Senegal Poker Guide: Top Dakar Venues, Festivals & Tax Rules

Senegal has become one of the main poker hubs in West Africa. The country combines French-style casino culture with a lively local poker scene. Most of the action is centered in Dakar, where premier seaside venues host regular games and major festivals. During the winter season, high-stakes events attract both international professionals and players from across the region.

Senegal: The Regulated Gaming Landscape

• The Legal Framework: Unlike many neighboring nations, Senegal has a long-standing tradition of legal gambling dating back to 1993. All activities are overseen by the Ministry of the Interior and the Ministry of Economy & Finance, which license land-based casinos.
• 2026 Tax Reforms: As of November 2025, Law No. 17/2025 introduced a 20% tax on all gambling winnings. This tax is automatically deducted at payout for both physical and digital channels, meaning winners receive 80% of their gross prize directly.
• LONASE Oversight: The state lottery body, LONASE, serves as the primary gatekeeper for the market, managing sports betting monopolies and ensuring that gaming revenues contribute to national development projects.

2026 Major Poker Festivals

Senegal’s 2026 calendar is anchored by high-prestige events that draw players from across Europe and Africa:

Casino Terrou-Bi: Often called the home of West African poker, this venue hosted the 17th Edition of the Dakar Poker Tour from January 2–11, 2026. The festival featured a €1,230 Main Event and high-stakes side action, including “The Big Omaha” and a €3,080 Super High Roller.

Casino Plaza: Located in the Sea Plaza shopping mall, this modern room is a favorite for daily action. It frequently hosts international circuit stops, such as the WSOP International Circuit, and is known for its high-quality tables and professional atmosphere.

Casino du Port: Situated in the heart of Dakar, this historic venue offers a more traditional gaming experience with dedicated poker tables for both casual players and seasoned grinders.

2026 Key Dates & Events

2026 Dakar Poker Tour (Jan 2 – 11, 2026): The flagship 10-day winter series at Terrou-Bi featuring massive prize pools in West Africa.

Dakar Poker Sun (June 2026): A summer tournament festival traditionally held to attract seasonal visitors.

Daily Cash Games: Most Dakar poker rooms open at 3:00 PM and run until 5:00 AM, offering consistent No-Limit Hold’em and Omaha action.