary for their unique finds, from retro pieces to potential designer labels. Instagram+1 It's a place to discover one-of-a-kind items that stand out from fast fashion. Be prepared to spend time browsing and don't be afraid to dig through the racks – the best pieces are often hidden gems. TikTok

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of the Hunt: Thrifting at Colobane

Marché Colobane is renowned for its extensive 'friperies,' or second-hand clothing sections. Here, you can embark on a treasure hunt for unique fashion pieces, vintage items, and designer brands at incredibly low prices. Many local businesses and individuals source their inventory from Colobane, making it a vital part of Dakar's fashion ecosystem. Instagram+1 Prepare to sift through racks and piles, as the best finds often require a keen eye and a bit of patience. The thrill of discovering a perfect, affordable garment is a major draw for many visitors. TikTok

Electronics and Bargains

Beyond clothing, Marché Colobane is a significant marketplace for electronics, particularly mobile phones and accessories. You can find a wide range of new and used devices, from budget-friendly options to more advanced models. TikTok+1 Vendors are often eager to make a sale, which presents an excellent opportunity for negotiation. It's advisable to inspect any electronics thoroughly and, if possible, test them before purchasing to ensure they are in good working order. TikTok

Navigating the Market Experience

Visiting Marché Colobane is an immersive experience. The market is a vibrant, bustling hub of activity, filled with the sounds of vendors calling out, shoppers bargaining, and the general hum of commerce. TikTokInstagram Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak hours. While generally safe, it's always wise to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables secure. Instagram The energy and authenticity of the market are what make it a must-visit for many travelers seeking a true taste of Dakar life. TikTok

You may also like