senegal tourism reddit

• Adventure Trip

The perfect no rush 14 days Senegal itinerary.

Table of Contents

Are you planning a two week itinerary in Senegal ? Are you wondering what to see in two weeks in Senegal ? Are you having trouble putting together a 14 days Senegal itinerary that doesn’t feel too rushed?

Then you came to the right place! In this post I’m going to share with you my personal Senegal itinerary.

Let me start by saying that traveling in Senegal is safe . We often travelled by public transport in Senegal and we never felt fear. However, knowing your own limits and your own place is very important, especially in the non-touristy area. Anyway, always keep your personal belongings guarded, especially in crowded areas such as markets or bus stations.

Alessandro and I travelled in Senegal independently. I mean without hiring a guide, and I’m here to say that if you plan well in advance, you will end up taking back home some of the best memories of your life.

That’s why I published this 14 days Senegal itinerary full of inspiration so you can put together your own travel plan to Senegal.

We landed at the Blaise Diagne International airport in Dakar and drove straight to the Retba Lake in Niaga, choosing Dakar as last destination of our 14 day Senegal itinerary.

Day 1: Retba Lake.

Our 14 day Senegal itinerary started at the Retba lake in Niaga. It lies 30 km northeast from the Blaise Diagne International Airport, less than an hour’s drive. Retba Lake is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Senegal .

The interesting thing to see here is not only the pink coloured waters but especially the salt extracting activity. There are several excursions offered at this site and in my experience the boat trip on the Pink Lake in Senegal is a must.

One full day is enough to explore the area.

Day 2: Lompoul Desert.

Lompoul Desert is an 18 km2 desert located right in the Lompoul Village . It’s really worth it since the presence of such a small desert in Senegal is so unusual. Just as at the pink lake, in the Lompoul village you will have a chance to select from the many excursions.

We tried the camel ride in the Lompoul Desert which was organized by the Camp Du Desert camp , the hotel we were saying at.

Day 3/4/5: Saint Louis.

Saint Louis (or Ndar in Wolof) is listed among the Unesco World Heritage sites and it is West Africa’s first French settlement. The three days spent in Saint Louis are three days well spent. The colonial architectural style and charm that you will see right after crossing the Faidherbe Bridge won’t fail to surprise you.

Walking among the boutique shops, tailors’ workshops, and art galleries in Saint Louis is really a pleasure.

Here in Saint Louis there are several European tour operators who organize day trips from Saint Louis to many different places. We did none of that. We just went strolling around in Saint Louis with no fixed plans. We also visited the less touristy area close to the beach which lies on the external mainland. It deserves a visit.

Day 6: Bandia Reserve.

Bandia Reserve is a small, fenced Nature Reserve of about 3500 hectors in the village of Bandia. It is a privately owned Reserve where you need a four-wheel vehicle to explore the entire area.

Now, exactly for these reasons, Bandia Reserve safari is not like all the others in Africa, but it is perfect for those who are seeking wildlife in Africa for the first time.

Day 7/8: Ndangare/Palmarine.

Your 14 day Senegal itinerary should definitely include the Palmarine area. Ndangane is a base for exploring the Sine Saloum Delta. From the touristy point of view it is quite well equipped. There are many restaurants and aperitif bars along the main street in Ndangane. And all of them organize boat trips in the Sine Saloum Delta.

Actually, I loved this part of my Senegal itinerary a lot. But the reason why I’m suggesting that you spend two days in Ndangane is because journeys in Senegal are always very long due to the old vehicles they use. So once in a while, when you find your comfort zone, you need to stop and breathe before starting another trip.

Read also: Driving from Ndangane to Karang

Day 9: Joal Fadiouth.

Your 14 day Senegal itinerary can’t leave out Joal Fadiouth. Joal lies on the mainland, while the village of Fadiouth, linked to Joal by a wooden bridge, lies on an island (it seems like an island because it lies on a lagoon).

The notable aspect of Joal Fadiouth is that they collect shells around the lagoon and make wonderful craft items . It’s amazing to see that the entire village of Fadiouth is made of shells.

Once you cross the wooden bridge and reach the Fadiouth village, you can take a horse ride or donkey ride to see one of the oldest and biggest Baobao trees of Senegal .

Day 10/11: Saly.

Contrary to what you might think, tourism in Saly started back in 1995 and it remains today one of the best beach resort areas of Senegal.

Therefore, it goes without saying that the village of Saly features hotels, restaurants, and bars for any type of tourist. Many of these are located seafront from where you can admire amazing sunsets.

Day 12: Goree Island.

After relaxing on the beaches of Saly, take a day trip to Goree Island. It is one of the most heart wrenching parts of Senegal since it’s known for its role in the 15th- to 19th-century slave trade.

Gorée is a tiny, car-free island off the coast of the capital Dakar. The house of slaves and the point of no return are certainly among the once in a lifetime things to see.

In the past, Goree Island was ruled in succession by the Portuguese, Dutch, English, and French. Its colonial architecture is in fact characterized by its colonizers and it expresses the contrast between the gloomy slave quarters and elegant houses of the slave traders .

This is why strolling around the narrow streets of Goree Island is really interesting.

Day 13/14: Dakar.

Spending a couple of days in Dakar helps you to taste the urban life of the Senegalese capital. There are numerous activities to do here, among them I feel like I should advise you to check out the Village Des Art .

If you are able to, you can stay even longer in Dakar because as I said, there are so many choices to keep you busy.

Pin it for later ❤️ ❤️ ❤️

* Disclaimer: This awesome, free article contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase after clicking one of these links, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. No pressure to use these links, but I really appreciate it when you do!

Since life in Africa is so different from your normal one at home, after only two weeks in Senegal you will feel like you have stayed for so long and that you have done and seen so much. This is why I don’t suggest running and running to see everything.

This 14 day Senegal itinerary is created to give you the essential together with some relaxation so that you return home with only good memories and not feel like you went through a lot of trouble.

Yes. Because in Senegal moving from one place to another is hard. A journey of just 60 km can last 6 hours. Their vehicles are old and break downs are frequent. Your plans need to allow for this so that your visit isn’t spoiled. That’s why I suggest this 14 day no rush Senegal itinerary. Limit the places to see, relax, and see what you can.

Organized tours in Senegal?

If you love to join organized tours, here are some great ideas of what to do during your stay in Senegal. Especially if you have only a short time to stay, they’ll enable you to leave the planning and organizing to others and just enjoy the country to the max*:

You may also like

Driving from Ndangane to Karang

Camel Ride In Lompoul Desert

Visiting Senegal soon? Here are some useful tips to make your trip go smooth.

Barberino - Accommodation Review, La Villa Del Lago

Niry Fidelis

Hi this is Niry, the one behind this blog! I’m a Jaffna born, Modena-based travel blogger, content creator and photographer. Thank you for spending your precious time with me today!!!

SEARCH IN THIS BLOG

RECENT POSTS

• Foz do Douro: River Douro meets the Atlantic Ocean
• Lello Bookstore in Porto: All you need to know.
• Guided cycling tour in Galle
• Trapani, Accommodation Review, Giardino del Mare
• Blue Eye in Albania: A Complete Guide (2023)
• How to get from Tirana to Ksamil by public bus
• 10 Reasons to Visit Malta soon.
• One day in Nuremberg.
• Is Saly Senegal worth going to?
• Saturnia Hot Springs, Tuscany

RECENT COMMENTS

• Niry Fidelis on Teide National Park, things that nobody will tell you
• Dom on Teide National Park, things that nobody will tell you
• Niry Fidelis on Ndangane, a base for Siné-Saloum Delta’s adventure
• Linda (LD Holland) on Blue Eye in Albania: A Complete Guide (2023)
• L Matheson on Ndangane, a base for Siné-Saloum Delta’s adventure

KEEP IN TOUCH

Get your monthly dose of adventures! Subscribe to my newsletters now!

Work with me.

Looking to promote your product, hotel or service?

» Contact me

LOOKING FOR A HOTEL? ⬇️ ⬇️ ⬇️

Privacy overview.

8 Essential Things to Know Before Your First Trip to Senegal

Traveling to underdeveloped countries can be a daunting endeavor, but the positive things — like fresh, cultural insights, friendly locals and affordable prices — often outweigh any possible complications. The Senegalese people are excited to share their beautiful culture with tourists and treat visitors with the utmost respect, so once you get all the essentials down, I have no doubt you'll have a wonderful vacation like I did. Here's what you need to know before your first trip to this incredible country.

1. There's No Need to Cover Up

Senegal is a majority-Muslim country, but you don't need to worry about covering your knees, head or shoulders in most areas. In larger villages and cities, most local women don't wear a hijab, and you won't be showing disrespect by not covering up like you might in parts of India, Malaysia or the Middle East. In fact, many local women prefer traditional Senegalese dresses — exposing their neck and arms — or modern clothing like shorts and skirts. When ladies do cover their heads, it's typically not for religious purposes, but to shield them from the intense African sun. Bottom line: dressing as you normally would in a hot, humid climate, like wearing shorts and a tank top, won't elicit stares or make you feel uncomfortable here.

2. Don't Worry, Senegal is Safe

Senegal is known for being a safe country, and while visitors — especially female solo travelers — should take the typical precautions you would when traveling alone , visiting solo here shouldn't present any big problems. The locals are friendly, and robberies and violent crime against tourists are pretty uncommon.

