Bonjour, je vais partir au Sénégal le 20 mars et j'aimerai savoir si il faut prendre une moustiquaire en sachant que je vais loger dand des hôtels de catégorie moyenne. Y'a t'il des moustiquaires dans la majorité des hôtels ou non? et dans quel état sont-elles? J'aimerai rester quelques jours à Dakar puis descendre directement en Casamance en bus. Qu'en pensez-vous? Est-ce assez sûr la Casamance en ce moment et pas trop la galère d'y aller en bus? Toutes suggestion d'itinéraires ou endroits hors des sentiers battus sont les bienvenus. Merci d'avance pour vos réponses.

Last February, I took an overland trip using "public transport" from France to southern Senegal via Spain, Morocco, Western Sahara, and Mauritania.

Hi there, I’ve been living in St. Louis, Senegal for several months and I’m looking for a spot in a vehicle to head back to France (or Morocco) in mid-May 2026. I’ve already done this route multiple times since I can’t fly (tubal disability). Let me know if you’d like to share the ride! Aurelie

Hello from Quebec, I’m a French-Canadian from Montreal. I’d love to go to Senegal during the Quebec winter to shorten this long season. Two people told me it’s not worth spending a lot of money to get there from Canada because there’s not much to discover. But I’m still skeptical. I’d love to read real testimonials from travelers who’ve been there, with as much info as possible. Thanks

It’s time to catch up with the VF buddies and wish you all my best for 2026—a year I obviously hope will be full of travel for you, since, as the saying I just made up goes: "If travel’s good, everything’s good" 😄.

So to celebrate, I’m inviting you to my new "travel journal," the one from our last trip in November 2025, which lasted a couple of weeks.

Hi

Which taxi app do you recommend for Senegal? Are there shared taxis from Dakar Airport to La Somone? If not, do you have an idea of the price for a taxi?

Thanks in advance

Hi everyone, I’m planning a trip to Senegal in early July 2026 for a week with my teenage daughter. We’ll be staying in a bungalow at Club Les Filaos. I’d love to hear your advice, especially about visits and excursions. The hotel offers them directly, but I’m wondering if it’s better to go with their organized tours or hire local guides you’d recommend. What do you think are the pros and cons of each option? I’d also appreciate tips on currency exchange—where’s the best place to do it to avoid any nasty surprises? Finally, if anyone’s stayed at this hotel recently, I’d love to hear your thoughts! I’ve read both glowing and terrible reviews, so I’d really value your firsthand experiences.

Thanks in advance for your tips and feedback! !

Hi, Has anyone recently taken the boat to Casamance from Dakar and could share their experience? From France, is it possible to book online, or do you need to go through an agency? How far in advance? Boarding/disembarking: how does it work? Do we have to check in our luggage and then pick it up on arrival? What’s the vibe like on the boat in the seating area? Has anyone ever stopped over in Carabane? Accommodation options there? Thanks so much if you have any recent info!

Hi there, I’m heading to Senegal in January for a month and was wondering if I just need my French driver’s license or if I should get an international permit? Thanks! JL

Hi traveler, I’m renting a furnished room in a local home in Saint-Louis, Senegal. All the details: 00 221 77 028 28 61

Hi there!

After our Central Asia trip this summer, we’ll be setting foot in Africa for the first time next February with our three kids (ages 5, 13, and 17).

I’ve fine-tuned a little itinerary with ChatGPT based on our interests and expectations, and here’s what came out:

Tuesday, February 24 — Dakar

Landing at 1:00 AM

Early afternoon: visit Gorée Island

Back to Dakar, light dinner

7:00 PM: boarding the ferry “Aline Sitoé Diatta”

Overnight on board (cabin)

Wednesday, February 25 — Ziguinchor

Arrival between 9:00–11:00 AM

Staying with a local host

Stroll: Saint-Maur market, river port

Overnight in Ziguinchor

Thursday, February 26 – Saturday, February 28 — Casamance (Cap Skirring & Oussouye)

February 26: Ziguinchor → Carabane road trip, explore the island, overnight on the island

February 27: Cap Skirring, beach time

February 28: Cap Skirring, relaxation, stroll, beach

Sunday, March 1 – Tuesday, March 3 — Oussouye

Head to Oussouye (~1 hour)

Discover Diola villages, rice fields, market, handicrafts

Overnights: Oussouye (3 nights)

Wednesday, March 4 – Friday, March 6 — Sine-Saloum

Drive to Toubacouta via the Trans-Gambian Highway (Gambia)

Stay with a local host / camp on the bolongs

Activities: pirogue ride in the delta, Serer villages, biking, handicraft discovery

