Things to Do in Senegal

About Senegal

Senegal is one of the few countries where hospitality has its own word—teranga in Wolof—and you'll feel it everywhere. Dakar's Plateau district shows off colonial architecture alongside African markets, drumbeats, and French cafés. The mix works. The Atlantic coastline runs for miles. Wooden pirogues line the beaches, fishermen haul in nets, and the Saharan wind hits the water hard. Gorée Island tells difficult history. Lac Rose lives up to its name—the water is pink. Markets get loud. French blends with Wolof, Pulaar, and Serer in conversations that move fast and overlap constantly. Evening prayer calls echo over the rooftops. Griots play kora in doorways, keeping old stories alive with strings and voice. The sabar drums start up after dark—Senegal doesn't quiet down when the sun sets.

Travel Tips

Transportation: Use official taxis with meters in Dakar or negotiate fares upfront. For intercity travel, sept-places (shared taxis) are cheapest but crowded—book two seats for comfort. Avoid driving at night due to poor road lighting and livestock.

Money: Carry West African CFA francs in cash as cards aren't widely accepted outside Dakar. Use Ecobank or BICIS ATMs for best rates. Budget 15,000-25,000 CFA daily for mid-range travel including meals and transport.

Cultural Respect: Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques—cover shoulders and knees. Always greet with 'As-salaam alaikum' or 'Bonjour' before conversations. Accept tea invitations graciously; refusing is considered rude. Remove shoes when entering homes.

Food Safety: Stick to busy street food stalls with high turnover and hot, freshly cooked meals. Try thieboudienne (national dish) and fresh grilled fish. Avoid raw vegetables unless you can peel them. Drink bottled or filtered water exclusively.

When to Visit

Senegal's dry season (November-May) offers the most comfortable travel conditions with temperatures ranging from 70-85°F and virtually no rainfall. December through February represents peak season with perfect weather but 30-40% higher accommodation prices and crowded attractions. March-May brings hotter temperatures (85-95°F) but fewer crowds and 20% lower prices, ideal for budget travelers who can handle heat. The wet season (June-October) sees heavy rainfall (up to 20 inches in August), high humidity, and temperatures around 80-90°F. However, this period offers the lowest prices (40-50% discounts) and lush, green landscapes—perfect for photographers and cultural ensoiasts willing to work around afternoon downpours. Major festivals include Tabaski (Eid al-Adha, dates vary), the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival (May), and Dakar Music Festival (December). Birdwatchers should visit November-April when Palearctic migrants join resident species. Surfers find best swells December-April, while fishing ensoiasts prefer the calmer May-October period. First-time visitors should target December-February for optimal weather, while repeat visitors might explore the atmospheric wet season for authentic local experiences and significant savings.