3. Brush Up on Your French 

Few locals speak English in Senegal. Instead, you'll hear a mix of Wolof and French. During my travels, I only occasionally encountered guides or drivers who spoke even a little bit of English — it's slightly more common to find people who might speak some Italian, Spanish or even German, thanks to a recent rise in European tourism. People will usually try their best, especially if you start with a friendly " Bonjour ," but knowing a few key words in French can be useful, too.

4. Hire a Guide for Tours and Excursions

While I'll typically run from guided tours in most countries, it can be helpful to hire a guide if you plan to tour Dakar or take excursions, especially if your French is on the weak side. For a reliable, English-speaking guide, I'd recommend contacting Moussa (+221 779180534, [email protected]), or for a reliable Spanish-speaking guide, Luna (+221 774379252, [email protected]). If you'd prefer to go the agency route for excursions, check out Nouvelles Frontières, a reputable company that has locations at the Dakar Airport (DKR), city center and in Saly.

As infrastructure and roads aren't great and traffic is maddening (since there are few rules), it's best to hire a driver rather than renting a car or hopping on an over-packed bus. Prices for both guides and drivers are extremely low, and you can always try to strike a bargain. Many times locals — who are kind, but persistent —will try to sell you things or convince you to enter their stores or restaurants, so traveling with a guide will ensure you won't be hassled too much. Some drivers and guides will accept euros as well, so if you have any laying around, bring them along.

5. Be Prepared for Anything and Everything

Though a yellow fever vaccine isn't required to enter Senegal, it's recommended, as are malaria pills and a typhoid vaccine. Using a good mosquito repellent, carrying tissues (as toilet paper can be scarce in public spots) and wearing sunblock are all essential. It can also be extremely dusty during the dry season, so having allergy pills on hand can also be helpful. Don't be alarmed to see horse carts, roaming goats and cows as well as buses packed with locals all sharing the same dirt roads with cars and pedestrians — this is normal.

6. Get Ready for an Adventurous Airport Experience

Many international flights from the US and Europe flying into Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR) arrive in the middle of the night between 2:00am and 4:00am. Exhausted and jet lagged, you'll find it's not a bad idea to have a driver waiting for you to avoid being accosted by locals offering taxi services and having to haggle over prices in French. Most hotels either have a pick-up included or can arrange one for you at an additional cost. Either of the guides mentioned above as well as the Nouvelles Frontières agency can also organize a pick-up for you.

There's also a stand at the airport for Orange, a cell-phone service provider where you can buy local SIM cards to use with an unlocked phone. The stand is open all night and you'll typically pay between $10 to $30 for a card offering 2 GB to 10 GB of internet, as well as local calls and texts. Just know that 4G isn't usually available in Senegal, and sometimes you won't even have access to a 3G network depending on your location. You'll also get a decent exchange rate here, so changing money at the change bureau near baggage claim is definitely worth it.

You should also expect long lines at immigration, lots of mosquitoes, no air conditioning and crummy restroom facilities. The airport, like the rest of Senegal, is a work in progress and even the lounge isn't like what you'd expect to see at your average international airport. On the bright side, LaGuardia Airport (LGA) will seem so much nicer after you visit DKR.

7. Chow Down and Enjoy Great Tunes

Senegal is known for its happening music scene and delicious cuisine. Traditional eats like thiebou dieune (savory rice with fresh fish) are often accompanied by live African drumbeats or reggae jams at practically every dining establishment. Beachfront dining is relaxing and cheap, so visit Le N'Gor in Dakar for marinated shrimp and a crisp glass of wine. You can have a full meal of barbecued fresh-fish skewers, salad and Gazelle beer for under $10 at Chez Poulo in Saly alongside live guitar and typical Wolof tunes. If you're craving live music, the outdoor stage at Just 4 U is practically an institution in Dakar, featuring many different styles of music.

8. Enjoy All the Beauty That Senegal Has to Offer

Once you get the logistics part settled, Senegal is a gorgeous place. You can soak up the sun on the beautiful beaches of Saly or watch the boats dock in the fishing town of M'Bour. Birdwatchers will love the lagoon beach set among mangroves in Somone. Once you get tired of watching countless pelicans swoop in and out of the water, chill out at the Paradise Rasta Bar on the beach. While bargaining at Dakar's many markets — like Marche Sandaga — isn't for the faint of heart, you can find great deals on traditional African housewares, fabric and even fruits and snacks there. Families should take a morning safari to see giraffes, zebras, rhinos and crocodiles roam the savannah at the Bandia Nature Reserve. A visit to Île de Gorée — an island that's home to the Maison des Esclaves, a memorial to the trans-Atlantic slave trade — is a somber but important experience and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Just outside Dakar, Lac Rose (also called Lake Retba) is a salt lake separated from the ocean by giant sand dunes where you can float in the super-salty water, rent a quad and drive around or chat with the locals about how they excavate the salt. The lake actually looks pink thanks to an excess of the Dunaliella salina bacteria, which thrives on high salinity. The bacteria produces a pink color in order to absorb the sunlight, hence its name, Pink Lake.

Have you been to Senegal? Tell us about your experience, below.

16 things to know before travelling to Senegal

Palm-fringed beaches, colourful cities and a reputation for world-class hospitality, Senegal deserves a spot on any seasoned traveller’s bucket list

Located at the westernmost point of the Africa continent, Senegal is known as the “Gateway to Africa” and has been welcoming travellers from Europe and the Americas for centuries.

This peaceful sub-Saharan country has always flown beneath the tourism radar and that’s everyone’s loss. Not only is it one of the continent’s safest and most accessible countries, it’s also blessed with a rich culture, dreamy beaches and some of the best wildlife-spotting opportunities you’ll find anywhere in Africa.

Here’s what you’ll need to know before you visit.

1. Senegal is the country of hospitality

One of the most common questions we hear is if Senegal is safe for travellers – yes, Senegal is safe but like any other destinations, petty crime does happen in large crowds. Keep a lookout for pickpockets and bag snatchers.

Once you get to know the locals, you may soon begin to understand the concept of teranga . This is one of those terms that defies strict translation, but Senegalese chef and author Pierre Thiam has described it as “the way you treat the guest.”

“You have to offer him what you have,” he adds. “You have to invite him to sit around your bowl.”

This philosophy of sharing, giving and inclusion extends to strangers as well. Expect to be greeted with a chorus of saleem aleekum (‘peace be upon you’) as you walk down the street – and be sure to respond with a civil malekum salaam (‘and peace be upon you too’).

Men making tea on the beach Shutterstock

2. French is the official language – but there are 39 spoken languages in Senegal

The lingua franca of the Senagalese administration is French but only a small number of people speak it fluently. Wolof, the language of Senegal’s largest ethnic group, is far more commonly spoken across the country, while Jola is the main language of the Casamance region in the south. Other languages include Pulaar, Mandinka and Balanta Ganja.

It’s worth familiarising yourself with a few Wolof phrases before you travel, including jërejëf (thank you), waaw / déedéet (yes/ no) and baal ma (sorry or excuse me). Some basic French might also come in handy for communicating with tour guides and airport staff.

3. Visitors from many countries won’t need a visa

As an ECOWAS (Economic Community of West Africa States) member, Senegal welcomes citizens from all other 14 member states to visit without a visa.

In addition, citizens from all EU countries, Brazil, Canada, Central African Republic, Chad, India, Japan, Malaysia, Mauritania, Mauritius, Singapore, South Korea, Tunisia, the United Kingdom and the USA can also visit Senegal without a visa for up to 90 days. However, you’ll need to make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from entry and that you have proof of return or onward travel.

Blaise Diagne Airport, Senegal Shutterstock

4. It’s best to hire a local guide and a driver

A sept-place (seven-seat) in Senegal Shutterstock

5. Senegal is known for its delicious cuisine

Spicy street food, exotic juices, mouth-watering sharing platters and fish fresh from the Atlantic – Senagalese food will keep your taste buds in a constant state of titillation. The country gleans its culinary inspiration from far and wide, combining French and North African influences with ancient local traditions.

The staple dish for most families is thiéboudienne (fish and rice). You’ll find thousands of different variations around the country. Other popular dishes include maffé (peanut stew) and chicken yassa . At street food stalls, snack on Sengalese nem (fried spring rolls), down glasses of refreshing juice made from bissap (hibiscus) or bouye (fruit of baobab trees).

A woman preparing food in Senegal Shutterstock

6. Eat with your right hand

In Senegal, the dining etiquette is to wash your hands before you eat, dry them on a common cloth, and only eat with your right hand. Keep your left hand off bowls and serving spoons. Food is often served from a communal bowl and you should eat from the communal bowl that is in front of you.

If the meal is served on the floor (usually on a clean mat), sit cross-legged but keep your feet away from the food area.

7. Senegal has seven UNESCO World Heritage sites

Senegal has seven UNESCO World Heritage sites and five of these are cultural, including L’île de Gorée (Gorée Island). Just off the coast of Dakar, Gorée was once the largest slave-trading centre on the African coast. Today, it is a peaceful corner with no cars and crime. The spine-chilling history, however, has attracted many world leaders to come for a visit, including President Mandala and President Obama.

If you’re a keen birdwatcher, then head for the world-famous Parc National des Oiseaux du Djoudj (Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary), a 16,000-hectare wetland paradise that provides a safe haven for over 1.5 million migrating birds every year.

Additionally, the floodplains and forests of Parc National du Niokolo-Koba (Niokolo-Koba National Park) on the southeast, near Guinea, harbour even grander wildlife, from lions and leopards to elephants and chimpanzees.

Goree Island, Senegal Shutterstock

Exploring Parc National du Niokolo-Koba Shutterstock

8. It also has fine beaches

If you’re looking for a beach holiday, check out La Petite Côte (Little Coast) or Cap Skirring.