Overnights: Sine-Saloum (3 nights)

Saturday, March 7 – Sunday, March 8 — Petite Côte

Drive to Somone / Ngaparou (~3 hours)

Stay with a local host

Activities: beach, safari at Bandia Reserve, kayaking on the lagoon, craft market

Overnights: Petite Côte (2 nights, including Sunday, March 8, to enjoy the full day before the nighttime departure)

Monday, March 9 — Departure

Transfer to Blaise Diagne International Airport (~45 minutes)

Flight leaves at 2:00 AM

I’ve got a few questions:

- Is an afternoon on Gorée Island worth it? I really want to go, but the ferry departure days are a bit limiting. - How easy is it to get around between these different stops? Can we find a taxi that fits all five of us? - Do you have any accommodation recommendations? I’d love to stay with locals as much as possible—we’re not looking for luxury, just a bed and a shower. - February 28 is my birthday, and I’d love to do something “special”: any ideas for a nice place to stay, a great restaurant, or an out-of-the-ordinary activity? We’ll be around Cap Skirring. - Does this itinerary seem coherent? I really want to visit Casamance, and we’d prefer to stay no more than 3 nights in the same place.

Don’t hesitate to share your tips! Thanks so much!

Hi there, Double rooms, nice and cheap (21 € per night) for rent about 5 minutes by car from Cap Skirring in a very quiet location. Private shower and toilet. Kettle included. Pool available! About a 10/15-minute walk to the beach. Shops and restaurants nearby. The manager is a former trekking guide in the Himalayas and will be happy to share his travel experiences with you. His Casamance-born wife can help make your stay easier and put you in touch with people based on your needs. They can arrange airport/lodging transfers for 5 €. DM for more info.

Hi everyone, I’m looking for a carpool to Senegal in December 2025, leaving from France. Of course, we’d split the costs and driving! Looking forward to hearing from you, Luc Oczachowski

I’d like to travel with one or two others for these trips. For Senegal, I’ll take my car. For the other trips, we can plan them later if the first one goes smoothly and is fair for all backpackers. I travel light with minimal personal items and no pretensions. I love sharing and chatting without overthinking it. And I’m open to any initiative.

I won’t tolerate people who are too attached to their comfort or their personal cultural lifestyle outside their home country or country of birth. (Humility and tolerance) The world is about discovery and should feel new above all else.

Hi there, I need to be transported on Tuesday, October 7th, from Blaise Diagne Airport to Diass (address of my accommodation near the gendarmerie). I’ll be leaving the airport around 3 PM. It’s about 2 or 3 km max. Any contacts with fair prices? Thanks

Hi there, We're on a backpacking trip, traveling by public transport/motorcycle taxis. We're in Noubou, south of Salemata in Senegal, just a stone's throw from the Guinean border. Do you know if it's possible to cross the border in this area? Where do we register? Can we cross the border without an official border post and just register in the first town we come to? We have our visas for Guinea.

Hello everyone! Like every year, a winter migration is on the horizon (revised plan): this time, it’ll be Dakar, or even Abidjan, via Morocco, Mauritania, and Senegal. Looking for an experienced motorcyclist or pillion rider—small build preferred—on a GSA 1250 with a comfy seat and luggage setup, available from early November to late December 2025. I’d like to plan the trip together (important to me) to make sure we’re on the same wavelength. Don’t hesitate to get in touch! Didier

Hi everyone, I’m 66 and just discovered solo travel in Uzbekistan—I loved it! So I’ve decided to explore Africa, starting with Senegal. I’m just beginning my research, but if anyone can give me advice on which month to go, what to see, and whether this destination is safe—or maybe suggest another African country—I’d really appreciate your tips!

hi everyone. I usually exchange money at a bank in the city in every country, but this time I was being picked up by my guide, so I did it as quickly as possible and didn’t check my receipt. I don’t remember the exact amount the cashier scammed me out of, but it was significant when I recounted everything later. Two hours later, when my guide still hadn’t shown up, I ran into the police—a kind woman I explained the situation to—but it was too late because the cashier had already been replaced. Be careful and don’t do what I did. Check everything in front of them because afterward, it’s too late 😅

Hi there!

I'm considering doing a round trip of Africa, starting in Morocco, then following the west coast down to the south, and finally heading back up along the east coast.

However, I have some big questions about the route:

From what I've gathered after a lot of research, the road seems quite doable without a 4x4 as far as Senegal, or even Benin?

It's between Benin and Namibia that it would get really tough, and I'd either need a 4x4 or to ship my vehicle if I'm in a converted H2L2 van (not 4x4)?

