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Final Up to date on August 26, 2025
Go to Senegal for a peek into West African tradition and historical past. Right here’s my detailed Senegal journey information and itinerary.
Perched on the westernmost tip of Africa, Senegal beats to a unique rhythm as its neighbors. The nation is lined with seashores standard with surfers and dotted with islands which can be dwelling to crumbling however charming French colonial buildings.
The Senegalese delight themselves on the teranga, or heat hospitality in Wolof language. It’s one of many many causes that makes Senegal so particular in my eyes and is on the core of their tradition. I traveled solo in Senegal, and met many individuals alongside the best way who made a distinction to my journey.
As one of the steady nations in West Africa, Senegal is definitely the most effective place to go for an introduction to the area. Whether or not it’s your first or tenth time in Africa, a visit to Senegal is rarely boring. Right here’s my detailed information with every little thing that you must find out about Senegal journey.
The way to Go to Senegal
By Airplane
The Blaise Diagne Worldwide Worldwide Airport is the primary gateway to Senegal. The airport is model new, opened in December 2017, and it’s amazingly environment friendly. However it’s situated 27 miles (43km) from downtown Dakar (1-hour automotive journey).
Dakar Airport is definitely accessible by direct flight from main cities in Europe, together with Lisbon and Paris. Main airways that serve this airport embrace Emirates, Air France, TAP Air Portugal and Turkish Airways.
The most cost effective option to fly to Dakar is from Lisbon on TAP Portugal. Flights from Lisbon to Dakar normally price round $500 return. However I bought an awesome deal: my flight from Amsterdam to Dakar price solely US$280 return!
These flying from the US should fly by way of Europe. Flights from New York to Dakar price round US$850 return (16-hour journey). Flights from Los Angeles to Dakar price round $1000 return with stopovers in Chicago or Toronto.
By Street
Senegal has borders with Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and Gambia. Probably the most infamous border crossing is the Senegal-Mauritania border at Rosso. It’s simply two hours from Saint Louis and there’s a free ferry crossing to get you throughout the Senegal River. Some vacationers have reported assaults on the border crossing. Learn this weblog put up for particulars.
One other border crossing that’s open is the Senegal-Gambia border in Karang/Amdallai. This border has frequent protests and closures. Karang is a few 5-hour journey from Dakar. After crossing the border, you’ll have to catch a taxi to Barra and from there, a ferry to Banjul, capital of Gambia.
Overland journey in Senegal is barely beneficial for individuals who have traveled West Africa and who can deal with tough conditions.
When to Go to Senegal
The perfect time to go to Senegal is throughout the dry season from November to February. These are the best months and the most effective time to see wildlife.
It’s greatest to keep away from the wet season from late June to September. Some nationwide parks can change into inaccessible and even closed. The warmth and humidity might be excessive and malaria is a major problem. If you happen to’re planning to journey solely round Dakar, you received’t have to fret about malaria.
I visited Senegal in early June and the climate was good. It wasn’t too scorching or chilly. The common temperature throughout the day was round 75 deg F (24 deg C) and it was dusty however not wet.
How Lengthy to Journey Senegal?
I spent one week in Senegal and bought to discover three areas: Dakar, Saint-Louis and the Langue du Barbarie Nationwide Park. It gave me a great sense of the nation, although I wanted I had extra time to go down south.
The perfect factor about touring to Senegal is that it’s simply accessible from Europe the place I’m based mostly. Flights from Europe are quick (3.5 hours) and low-cost (mine price $350 return). So I can simply come again anytime!
If in case you have the time although, I like to recommend having at the least two weeks in Senegal. This will provide you with sufficient time to go to the desert and wildlife parks. See my Senegal itinerary on the backside of the put up.
Is it Secure to Go to Senegal?
Senegal is called one of many most secure nations in West Africa. With comparatively low ranges of crime and illness, plus a steady democracy, Senegal is kind of a secure journey vacation spot.
As a solo feminine traveler, I felt moderately secure when touring round Senegal. I bought hassled quite a bit although, with normally 3-4 males (and girls) approaching me every day. Thoughts you, they’re normally not that persistent.
West Africa tends to be tougher than different elements of Africa for individuals who don’t converse French. I like to recommend hiring a information in the event you’re not assured being alone. I traveled independently in and round Dakar after which employed a information to discover Saint-Louis and a close-by nationwide park. I didn’t get hassled one bit whereas touring with him.
The way to Get Round Senegal
By Automotive
It’s doable to lease a automotive in Dakar and drive round by yourself. Roads in Senegal are literally not too dangerous, particularly these connecting Dakar with main cities/sights.
