Practical Information
Visa & entry
Most nationalities do not need a visa for Senegal (ECOWAS policy allows 90 days visa-free for many). Check in advance at the Senegal embassy. Proof of onward travel and accommodation may be requested. Yellow fever vaccination is not mandatory but recommended. Passport valid 6+ months.
Money & payments
Currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). 1 EUR ≈ 655 XOF; 1 USD ≈ 600 XOF. Exchange at banks or forex bureaus in Dakar. ATMs (BICIS, SGBS) dispense cash in Dakar and Saint-Louis. Credit cards work in larger establishments but add fees. Mobile money (Orange Money, Tigo Money) is ubiquitous and safe.
SIM cards & internet
SIM cards from Orange, Tigo, or Sonatel are sold at airports and shops. Data is excellent and inexpensive; 1 GB costs ≈2,000 XOF. 4G/LTE is reliable in cities and along main roads. Rural areas see slower speeds.
Getting around
Dakar has taxis with meters; use ride-share apps (Uber, Bolt) when available. Regional transport is by minibus (car rapide) or shared taxi; they are colorful, crowded, and cheap. Long-distance buses connect major cities (Dakar to Saint-Louis, Kaolack, Ziguinchor). Driving yourself is feasible on main roads; secondary roads vary in condition. Ferries cross the Senegal River.
Health
Yellow fever vaccination is recommended. Malaria exists in lowland areas; take prophylaxis and use repellent. Tap water in Dakar is generally safe; elsewhere, drink bottled water. Medical care in Dakar is good; LUTH and Le Dantec hospitals are reliable. Pharmacy availability is excellent. Travel insurance is recommended.
Language & etiquette
French is the official language; English is less common but spoken in Dakar's tourism sector. Wolof is the lingua franca. Learning basic greetings in Wolof is appreciated. Handshakes are standard; use right hand for eating and greeting. Islam is important; be respectful of prayer times. Senegalese are warm and engaging; conversations flow easily.
When to go
Best time: November to February (cool, dry). March to May is hot and dusty. June to October is rainy; roads can flood, especially in Casamance. Temperatures are mild in the north year-round. Dakar is pleasant January-March; it becomes hot and humid April onwards. Avoid September-October if possible.
Getting there
Dakar's Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) is West Africa's major hub, served by all major carriers. Saint-Louis maintains a secondary international airport. Ferries connect Dakar to Cap-Vert and neighboring Gorée island; the coastal road from Guinea follows Atlantic beauty southward.