Overview of Senegal

Quick Overview

Senegal has long been one of West Africa's leading countries, both culturally and politically.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: At the westernmost point of Africa, on the Atlantic coast.

• Latitude/longitude: 14°00' N, 14°00' W.

• Local time: Heure : 106

• Capital: Dakar.

• Government: Semi-presidential republic.

• Official language: French, plus 6 local languages with "national language" status.

• Currency: CFA franc.

• Population: 15,020,945 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 196,722 km².

• Density: 76 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Nepen Diakha (581 m).

• Lowest point: Sea level.

• Coastline: 531 km.

• Driving: On the right.

Tourism

Once a flagship destination in West Africa, Senegal still enjoys some popularity, though tourism has declined. Beyond an often improvised tourism policy, the absurd visa restrictions imposed on several nationalities for a few years have deterred many potential visitors, redirecting them to other destinations. As a result, visitor numbers are estimated at around one million per year—despite the authorities' claims (widely considered inflated) of 1.365 million foreign visitors in 2017.

That said, Senegal is far from lacking charm. As is often the case in Africa, its nature and landscapes draw attention, along with cities like Dakar and Saint-Louis, Senegal, or the site of Gorée Island off the capital, all worth a visit.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: For beginner or slightly experienced travelers.

• By air: France-Dakar.

• Entry requirements: Passport valid for more than 6 months from the planned entry date.

• Currency to bring: Euros.

• Exchange rate:

• Backpacker daily budget: From 30 to 50 € per person.

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best period (climate/crowds/prices):

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Adventure ★★★; Culture ★★; Relaxation/Holidays ★★★

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 164/188 (2018 ranking)

• GDP per capita: $3,500 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +1.3% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: ()

• Population below poverty line: 46.7% (2011)

• Life expectancy: 62.5 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: -1.5 (2017)

• Population growth: +2.36% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 57.7% (2015)

• Urban population: 47.2% (2018)

• Press freedom: 50/180 (2018 ranking)

• Political regime: Flawed democracy (73/167 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook