Senegal🇸🇳
Situated in the western part of Africa, Senegal is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean, Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau. It is known for the vibrant culture, hospitality, and rich history. The country is famous for its traditional music called 'sabar', colorful street markets, beautiful landscapes including national parks like Niokolo-Koba National Park and the famous Pink Lake. The country has maintained a stable relationship with the neighboring countries due to its adherence to peace and democracy.
⚠️Things you should avoid⚠️
- Avoid flashy displays of wealth as this may attract thieves.
- Avoid drinking tap water, especially in rural areas, without boiling or sterilizing it first.
- Avoid swimming in the ocean during the high-wave season (May-November) due to strong currents and undertow.
- Avoid public demonstrations and gatherings as they can turn violent.
- Avoid letting your passport out of your sight. Counterfeit passports are a real issue.
- Avoid criticizing the government openly, self-censorship is frequent due to fear of government reprisals.
- Avoid walking on unknown beaches or jungle areas in Casamance region. Landmines have been used in the conflict.
- Avoid late-night travels outside the city centers as road conditions can be hazardous due to poor lighting conditions.
- Avoid taking photos of military sites and personnel.
- Avoid open displays of same-sex affection as it might lead to hostility.
Overall
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Crime 🔫
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Senegal's crime rate isn't particularly high compared to other countries. However, petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are common in tourist areas and on public transport, particularly in Dakar. Visitors should be most cautious in Dakar, Touba, and Kaolack where crime rates are higher.
Terrorism 💣
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While not completely spared, Senegal is one of the Sahel nations where terrorist attacks are less frequent. Although attacks have occurred, especially in the Casamance region, whose separatist movement has been involved in a low-level insurgency for decades.
War ⚔️
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Senegal is a peaceful country with a stable political environment. However, there has been ongoing low-level civil unrest in the Casamance region due to separatist tensions. The area along the southern border with Guinea-Bissau has seen sporadic instances of violence.
Natural Disasters 🌊
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Natural disasters in Senegal mainly include floods and drought, with occasional locust infestations. Significant floods in 2009 and 2012 caused widespread disruption. Drought, which leads to food shortage, is a recurrent issue, particularly in rural areas.
Medical Care 🏥
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Medical facilities in Senegal's cities are limited and even more scarce in rural areas. Although some healthcare providers in Dakar offer adequate services, the quality of care diminishes outside the city. Emergency medical response capabilities are also inadequate throughout the country.
Tap Water Quality 💧
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The tap water in Senegal is not always safe to drink. In urban areas, chlorinated water supplies are relatively safe. Still, in rural areas, water quality is often poor. Travelers are advised to boil or sterilize water before drinking or use bottled water.
Disease Burden 🤒
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Senegal has a high prevalence of diseases such as malaria, dengue fever, and cholera. Malaria is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in rural and semi-urban areas. Hepatitis A and Typhoid fever are also common.
Corruption 💸
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Corruption in Senegal is a significant problem, affecting many sectors like the police, judiciary, and public services. The government has implemented measures to fight corruption, but their enforcement is often lacking.
Safety for Women ♀️
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Though generally safe, women, especially solo travelers, should exercise caution, particularly at night or in less crowded areas. Instances of harassment and cat-calling can be frequent in larger cities.
Safety for Queer People 👬
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Queer travellers should exercise discretion in Senegal as homosexuality is illegal and attracts severe penalties. There's significant societal stigmatization and discrimination against LGBTQ+ persons in Senegal.
Censorship 📺
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Senegal has a broad freedom of expression, however, self-censorship is frequent due to fear of government reprisals. The government has sometimes temporarily shut down media outlets criticizing the political leadership. On the positive side, the local press is pluralistic and often critical.
Public Transportation 🚌
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Senegal's public transport system is fairly developed in the cities, particularly Dakar, with buses and shared taxis that are safe to use. However, the buses can be crowded, and accidents are not uncommon due to poorly maintained vehicles and poor road conditions.
Other useful information
🔒 How safe is it?
Senegal is relatively safe, but common-sense precautions should be taken. Petty crimes are common so keep an eye on your belongings. Medical facilities are inadequate, so have a comprehensive travel insurance. Given illegal status of homosexuality, LGBTQ+ travelers should exercise caution.
🏰 Embassies in this Country
Senegal hosts several foreign embassies including the United States Embassy in Dakar, French Embassy in Dakar, Canadian Embassy in Dakar, among others.
💉 Recommended Vaccinations
Travelers to Senegal should be vaccinated for Yellow Fever, Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Malaria, Meningitis and routine vaccines like MMR and DPT.
🐍 Dangerous Animals
Senegal has Crocodiles inhabiting its rivers. The country is also home to African elephants, hyenas, jackals, and many species of snakes including black cobras and puff adders.
🛂 Visa Requirements
Most travelers will need a Visa to visit Senegal unless they come from one of the visa exempt countries. Visa can be obtained from Senegal’s diplomatic missions in home country.
💲 Currency
Senegal’s currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF). Currency can be exchanged at banks and exchange offices in major cities.
💳 Credit Card Acceptance
Credit cards are accepted at larger hotels and restaurants in Dakar but cash is needed for transactions in rural areas.
🧑🏭 Is it possible to work and travel in this country?
Work visas are available for those with employment in Senegal. Volunteer programs exist, especially in education and healthcare. Check local labor laws and get proper permits before working abroad.
💵 Cost of Travel and Living
Senegal is relatively cheap by Western standards. Accommodation, food and transportation are affordable but prices can be higher in tourist areas.