Senegal

Senegal: general info for travelers

Senegal is a country located in West Africa, bordered by Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Gambia, and the Atlantic Ocean. Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal. It is known for its vibrant culture, friendly people, delicious food, and stunning natural scenery, such as the beaches of the Petite Côte and the reed-lined waterways of the Sine Saloum Delta. Senegal is home to a rich blend of ethnic groups and religions, and the official language is French. The country has a developing economy, with opportunities for tourism, agriculture, and fishing.

In this webpage you can find destinations, links and detailed information to organize the perfect holiday in this country full of places to visit. We answer questions such as what to see and what to do, when to go and how to move. We recommend travel itineraries and we provide a list of destinations, each with a link to the dedicated page full of detailed info. So here is everything there is to know for a trip in Senegal, including gastronomy, safety and events, with a short summary of history and culture.

Senegal: places to visit

Here are some must-visit places in Senegal: 1. Dakar: the capital city, is vibrant and cosmopolitan with a rich history and culture. Explore the African Renaissance Monument, Goree Island, or the colorful markets of Medina.
2. Pink Lake (Lac Rose): A unique and stunning salt lake, the pink water is caused by a certain type of algae that thrives in salty environments. It's a popular spot for relaxation, swimming, and watching traditional salt collectors.
3. Saint-Louis: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Saint-Louis was once a colonial trading center founded by the French and is rich in history, architecture, and culture.
4. The Delta du Saloum National Park: A nature lover's paradise, this park is home to diverse wildlife, mangrove forests, and beautiful beaches. It's perfect for bird watching, fishing, or boating.
5. Niokolo Koba National Park: A vast protected area in the southeast of the country, this park contains dense forests, rivers, and abundant wildlife such as lions, hippos, and baboons.
6. Saly: a popular resort town with beautiful beaches, plenty of water activities, and a lively nightlife scene.
7. Toubab Dialaw: a bohemian coastal village known for its artistic and cultural festivals, with beautiful beaches and stunning panoramic views.
These are just a few of many amazing places to visit in Senegal. I hope this helps you plan a great trip!
There is more to see and do in Senegal: further down you can find other info and, in particular, a list of every interesting destination, each with its own webpage containing specific info about attractions to visit, events and more.

Senegal: when to go on holiday

We listed some places to see in Senegal, but it's also important to visit them in the right season.
In Senegal, there are two distinct seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season runs from November to May, and the rainy season runs from June to October.
The best time to go to Senegal for a holiday depends on what you want to do. The dry season is perfect for beachgoers and wildlife enthusiasts as the weather is warm and dry, and the wildlife tends to be more active. The months of December to February are the coolest and most comfortable, while March to May are the warmest.
The rainy season may not be the best time to visit Senegal if you plan on spending a lot of time outdoors. However, it can be a good time to visit if you want to take advantage of lower tourist crowds and lower prices. The landscape will also be lush and green, and you'll have a better chance of spotting migratory birds. In conclusion, the best months for a holiday in Senegal are December through February, as the weather is cooler and there is less humidity.

Senegal: activities and what to do

Senegal is a great destination for a holiday filled with adventure, culture, and sports. Here are some activities and sports you can do in Senegal: 1. Surfing: Senegal has excellent surf conditions, especially from November to May. Spots like N'Gor Island and Yoff Beach are popular among surfers.
2. Fishing: Senegal is known for its fishing industry, and you can try your luck at catching fish like barracuda, tuna, and marlin.
3. Birdwatching: Senegal is home to over 650 species of birds, making it a paradise for bird lovers.
4. Safari: Senegal has several national parks and reserves where you can go on safari and see animals like lions, elephants, and giraffes.
5. Dakar Rally: Dakar Rally is an annual off-road race that covers over 9,000 kilometers in 14 days. You can experience the thrill of the race or watch the event as a spectator.
6. Traditional Wrestling: Senegal has a traditional form of wrestling called Laamb, which is a popular sport in the country. You can watch a match or even learn the basics of the sport.
7. Cultural Festivals: Senegal has several cultural festivals throughout the year, such as the Saint Louis Jazz Festival and the Dakar International Festival of Contemporary Dance. These festivals provide a great opportunity to experience traditional Senegalese music, dance, and culture.
I hope this information helps you plan a memorable trip to Senegal!

