According to the Ministry of African Integration and Foreign Affairs of Senegal, since 1 May 2015, the procedures for obtaining a visa to enter Senegal have evolved. Citizens of certain countries are exempt from visas for stays of less than three months, provided they have a passport or laissez-passer valid for at least six months.
African countries concerned:
- Benin
- Burkina Faso
- Cape Verde
- Congo (Brazzaville)
- Ivory Coast
- Gambia
- Ghana
- Guinea-Bissau
- Guinea Conakry
- Kenya
- Liberia
- Mali
- Morocco
- Mauritania
- Niger
- Nigeria
- Central African Republic
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Tunisia
European countries concerned:
- Germany
- Austria
- Belgium
- Bulgaria
- Cyprus
- Croatia
- Denmark
- Spain
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Greece
- Hungary
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Poland
- Portugal
- Czech Republic
- Romania
- United Kingdom
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Sweden
Other countries concerned:
- Brazil
- Canada
- China
- South Korea
- Djibouti
- United Arab Emirates
- United States of America
- India
- Mauritius
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Singapore
Nationals of countries not mentioned above, as well as holders of refugee travel documents, must obtain a visa to enter Senegal.
For further information, it is recommended to consult the official website of the Ministry of African Integration and Foreign Affairs of Senegal or to contact the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Senegal.
About Senegal
- Teranga spirit : Senegal is renowned for its great hospitality, Teranga being an essential value of Senegalese culture, symbolizing respect, hospitality and solidarity.
- Climate : Senegal enjoys a pleasant climate with a dry season (November to May) and a rainy season (June to October). With more than 500 km of coastline, it is a sunny destination all year round.
- Crops : The country is a cultural crossroads with ethnic diversity (Wolofs, Serères, Peuls, Diolas, etc.), traditional music (sabar, mbalax), and a rich historical heritage.
- Health and safety Tips for a safe stay, including the recommended vaccination against yellow fever and the use of mosquito protection (malaria prevention).
Main destinations
- Dakar : Vibrating capital, cultural and economic centre of the country, with lively markets, museums (Museum of Black Civilizations, IFAN) and the island of Gorée, memorial of the slave trade.
- Saint Louis : Former colonial capital, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its colourful houses, festivals (Jazz de Saint-Louis) and the park of Judj (ornithological reserve).
- Casamance : South tropical region, famous for its paradise beaches (Cap Skirring), bolongs (sea arms) and diola culture.
- Eastern Senegal : Less tourist destination, ideal for ecotourism and safari (Niokolo-Koba National Park, Dindéfélo Falls).
- Small coast : Popular seaside area with resorts such as Sally and Somone, offering nautical and relaxing activities.
- Sine Saloum : Mangrove region classified biosphere by UNESCO, perfect for canoe excursions and the discovery of traditional villages.
Activities and experiences
- Natural parks : Discovery of local fauna (lions, antelope, crocodiles) in parks such as Bandia or Niokolo-Koba.
- Gastronomy : Tasting of emblematic dishes like the thieboudian (fish rice), yassa (chicken or fish with lemon sauce) Mafe (groundnut paste stew).
- Arts and cultures : Visit of galleries and museums, dance shows and traditional music, participation in festivals.
- Shopping : Handcrafted markets (Sandaga, Soumbedioune) to buy fabrics, jewelry, masks and carved wooden objects.
- Spa & Wellness : Relaxation spaces offering massages and treatments inspired by African traditions.
Practical information to organize your trip
- Go back :
- Blaise Diagne International Airport (AIBD) is the country's main gateway.
- Direct flights from Europe, Africa and North America.
- Moving :
- Public transport (buses, taxis, fast buses) available but often crowded.
- Recommended car rental to explore freely.
- Domestic flights to certain areas such as Casamance.
- Accommodation : Wide range of options ranging from luxury hotels to economical hostels and ecotourism camps.
- Visa and formalities :
- Nationals from many countries (France, Canada, United States, European Union, West Africa) do not need a visa for stays of less than 90 days.
- Currency and budget :
- Currency: CFA franc (1 € - 655,957 CFA francs).
- Affordable cost of living, but prices can be higher in tourist areas.
- Language :
- French is the official language.
- Wolof is the most spoken language, along with other local languages (peul, serera, diola, mandingue).