Why visit
Senegal runs from Dakar's surf and music to the pink water of Lake Retba, Saint-Louis' faded colonial grid, and the Sine-Saloum delta. Gorée Island's slave-trade memorial is the essential, somber visit.
Country - Africa
Senegal
culturefoodbeachcity
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Senegal works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Dakar as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Senegal.
At a glance
Location
14.0°, -14.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
196,722 km²
75,955 mi²
Country population
17.8 million
90/km²
Subregion
Western Africa
Currency
West African CFA franc (Fr)
XOF
Dial
+221
Language
French
Demonym
Senegalese
Internet
.sn
UN
Member state
ISO code
SN / SEN
Where in the world
14.0° - -14.0°
Senegal
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Senegal's Île de Gorée, off Dakar, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site marking the Atlantic slave trade.
- The country is the westernmost point of mainland Africa.
- Teranga: the Wolof concept of hospitality: is considered Senegal's national value.
Bordering Senegal
Traveler notes
- Gorée Island is a short ferry from Dakar and a UNESCO site
- Dakar's Almadies point breaks surf year-round
- Saint-Louis hosts a respected jazz festival each spring
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Dakar, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Senegal
What is the capital of Senegal?
Dakar is the capital of Senegal.
What currency does Senegal use?
Senegal uses the West African CFA franc (Fr), ISO code XOF.
What languages are spoken in Senegal?
The primary language is French.
Is Senegal landlocked?
No, Senegal has a coastline.
What countries border Senegal?
Senegal borders Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Mauritania.
What is the international calling code for Senegal?
The calling code is +221.
When is the best time to visit Senegal?
Nov–May. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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