Senegal: few words on history and culture

Senegal is a country located in West Africa with a rich history and diverse culture. The earliest known inhabitants of Senegal were hunter-gatherer societies who lived in the region thousands of years ago. Later on, Senegal became an important center of trade of gold, ivory, and slaves during the Middle Ages.
During the colonial period, Senegal was ruled by France from the 19th century until gaining independence in 1960. The country has since become a model for democracy in the region.
Senegal is known for its vibrant art scene, with traditional music, dance, and visual arts playing an important role in the culture. The country is also famous for its colorful textiles and clothing, which reflect the mix of Islamic, French, and other cultural influences.
Religion also plays a significant role in Senegalese culture, with the majority of the population practicing Islam, but also with significant numbers of Catholics, Protestants, and practitioners of traditional African religions.

Senegal: how to move around on holiday

Senegal can be reached by various means of transportation like air, land, and sea.
Air travel is the most convenient and fastest way to reach Senegal. The country has two major airports: Blaise Diagne International Airport near Dakar, which is the largest and the busiest airport and another one is Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport. Many airlines offer direct flights from different parts of the world to Senegal.
If you are coming from nearby countries, like Gambia, Guinea or Mali, you can also consider travelling by road. Senegal has a well-connected network of roads and good transportation options like buses and shared taxis that you can use to travel within the country.
For sea transportation, Senegal has a few ports that cater to cargo and passenger ships. There are also ferry services available between Dakar and other coastal towns in Senegal and some neighboring countries.
Once you reach Senegal, you can use local transport options like taxis, buses, and car rentals to move around and explore the country. To hire a car to visit Senegal, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Senegal: typical gastronomy

It is better to visit Senegal with a full stomach:D
Sure, here are some typical foods of Senegal and their descriptions: 1. Thieboudienne: This is the national dish of Senegal and is a flavorful fish and rice dish. The fish is usually cooked with vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, and eggplant and is then served on a bed of rice that has been cooked with tomato paste and spiced with garlic and onions.
2. Yassa: This is a marinated chicken dish that is cooked in a mixture of onions, lemon juice, mustard, and spices. It is usually served with rice or couscous and is a flavorful and tangy dish.
3. Mafe: This is a peanut-based stew that is made with either chicken or beef and is cooked with vegetables such as carrots, cabbage, and potatoes. The stew is thickened with a peanut butter paste and is simmered until the meat is tender.
4. Thiebou jen: This is a vegetarian version of thieboudienne and is made without fish. Instead, it is made with vegetables such as pumpkin, cassava, and carrots, and is cooked with tomato paste and spices. It is then served on a bed of rice.
5. Fataya: These are triangular-shaped pastries that are filled with either meat or vegetables and are fried until golden brown. They are often served as a snack or appetizer.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods of Senegal, but there are many more delicious dishes to try!

Senegal: costs for tourists and how to save on holiday

Senegal can be relatively expensive for tourists, particularly if you're traveling on a tight budget. Prices for accommodation, food, and transportation can vary significantly, depending on where you are and what time of year you visit. Some of the popular coastal resorts, for example, can be quite costly, while more rural areas may be cheaper.
That being said, it's still possible to travel to Senegal on a budget by making savvy choices when it comes to accommodation and food. Hostels, budget hotels, and self-catering apartments can be found in many areas, and local street food is often an excellent and affordable option for meals. Public transportation is also relatively inexpensive, although you should be prepared for crowded buses and long travel times.

Senegal: where to find accodation

There are several websites where you can search for accommodation in Senegal. Some of the popular ones are: 1. Booking.com 2. Airbnb.com 3. Expedia.com 4. Agoda.com 5. Hotels.com You can also check with local travel agents or tour operators who may have contacts with hotels, lodges, and other types of accommodation. It's always a good idea to read reviews and compare prices before making a booking.
You can check hotel prices in Senegal here:
Booking.com

Senegal: number of tourists and safety

It is always interesting to know how many travelers visit a country, both to understand if it is tourist-friendly and safe and to see if in certain periods it may be too crowded.
According to the World Bank, Senegal received around 2 million international tourists in 2019, with the peak tourist season typically occurring between November and March. During this time, there may be more crowds, particularly in popular tourist destinations such as Dakar, Saint Louis, and Saly. However, crowds largely depend on the specific location and the events happening at that time. I would recommend checking with local tourism boards for information on specific destinations before planning a trip.
Overall, Senegal is considered a safe country for tourists. The country has a relatively low crime rate compared to some of its neighboring countries in West Africa. However, as with any place in the world, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety.
There are some areas of the country that should be avoided due to security concerns. These include: - The Casamance region in the southern part of the country, which has experienced periodic separatist violence.
- The border areas with Mauritania and Mali due to the risk of terrorism and kidnapping.
- The outskirts of Dakar, where street crime can be a problem.
It is always a good idea to check the latest travel advisories from your government and to stay informed about the situation on the ground. Additionally, it is recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator and to avoid walking alone at night or in isolated areas.
It is always recommended to read updated info about safety in Senegal on the official website of your Foreign Affairs Ministry.