La Petite Côte stretches from south of Dakar to la Pointe de Sangomar and is one of the major tourist destinations in Senegal. Saly, Palmarin, Popenguine, Toubab Dialoa are villages along the coast with a good selection of modern accommodation caters to visitors.

Saly, Senegal Shutterstock

Cap Skirring, Senegal Shutterstock

9. Wrestling is the number one national sport

Senegalese wrestlers Shutterstock

10. Mblaxa is huge here

A distinctive Senegalese pop genre with West African melodies and contemporary western techniques, mblaxa is so popular that you can hear the music filtering out of almost every street corner. It is impossible to talk about mblaxa without mentioning the renowned musician Youssou N’Dour who has helped to develop this style of music and brought it to the international stage.

11. Visit a market

Senegal has many colourful markets selling a myriad of items from food to electronics. In Dakar, Marché HLM is the place to buy fabric and made-to-measure clothes. Marché Kermel is probably the best place to buy fresh produce and souvenirs. The products here tend to be of higher quality and accordingly, they are also more expensive.

The fish market in Soumbédioune, Senegal Shutterstock

12. You can make a day trip to The Gambia

The Gambia is Africa’s smallest country within mainland Africa. This thin ribbon of land is an enclave within Senegal, meaning you can take a day trip to The Gambia from Senegal easily. There are plenty of tour guides offering single or multi-day trips. Try a leisurely boat trip along the River Gambia, keeping an eye out for crocodiles as you cruise through tropical forests, rice paddies and bamboo groves.

13. You can’t drink the tap water

While it is generally safe to wash and rinse after brushing your teeth with tap water, you should always boil the water if you intend to drink it. Bottled water is also readily available everywhere. If you have a sensitive stomach, make sure you only eat well-cooked dishes.

14. Have all the right vaccinations

The United Kingdom National Health Service advises that all travellers to Senegal receive vaccinations against Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Yellow Fever. Depending on your travel plans, you may also want to consider Hepatitis B, Meningococcal Meningitis, Rabies and Typhoid vaccinations.

Malaria is prevalent across the country. Protect yourself by covering up with long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellent and sleeping under a mosquito net.

Dakar has a small selection of private hospitals but health facilities are basic outside Dakar. It is essential for visitors to take out medical insurance before travelling.

15. Bring the right clothes

Considering Senegal is hot and humid throughout the year and malaria is a real threat, opt for lightweight cotton clothing with long sleeves and ankle-length trousers to keep you cool and guard against mosquito bites.

Sandals should be fine for exploring the cities and coast, but pack a pair of walking shoes or boots if you plan to head off the beaten track. If you’re travelling to Casamance during the rainy season, bring waterproofs and be prepared for some torrential downpours.

While Islam is the predominant religion, Senegal is a tolerant country and women do not wear a full-face veil. Having said that, it’s advisable to dress modestly and keep swimwear for the beach.

16. The best time to visit is between December and May

Senegal has a warm and tropical climate with two main seasons – dry and rainy. The dry season runs from October to June in the north and from November to May in the south. Visit during the dry season as the days are warm with temperatures hovering around 25°C (77°F).

Avoid the rainy season which runs from July to September in the north and from June to October in the south. Some roads turn muddy and are impassable during this period, particularly in the south.

Before you go, see our updated Senegal travel guide .

If you liked this, you might also like:

• 11 things to know before travelling to the Dominican Republic
• 16 things to know before travelling to Costa Rica
• 15 things to know before travelling to Sri Lanka
• 22 things you must know before visiting Eilat

LATEST ARTICLES

© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

Afoma's Travels

Seeing the world one step at a time

Travel Guides · April 2, 2023

20 Things to Know Before Traveling to Senegal

Traveling to Senegal and curious what you need to know about visiting Senegal? In this post, I’ll be sharing my best firsthand tips from a 12-day trip to Senegal with my husband.

I’ve found that people can be hesitant to visit Africa and other third-world countries, but honestly, you have nothing to fear. Most issues can be avoided by taking basic precautions. While a lot of what I’ll share is advice for Americans traveling to Senegal, everyone will benefit from these pointers.

Let’s dive in. 

Where is Senegal located?

Senegal is a country on the West African coast. Its neighboring countries are Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Mali, and The Gambia. 

The official language in Senegal is French, but most locals speak Wolof and other ethnic languages. The country’s currency is the CFA Franc (XAF), and its capital city is Dakar.

Is Senegal safe?

Senegal is very safe. Locals are friendly and ready to help. Senegalese are conflict-averse by nature, much like Ghanaians. We never once felt unsafe during our visit–and we spent a fair amount of time with the locals.

Is Senegal tourist friendly?

Yes, Senegal is tourist friendly. I define tourist-friendly countries as easy to navigate without a tour guide, and Senegal is. 

Google Maps works well wherever you are, and you can use Google Translate to communicate if your French is poor. I speak a little French, so I was never completely lost for words.

The locals are really friendly, and we saw many tourists in Dakar and the other smaller towns we visited.

Is Senegal cheap or expensive?

Senegal is an affordable destination. One dollar is worth about 600 CFA Franc, so your dollar will go a long way. 

We’re not budget travelers and we spent roughly around 15,000-30,000 CFA per two-person meal (less than $35) at fancier places. You can get away with spending less than $50/day on food per person–even less you cook at your rental.

Traveling to Senegal

All your questions about traveling to Senegal.

Why do people go to Senegal?

Senegal is a divine beach destination. In the cooler seasons, the weather is perfect, and the skies are a stunning blue. The pace of life is slow, especially in smaller towns like Saly and Saint Louis.

Besides the beaches, you can also see some wildlife and cool monuments and historical sites in Senegal. There’s plenty to do! See our full post on what to do in Senegal .

How many days are enough for Senegal?

At least one week. Senegal has several different towns and cities worth seeing, so I recommend at least 5-7 days to see as much as possible without fatiguing yourself.

Can I wear shorts in Senegal?

Yes! Although most Senegalese are Muslim, people of other religions live and worship freely in Senegal. I wore shorts during our visit and held hands with my husband without any concern. 

So, there’s no need to stress about what to wear in Senegal. Just be respectful and dress appropriately for your location. Don’t wear beachwear at a mall in Dakar.

What language do they speak in Senegal?

French is the official language of Senegal. Most locals speak Wolof and other native languages like Mandingo.

Do US citizens need visas for Senegal?

No, US passport holders do not need a visa for Senegal. You do need a valid passport with at least six months before expiry and at least one blank passport page. 

Citizens of the EU, United Kingdom, and ECOWAS countries, among others, also do not need a visa to enter Senegal.

Do I need a yellow fever vaccine for Senegal?

If you live in a country where yellow fever is endemic, you will need a yellow fever vaccine to enter Senegal. This applies to travelers who are nine months and older.

Life in Senegal

Got questions about life in Senegal? I’ve got answers.

Can you drink alcohol in Senegal?

Yes, you can! Alcohol is available to purchase at restaurants, supermarkets, and hotels.

What is Senegal’s special food?

Thiéboudienne (also fondly called “thieb”) is Senegal’s national dish. It’s a lot like Nigerian jollof rice but cooked with shorter rice grains. The rice is cooked in a tomato sauce and served with chicken or fish.

What is a typical drink in Senegal?

A typical drink in Senegal is baobab juice (also called bouye). Another popular drink is bissap juice (made from the hibiscus plant). Both are worth trying, although baobab juice was not my particular favorite.

How much money should I bring to Senegal?

This is totally subjective and depends on how much time you plan to spend and whether or not you’re bringing a credit card. 

You can pay for major things like accommodation and restaurants with your card. But you will need some petty cash to buy souvenirs, pay taxis, and pay for experiences. So bring what you think you’ll need. 

What are the most beautiful cities in Senegal?

Saint Louis and Saly are beautiful. Saint Louis has a unique charm, and Saly has that small beach-town vibe.

Dakar is largely under construction and has mostly high-rise apartment complexes. It’s shaping up to be a modern city, but it’s not quite there yet. Still, it has the loveliest ocean views and is in my top three Senegalese cities.

Where are the best beaches in Senegal?

Saly has fantastic beaches and fewer crowds, but really every beach in Senegal is beautiful. If you’re in Dakar, go to Ngor beach. If you’re in Saly, any of the beachfront hotels will provide you access to stunning views–and they’re pretty cheap compared to those in other cities.

What is the best time to visit Senegal?

Anytime between November to March. February is perfect! The weather in Dakar is cool in the mornings and evenings and pleasantly warm during the day. 

Senegal has two seasons: dry season from October to May and rainy season from June to September. The trick is to go earlier in the dry season before it becomes unbearably hot.

Should I get a SIM card in Senegal?

YES. Having a SIM card is necessary especially if you plan to move around the country. There aren’t a ton of public wifi areas and you will need wifi to use ride-hailing applications and even Google Maps and Google Translate (if you don’t download language packs).

I recommend Orange because they have a wide network coverage and we had network access pretty much everywhere we went in Senegal. You can buy a SIM at the airport.

How to get around in Senegal

Public transportation is not great in Senegal and there’s no Uber service. Senegal has two main local ride-share services Yango and Heetch. Heetch is newer and glitchy while Yango is fairly reliable in Dakar–but not in Saly.

There are also local taxis, and most hotels can connect you to a local taxi driver. To avoid getting overcharged, check the estimated price on Yango and try bargaining with your driver to reach a suitable price.

