Quick facts
Budget breakdown
| Category | Budget | Midrange |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10–20 | $25–60 |
| Food | $5–10 | $10–25 |
| Transport | $3–8 | $8–15 |
| Activities | $3–10 | $10–25 |
| Entry Fees | $2–5 | $5–10 |
| Daily Total | $25–55 | $60–135 |
Daily per-person estimates. Costs vary by season and travel style.
Practical info
Entry & Visas
- Many nationalities are visa-free for Senegal (including EU and US). Some require a visa — check before travel
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required for entry
- Keep a copy of your passport and visa at all times — police checkpoints are common
Health & Safety
- Malaria risk exists in Senegal — consult your doctor about prophylaxis before travel
- Drink bottled water only. Avoid ice in drinks from street vendors
- Dakar is generally safe but petty theft and pickpocketing occur in crowded areas like Sandaga Market
Getting Around
- Taxis are the primary transport — negotiate the price before entering. No meters are used
- Yango ride-hailing app works reliably and shows prices upfront
- Car rapides (colourful minibuses) are the cheapest option but crowded and confusing for first-time visitors
Connectivity
- Buy an Orange or Free Senegal SIM card at the airport for affordable data — 2,000 XOF for 2GB
- WiFi is available at hotels and cafes but speeds vary. Download offline maps and translation apps
- French is the official language but Wolof is spoken everywhere — a translation app is very useful
Money
- Currency: XOF (CFA Franc). Fixed exchange rate with the Euro (1 EUR = 655.957 XOF)
- Cash is preferred for most transactions. ATMs available in the Plateau and Almadies districts
- Tip 5–10% at restaurants. Guides expect 2,000–5,000 XOF per day. Round up taxi fares
Packing Tips
- Lightweight, breathable clothing — Dakar is hot and humid year-round. Modest dress is appreciated
- Comfortable walking shoes for market exploration and a day pack for essentials
- Mosquito repellent (DEET-based), sunscreen, and a hat. A portable phone charger for long days out
Cultural tips
Teranga (Hospitality)
Senegal is famous for teranga — a deep cultural value of hospitality and generosity. Accept invitations to share tea, food, and conversation. Reciprocate generosity when you can. The warmth of Senegalese people is genuine and transformative.
Religious Respect
Senegal is approximately 95% Muslim with a strong Sufi tradition. Dress modestly, especially in residential areas and near mosques. Senegal is known for exceptional religious tolerance — Christians and Muslims coexist harmoniously.
Photography Etiquette
Always ask before photographing people. Many Senegalese are happy to pose but some are not — respect a refusal immediately. The House of Slaves on Gorée is a memorial — photograph with sensitivity and respect.
Greetings Matter
Greetings in Senegal are elaborate and important. "Salaam alaikum" (Arabic) or "Nanga def?" (Wolof for "How are you?") followed by an extended exchange about family and health is expected. Rushing past greetings is considered rude.
Support Local Economy
Buy from artisans at Soumbédioune market, eat at gargottes, use local guides, and tip fairly. Tourism is an important income source, and your spending goes furthest when it reaches local businesses directly.
Senegalese Time
Life in Dakar operates on a flexible schedule. Appointments, transport, and events rarely start on time. Embrace the pace — frustration accomplishes nothing, and patience opens doors to deeper experiences.