However there are fairly just a few unpaved roads so it’s greatest to rent a 4×4. I’d advise driving provided that you’re an skilled driver and may navigate unpaved roads and loopy drivers. A 1-week automotive rental from Dakar Airport price round $285 for a compact automotive and $1000 for a 4×4.
By Bus
A preferred manner of getting round cities is by Ndiaga Ndiayes (colourful 30-seater minibuses). These buses aren’t essentially the most snug option to get by however provide you with an attention-grabbing native expertise.
To get from one metropolis to a different, one of the best ways is by sept-place (Peugeot automobiles transformed into 7-seaters). These automobiles depart from the primary taxi station of every metropolis and depart solely once they’re full. Be ready to be squashed!
By Taxi
Taxis are frequent and straightforward to get in all places, however remember to discount. Costs to get across the downtown space are round 1000 CFA.
From downtown Dakar to Ngor shouldn’t price greater than 3000 CFA every manner. And a taxi from Dakar to the airport is priced at 25,000 – 30,000 CFA every manner.
Journey Senegal Independently or on Guided Excursions?
West Africa tends to be tougher than different elements of Africa for individuals who don’t converse French. I traveled independently round Dakar after which used the service of a information to discover the north. I employed Moctar, founding father of From Dakar, that focuses on immersion journeys. He’s multi-talented man who’s additionally a photographer and media firm proprietor.
If you happen to want to journey with a bunch, try this 10-day Senegal and Gambia journey with small-group operator Intrepid Journey. I’ve traveled with them many instances (to Mongolia, Antarctica, Brazil, Nepal and many others.) and may extremely suggest them. Each single journey was epic and I made many lifelong friendships on my journeys with them.
Alternatively, you may e book day excursions on Viator to have a information solely on sure days. Listed here are some day excursions from Dakar price testing:
The place to Keep in Senegal
There are many reasonably priced decisions in relation to lodging, particularly in Dakar. useful resource for condo or villa rental in Senegal is MyAfric.com (akin to the Airbnb of West Africa). If you happen to’re an upscale traveler, then that’s the most effective place to search out snug lodging.
Blaise Diagne Airport: Radisson Lodge Dakar Diamniadio
If you happen to’re arriving late into Dakar, I like to recommend reserving a lodge close to the airport as Dakar is an hour away by taxi. That is the one airport lodge (albeit round 20 minutes away) with a free airport shuttle. It’s a correct 5-star lodge with a superb pool and restaurant. Verify the most recent charges.
Dakar: Villa Renaissance
This was the most effective place I stayed at in Senegal. The non-public mansion has been transformed into a snug boutique lodge with clear and trendy rooms and a swimming pool. Rooms are air-conditioned and have 4-poster beds and a turquoise seashore theme. It’s only a 10-minute stroll from the seashore in Ngor. Verify the most recent charges.
Dakar: Lodge du Plateau
I additionally stayed at this clear and nice lodge situated proper within the coronary heart of downtown Dakar. This space is the place all of the colonial buildings stand and there’s rather a lot to see right here. However it’s a gritty space, so be ready for some hassling. The lodge is a superb escape from the chaos of town although, with snug air-conditioned rooms. Verify the most recent charges.
Saint-Louis: Lodge La Residence
That is certainly one of Saint-Louis’ oldest motels, situated proper within the coronary heart of the island. The house owners (an historic Saint-Louisian household) have executed an awesome job in evoking the sense of historical past. The heritage lodge is effectively situated and positively the most effective place to remain on the town. Verify the most recent charges. Verify the most recent charges.
Langue du Barbarie: Zebra Bar
Positioned on the sting of the Senegal River, this campsite has superior views and entry to the hen reserve of Langue du Barberie. The spacious kid-friendly camp has lodging in easy huts and large bungalows. Verify the most recent charges.
What to Eat in Senegal
Senegalese meals took me abruptly: it’s hearty, spicy and comforting. Conventional Senegalese dishes typically include rice and a dollop of chili or mustard.
Fish and seafood are staples of Senegalese delicacies. You’ll discover grilled sole, dorade and calamari in lots of eating places. In any other case, rooster and goat are all the time obtainable. Vegetarians might need some issue discovering choices in Senegal as meat is present in nearly each dish right here.
There are the three important Senegalese dishes that you must attempt:
- Thieboudienne (pronounced Chebu Jen) actually means “fish and rice” within the native Wolof language.
- Yassa is a sauce of onions, lemons and garlic. It’s used to garnish rooster and fish.
- Mafé is a succulent peanut butter-based sauce that’s normally served in curry kind with beef, pork, goat, or rooster.
The place to Eat in Senegal
There are many low-cost eateries and patisseries everywhere in the important cities. Meals hygiene could also be an issue at street-side stalls and a few dibuterie (barbecue meat stands), so watch out.
