SENEGAL TRAVEL GUIDE

ESSENTIALS | WHEN TO GO | WEATHER | COSTS | ACTIVITIES | SIGHTS

INTRODUCTION

A travel destination in Africa with a measure of political stability, a rich cultural heritage, well-developed beach resorts, a number of reserves and parks in which visitors can sate their eyes on exotic African animals and pink clouds of flamingos, Senegal is West Africa’s busiest and most sophisticated country, much sought after by the international traveller.

Senegal is often praised for its incorporation of all its ethnic and religious groups into a peaceful society. A thriving, bustling nation of many ethnic groups, it is the "most happening hangout in West Africa" famed as much for its tropical beauty as its rhythmic music, fine textiles and delicious cuisine.

The capital, Dakar is a favourite watering hole for travellers to this part of the continent and the towns along the Atlantic are perfect for a soak in the sun, game fishing and other water sports.

COVID-19 TRAVEL STATUS

Updated:

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On July 16, the Government of Senegal announced new restrictions that impact entry into Senegal by foreign nationals.Foreign nationals may now be restricted from entering Senegal if they are not residents of Senegal or a country that is a member of the Economic Community of West African States or meet certain other exemptions.The government of Senegal has said airlines are not allowed to carry foreign nationals from countries who have advised against travel to Senegal unless they are ordinarily resident in Senegal, diplomats, military, health professionals and other specific professional categories. They have also said they will not allow entry to nationals from countries who have restrictions on travel from Senegal. The government have not yet specified which countries they consider fall into these categories.Consult the Senegal Ministry of Tourism for more information.To enter Senegal, all travelers must have a medical certificate with a negative PCR test result for COVID-19, issued at most 7 days before arrival. Travelers without a medical certificate will be subject to medical screening at their own cost. Current testing fees are FCFA 40,000 per passenger, which must be paid in cash at the time of testing. Travelers must also complete and submit a ‘Public Health Passenger Locator’ form on arrival in Senegal. The form can be found on the Dakar Airport website.

TRAVEL ADVISORY

LOCATION MAP

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QUICK FACTS

• Capital: Dakar
• Currency: Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (XOF)
• Area: 196,190 km2
• Population: 15,85 million (2018)
• Language: French (official), Wolof, Pulaar, Jola, Mandinka
• Religion: Muslim 94%, indigenous beliefs 1%, Christian 5% (mostly Roman Catholic)
• Electricity: 230V/50Hz (European plug)

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

• 1 February, Confederation Agreement Day
• 4 April, National Day
• 1 May, Labour Day
• 15 August, Assumption Day
• 20 August, Independence Day
• 1 November, All Saints Day
• Also, Magal de Touba Day.

Business openings and work schedules may be significantly affected by Christian and Islamic holidays and festivals.

FESTIVALS

WEATHER SYNOPSIS

While a majority of Senegal has a tropical climate, the country’s northern regions (located in the Sahel) are arid. The country experiences one long rainy season, which varies along a latitudinal gradient (north-south), from June/July to September/October, and is driven by the movement of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). While the arid zones receive a rainfall total under 300 millimetres per year, the forested south receives an average of 1200 mm/year. The average annual temperature for Senegal was 27.8°C for the period 1960-1990, with monthly averages in the hottest seasons of up to 35°C.

TOURIST SEASONS

HOT MONTHS:

MODERATE MONTHS:

COLD MONTHS:

WET MONTHS:

DRY MONTHS:

SPORT & ACTIVITIES

HEALTH

Be aware of possible health risks in 

Senegal

Yellow fever - The yellow fever virus is found in tropical and subtropical areas of Africa and South America. The virus is spread to people by the bite of an infected mosquito. There is no medicine to treat or cure an infection. To prevent getting sick from yellow fever, use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants, and get vaccinated.

Zika Virus - Zika is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Zika can be passed from a pregnant woman to her fetus. Infection during pregnancy can cause certain birth defects. There is no vaccine or medicine for Zika.

Malaria - Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease caused by a parasite that commonly infects a certain type of mosquito which feeds on humans. People who get malaria are typically very sick with high fevers, shaking chills, and flu-like illness. Although malaria can be a deadly disease, illness and death from malaria can usually be prevented.

Dengue - Dengue is spread mostly by the bite of an infected Aedes species mosquito. These mosquitoes bite during the day and night. About one in four people infected with dengue will get sick. For people who get sick with dengue, symptoms can be mild or severe.

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