Senegal: events for tourists

There are several interesting events for tourists in Senegal throughout the year, here are some of them: 1) Dakar Rally: This is an off-road racing event that takes place every year in January and attracts thousands of spectators from all over the world.
2) Saint-Louis Jazz Festival: This music festival takes place in May and features both local and international jazz musicians.
3) Gorée Island Festival: This is a cultural festival that takes place in June on Gorée Island, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and features traditional music, dance, and food.
4) Tabaski: This is the Senegalese version of the Muslim holiday Eid al-Adha and it is celebrated in August. It is a time when families come together to share a meal and make donations to the poor.
5) Dakar Fashion Week: This fashion event takes place in October and showcases local designers from Senegal and other African countries.
These are just a few examples of the many interesting events that take place in Senegal each year.

Senegal: a 2-week travel itinerary

We listed the places to see in Senegal, here's a possible suggestion on how to visit them.
Sure, here's a suggested 2-week itinerary for a typical tourist visiting Senegal: Day 1-3: Dakar - Start your trip in Dakar, the capital city of Senegal.
- Visit the iconic African Renaissance Monument and explore the colorful markets of Sandaga or Kermel.
- Visit the Goree Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was once a key center of African slavery.
- Check out the Dakar Grand Mosque, the largest mosque in the country.
Day 4-5: Saint-Louis - Take a day trip to Saint-Louis, which offers a glimpse into Senegal's colonial past.
- Visit the must-see Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, which is a wetland reserve and home to a large variety of birds.
Day 6-8: Lompoul Desert - Head to the Lompoul Desert, located in the northern part of the country.
- Enjoy a camel ride, sandboarding, and stargazing.
- Overnight in a traditional Senegalese camp.
Day 9-10: Tambacounda and the Fathala Wildlife Reserve - Travel to Tambacounda and visit the Fathala Wildlife Reserve, a park that houses lions, giraffes, zebras and other African wildlife.
- Enjoy a safari tour in the reserve Day 11-12: Zinguinchor and Cap Skirring - Head to the Casamance region and visit the coastal town of Ziguinchor.
- Explore the nearby village of Cap Skirring, with its white sandy beaches.
- Enjoy some water activities such as kayaking, swimming, and fishing.
Day 13-14: The Pink Lake and Saloum Delta - Visit the Pink Lake, which gets its color from the algae that live in its saline waters.
- Take a boat ride and discover the scenery and wildlife of the Saloum Delta.
This itinerary offers a good mix of culture, adventure and wildlife, and will give visitors a good introduction to some of Senegal's key attractions.

