Entry Requirements and Visas
Senegal has open borders with a welcoming visa policy. Citizens of almost every country in the world can obtain a visa on arrival, making entry straightforward for most travelers. The only exceptions are citizens of Yemen, Hong Kong, Macao, and Kosovo, who must apply for a visa at their local Senegalese consulate or embassy before traveling.
If you're flying to Senegal, you'll most likely arrive at Blaise Diagne International Airport in Dakar, which opened in late 2017. Direct flights are available from North America via carriers like Delta Air Lines and South African Airways, with journey times ranging from 7 to 8 hours from the US East Coast. Several European airlines also offer connections through major hubs.
Money, Currency, and Costs
The currency in Senegal is the West African Franc (XOF). Bottled water, which is the safest drinking option, is inexpensive and widely available, with Kirene being the most common local brand. Rehydration salts and basic medicines are also affordable and easily found at pharmacies throughout the country.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Senegal is recognized as one of the most stable countries on the African continent, though some practical precautions are necessary. The Casamance region in the south has experienced sporadic conflict between government forces and a separatist group since 1982, though violence has subsided in recent years. It's wise to avoid this area or check with your embassy for the latest security situation before visiting.
In Dakar and other urban areas, petty theft and scams are common. Be particularly cautious of:
- Pickpockets who use a two-person tactic: one person distracts you while another steals from your pockets
- Aggressive street vendors who may follow you for blocks and occasionally make accusations if refused
- Street stall vendors who may grab cash from your hands during transactions and claim it as theirs
- People claiming to have met you before or offering to guide you, who may lead you to remote locations
To protect yourself, wear trousers or shorts with secure pockets (buttons or snaps) and keep your shirt untucked to cover them. Never hold cash openly while bargaining or shopping. Women should be especially alert, as they are frequently targeted at beaches and markets.
Always carry identification with you—either your passport or a copy. Police occasionally stop vehicles to check papers, and being without identification could result in attempted bribe solicitation or a trip to the station.
Important emergency numbers:
- Ambulance (SAMU): 15 15
- SOS Médecins: +221 33 889 15 15 15
- Hôpital Principal (Dakar): +221 33 839 50 50 (extension 5555)
- Clinique de la Madeleine (Dakar): +221 33 889 94 70
- Clinique de l'Océan (Dakar): +221 33 825 69 37
One critical note: homosexuality is a significant taboo in Senegal and is punishable by law with 1 to 5 years' imprisonment. LGBT travelers should exercise extreme caution and not disclose their sexual orientation to anyone.
Health
Before arriving in Senegal, ensure you have necessary vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccination is officially required if you're coming from a country in a yellow fever zone, though it's not commonly checked upon arrival.
Malaria is present in Senegal, so take anti-malarial medication as recommended by your healthcare provider. Avoid tap water entirely and all dishes prepared with it. Bottled water is the safe choice and is inexpensive and widely available throughout the country.
To prevent dehydration, carry packets of rehydration salts to mix with water. These are inexpensive and readily available at pharmacies. As an alternative, you can mix table salt and sugar in the proper proportions.
Staying Connected
Senegal's international dialing code is +221.
Local Customs and Etiquette
The Senegalese people are generally very friendly and hospitable. To show respect and avoid standing out, always greet people wherever you go—not doing so is considered extremely rude. The standard Muslim greeting "Salaam Aleikum" is more appropriate than "Bonjour."
Important etiquette rules to follow:
- Never beckon a Senegalese person directly, even if they've done something wrong. This is considered very rude and the Senegalese are sensitive to being called in this manner
- Always use your right hand for handshakes and giving items, as using your left hand is disrespectful. However, if you're close to someone and parting for a long time, it's customary to shake their left hand as a way of saying you'll see them again
- Remove your shoes before entering mosques and other religious places
- Be aware that some members of a specific Muslim sect do not touch members of the opposite sex—don't be offended if someone declines a handshake; instead, clasp your hands together and hold them to your heart as a greeting
- Wear clothing that reaches at least the knee. Tank tops are generally accepted in larger towns but should be avoided otherwise
Religion is an important topic in Senegal and a popular conversational subject. Although Islam is the dominant religion with most Senegalese practicing a liberal form of it, Senegal is a secular state with remarkable religious tolerance and diversity. Interfaith marriages are common, and you won't offend people by discussing religion.
Foreign women may receive marriage proposals from Senegalese men—handle these with humor and caution. If people ask you for money or gifts, it's best to decline. While well-intentioned giving may seem helpful, it can encourage dependency on tourists and increase harassment. If you genuinely want to help the community, consider donating school supplies through local schools, park staff, or your hotel, which can distribute items to those in need.