Listed here are among the greatest locations I ate at:
- Keur N’Dya, Dakar — That is undoubtedly top-of-the-line locations to attempt thieboudienne in Dakar. They serve conventional Senegalese dishes which can be generally accompanied by the kora (West African harp-like instrument).
- Chez Katia, Ngor — This hip restaurant in Ngor is especially standard with Senegalese. It’s bought an reasonably priced menu that features wonderful pastries, grilled meat, and pizza.
- Le Reveil, Saint-Louis — This humble restaurant/bar within the coronary heart of Saint-Louis serves up wonderful mafé with goat meat. My information mentioned it’s the most effective place to eat in Saint-Louis.
Price of Journey in Senegal
The foreign money utilized in Senegal is West African Franc (CFA). The trade price is roughly US$1=580 CFA. You will get a good trade price on the airport, so altering cash on the change bureau close to baggage declare is unquestionably price it.
Senegal is mostly low-cost in relation to lodging and transport. You will get a room at a guesthouse/campsite for round $20/evening and a snug air-conditioned room in Dakar for $50-70/evening.
Meals isn’t as low-cost as you’d assume. A dish of thieboudienne in a neighborhood eatery normally prices 2000-3000 CFA ($3.70-5.50), and grilled fish or calamar in a vacationer city prices round 4000-6000 CFA ($7.50-11).
Faith in Senegal
The vast majority of Senegalese are Muslims, however they are typically much less conservative than their counterparts elsewhere in Africa.
Most Senegalese are understanding of western cultures, with many adopting western-style costume themselves. It’s acceptable to decorate in singlets and attire, however it’s best to nonetheless be aware of native cultural practices and beliefs. Cowl up when coming into non secular buildings.
Particularly, take further warning throughout non secular festivals. Throughout Ramadan, it’s not well mannered to eat and drink on the road throughout daylight, whereas most are abstaining.
Folks of Senegal
The Senegalese take delight in “teranga”, a Wolof phrase for hospitality. You’ll hear that quite a bit throughout your Senegal journey.
Folks are typically open and welcoming in the direction of guests. I misplaced rely of the variety of locals who approached me to strike up a dialog. The hassling might be annoying, however keep agency and calm.
More often than not, they need to present you their store or be your information. I normally reply with a agency “no”. But when I sense that the person is making an attempt to make an sincere residing, I might rent him for a brief tour and pay 2000 CFA for his time.
Language in Senegal
The primary languages spoken in Senegal are Wolof and French. However I’ve discovered fairly just a few individuals who converse English, notably the younger Senegalese who’re consistently hassling vacationers.
Don’t count on taxi drivers or waiters to talk English. Figuring out just a few key phrases in French or Wolof might be very helpful. Begin with a pleasant “Bonjour” (Hey) and “Ça va? Bien?” (How are you? Good?) in French. Even higher, say “Salaam Alaykum” to greet locals and “Jërejëf” (Thanks in Wolof).
I can perceive a little bit of French (however can’t actually converse it), and didn’t discover it troublesome to get by. You may all the time discover assist at your lodge or use Google Translator.
Well being Dangers in Senegal
Lately, Senegal has made huge strides within the battle towards malaria, with circumstances falling from over 30% within the early 2000s to lower than 5% in 2015.
Dakar and Saint-Louis might be visited with out malaria treatment. However it’s best to take precautions throughout the wet season (late June – September) and if heading inland (particularly the southeast). I visited in early June and didn’t take any malaria treatment. It didn’t rain on the all once I was there and mosquitoes have been only a few.
Although a yellow fever vaccine isn’t required to enter Senegal, it’s beneficial. When you get one, it’s efficient for all times. Bear in mind to carry a great mosquito repellent, tissue and sunblock.
Senegal Journey Itinerary: Issues to Do in Senegal
I’m sharing my 1-week Senegal itinerary that can assist you plan your Senegal journey. Lots of the attention-grabbing sights like Lac Rose and Goree Island are close to Dakar, so it’s straightforward to base your self in Dakar and discover the realm.
Senegal Journey Day 1: Discover Downtown Dakar & Ouakam
Downtown Dakar is the place a lot of the outdated colonial buildings are discovered. It’s fairly tough, be ready for some hassling.
A few of the factors of curiosity in downtown Dakar price testing are Le Musée des Civilisations Noires, Gare du Dakar, Lodge du Ville and Marche Kermel (avenue market).
Proceed to the Ouakam fishing village that’s dwelling to 2 main sights: Monument de la Renaissance Africaine (tallest statue in Africa) and Mosquée de la Divinité.
