Senegal

The westernmost tip of the African continent, Senegal beckons the traveller with its stunning beaches, charming cities and vibrant cultural life. At least the rhythm is in their blood and the food is delicious!

See our travel suggestions below and contact us if you are interested or need more information about travel to Senegal. It is also easy to combine a trip to Senegal with a visit to Mauritania, Gambia and Guinea-Bissau.

Kameli Travel organises tours to Senegal – whether you're planning to spend a long weekend in the West African capital of Dakar, exploring its vast cultural offerings. Or continue north to the banks of the Senegal River in Saint-Louis, whose old town is beautifully decaying and also a UNESCO World Heritage site. In Casamance region, the traveller will encounter world-class sandy beaches that go on for miles.

We can arrange a professional guide and transport services for you or your group, and book your preferred level of accommodation. However, if you wish to travel by public transport, we can arrange for a guide to accompany you on these as well.

Please contact us if you are interested or need more information about travel in Senegal. It is also easy to combine a trip to Senegal with a visit to Mauritania, Gambia and Guinea-Bissau.

The West African country of Senegal covers an area of 196 712 km². The population is 18.3 million and the capital is Dakar. The country gained independence from French rule in 1960 and, as a colonial legacy, the official language is French. English is poorly spoken. People make their living from agriculture; the country produces nuts, cotton and sugar cane. Fishing and phosphate resources also provide a livelihood for many, as does tourism today.

Climate: Senegal has a tropical climate. On the coast, the rainy season lasts from June to October, with August being the wettest month. Winter is a dry season and in January temperatures can drop as low as 17 degrees Celsius. Towards the rainy season, temperatures rise and in May temperatures reach over 25 degrees Celsius. In the northern parts of the country, temperature differences are greater; for example, in May it can be over 40 degrees Celsius. During the rainy season, temperatures can reach 35 degrees Celsius. The south of Senegal enjoys a hot and humid climate throughout the year, with more rainfall in the rainy season than in the rest of the country.

Security: Senegal is a safe country to visit, but in large crowds it's a good idea to beware of pickpockets.

Visa: Most Westerners have visa-free access to Senegal. Please note that visa policies and prices are subject to change without notice. Passports must be valid for three months from the date of entry.

Currency: Senegal uses the West African CFA franc (XOF) as its currency, which is pegged to the euro. One euro is worth around 656 francs. You should take euro banknotes with you and exchange them on arrival or withdraw cash from an ATM.

Vaccinations and malaria: Senegal requires a certificate of yellow fever vaccination if you arrive from a country with yellow fever risk. In addition, hepatitis a and b vaccinations are recommended. Please ensure that your basic vaccinations are up to date. Senegal is affected by malaria throughout the year, so anti-malaria medication is recommended.

Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is strongly recommended.

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