How to get from Blaise Diagne Airport to Dakar

The main international airport in Senegal is Blaise Diagne airport, located in Ndiass. Ndiass is about two hours away from Dakar (with traffic), so try to arrive during the day and prepare for a long car ride.

Expect to pay between 15,000 – 25,000 CFA for your road trip to Dakar. Most hotels and resorts offer airport pickup for a fee. If yours doesn’t, just take one of the yellow taxis at the airport. They’re totally safe.

Keep the distance in mind while booking your return ticket. We had to move to an accommodation closer to the airport one day before our departure to ensure we didn’t miss our 8 am flight.

Where to stay in Senegal

Senegal has plenty of accommodation options to choose from, including inexpensive (but amazing) boutique and chain hotels, AirBnB stays, and lush resorts. We stayed at three hotels ( BOMA Dakar , Palm Beach Hotel & Resorts , and RIU Baobab ) and one guest house . 

See a full list of places to stay in Senegal.

Senegal is worth a visit

If you’re still unsure, I’ll say it: Senegal is worth a visit! There’s plenty to see and do and many great stays for a steal. If you plan to visit soon, check out our itinerary and what to pack for your trip to Senegal. 

Got any more questions about things to know before visiting Senegal? Leave them in the comments for me!

sign up for my newsletter

Get travel tips, printable checklists and more in your inbox!

You’ll Also Love

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

What to Do in New Orleans in October

Keep up on instagram.

Copyright © 2024 Afoma's Travels · Theme by 17th Avenue

©Travel_Nerd/Getty Images/iStockphoto

Senegal is a captivating place, where Dakar, the capital, is an exciting introduction to the country with vibrant markets, glittering nightlife and nearby beaches.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Senegal. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Île de N'Gor

For a quick escape from the frenetic streets of Dakar, head to peaceful Île de N'Gor, a tiny island just off Dakar's north shore. It has a few calm…

Musée Théodore Monod

The is one of Senegal's best museums. Exhibitions delve into African art and culture with over 9000 objects on display. Lively displays of masks and…

Pont Faidherbe

Transferred to Saint-Louis in 1897, the Pont Faidherbe is the city's most significant landmark. The metal arches of this bridge linking Saint-Louis to the…

Maison des Esclaves

Set in a former grand home allegedly used as a departure point for slaves, this is one of the most important monuments to the slave trade and features the…

Fathala Wildlife Reserve & Lodge

For those not heading to wildlife parks in other parts of Africa, this 60-sq-km reserve might be worth adding to your itinerary. This reserve was created…

Mlomp Musée de la Tradition Diola

Set amid towering kapok trees on the main road between Oussouye and Elinkine, this striking case à impluvium houses an exhibition dedicated to Diola…

Parc National du Delta du Saloum

Established in 1976, this lush national park is a water-filled wonderland with mangroves, salt marshes, islands and woodland all part of the great delta's…

African Renaissance Monument

Allegedly Africa's highest statue, the African Renaissance Monument was unveiled in 2010 to commemorate Senegal's 50 years of independence from France. At…

Plan with a local

Experience the real Senegal

Let a local expert craft your dream trip.

Latest stories from Senegal

Filter by interest:

• All Interests
• Adventure Travel
• Art & Culture
• Beaches, Coasts & Islands
• Food & Drink

Jan 20, 2020 • 1 min read

Entertainer and entrepreneur Akon has shared official news that he has signed the paperwork to get his new futuristic "Akon City" in Senegal underway.

Sep 18, 2019 • 8 min read

Aug 29, 2018 • 5 min read

Oct 25, 2016 • 5 min read

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in Senegal

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Senegal with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

Senegal and beyond

How Safe is it to Travel in Senegal?

Senegal is known for being one of the safest countries in West Africa. From relatively low levels of crime and disease to a population renowned for being generous hosts, Senegal tends to be a safe, hassle-free travel destination.

A stable democracy with a friendly and welcoming population, travelling to and through Senegal is safer than most other countries in the region. Visitors to the nation of ‘Teranga’ (which roughly translates as ‘hospitality’ in Wolof ) will have a rewarding and safe travel experience, especially if heeding the following advice.

In recent years, Senegal has made vast strides in the battle against malaria, with the rate of outpatient cases tumbling from over 30% in the early 2000s to less than 5% in 2015 (hopes are high for total elimination by 2030). Many of the main tourist areas, such as Dakar, Saint-Louis, la Petite Côte and Casamance’s Atlantic Coast can be visited without anti-malarials, but visitors should take precautions if heading in-land (especially the south-east) and during the rainy season (July-September).

In short: buy bottled. Tap water is fine for cooking, washing vegetables, boiling a cup of tea or coffee and brushing one’s teeth, but when it comes to drinking, it’s best to stick to bottled water (although don’t panic if you accidently glug a glass of tap water). Readily available across Senegal, 1.5 litre bottles cost between 200-400 CFA ($0.35-70) in a supermarket or boutique (‘local convenience store’) or up to 1500 CFA ($2.65) in a restaurant. However, the plastic sachets offered through your bus or taxi window are the cheapest form of clean water available at 50 CFA (10 cents) each.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to 500$ on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Cultural respect

Rule #1 in any traveller’s handbook. Although most Senegalese are understanding of western cultures, with many adopting western-style dress and tastes themselves, visitors should be mindful of local cultural practices and beliefs. This can range from being appropriately dressed while entering religious buildings to respecting animals roaming the streets (as they could well be someone’s livelihood). In particular, take extra caution during religious festivals. During Ramadan, for example, it’s not great manners to eat and drink on the street during daylight hours, while most are abstaining.

Street Crime

On the whole, Senegal has a very low rate of thievery and street crime. Leave your belongings unattended – such as a beach bag while swimming or a phone charging behind a bar – and it tends to be there when you get back. However, no country is immune to petty crime and Senegal is no exception.

In particular, pickpockets operate in the downtown Plateau area of Dakar, especially around the Place de L’Indépendence and Sandanga Market, while robberies have been known to take place along the Western Corniche at night. In general, if you stick to well-lit areas, avoid large gatherings (demonstrations etc) and keep valuables out of sight (preferably zipped up in either a pocket or bag), you should be fine.

Roads are the biggest danger to your health in Senegal. In cities and towns, pedestrians, taxis, motorbikes, horse-carts and trucks all jostle for superiority and will perform any manoeuvre that will give them an edge (don’t be surprised if your taxi decides to drive up a pavement to avoid a one-way system).

Inter-city travel is no less chaotic and should only be done during the day, due to poor roads and vehicles driving without lights. Taking a taxi or hiring a driver is the best option for most tourists trying to get around the country, but hiring a car can be fine if you are an experienced driver.

In a country proud of its harmony and tolerance, there is little appetite for religious extremism and unlike some of its neighbours, there has never been a terrorist attack on Senegalese soil. Meanwhile, Casamance has experienced separatist violence in the past, but this has simmered since peace talks in 2013, and tends to affect the less touristy areas to the east of Ziguinchor and west of Kolda.

Tourists are to scams, like butter is to toast: they were made for each other. Some of the most popular in Senegal revolve around buying milk for someone with a ‘newborn baby’, helping out a small-business owner exchange small notes for big notes and being given ‘free’ bracelets. Also, if you’ve booked a driver to meet you at the airport, ensure they properly identify themselves before you load up.

KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?

Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

Guides & Tips

Kédougou: exploring senegal’s southeastern region.

The Best Places To Visit in Casamance, Senegal

Food & Drink

Fishing, the lifeblood of senegal.

See & Do

Bird migration in senegal: a twitcher’s paradise.

Sine-Saloum Delta: Senegal’s Watery Wilderness

The Best Things To Do on Senegal’s Grande Côte

Senegalese Spirit: Discovering the Meaning of Teranga

La Lutte: Senegal’s Mystical National Sport

Meet the Pirogue Builders of Senegal

Dakar’s Car Rapides: A Symbol of the Senegalese Capital

Orchestra Baobab: Senegal’s Biggest Band 50 Years On

The Best Art Galleries in Dakar, Senegal

Winter sale offers on our trips, incredible savings.

• Post ID: 1000420141
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Home » Travel Guides » Senegal » 15 Best Places to Visit in Senegal

15 Best Places to Visit in Senegal

Mainland Africa’s westernmost country occupies a colossal cut out of the Sahel. It ranges from the fringes of the Guinean woods to the bottom of the Sahara, and throws up fascinating destinations aplenty.

Take the capital, Dakar: a town of pandemonius markets and endless energy. Or, look to the ports of Saint-Louis, which bustle with ships and Parisian-style arcades. Out in the wildernesses and Senegal has more treats for the traveler, ranging from the winding channels of the Gambia River to the shimmering beaches of the coast. Animals like hippos and hyenas all mingle here, while rustic communities continue to tick over.

And the cherry on the top? Despite a dangerous Ebola outbreak, Senegal has been one of Africa’s most stable places for decades. Fair elections and peaceful power transfers all add up to make this one accessible and fun place for the worldly explorer.

Lets explore the best places to visit in Senegal :

Dakar has seriously outgrown its perch on the Cap-Vert Peninsula.

It now sprawls eastwards into the arid dust plains to the east, and bursts out over the dockside jetties in a medley of lively trader ships and fish-scented marketplaces.

The port is what has driven the boom in both population and size, not to mention imbued the city with an enticing multiculturalism and energy.

So, be sure to drop by the curious Soviet-esque rises of the African Renaissance Monument, the acclaimed Museum of African Arts, and the old Dutch slave trade ruins on Goree Island, before delving into the curious medley of Lebanese eateries African embroidery bazaars, roasted peanut stalls and raucous beer bars around wild Sandaga Market.

