Why visit
Senegal is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Country · Africa
Senegal
culturefoodbeachcity
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
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
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.
Other Africa destinations
Malawi
Malawi is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Mali
Mali is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Mauritania
Mauritania is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.
Mauritius
Mauritius is an Indian Ocean destination with lagoons, Creole food, and volcanic interiors. Best paired with slow travel rather than island-hopping.
Morocco
Morocco threads Roman ruins, imperial medinas, Saharan dunes, and Atlantic surf coasts into a single, compact trip. Marrakesh and Fès anchor the culture routes; Essaouira and Taghazout anchor the beach ones.
Mozambique
Mozambique is a destination in Africa known for its cultural identity: local traditions, music, crafts, and a distinctive regional character that differs from its neighbors.