Senegal Journey Day 2: Go to Goree Island
Île de Gorée (or Goree Island) is a beautiful island and UNESCO website simply 1.8 miles (3km) from downtown Dakar. The tiny island makes for a really perfect day journey, because it’s only a 20-minute ferry experience from the Gare du Dakar.
The island’s sandy car-free lanes and pastel-colored colonial buildings flanked by lush bougainvillea flowers and baobab timber are undeniably alluring.
However don’t let the brilliant colours right here idiot you — the island bears witness to among the worst brutalities in human historical past. From the fifteenth to the nineteenth century, it was the biggest slave-trading centre on the Senegalese coast.
Senegal Journey Day 3: Discover Ngor and Ngor Island
Subsequent morning, head to Ngor, a fishing village that’s certainly one of Dakar’s most engaging areas. A taxi experience from downtown Dakar to Ngor prices round 3000 CFA ($5).
Ngor itself has a pleasant seashore with numerous colourful boats lined up on the sand and children frolicking within the water. Subsequent to the seafront is an attention-grabbing labyrinth-like residential space the place locals reside.
Then head out on a pirogue (leaves at any time when it’s full) to Ngor island or Île de N’Gor, simply off the shore. The peaceable islet has just a few calm seashores with some legendary surf on the norther finish. The sandy walkways are flanked by surf camps, eclectic artwork galleries and inventive homes.
Senegal Journey Day 4: Head to Saint-Louis
It’s time to go out to discover the countryside of Senegal. Saint-Louis is a 4-hour journey from Dakar on the sept-place (7-seater). Catch a sept-place from the Gare Routiere Pompiers.
Saint-Louis was the primary French settlement in Africa, based in 1659. It turned a thriving buying and selling centre, and finally the capital of the French colonial empire.
The outdated city stands on an island in the course of Senegal River. At this time it’s a shadow of its former self, present as a sprawl of dilapidated colonial buildings which trace at former glory. A few of the gorgeous buildings have been splendidly restored such because the Museum of Images and Keur Fall Artisan store.
Senegal Journey Day 5: Discover extra of Saint Louis
There’s a lot to Saint-Louis so I like to recommend spending one other day wandering its dusty roads and testing the attention-grabbing outlets and museums.
The easiest way to discover each nook of Saint-Louis is by horse-drawn carriage, the unique mode of transport right here. Make a cease on the Faidherbe Bridge, town’s most vital landmark. It was designed by Gustav Eiffel, the well-known engineer behind Eiffel Tower.
Cross the bridge and also you’ll discover a very completely different facet to Saint Louis. The fishing district of Guet Ndar is a particularly energetic space with hundreds of pirogues parked on the seashore and gritty homes lining the dusty roads.
Senegal Journey Day 6: See Wildlife at Langue du Barbarie
Positioned round a 30-minute taxi experience from Saint-Louis, the Langue du Barbarie Nationwide Park is a protected space across the estuary the place the Senegal River and the Atlantic Ocean meet.
It’s dwelling to many hen species, together with the flamingo, pelican, cormorant heron and egret. Catch a pirogue and also you’ll see them in massive flocks, particularly from November to April.
There are additionally numerous small villages inside the nationwide park. We took a stroll to a village simply exterior Zebra Bar and it was fascinating to go to the market and see how locals reside within the rural space.
Senegal Journey Day 7: Return to Dakar
It’s time to go again to Dakar. Spend a while within the morning wandering round Saint Louis (numerous markets, attention-grabbing outlets and boutiques) earlier than catching a sept-place again to Dakar.
I’d advise staying close to the Blaise Diagne airport in case you have a morning flight to catch as Dakar is an hour away. There’s not quite a bit occurring across the airport and the one lodge that’s close to is the Radisson Lodge Dakar Diamniadio.
Different Issues to Do in Senegal
- Lac Rose — A pink lake that shimmers below the solar as a result of cyanobacteria that flourish within the water.The diploma of pinkness is determined by the season.
- Toubab Dialow — My native information’s favourite browsing spot in Senegal. The cliffs drop off to the Atlantic Ocean beneath. This fishing city is dwelling to a hippy campsite and backpackers’ favourite, Sobo Bade.
- Sine-Saloum Delta — If in case you have greater than 1 week in Senegal, I extremely suggest visiting this delta. About three hours from Dakar, Sine-Saloum is an exquisite space of shimmering flat plains, palm groves, salt marshes and lagoons.
- Desert du Lompoul — Close to the Grand Cote lies large dunes that stretch from the coast far into the nation’s inside. You may keep in Mauritanian desert tents proper in the course of the dunes.
- Bandia Wildlife Reserve — If it’s your first time in Africa and also you’re dying to see massive animals, head to Bandia Reserve simply exterior Dakar.
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