Could someone clarify this for me?

Otherwise, it seems like Southern, Northern, and Eastern Africa are accessible without a 4x4?

As for the vehicle, if a 4x4 is essential, I'm torn between: Kangoo 4x4 Lada Niva 4x4 standard C15 C15 4x4 Renault Trafic 4x4 (H2L2, so still quite large) or a Subaru Libero 4x4

Or would it even be possible with a simple Twingo? ^

But is that enough, or do I absolutely need a 4x4 like a Toyota, Land Rover, or something similar?

Those are my current questions! If anyone has some answers, that would be amazing!

Thanks so much!

# Eastern Senegal

Eastern Senegal is a fascinating region that offers a diversity of landscapes, rich culture, and captivating history. Located in the eastern part of the country, this area is often less explored than the coastal zones, but it’s definitely worth the detour.

Hey everyone, I wanted to share a little feedback on our first trip to Senegal, hoping it might help others who are on the fence about taking the plunge. We went in mid-February with my wife and our two daughters (6 and 9 years old), for 15 days in Saly, on the Petite Côte. It was our first time in West Africa, and honestly, we fell in love with the place. We landed at Blaise Diagne Airport, and right away, the change of scenery hit us. The weather was pleasantly warm, the people were super welcoming, and it felt like we’d arrived somewhere where time moves differently. The ride to Saly was by taxi, and I’ll admit, the first encounter with Senegalese traffic was a bit of an adventure! 😅 But you get used to it fast—it’s lively, colorful, and there’s a lot of honking, but there’s a kind of logic in the chaos. We rented a small apartment in Saly Niakh Niakhal, a 10-minute walk from the beach. It was perfect for the kids: huge beach, golden sand, warm water, and not too crowded. We went every morning—the girls built sandcastles, we chatted with the street vendors (who were really friendly, not pushy at all), and my wife quickly became addicted to iced bissap juice. We did quite a few excursions: Bandia Reserve (the kids loved the giraffes and zebras roaming free), Gorée Island (a deeply moving experience, especially visiting the House of Slaves—it really puts things into perspective), and Lake Retba (which was a little less pink than we’d hoped, but the 4x4 tour was worth it!). Fun little story: one day, we went to the market in Mbour, and our 6-year-old daughter was given a mango by a vendor just because she said “Bonjour Monsieur” with a big smile. It might seem like nothing, but those little gestures of kindness are what stood out the most during our trip. Senegalese people have a natural warmth and friendliness you don’t find everywhere. That famous “Teranga”—you really understand what it means when you’re there. Food-wise, we ate grilled fish every other day, the girls discovered a love for chicken yassa, and I fell for thiéboudienne (with plenty of spice 😅). We also tried dishes at local spots—never got sick, and always felt welcome. The trip back to Dakar was relaxed; we’d planned one night there before our flight. On our last evening, we sat on the corniche, watching the ocean and the sun set slowly. The girls didn’t want to leave. And honestly... neither did we. So, if you’re hesitating about discovering Senegal with your family, go for it. Sure, it’s different. But that’s exactly what makes it so refreshing. Happy to answer any questions! – Nico.

Hi, after a flight delayed by more than 24 hours, can I file a compensation claim with the airline (where they told me they’re in financial trouble!) and at the same time with a specialized compensation claim website?

Hi everyone, I’d like to travel to Senegal with my two dogs—an Amstaff and a French Bulldog (who can’t fly). I’m wondering if you think it’ll be complicated or if the formalities are easy to sort out. I’m giving myself a year to prepare for this trip.

Thanks in advance for your replies

Hi, I’m heading to Senegal in late September/early October. I’m looking for serious people to carpool with and split the gas costs. Thanks! I have a 4x4 and I’m only taking 2 people so we’re comfortable. Feel free to reach me at 0695444796.

January 2025 We had to negotiate hard to get an official yellow taxi at the airport to go to Yene, one of the villages closest to the airport. Exchange rate at the airport was bad: 630 XOF for 1 €. Taxi fare: 15,000 XOF = 24 €. It’s still quite far from the airport. The driver won’t know the place, so it’s better to have the location saved on a GPS like Organic Maps or similar.

