Welcome to Senegal

Whether it’s golden-sand beaches, national parks, birdwatching or raucous nightlife you’re after, Senegal offers it. Wander the streets of lively Dakar – the capital – on the Cap-Vert Peninsula, where street stalls and fish markets vie for your attention. Ile de Goree and the beaches of Yoff and N’Gor beckon with their oceanside beauty.

In Saint Louis, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, there is colonial architecture to admire. Once there, venture into the nearby national parks. In Casamance, take a boat journey to see hundreds of bird species. Senegal is one of Western Africa’s most stable countries and fascinating to all.

Unique Facts

• In 2022, Senegal will be the first African country to host the Olympics – in this case, the Youth Olympic Games, which will be held in Dakar, Diamniadio and Saly.
• Senegal boasts seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including The Stone Circles of Senegambia, the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary and the historically significant Goree Island.
• The annual Magal Touba – or Hajj of Senegal – is a major pilgrimage event for West Africans and it happens in Touba, Senegal.
• There are more than 20 ethnic groups residing in Senegal, including the Wolof and Pulaar people.
• Most of Senegal export business involves peanuts and fish. Peanut farms account for 40 percent of the country’s cultivated land.

Language

Senegal’s official language is French.

When To Go

The best time to go to Senegal is November to May.

Airports

Blaise Diagne International Airport

Passport Validity

Passport must be valid at time of entry for six months beyond arrival date.

Visa Required By US Citizen?

None

Vaccinations

The CDC recommends the following vaccine for all travelers when visiting Senegal: Measles and routine vaccinations. Most travelers should receive the Hepatitis A, Malaria, Yellow Fever and Typhoid vaccines. Some travelers should receive the Hepatitis B, Meningitis and Rabies vaccines.

Electrical Outlets

Power plugs and sockets: types C, D, E and K. Standard voltage: 230V. Frequency: 50Hz.

Currency

West African CFA Franc

Getting Around

Most roads are in relatively good condition for daytime driving. Be aware that some roadways are poorly lit and poorly signed. Motorcycles, bicyclists, pedestrians, livestock and animal carts share the roads.

Use of public transportation is not advised. Taxis are safer.

Driver’s License

A valid US driver’s license is required.

US Embassy Info

U.S. Embassy Dakar
Route des Almadies
Dakar, Senegal
Telephone: +(221) 33-879-4000
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(221) 33-879-4444
DakarACS@state.gov

Local Visitor Info

n/a

Local Emergency Phone Numbers

Ambulance: 33-889-1515
Fire: 18
Police: 17

Safety and Security

The crime rate is moderate in Senegal. Street crime is common, including pickpocketing and purse snatching. Robberies are common along the Corniche d’Ouest.