Tour operator
Africa Connection Tours
Dakar travel agency founded in 1996 that runs city tours, excursions to Gorée, Lac Rose and Bandia, and tailor-made circuits across Senegal.
Take Off Ngor
Surf school on Ngor beach offering lessons for beginners and experienced surfers in Ngor Bay, one of Senegal's best-known surf spots.
At a glance
- Type
- Surf school
- Area
- Ngor, Dakar, Senegal
Good to know
- Surf lessons
- Beginner and improver levels
- Open daily
Why we recommend it
Take Off Ngor is a surf school based on Ngor beach, at the northern tip of the Cap-Vert peninsula, teaching beginners and experienced surfers in the waters of Ngor Bay. The bay is one of the best-known surf areas in Senegal, with waves throughout the year, and the school's location right on the beach means lessons start with a short walk to the water rather than a drive.
The school presents its approach as friendly and safety-focused, with experienced instructors and sessions held against a backdrop of the Atlantic and Ngor Island. Beginners learn the basics on the beach before trying to catch their first waves, while surfers who already have some experience can work on their technique. Ngor village, a former Lebou fishing community with brightly painted pirogues lining the shore, gives the beach a lively, local atmosphere that is very different from a resort setting.
According to the local guide Au Sénégal, the school is open every day, generally from 09:00 to 19:00 and until 18:00 on Sundays. Conditions vary with tide and swell, so call or visit the day before to agree a time and check what the lesson includes, such as board and wetsuit hire, group size and session length. Ask about multi-lesson packages if you are staying in Ngor for several days, as progress comes quickly with consecutive sessions.
A few practical points apply to any surf lesson in Dakar. Mornings are often calmer before the wind picks up. Wear strong waterproof sun cream and a rash vest, as the sun is intense even on hazy days, and bring water and a towel. Tell the instructor honestly about your swimming ability and any health issues, and follow their advice about currents and other beach users, including fishing boats coming in to land.
Take Off Ngor suits complete beginners, families with older children and travellers staying in Ngor or Les Almadies who want to fit surfing around other plans. After a session, cross by pirogue to Ngor Island for lunch at Sunu Makane, eat grilled fish at Le N'Gor or La Cabane du Pêcheur on the mainland, or watch the sunset from the rooftop at Bayékou nearby.
Take Off Ngor FAQs
Where is Take Off Ngor?
On Ngor beach, along the Corniche des Almadies in north-west Dakar.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, it teaches both beginners and experienced surfers.
When is it open?
Au Sénégal lists daily opening, generally 09:00 to 19:00 and until 18:00 on Sundays.
Can you surf at Ngor all year?
Yes, Ngor Bay has waves throughout the year.
What should you bring?
Sun cream, a rash vest, water and a towel; ask what equipment is included.
When is the best time of day for a lesson?
Mornings are often calmer before the wind picks up, but timing depends on tide and swell.
Should you book ahead?
Yes, call or visit the day before to agree a time and check what is included.
What is nearby?
The boats to Ngor Island, seafood restaurants such as Le N'Gor and the Bayékou rooftop bar.