2. Saint-Louis

There’s actually not as much separating the Saint-Louis of northern Senegal and its namesake across the great Atlantic pond in the Deep South of America as you might think.

Check out the arched steel construction of the Faidherbe Bridge, straddling the Senegal River like something on the Mississippi.

Or, delve into the heart of the old city of Saint-Louis to discover the French-style colonial builds, whitewashed frontispieces in the plantation style, and shady arcades.

There are even famous jazz fests held here every May! Still, the similarities do end eventually, especially as you dip into the salt-washed fishing hamlets of Guet N’Dar, or begin wonder at the craggy cliffs and exotic creatures of the Barbarie Peninsula.

3. Ziguinchor

A patchwork of pastel-painted colonial builds and age-stained frontispieces dressed in European filigrees and Parisian designs, there’s no denying the immersive colonial character of Ziguinchor.

And while the major sights here are few and far between – the bustling Marche Saint Maur des Fosses, the curious roundabouts of the Place Jean-Paul II – the real draw is the earthy African character of the place.

What’s more, Ziguinchor also happens to be the gateway of choice to the Casamance region: a place where pirogue canoes weave along the river ways, and the plains of the Sahel begin to transform into verdant Guinean woods.

4. Popenguine

Located south of the capital, on the panhandle of the Cap-Vert Peninsula, the small town of Popenguine is the gateway to one truly beautiful medley of natural attractions.

The main draw has to be the protected Natural Reserve of Popenguine, which boasts a clean and pretty boulder-peppered beach, nestled between two arid headlands of dramatic cliffs.

The area also boasts the rugged rock walls of the Cap de Naz, jutting out into the Atlantic, and a particularly famous lagoon, where nesting birds of all shapes and sizes draw crowds of spotters throughout the year.

The epicenter of the mystical Mouride order of the Sufis, Touba emerges from the rolling Sahel of central Senegal with its colossal Great Mosque, looming minarets, and countless other pilgrimage shrines and attractions (not least of all the tomb of the Mouride founder himself: Shaikh Aamadu Bamba Mbakke). The town booms with visitors during the yearly Grand Magal, when thousands come to honor the social and Islamic programs of the Sufi scholar and teacher.

The focal point is the majestic mosque, which is strictly run and has some gorgeous arabesque interiors and one soaring 87-meter-high minaret known as the Lamp Fall.

6. Joal-Fadiouth

The fascinating fishing town of Joal-Fadiouth is one that time forgot.

Alive with salt-stained timber pirogues and oodles of bobbing jetties, the town’s locals still utilize the age-old hand catching techniques of centuries gone by.

They can be seen haggling over prices of huge swordfish all along the coast by morning, while the eateries – unsurprisingly – serve up some of the best seafood in the country.

Meanwhile, the island of Fadiouth across the bay is another one to write home about – it’s almost totally formed from accumulations of sea shells!

7. Kafountine

Laid-back little Kafountine is the place to come and sample the undeniable beauties of the Casamance coast.

Great long stretches of golden sand are what draw most of the people here.

They run the gamut from wide bays washed by the rollers of the Atlantic to bustling strips peppered with the faded fishing pirogues of the locals closer to the town.

And then there’s the croc-spotted riparian habitats of the Foret des Narangs nearby, where rare birds flit through the canopies, macaques swing overhead, and wild West African creatures roam the undergrowth.

8. Tambacounda

Sat on a far-flung crossroads, the town of Tambacounda is often visited by travelers starting a West African odyssey through the countries of Gambia, Guinea-Bissau or Guinea to the south.

However, those who can suffer the scorching Sahelian climate just a little longer will discover an interesting spot; a place where a couple of French colonial remnants still mark the streets and earthy farming communities dominate the backcountry.

Tambacounda is also one of the best jump off points for explorations in the legendary Niokolo-Koba National Park – the upland reaches of the mighty Gambia River.

Situated on a small headland that bubbles out into the meanders of the Saloum River, the town of Kaolack is known as a center of Islamic teaching, and as an industrial hub of Senegalese salt production.

Its attractions start with the vast central square of Medina Baye – look up to see the turquoise-domed tops of the great minarets.

Kaolack Market then comes with a heady fray of lean-to shops and ramshackle sellers, while the rustic reaches of Coofog are dotted with bulbous baobab trees and tell stories of the historic Serer Kingdom that once ruled in these parts.

10. Kedougou

Nestled in the far south-eastern corner of the country, where the Guinean forests spill out and down to the Sahelian plains, the city of Kedougou has a character all of its own.

For starters, its geography and topography are unlike any other area in the nation – expect lush rainforests and verdant, mist-topped hills.

Kedougou also gets quite a lot of rain, giving rise to oodles of agricultural land in the surrounding region (for those who don’t mine gold, that is). And then there’s the wonderful reaches of the Niokolo-Koba National Park: a huge swathe of greenery where the Gambia River erupts in the company of hippos, lions, elephants and leopards.

Mboro is an interesting little place that can be reached in just over an hour from the capital city at Dakar.

It’s the hub of one of the most fertile regions in the nation, and produces oodles of vegetables to fill the bustling markets of the city to the south.

Mboro has an immersive market of its own too, and visitors love flitting between the food stalls and colorful farmer emporiums here, haggling for the curious local tie-dye costumes and tasty preserves.

The beach is another must, and although swimming can be risky, simply settling on the sands and watching the fishermen and luminescent plankton in the rollers is a real treat!

12. Palmarin

Encompassed by great swathes of verdant mangroves, brackish lagoons and salt flats to the east, and stretches of chart-topping Atlantic beachfronts to the north, the town of Palmarin might be hard to get to (there are hardly any real roads connecting this one with the greater infrastructure of Senegal), but it’s certainly got its fair share of attractions.

There are dense groves of palm trees to wander, palm tree wine to taste, and some excellent sands close to the center, not to mention packs of wild hyenas around town, folksy wrestling competitions, and even ancient burial mounds attributed to the Sereer folk.

While Fatick itself is hardly a chart-topper, and will likely never make the headlines of travel brochures with its humble boulevards and dusty cottages, its surrounding region is certainly something to write home about.

Peppered with the relics of ancient Serer prehistory, the hinterlands on the edge of the town are home to curious carved megaliths and totems dating as far back as the 9th century.

You’ll find thousands of old tumulus houses between the xeric woods of the old Baol, countless religious shrines, and places holy to the Serer religion.

Cheaper than the capital and a cheerful place all round, Thies is often used as an alternative overnight stop for expats and visitors who don’t like the frantic energy of Dakar.

It fulfils the role perfectly, and the dusty streets here are laden with smiling and welcoming locals, a few charming (if ramshackle beer bars) and some decent shops.

Thies is primarily a market town too, which means you can get a taste of the haggling and hawking that defines Senegal’s mercantile side.

There are also some good spots to sample local menus of benachin rice and fish – just look for the joints in the center.

15. Richard Toll

Curiously-named Richard Toll, a town just a stone’s throw from the border with Mauritania in the extreme north of the country, still finds a way to honor its one-time park planner, the botanist Jean Michel Claude Richard.

An interesting place that fuses cultures, it comes to life with the bustle of Xhouma Market, awash with sugar traders and craft stalls aplenty.

There are also some relics of the French colonial age to see, like the muddied face of the grand Chateau de Baron Roger.

Richard Toll also has an industrial edge, with refineries and fishing depots lining the river.

15 Best Places to Visit in Senegal:

• Saint-Louis
• Joal-Fadiouth
• Tambacounda
• Richard Toll

• English (EN)
• Español (ES)
• Português (BR)

Is Senegal Safe? Crime Rates & Safety Report

Senegal is a country located in Western Africa, that shares its borders with Guinea-Bissau to the south, Guinea to the southeast, Mali to the east, and Mauritania to the north, and it has a coastline on the Atlantic Ocean to the west.

Senegal has a reputation of being West Africa’s most stable country, but that doesn’t make it a boring destination, though.

Expect to have a wild time in the capital’s dizzying atmosphere and vibrant nightlife, and then just sink into the relaxing life and serenity of nearby Île de Gorée and the beaches of Yoff and N’Gor.

In northern Senegal, the gorgeous city of Saint-Louis, known for its unique colonial architecture is a Unesco World Heritage Site.

It is also very nearby Senegal’s picturesque national parks, and this isn’t something you’d want to miss as one of the things Senegal is actually known for is its astounding biodiversity, including hundreds of bird species.

• Warnings & Dangers in Senegal

OVERALL RISK: HIGH

Generally speaking, Senegal is not the safest country to visit. It has extremely high crime rates, of both violent and petty crime. You should be vigilant and take all possible precaution measures in order to minimize the risk of something wrong happening.

TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH

It is advised that you avoid public transport in Senegal due to high levels of crime and armed robberies in crowded places such as bus or train stations, and on public transport as well. Always opt for hiring a taxi from a reputable company instead of hailing one on the streets.

PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH

There is an extreme threat of petty crime in Senegal, as in the majority of countries in West Africa. Never carry your money in a purse or a back pocket. Never carry all your money in the same place, or flash your credit cards around ATMs. Many thieves have a tactic of grabbing you by your leg while the other one takes your wallet out of your pocket, so if you feel someone grabbing your clothes, focus on the person on the other side.

NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM

As for natural disasters, Senegal is susceptible to many natural disasters like flooding, drought, land degradation, rising sea levels, and locust infestation.

