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Senegal FAQ

Is tipping customary in Senegal?

Tipping is only expected from well-heeled locals and from foreigners. At established restaurants a 10%-15% service charge is usually included in the bill; where it’s not, 10% is the acceptable gratuity. Although tipping at other eateries isn't mandatory, a rounding up of the bill will be much appreciated given the low wages that Senegalese workers are typically paid. Setting aside a small amount for porters, guides and drivers is also a good idea.

What is the internet access like in Senegal?

Internet cafes, with relatively fast and reliable connections, can easily be found in Senegal’s cities and major towns.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Senegal?

Mobile phone coverage is good in Senegal’s large cities and towns, but less so in rural areas. The major local telephone companies are Alize, Sentel, Orange and Tigo. Ensure you have global roaming activated before leaving home if you plan to use your mobile phone.

What are the toilets like in Senegal?

Squat/pit toilets are generally the standard in Senegal, although western-style flushable toilets are often found in large hotels and other modern buildings. Carry your own supply of soap and toilet paper, as this is rarely provided.

What will it cost for a...?

Sandwich = 1000 CFA
Litre of bottled water = 700 CFA
Shwarma = 1500-5000 CFA
Bottle of beer in a local bar = 500-1000 CFA

Can I drink the water in Senegal?

Tap water isn't safe to drink in Senegal. For environmental reasons, try to avoid buying bottled water. Instead, bring water purification tablets or ask your leader where filtered water can be found.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Senegal?

Credit cards are generally only accepted at top-end hotels, some restaurants, and a few shops. American Express is the most widely accepted, followed by Visa, Diners Club and Mastercard.

What is ATM access like in Senegal?

Banks with ATMs are found in all cities and large towns across the country, but are rarer in small towns, rural areas and villages. Not all ATMs will accept foreign cards or be in working order, so be sure to have other payment methods available when venturing out of the cities.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Senegal?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Senegal?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 24 Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammad)
Apr 1 Easter Monday
Apr 4 Independence Day
May 1 Labour Day
May 9 Ascension Day
May 20 Whit Monday
Aug 8 Korité (End of Ramadan)
Aug 15 Assumption
Oct 15 Tabaski (Feast of Sacrifice)
Nov 1 All Saints' Day
Nov 4 Islamic New Year
Nov 13 Tamkharit (Ashura)
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to: http://www.worldtravelguide.net/senegal/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Senegal?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • SENEGAL:
    Australia: Yes - In advance
    Belgium: No - Not required
    Canada: No - Not required
    Germany: No - Not required
    Ireland: No - Not required
    Netherlands: No - Not required
    New Zealand: Yes - In advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - In advance
    UK: No - Not required
    USA: No - Not required

    If a passenger needs a visa it must be obtained in advance from an embassy overseas. Citizens of the UK, EU, Japan, Canada, the USA and a few African countries are exempt from applying for a visa for a stay which does not exceed three months (90 days). Australia and New Zealanders should use the Senegalese embassy in Malaysia as their closest option. For other nationalities the embassy in the UK may be the most convenient and you may require a guarantee letter from Dragoman as part of your visa application.

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Senegal at a glance

  • 6
  • Dakar (population 2.7 million)
  • 13.3 million
  • French, Wolof
  • XOF
  • (GMT) Casablanca
  • Type C (European 2-pin), Type D (Old British 3-pin)
  • +221

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