Senegal

Senegal

Senegal offers a vibrant cultural experience with its rich history, bustling markets, and beautiful coastline. It's a land of captivating music, diverse landscapes, and warm hospitality, providing a unique West African adventure.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay7 days
Budget$60/day
Mid-range$100/day
Luxury$600/day

Known For

DakarWest AfricaGambiaMauritaniaMali

🇸🇳 Country Information: Senegal

CapitalDakar
CurrencyWest African CFA franc (CFA)
LanguageWolof , French, Pulaar, Serer, Jola, Mandinka
Phone Code+221
Electricity230V (Type C, D, E, K)
Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

  • Tipping is not mandatory but appreciated for good service
  • Restaurants: 10
  • 15% is common if a service charge is not included
  • Taxis: Round up the fare or a small amount is appreciated
  • Hotel staff: Small amounts for porters and housekeepers

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are available in major cities but less common in rural areas
  • Credit cards are accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but cash is preferred for most transactions
  • It's advisable to carry a mix of cash and cards
  • No significant black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Dress modestly, especially in religious areas
  • Women should cover their shoulders and knees
  • It is customary to greet people with a handshake
  • Use your right hand when eating, passing items, or shaking hands, as the left hand is considered unclean
  • Bargaining is common in markets
  • Politeness and respect for elders are highly valued

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Homosexuality is illegal and can lead to imprisonment. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples are not tolerated.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Alcohol consumption is common but discreet, especially during Ramadan
  • Drug laws are strict, and possession of even small amounts can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

  • Respect Islamic customs and traditions
  • Photography of military installations or government buildings is prohibited
  • It's advisable to seek permission before photographing individuals

Common Phrases

NoDeedeet (dee-deet) Deedeet
YesWaaw (waah-oo) Waaw
HelloSalam alaikum (sah-lahm ah-lay-koom) السَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ
PleaseSu ma bëgge (soo mah buh-gay) Su ma bëggé
Excuse meBaal ma (baal mah) Baal ma
Thank youJerejef (jeh-reh-jef) Jërëjëf

Climate

General classification for Senegal.

Climate Zone: Tropical Savanna

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Thieboudienne must_try

Considered the national dish of Senegal, this flavorful dish features fish (often sea bass or grouper) and vegetables (like cassava, carrots, and eggp

Yassa regional_speciality

Yassa is a popular dish where chicken or fish is marinated in a highly-seasoned mixture of lemon juice, onions, and spices, then slowly cooked until t

Mafe must_try

A deeply satisfying stew made with beef, lamb, or sometimes fish, cooked in a thick sauce based on ground peanuts (groundnut paste). This rich, nutty,

Bissap non_alcoholic_beverage

This vibrant, refreshing drink is made from dried hibiscus flowers (sorrel), giving it a tart flavor that is balanced with sugar and sometimes mint or

Pastels street_food

These are small, deep-fried savory pastries resembling empanadas, filled with seasoned fish (usually tuna) or meat. They are typically served with a s

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Accommodation (Hotels, Lodges, or Guesthouses) Accommodation
Book 2–4 months in advance

Booking well in advance is critical, especially during the peak tourist season (November to May), to secure the best locations, desirable room types, and competitive prices.

Fun Facts

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