Senegal Flights and Travel Guide

Language

The official language is French, but there are six other national languages spoken, including Wolof, which is the most widely used, as well as numerous other dialects.

Back to top

Money

The official currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF), which is divided into 100 centimes. The CFA franc is fixed to the Euro at a rate of 1 Euro = 655.957 CFA francs, or 100 CFA francs = 0.152449 Euro, and only currency issued by the Bank of West African States (Banque des Etats de l'Afrique de l'Ouest) is considered valid. There are ATMs in Dakar, but banking facilities are limited in the rest of the country. Credit cards are only accepted by major establishments catering to the tourist trade, with American Express being the most widely accepted; commission is charged. Travelers checks can be cashed in Dakar.

Back to top

Communications

The international dialing code for Senegal is +221. The outgoing code is 00 followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 001 for the U.S.). No city/area codes are required. The telephone system is one of the most developed in Africa and there are numerous telephone centres for making both local and international calls. Two operators provide cell phone coverage. Cyber cafes offer Internet connections in the main cities.

Back to top

Tipping

Larger hotels and restaurants usually include a service charge of 10 to 15 percent. Taxi drivers are not usually tipped.

Back to top

Safety

Most visits to Senegal are trouble-free, but street crime and pick-pocketing, especially in Dakar, are common. Visitors are advised to conceal valuables from the public eye. Travel by road in the Casamance region west of Kolda is unsafe due to the activities of separatist rebel groups, and should be avoided.

Back to top

Health

Stomach troubles are the most common complaint with visitors to Senegal, so travelers should watch what they eat and drink; do not drink untreated tap water. Malaria is prevalent throughout the country and prophylaxis is recommended for all travelers. A yellow fever vaccination is a requirement for entry to Senegal; other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, polio, tetanus and typhoid. Outbreaks of meningococcal infections occur and vaccination is recommended for travel during the dry season (November to May). Outbreaks of cholera also occur. There is a risk of bilharzia, and visitors should avoid contact with stagnant, fresh water. Medical facilities are good in Dakar, but are limited in the rest of the country, and travelers should ensure they have comprehensive health insurance.

Back to top

Electricity

Electrical current is 220 volts AC, 50Hz. Round two-pin attachment plugs are in use.

Back to topp