Highlights
Dakar, the westernmost city in mainland Africa, pulses with music, art, markets and Atlantic surf, crowned by the towering African Renaissance Monument. Just offshore, UNESCO-listed Gorée Island — with its haunting House of Slaves and pastel colonial streets — is a moving, essential half-day pilgrimage.
Saint-Louis, the atmospheric former colonial capital on an island in the Senegal River, is a UNESCO gem of faded French architecture, fishing pirogues and a celebrated jazz festival. Nearby, the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary is one of the world's great birding sites, alive with millions of migratory pelicans and flamingos.
The Lac Rose (Retba), a shallow lake that turns bubblegum pink from salt-loving algae, and the Bandia wildlife reserve lie near the coast. In the lush, distinct south, the Casamance region offers palm-fringed beaches, mangroves and Diola culture — a gentler, greener Senegal. Music lovers should time a visit around Dakar's legendary live scene.
When to go
November to May is the dry season and the best time to visit — warm, sunny and comfortable, ideal for the coast, the desert north and wildlife, and prime for birdwatching in the wetlands.
The rainy season (June to October) is hot and humid with heavy downpours, greening the south (Casamance) but making some roads difficult. The coast is tempered by Atlantic breezes year-round. For festivals, birding and easy travel, aim for the cool, dry months from December to February.
Visa & entry
Many nationalities can enter Senegal visa-free for short tourist stays (commonly up to 90 days), while others need a visa in advance or on arrival. A passport valid six months and often a yellow-fever vaccination certificate are required.
Senegal has generally kept entry straightforward for tourists, but requirements vary by nationality and can change, so confirm the current rules and any health-certificate needs with a Senegalese embassy or the official immigration authorities before you travel.
Health & safety
Senegal is one of West Africa's most stable and welcoming countries, with a strong tradition of hospitality (teranga). Petty crime — bag-snatching and pickpocketing — occurs in busy parts of Dakar and around markets, so keep valuables secure and be street-smart, especially after dark. Road-traffic accidents are a real risk given fast, crowded roads.
Malaria is present (take prophylaxis), and a yellow-fever certificate may be required. The Casamance region in the south is generally calm now but has a history of unrest — check current guidance. Review your government's latest travel advisory before departure.
Getting around
Dakar has ride-hailing apps (Yango, Heetch) and taxis, plus a modern regional express train (TER) linking the city and airport area. Between cities, shared 'sept-place' station-wagon taxis and buses are the traditional way to travel — cheap and characterful, if cramped and driven fast.
Hiring a car with a driver is the most comfortable way to tour, especially to reach Saint-Louis, the bird sanctuaries and the interior. A ferry connects Dakar to the Casamance, avoiding the long road through The Gambia. Roads are decent on main routes but rougher elsewhere; avoid night driving.
Money
Senegal uses the West African CFA Franc, which is pegged to the euro, giving a stable rate. Carry cash for markets, taxis, tips and rural areas; ATMs are reliable in Dakar and towns and accept international cards, though with limits.
Euros are the easiest currency to exchange (bring clean notes); US dollars are less convenient. Cards work in upmarket hotels and restaurants in Dakar but rarely elsewhere, so cash is essential outside the capital. Bargaining is expected in markets. Tipping is appreciated — round up and leave a little for guides, drivers and good service.
Senegal