MUGGING RISK: HIGH

Violent crime is common in Senegal so be extremely careful on the streets. Robberies and armed roadblocks are also known to happen. You might run into violent street vendors who will follow you for a few blocks. Be wary of people claiming that they have met you before. Many tourists have been led somewhere else and then robbed.

TERRORISM RISK: MEDIUM

Terrorists are likely to try and carry out attacks in Senegal, as Senegal contributes to the UN peacekeeping initiative in Mali, which makes it a legitimate target by terrorist groups including Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen (JNIM) and their associated groups. You should be aware of your surroundings at all times.

SCAMS RISK: HIGH

Be extremely careful with your cash while bargaining. There have been cases of street vendors quickly taking the cash out of your pocket and then claiming it is theirs. You have no way to prove that they're lying so this is a particularly tricky situation. Be wary of people trying to distract you in order to steal from you and of taxi drivers overcharging you for a ride.

WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM

Senegal isn't the safest place for a woman to be visiting alone. If you do, you should know that women are often targeted when alone on the streets or at beaches. Avoid remote streets as much as you can, both during day and night. Stay out of the streets at night and be vigilant for any possible dangers at all times.

• So... How Safe Is Senegal Really?

Apart from the fighting going on in the Casamance region of Senegal, between the government and the MFDC or Mouvement des forces démocratiques de la Casamance, which is why it would be wise to avoid this area, there is serious reason to be extremely vigilant on the streets of Senegal, as petty theft and violent crime are a severe issue in this country.

As for petty theft, pickpocketing, purse-snatching, and theft have been known to happen both on the street and in taxis, but you should be wary of pickpockets as such incidents can turn violent.

Violent crime is also something Senegal is notorious for and many tourists have reported being victims of an armed robbery at knifepoint.

Here, basic precaution rules apply: never flash your valuables and be vigilant in large crowds and markets.

When it comes to the places where crime is most prominent, you should be extremely careful on the streets of Dakar and the airport as well as areas such as Place de l’Independence, the Western Corniche and the central part of the Plateau.

Apart from those, Dakar’s restaurant district, called La Petite Corniche, and St.-Louis’ restaurant area, are all known for muggings and robberies.

Travelers are strongly advised against going out alone and must be extremely cautious of suspicious-looking strangers.

• How Does Senegal Compare?
• Useful Information

Most countries don't need a visa to travel to Senegal. If you're planning on staying in Senegal for longer than 3 months, you'll need to register with the local authorities in order to obtain a 'Carte d'Etranger'. If you are not sure about your visa status, visit www.doyouneedvisa.com which will let you know whether or not you need visa based on your nationality and the country you want to visit.

West African CFA franc is the official currency in Senegal. All major towns have banks with ATMs while US dollars and euro are the most common currencies exchanged in the country.

Senegal has a tropical climate, characterized by hot and humid weather. It has a rainy season that lasts from May to November, during which you can expect strong southeast winds and a dry season that lasts from December to April, and is dominated by hot, dry, harmattan wind.

Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport is the busiest international airport serving Dakar, the capital of Senegal. It is located near the town of Yoff, north of Dakar.

Travel Insurance

Just like anywhere else, we recommend getting travel insurance when traveling to Senegal, since it covers not only the costs medical problems but also theft and loss of valuables.

Senegal Weather Averages (Temperatures)

• Average High/Low Temperature
• Where to Next?

15 Reviews on Senegal

Senegal stop.

Our plane broke down there on a routine fuel stop. We all had to disembark with locals bringing personal pickup trucks to take our luggage somewhere. We knew not where. It was very sketchy and scary. The city folks eyeing us suspiciously as we were transported to a local hotel (which had such potential for uniqueness and beauty if only it had been clean! Yucky bathroom and spiders! ). I have to say tho … that the beach was simply gorgeous and the food very good. Getting back on our plane was a nightmare with the security folks throwing their weight around. Checked through all our suitcases two different times making us all feel like criminals. It took hours … Extorting money for fees and more. I was nervous the whole time and couldn’t wait to leave

However, I realize If I was visiting locals it might’ve been a better experience all around.

Wonderful and safe country to visit

I’m not sure which Senegal this article is about?! I’ve been to Senegal many times as a solo female traveller. I’ve never had any problems, I always felt safe. People are very friendly and helpful. I’ve walked on my own at night, taken taxis on the street – yeah the taxis are probably dangerous in that they never have seatbelts and road safety is pretty bad. But I’ve never witnessed any of this crime the article describes. The airport was also very professional, no harassment or any problems

Thanks I really appreciate your honest input.

thank you for sharing. Nice to hear a personal experience

Safe and wonderful country

Ok first of all, this website is completely incorrect and exaggerated. I am American and have been living in Dakar for 7 years and I feel safer walking around here at night than I do any city in the US. I live immersed in the Senegalese community (not the expat community) and everyone knows each other and I’ve never been mugged or felt unsafe or been out at knifepoint. This website makes Senegal look like a super dangerous country and it’s not at all. Just take basic precautions like you would in any city. I’d say the most “dangerous” thing that happens is some people take advantage of tourists who don’t understand how things work and overcharge them or pick pocket them. But I’ve never seen really violent crimes here. Watch the Anthony Bourdain episode on Senegal for a better representation of the country!

Where is the best and safe place in Senegal for a first time visitor who’s an expatriate ?

Senegal is Not Dangerous

This article I feel like is covering a country they know nothing about. If you know Senegal and visited, you would make it seem this bad and dangerous. People that have never been here, will automatically assume this is a bad country to visit based off this review and it’s not at all. I was born there and went back for vacation and never witnessed all of the negativity mentioned in this article. Every country has issues and stuff but I would say the U.S is far more dangerous than living in Senegal.

Senegal is amazingly safe and beautiful and friendly

This Person who wrote this is really misinformed and probably has never spent over a few days in Senegal!!! I was born and raised in the USA and lived in many states and have traveled to many countries and Senegal was the safest ive felt out of anywhere ive ever been!!! Not only are the people friendlier but literally night or day whether i was in Dakar , St Louis , Walo, Mbour , Saly , Popenguine, Nianing i was safe and the people were always so friendly!! Local bars were amazing and i even went to a few strangers houses after to smoke weed in Saly it was so much fun walking through there neighborhood at night and seeing the way they lived was an experience worth having!! This person was writing about a war torn country or something !! Maybe they mixed Senegal up with Somalia or something either way two thumbs down for whoever wrote this!!! I love Senegal its amazing and i reccommend every person go visit there and buy land there !!!

For African country it’s not that bad. crime exists everywhere in the world

Love for Senegal

I have never been to Senegal before but I love Senegal as my best country in Africa and the second best in the world. I hope to visit Senegal this December, 2022 along with my family. (Wife and daughter)

Negative Experience

It is true that crime happens everywhere but it is important to share our experiences to avoid other people going through the same situations. I have lived in Senegal for a year and, overall it has been a great time. Unfortunately, there is a high probability of getting robbed. Specially people breaking into houses. Someone broke into my house two months ago and stole all my devices, money, and other valuable things. Police did nothing. The officers themselves said that is a common crime in the city and it isn’t surprising that houses get broken in. IMPORTANT, if you are planing to travel to Senegal make sure the place you rent is secure and never leave any valuable item out of sight. Also double check that doors and windows are locked when you leave your apartment day and night.

That also happens in French cities too, honestly. They adapted this “lax on thieves” approach that the French have for whatever reason

I have been investigating this country for 20 years. In this country, thieves and swindlers are innumerable and some of them are protected judicially and in the media.

Stay safe !

Hello, If you are a foreigner, we advise you not to set up a company in Senegal. If you are a Senegalese or a foreigner and if your Senegalese company makes profits and if you don’t give money (in cash) to powerful politicians, you will have big problems with the tax authorities and with the justice system and with the thugs. Best regards, Iba.

Be very aware and proyect your self

I was attaked in the middle of the street in front of everyone only cause I Discover Someone that cheated me and still, he got mad at me cause I just discovered his real face.