Senegal: all destinations

Here is a comprehensive list of all destinations to visit in Senegal described in this website, in alphabetical order: by clicking on a link you get to the specific page with all the detailed information about a destination, with every info to organize your trip!
- Dakar is the capital and largest city of Senegal, located on the westernmost point of the African continent. It is a bustling city with a population of over 1 million people, and is known for its vibr... CONTINUE here for a trip to Dakar
- Diourbel is a city located in the west-central part of Senegal, Africa. It is the capital of the Diourbel Region and has a population of around 125,000. The city is known for its diverse ethnic groups... CONTINUE here for a trip to Diourbel
- Foundiougne is a rural community located in the Fatick region of Senegal. It is situated on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean and is a popular destination for tourists looking to experience the traditio... CONTINUE here for a trip to Foundiougne
- Joal-Fadiout is a town located in the Thiès Region of Senegal, which lies along the Petite Côte, approximately 115 km south of Dakar. The town is made up of two scenic islands connected by a wooden br... CONTINUE here for a trip to Joal-Fadiout
- Kaffrine is a town in central Senegal, located approximately 310 kilometers east of the capital, Dakar. It is the capital of the Kaffrine Region and is an important economic center in the region, with... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaffrine
- Kaolack is a city located in the west of Senegal and is the capital of the Kaolack region. It is situated on the north bank of the Saloum River, which flows into the Atlantic Ocean. Kaolack is an impo... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kaolack
- Kedougou is a small town located in Southeastern Senegal, close to the border with Guinea and Mali. The town is known for its natural beauty and ecotourism opportunities, including nearby parks and wa... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kedougou
- Kolda is a city located in the southern region of Senegal, close to the border with Guinea. It has a population of approximately 40,000 people and is the capital of the Kolda Region. The city is known... CONTINUE here for a trip to Kolda
- Koungheul is a small town located in the region of Kaffrine in Senegal. It has a population of around 23,000 people and is known for its agricultural production, particularly peanut farming. The town ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Koungheul
- Louga is a city located in Northwestern Senegal, about 190 km (118 miles) from Dakar, the capital of Senegal. It is the capital of the Louga Region and has a population of approximately 100,000 people... CONTINUE here for a trip to Louga
- Matam is a region located in the northern part of Senegal. The capital city of the region is also called Matam. The region is bordered by Mauritania to the north and Mali to the east, and it is primar... CONTINUE here for a trip to Matam
- Mboro is a small town located in the Thiès Region of Senegal, which is situated on the west coast of Africa. It is home to a predominantly Muslim population and is known for being a hub for agricultur... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mboro
- Mbour is a coastal city located in western Senegal, approximately 80 kilometers south of Dakar. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant... CONTINUE here for a trip to Mbour
- Ndioum is a small town located in the north of Senegal, close to the border with Mauritania. It is situated at the confluence of the Senegal and Doué rivers, which makes it an important commercial cen... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ndioum
- Palmarin is a village located in the Thiès region of Senegal. It is situated in the Sine-Saloum Delta, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its diverse ecosystem, including mangrove forests... CONTINUE here for a trip to Palmarin
- Podor is a town located in the Saint-Louis Region of Senegal, situated at the northernmost point of the country and on the right bank of the Senegal River. The town has a population of approximately 1... CONTINUE here for a trip to Podor
- Popenguine is a small coastal town located in the western region of Senegal, about 70 km south of the capital city, Dakar. It is known for its pristine beaches, beautiful landscapes, and cultural sign... CONTINUE here for a trip to Popenguine
- Ranerou is a rural community located in the Fatick Region of Senegal, West Africa. It is situated about 15 kilometers east of the city of Fatick and covers an area of approximately 8 square kilometers... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ranerou
- Richard-Toll is a town located in the Saint-Louis Region of northern Senegal. It is situated along the banks of the Senegal River, which forms the border with Mauritania to the north. The town is know... CONTINUE here for a trip to Richard-Toll
- Rufisque is a coastal town in Senegal, located approximately 25 kilometers southeast of Dakar. It has a population of around 180,000 people and is the capital of the Rufisque Department. Rufisque was ... CONTINUE here for a trip to Rufisque
- Saint-Louis is a city located in the northwestern region of Senegal, on an island in the Senegal River. It is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant music scene, and historical significance as t... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saint-Louis
- Saly is a seaside resort in Senegal, located about 80 km south of the capital city of Dakar. It is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and vibrant culture. Saly is a popular tourist destina... CONTINUE here for a trip to Saly
- Sedhiou is a town located in the southern region of Senegal, bordering the Gambia. It is the capital of the Sedhiou Region and has a population of approximately 30,000 people. The town is known for it... CONTINUE here for a trip to Sedhiou
- Tamba is a city located in the eastern region of Senegal, near the border with Mali. It is the capital of the Tambacounda Region and is a major transportation hub connecting eastern Senegal to both th... CONTINUE here for a trip to Tamba
- Thies is a city located in the western region of Senegal, about 70 km east of the capital city of Dakar. It is the third largest city in the country, and is known for its vibrant markets, cultural her... CONTINUE here for a trip to Thies
- Touba is a city located in the Diourbel region of Senegal. It is known as the holy city of the Mouride Brotherhood, a Sufi Islamic order founded by Sheikh Ahmadou Bamba in the late 19th century. Touba... CONTINUE here for a trip to Touba
- Toubab Dialaw is a coastal village in Senegal, located about 50 km south of Dakar. It is known for its beautiful sandy beaches and vibrant artistic community. Toubab Dialaw is also home to several cul... CONTINUE here for a trip to Toubab Dialaw
- Velingara is a small town located in the southern part of Senegal, specifically in the Kolda Region. It is known for its rich cultural heritage, which includes traditional music and dance performances... CONTINUE here for a trip to Velingara
- Ziguinchor is a city located in the southern part of Senegal, in the region of Casamance. It is known for its beautiful beaches, bustling marketplaces, and vibrant culture. The city is home to a diver... CONTINUE here for a trip to Ziguinchor


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