La Résidence Keur Fleurie in Yene Hotel fleurie residence Address: Route de Toubab Dialaw Phone: +221 78 484 95 95 19,000 CFA (about 30 €) for two people per night. Dinner was a single dish for 5,000 CFA (very expensive for just one plate). Breakfast: 2,500 CFA. The place is in a very small fishing village. No restaurants, no bars. If you go there, you’ll have to eat and have breakfast on-site. There’s nothing to do in the area in the evening. The room and bathroom are nice, the beds are comfortable—one large and one small. The Wi-Fi barely works. There are mosquitoes. You’ll need to ask for towels, top sheets, and blankets if needed. To get back to the city, take bus 228 to the train station. You’ll need to go to the paved road and wait. Bus fare: 500 XOF. You arrive at Bargny station, and surprisingly, there’s a high-standard train—cleaner and more efficient than the best TER trains. It’s almost unreal. The cheap train takes you into Dakar. Just choose the station closest to your destination.

Apartment Villa Lumière Tel +221 77 710 91 79 Address: Scat Urbam (Hlm Grand Yoff) Rue Gy 178 in Dakar If you see this apartment on booking.com, **do not go**—it’s a dump. Don’t trust the photos, unless you’re into "roots"-style places, then it’s up to you. For one night without booking: 12,000 CFA for two people. One large bed, no Wi-Fi. It feels like walking into a squat. Once inside the apartment, it’s better, but everything is run-down. The guy is very nice, but this apartment has no business being on an online booking site!

Gorée Island There are several departures per day. Crossing takes half an hour. Price: 5,000 CFA.

To Saint Louis From Liberté 6, Demdick buses leave twice a day. They’re comfortable but often full, so book in advance. Price: 5,000 CFA, and it takes 5 hours to get there. First night at Chez Marie, found on Airbnb. It’s not on the island—it’s in the Balacos neighborhood, Rue BL 16 or 14, near Rue Modu Sow Ousmane. The house is nice and quiet. The hosts take great care of you. The room is good, with Wi-Fi, and breakfast is included in the price. Price for two people: 20,000 CFA (30 €).

Another hotel on the island: Hôtel du Palais. Rue Ababacar (Tel: (221) 33 961 17 72 / 78 137 47 07). 25,000 CFA (39 €) for two people without breakfast. It’s the cheapest we could find. It’s old-fashioned. In the bathroom, there’s no water pressure in the shower, though it’s hot. You’ll have to ask multiple times—or even harass them—to get top sheets, blankets if needed, and towels. The mattresses aren’t comfortable—one large bed and one small. Wi-Fi in the room. Prices in Saint Louis are very high, and the quality of the hotels really doesn’t justify such steep rates.

Restaurants: (in my opinion) One of the best is Le Fleuve Plus. Rue Blaise Diagne. The best: La Linguère, on the same street.

Shared taxi (7-seater) to Rosso, Senegal, to cross the border into Mauritania (the border is the Senegal River). Go to the garage (bus/taxi station). From there, only shared 7-seater taxis make the trip, and they only leave when full. In front of each spot, a sign indicates the taxi’s destination. It costs 2,500 CFA—if you’re lucky. Otherwise, they’ll charge you an extra 500 CFA for luggage. If you can, choose the seat next to the driver (by far the best). Ironically, you have to wear a seatbelt even though the taxi is a rolling wreck! Otherwise, pick the seats behind the driver and prioritize the window side. The back seats are very uncomfortable.

By contacting hotels directly, you won’t pay the booking.com fee, which can add up to several euros.

Hi everyone, I’m planning a trip to Senegal at the end of March/beginning of April. I’d love to know if the ocean is warm. Thanks in advance for your replies

Hello, In late February, a small group of us who are passionate about botany would like to walk through a baobab forest. However, we’ve read that more and more baobab forests in Senegal have been declassified. Which forests (aside from the treetop adventure park) are still the most interesting to visit? Is it still possible to see landscapes of baobabs (not just one or two isolated trees)?

Thank you, and have a great evening! Christophe

Hi there, We’re heading to Senegal for the first time at the end of February as a group of four, and we’re eager to make the most of our 7 days. So, not much (if any) downtime—just a heads-up! ;) For such a short trip, we’ve had to make some tough choices. We’ve decided to skip Lompoul due to the 24/7 noise and light pollution from the mine. Casamance is too far for this time around. We love animals and birds (and it seems late February/early March is still a good time to spot migratory birds). We’re planning to rent a car. Putting all these factors together, here’s the rough itinerary we’ve come up with: - Day 1: Dakar, Gorée - Day 2: Kayar, Saint-Louis, Lac de Barbarie - Day 3: Makhana, Djoudj Bird Sanctuary, Lac de Barbarie - Day 4: Drive to Somone - Day 5: Bandia, Somone - Day 6: Saloum Delta - Day 7: Saloum Delta - Day 8: Return to Dakar Airport

What do you think? How much extra does it cost, roughly, to hire a guide compared to just renting a car on our own? Thanks so much for your insights—we really appreciate it! Christophe