I went from Dakar to Cap Skirring stopping in different places. I have been cheated in most places. I took the bus from Dakar Airport to the centre and my couchsurfer says was 6000fca. For the time I took me to get there It was almost double price than Spain. Then, I got to know last years was a vessel, boat from Dakar to Cab Skirring for 5000 FCA so something doesnt fit. Zinganchor was crazy garage , bus station where they cheated me even un the Office and then, again in my way back, you said to them they are cheating you but then, they said its because you have to Pay for your backpack ( all lies ) I was with 2 couchsurfers in Dakar with many positive references. Then, the First one that is always in the Pink lake I got to know by other Senegal person far away that he raped a Japanish girl 18 years old.. I went to his profile and then, I realized for more that I Saw all positive that he has 4 bad references despite 180 good that are Girls saying not recommend to a solo girl. He was interested not to show me anything but to help me to buy my card. 8000 or 7000 I cant remember but Its 1000 for the sim and every giga 1000. He says they put me 7g and It stopped in 2 days. My txt and card says 4 giga and It last nothing compared with the 2 time. I have him 3000 to buy 2 bread with omelette and chips. I did not see the change. 2nd Cs It was fine except he was cheeky to ask me for sex at night. I thought to leave my backpack there and go for 1 day to Goree but cause of It I just left Next day with everything. After days he was asking me for a reference in Cs and I says you could do It too. He did not … As I Saw the poor room where he lived I paíd for everything. At the end I put a positive review but saying he was cheeky. Lately I Discover again under all his positive references he was one positive saying the same than the negatives that he was expecting the CS to pay for everything all the time and even one of the negatives says It was robbered by him. So for some Senegalés Couchsurfing is a way to get sex but thats internacional now because they do not care about what Cs is. And for some of Senegalés is a business with turist to get profit. Worst experience I had an agression in Toubakuta. I Contact Babacar CS. He had 4 references but one even positive was about to once more get money from Cs. I mention It and he was offended and arrogant. I was travelling at the end with a french Guy by car , another turist a met and he did not have anything booked and I spoke to him about Babacar. Still I wanted to get to know him by that wonderful reviews and to give a chance. He was giving me instrucciones about how to get there and…. the day we went going to Toubakuta I mention him the french Guy and that if maybe he could take him , too although the french Guy might be prefer a 🏨 with swimming pool. so everything on the Air. I say to Babacar we are getting there in 30′. He says to met him in a bar Next to him. Suddenly when we arrived he was not connected to internet. Just as well I have credit and I called him I asked him why he was disconnect if he knew I was very clóse then, he reply un rude way and the french Guy says I do not like that guy! I have to say he was a bit stress after driving during 5 hours , stopped by the police 3 times and the second time was have to Pay 10.000 cause of a corrupt police. We. Inter in the bar at the end to meet Babacar even if he wasnt very happy but as he did not have data he was Happy to get wifi in the bar. We Inter and the woman nice help us to get the passwords for the wifi. I asked for juice, tea and other things but … my travel partner come and says they want you to drink and the waiter appeared with 2 beers 12am. I said not and I gave It back. I did not know french! We were gonna be a few minutes waiting for Babacar so as they did not have more options than alcohol and the french was gonna drink the beer I thought was fine. The nice woman come saying angry that if I take wifi I was have to drink. I left saying I do not want anything and the french Guy followed me. He did not even touch the beer but It seems the waiter opened so she come as crazy saying we have to Pay outside in front of the car. People come around as we had done something. Nobody would understand me with not french and english almost nobody. It was in one moment a mess and we left. the french got nuts saying he is a quite person and that he wanted to invited me that It could have been dangerous for a bit of money. He left faster and shocked by the situation and start to say to me that in very stressful way. I asked him to stop the car, I got my suitcase and left as during the trip he says the police asked him for money cause travelling with a woman makes more vulnerable the man. A stupid him but he was keeping saying that no in Colombia, Favelas Brasil never happened to him , only in Perú when he was with her ex. He just made his silly stadistic so between that thing and then, saying to me I was not right that I was have to drink and not to … well, just when I was getting my backpack from behing appear Babacar. He says this Guy is unrespectful to Drive like that in my village. I explain what happened and I say well we can have a drink. He was giving the reason to the woman in the bar and took me to a place with 10 people in a circle. He was speaking his language with them and I was being a part as I did not understand anything. One was with a bottle of wine and this Guy Babacar I said to him I was leaving as he gave me such a bad impresión with his muscles and that really arrogant and stupid actitud like a completely prick. He had good English but saying I got an university and everything in rude and super arrogant way and this and the other…. It was 2 bad situations. So I found my self Alone in that town with no one knowing English. I went to a restaurant at the beginning of the town as soon as u get off from the main Road and I found Mamadu , the owner of the restaurant Who knew a bit Spanish. He helped me to get the boat I negociated It and a fisherman took me to see the nature +221 77 364 11 33 you can Contact him, he was fine and explain me about the places but with Google traductor. Next day I went to the restaurant of Mamadou, from 1 day to other he charged me double 3000 saying it was an special dish. It was the most simple thing I got in the whole trip. I trust of him to get me a taxi without cheating , 1000 for 10 min driving in 🛵 or less. I said to him It cant be that cause thats the price to the Gambia borders. He says yes cause Its a 🛵. Later on I got to know he cheated me with everything. i got a 🛵 to comeback cause I forgot something where I sleep and I wanted to buy water. It was 500 to go and comeback when the other was 1000 and he was saying it was the right price. of course if doesnt bother me a pair of euros but that people pretend to be helping you and being super friendly when they are ripping you off and .. its about some principales and respect. so in my way back I said to him in good manners that I knew he lied lier me with the prices. By the way but casuality this man, Mamadu was the uncle of the couchsurfer Babacar Who says to have had 1000 of Couchsurfers but then, why he had only 4 references. BECAUSE THEY DELETED THEIR PROFILE and start again…. to have clean references. so Mamadu , another snake with skin of goat. He became to say that I was crazy, that he did not cheated me , that he has much more money than me!!!! complex of inferiority. of course they have more money ripping off White people or turist all the time. they get a lot but the once that are poor dont get anything only this ones that have business and they get more related with turist plus with languages they manage better than others than only knows walof or french. He Saw me his other face and he was really bad… he says how much money I own you , get the change and … offering me to give me back but then he really did not wanted. He became so agressive talking that I said I was gonna call the police , he did not leave my driver to go with me in the back just blocking him in front of the motorcycle, then saying he was calling the police. of course in a small village , probably their Friends and other ocasión to get more money from a turist. Of course he could say whatever b4 than me and then, the police there I doubt they would speak English even one of them. I was tired of the crazy situation. Before to met him I say to the Cook why they charged me so much if because I am foreing they think I am stupid.. I was explaining the price and everything with Google and why was embarrasing I could see It. IT WAS JUST CLEAR HE REALLY CHEATED ME VARIOUS , he got 3 times business with me with different people and for sure he tales comisión too. They do that! Between one and the other , all they get. Well, I left the motorcycle and lots of people around from the neighbourhood.. I try to walk so he could leave my motorcycle Guy to leave Who It was asking him to leave me Alone and to leave him to go , same the people around. he come and grabbed me hangbag and pull It 3, 4 time. It got Broken then he grabbed me by the wrist. He was mád and everybody was trying to splitted Up him from me. I tried to move my arm but he was grabbing me so strong. A woman I guest his wife or sister was shouting him cause he did not leave me. He was agressive with her, and he keep me around 15 min like that with everybody trying physically to Split him from me and saying things to him… very at the end he left me cause he realized It was everybody againts what he was making me…. People says here Its safe , well I have been in dangerous places like 3000 viviendas in Sevilla and more like that , really bad áreas but that I did not happened anything to you ,thats not mean you can Say or if safe. After being travelling all over the world, India, Irán, Israel, Palestine, Brazil, etc… the most dangerous situation I have lived was at night in Palermo and in one second could change everything. 3 Spanish Girls were raped in Cossamance and It was with another Spanish guy. they were stopped at the Road and also they stealed lots of money. That was in 2018 and they were in a car , driving. Safe ? U have to be careful Who you trust here. All become really nice but They could be real assholes. See the writing of the exterior Ministery of ur country. some áreas in Spain are tagget as a very risky áreas. I got better impresión of the people in Gambia but still U did not have been in that beach places, lets see! Do not forget you are in AFRICA! Really nice people but lots of real besties and shit people. Senegal the country of the Taranga no, the place of the turist vampires. I felt the turist is totally unprotected and even police doesnt care or even worst they are corrupt lots of them. Also I have to say I travel as backpacker and I mix with locals. I did not go to expensive places for Turists.

Share Your Experience Cancel reply

Your Review

Title of your review

Article Contents

• Overall Risk
• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
• Mugging Risk
• Terrorism Risk
• Women Travelers Risk
• Weather Averages (Temperatures)
• User Reviews
• Share Your Experience

Popular Destinations

Safety Index

Recent reviews & comments.

• Misty Holt on 12 Best Flea Markets in Kansas
• Donald Ramos on West Des Moines
• Hannah Inman on West Des Moines
• Vicky Bridges on 10 Safest Cities in Belgium
• Jared Patel on 10 Safest Cities in Belgium

Popular US States

• Pennsylvania

The country is

Senegal culture, safari in senegal.

• Seaside Tourism

Luxurious beaches

• Culture & Traditions
• 8 Days / 7 Nights
• Start: Saly; End Diass

Historic and seaside

• Start: Dakar; End :Dakar
• 10 Days / 9 Nights
• Start: Saly; End :Diass
• Historical Tourism

Sports tourism

Business tourism, business & congress, follow & like us, our products.

• Dzangha-Sangha
• Discover-Afrika
• Discover-Cameroon
• Discover-Ivorycoast
• Discover-Gabon
• Discover-Burkina Faso
• Historic & Seaside
• Ecotourism on the Atlantic Coast
• Delta Saloum discovery
• Eastern Senegal Safari
• Cultural Tourism

Terms & Conditions

Privacy policy.

© 2022 | Discover Afrika | All Rights Reserved

• Tourist Regions
• History/Economy/Politics
• Culture/Languages/Religions
• Climate & Geography
• National Parks
• Food & Beverage
• Transportation
• Visa/Health/Safety
• General Information
• Things to do in Senegal
• Booking Form

Privacy Overview

Agency Senegalese Tourism Promotion

Discover our destinations

Saint louis, east senegal, little coast, sine saloum, what to do, art and culture, natural parks, spas and well-being, the wild life, experiences, news and events, exhibitions, at the moment, living room, plan your trip, useful information, travelling to senegal, visa and passport.

Health and safety

Weather forecast

Senegal in one minute, visiting senegal.

From Paris to Dakar by plane is 5 hours, 4 hours from Madrid, 6 hours from London, Brussels and Frankfurt and 8 hours from New York.

The official language of Senegal is French. Senegal is a multilingual country with several national languages, including Wolof, Pulaar, Mandingue, Serer and Diola.

Senegal has a mild climate all year round, with over 500 km of beaches and 3,000 hours of sunshine.

