Dakar Exploration

Resting on the coast at the westernmost tip of West Africa’s bulge, Senegal is best known for its dramatic natural landscapes of scenic desert, lush tropical forest, and pristine white-sand beaches. While those seeking urban distractions typically head for the capital city of Dakar, with its colourful markets and vibrant live music scene; travellers eager to relax can make their way to the nearby Goree Island or the laidback beaches of Yoff and N'Gor. When the novelty of the beach wears off, there are plenty of inland nature reserves, the lovely Casamance River, and the bright pink Lake Retba to explore. Other must-see sights include: the Fathala Game Reserve, inhabited by some of Africa’s most exotic wildlife; and the Old Town area of the historical city of Saint-Louis, filled to the brim with exquisite French Colonial architecture.

Currency 
Local currency: West African CFA franc 
Symbol: CFA 
ISO code: XOF 
Subunit: Centime (1/100 of a Franc) 
Banknotes: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 francs 
Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 500 francs 

Banking 
Card Transactions: Widely accepted in major cities 
ATMs: Yes 
Mastercard: Yes 
Visa: Yes 
American Express: Limited 
Diner’s club: No 

Banking Hours: Weekdays: 08:00 – 16:30, closed on weekends 
Public Holidays: Closed 
Foreign exchange services: Yes 

Air: 
Main airlines: Air Senegal 
International Airports: Blaise Diagne International Airport 
Domestic Airports: Leopold Sedar Senghor Airport (mainly for domestic flights) 

Road: 
Driving on the: Right 
Tar roads: Yes, mainly in and around urban centers 
Gravel roads: Yes, commonly in rural areas 
Valid International Driver's License needed: Yes 
Car hire available: Yes 
Taxis: Yes 
E-hailing services: Yes 

Bus: 
Inter-city bus services: Yes 
Local city bus networks: Yes 

Rail: 
Railway system: Limited; Dakar-Diamniadio has a new express regional train 
Subway System: No 

Water: 
Ferries: Yes, to Goree Island and Casamance region 
Water taxis: Limited 
Leisure cruises: Limited 

Food and water safety: 
Can you drink the tap water: No 
Fresh fruit and veg: Yes, but wash or treat before eating 
Ice: No 
Meat: Yes, ensure it is well cooked 
Street food: Yes, choose reputable vendors 

Local cuisine: 
Senegalese cuisine is known for its rich flavors and diverse ingredients, prominently featuring dishes like Thieboudienne (fish and rice), Yassa (onion and lemon chicken or fish), and Mafé (peanut stew). Seafood is extensively used along the coast. 

Drinks: 
Popular local drinks include bissap (hibiscus tea) and ginger juice. 

Tipping: Tipping is appreciated, around 10% in restaurants and for services. 

Annual rainfall: Varies greatly, generally higher in the south 
Average temperature: 27°C 

Summer: 
Average highs: 30°C 
Average lows: 24°C 

Winter: 
Average highs: 25°C 
Average lows: 17°C 

Best time to visit: 
The best time to visit Senegal is from November to May during the dry season when the weather is pleasant and suitable for wildlife viewing and beach activities. 

Spring and Summer 
Cool, light, breathable and comfortable: Yes 
Lightweight warm clothes: No 

Winter and Autumn 
Jerseys, cardigans, sweaters, jackets: Recommended 
Heavyweight clothing and boots: No 

General 
Umbrella and raincoat: Recommended during the rainy season 
Warm gloves, hat and scarf: No 
Swimming costume (bathing suit): Yes 
Hat, sunglasses, and sunblock: Yes 
Walking shoes: Yes 
Casual: Yes 
Smart-casual attire: Yes 

Internet cafes: Yes, in major cities 
Accommodation options: Yes, with varying connectivity 
Restaurants: Yes, mainly in cities 
Cafes: Yes, in cities 
Shopping malls: Yes, in major urban areas 
Public parks: Yes 
Libraries: Yes