Swimming in Lac Rose

Getaway on the island of Gorée

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Taamu Senegal

Arts and culture

Weather and Seasons

• [email protected]
• +221 33 869 61 90

• Share full article

Advertisement

The Morning

Interest rates and the election.

The Fed is expected to cut rates soon. Doing so could pull it into a partisan fight.

By Jeanna Smialek

A reporter covering the Federal Reserve

The Federal Reserve is in a tough spot. It expects to cut interest rates soon. But doing so before an election will yank the apolitical central bank directly into a partisan fight.

Fed officials have lifted borrowing costs to 5.3 percent, the highest level in decades, to slow inflation. Now that price increases are fading, Fed officials think that they can dial back that response starting later this year. Investors expect the first move to come in June or July — just as the election kicks into high gear.

Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, says rate cuts this year would probably be an effort to help Democrats . Lower rates can lift markets and help the economy, so politicians tend to prefer cheap money when they are in office.

Fed officials insist that rate changes would respond to economic conditions, not politics. Still, they can’t ignore the vitriol. If they ramp up during the campaign, Trump’s attacks could convince his supporters that the Fed is bending to partisan whims. And in the long run, a loss of popular support could expose the central bank, which answers to Congress, to lawmaker censure or even political tinkering.

Prized independence

The central bank sets policy without having to check its decisions through Congress or the White House.

That doesn’t mean that Fed officials are free to do whatever they want. Congress has given the Fed its goals — full employment and low, stable inflation — and it holds regular oversight hearings. The White House influences the central bank by nominating the Fed’s chair, vice chair, and other Washington-based governors.

But even if elected officials shape it, the Fed is insulated from immediate political backlash as it sets actual policy. That is because its big job — controlling inflation — can be very unpopular in Washington. Its efforts have been blamed for slowing the economy severely enough to harm or even doom both Jimmy Carter’s and George H.W. Bush’s re-election attempts. In fact, incumbent politicians used to frequently harangue Fed chairs for lower interest rates in public and in private. (Lyndon B. Johnson reportedly cornered his Fed chair against a wall at his Texas ranch.)

Such critiques stopped in the 1990s, when the Clinton administration started a tradition of not commenting on Fed policy.

Trump ended that tradition during his term in office, pushing loudly and constantly for lower interest rates to help goose the economy. He called Jerome Powell, his pick for Fed chair, an “ enemy .” He looked into firing Powell, only to learn that doing so was nearly impossible.

Now that Trump is back on the campaign trail, he’s much less welcoming to low rates, since presumably Biden would benefit from them. He says it would be political for the Fed to cut borrowing costs, and he has kept up his criticism of Powell, whom President Biden renominated.

“He’s going to do something to probably help the Democrats, I think, if he lowers interest rates,” Trump said this year .

Apolitical Fed

There’s little reason to think that rate cuts by the Fed would be a ploy to bolster Democrats.

“We’re working to serve all Americans, not any particular set of Americans or political parties or leaders,” Powell said during an event last week, one of several times he brought up or addressed the central bank’s independence.

Fed officials have been clear that they are setting policy in response to inflation data. The Fed’s favored inflation gauge has dropped to 2.5 percent from a peak of around 7 percent. Officials are now simply waiting for further confirmation that inflation is under control to make a move.

Not to mention, Fed policies take time to trickle through the economy, so it’s not clear how much a summertime rate cut would reshape the economy before November elections.

Finally, Fed officials have limited reason to cave to political pressure: They serve long terms, are difficult if not impossible to remove and don’t all come from a single political party. Transcripts and inside accounts confirm that in recent years, politics rarely come up at Fed meetings.

But even if the Fed sets policy without an eye toward politics, officials want to make sure America knows and believes that. The Fed relies on public belief to do its job. When people and companies think that the Fed is focused on fighting inflation, they expect inflation to hover at modest levels over the long run. That confidence helps to shape their behavior in ways that can help to keep inflation under control. Businesses don’t jack up prices as quickly, for instance.

“The Fed is, to me, a very important American institution that serves all Americans on a nonpolitical basis,” Powell said last week. “Integrity is everything.”

Related: An earlier Fed chair, Arthur Burns, is remembered as someone who bent to political pressure. Some say that’s not fair .

THE LATEST NEWS

Middle east.

The Israeli military took responsibility for a strike in Gaza that killed seven World Central Kitchen aid workers. The top commander said it was a mistake, and Benjamin Netanyahu called it tragic.

Biden said he was outraged by the deaths , adding, “Israel has not done enough to protect aid workers.”

The seven people killed “were the best of humanity,” José Andrés, the chef who founded World Central Kitchen, writes in Times Opinion. Read his essay .

Iran’s leaders vowed to respond to Israeli airstrikes in Syria that killed three Iranian commanders on Monday.

The Biden administration plans to sell F-15 fighter jets , worth billions, to Israel.

More International News

Taiwan felt its strongest earthquake in 25 years . At least nine people died and hundreds are injured.

A fire at an Istanbul nightclub killed 29 people . The authorities said renovation work at the club may have been the cause.

In Uganda, a court largely upheld an anti-gay law . It includes the death penalty for some cases.

The U.S. warned Russia that Islamic State terrorists were planning a terrorist attack on a concert venue near Moscow, according to American officials.

The police said a boy had shot and killed a 12-year-old and wounded two other students at a school in Finland.

Senegal inaugurated Africa’s youngest elected president , the 44-year-old Bassirou Diomaye Faye.

2024 Election

Trump said undocumented immigrants were “ not humans ” and described the U.S.-Mexico border as a “blood bath.”

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. called Biden a bigger threat to democracy than Trump. After criticism, he backtracked.

More on Politics

Biden discussed Chinese aggression toward Taiwan and in the South China Sea in a call with Xi Jinping .

The government is on track to admit 125,000 refugees this year, the most in three decades. A Trump win would likely reverse that trend .

The Supreme Court did not reinstate a voting map in Washington State that a judge said discriminated against Hispanic voters.

Biden has a complex relationship with big business : He wants to raise taxes on large companies, but his agenda relies on corporate tax breaks.

Other Big Stories

As climate change gets worse, researchers tested a machine designed to reflect sunlight back into space .

Six prisoners in New York sued the state for preventing inmates from viewing the eclipse .

A man killed his wife and kidnapped his 15-year-old daughter in 2022. A newly released video shows how California deputies shot and killed the girl as she exited her father’s truck.

Sex is a biological fact. Saying it is “ assigned at birth ” is misleading, Alex Byrne and Carole Hooven argue.

There’s a surge of dengue in the Americas . Deborah Heaney writes about how travelers can avoid spreading the virus.

Here are columns by Bret Stephens on the ugly elements of pro-Palestinian protests and Thomas Edsall on the network of people helping Trump’s campaign .

MORNING READS

City streets: Orange steam funnels are all over New York City. But what are they actually for ?

Viral: People are reviewing sticks — yes, sticks — on the internet .

Electric cars: Tesla had a bad quarter, while its rivals thrived. It could be losing its dominance .

Sustainability: Sick of plastic wrap on your fresh fruit? Changes are coming .

Brain activity : Exercise can improve your cognitive and mental health. Reap the benefits .

Tourism: Rome could soon be more walkable . Officials are planning to create a huge, pedestrian-friendly area in the city’s center.

A five-star stay: In China, some bird nests are turned into an expensive soup. In Borneo, people are giving the birds luxury houses to help them build the nests.

Viewing party: Small cities have big plans for the eclipse .

Lives Lived: Larry Lucchino was an executive with the Baltimore Orioles and the San Diego Padres who oversaw construction of modern stadiums. As president of the Boston Red Sox, he preserved Fenway Park for generations. He died at 78 .

Elite Eight: Iowa’s win over L.S.U. set a record for the most-watched women’s college basketball game.

N.B.A.: Joel Embiid returned for the Philadelphia 76ers after an injury. He helped his team defeat the Oklahoma City Thunder, 109-105.

Jerseys: Adidas stopped the sale of German soccer shirts bearing the number “44” because the lettering closely resembled a Nazi symbol .

ARTS AND IDEAS

Out of style: For decades, women loved the wrap dress, a design popularized by Diane von Furstenberg, because it was both flattering and office appropriate. The style boomed in the 1970s — and again in the 2000s and 2010s. “If you bought Sheryl Sandberg’s ‘Lean In’ when it came out in 2013, you probably owned a wrap dress,” Jessica Testa writes.

In recent years, however, the dress has become unfashionable . One reason: Workplaces are more casual and workers have more flexibility to express themselves.

More on culture

The Times restaurant critic Pete Wells reviewed a six-table restaurant serving soul-food on Staten Island. (Talk to Pete about his latest 100 Best Restaurants in New York City list on Reddit at 1:30 p.m. Eastern .)

A former employee sued Ye, formerly known as Kanye West, accusing the rapper of making antisemitic rants and of praising Hitler .

Larry David spoofed Georgia’s voting laws on “Curb Your Enthusiasm.” Georgia’s secretary of state sent him a good-humored response .

Stephen Colbert joked about Trump’s gag order .

THE MORNING RECOMMENDS …

Cook a one-pot meal of skillet ginger chicken with apricots .

Build a home theater system .

Prune your garden .

Here is today’s Spelling Bee . Yesterday’s pangrams were faintly, finality and infantility .

And here are today’s Mini Crossword , Wordle , Sudoku , Connections and Strands .

Thanks for spending part of your morning with The Times. See you tomorrow.

Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox . Reach our team at [email protected] .

Jeanna Smialek covers the Federal Reserve and the economy for The Times from Washington. More about Jeanna Smialek