Senegal – Saint Louis Jazz Festival Tour

Good to Know

Travel Information

Safety, Passport, Visa and Health Information

We strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice for Senegal.

Your passport should be valid for at least six months after your date of return, and we strongly advise it contains a minimum of two blank pages, ideally opposite each other, as local immigration authorities may require this. UK passport holders don't need a visa to travel to Senegal – if staying longer than 3 months, register with local authorities for a 'Carte d'étranger' after arrival. You may be refused entry without evidence of return or onward travel, and should check whether a yellow fever certificate is required via TravelHealthPro.

Senegal is a predominantly Muslim country – respect local traditions, customs and religions, especially during Ramadan or when visiting religious areas, and dress and behave modestly outside main tourist areas. Alcohol is available in bars and restaurants, but drunkenness is considered offensive, and drink-driving penalties are severe. Kissing as a greeting is acceptable, but romantic public displays are not. Drug offences carry severe penalties, including lengthy jail sentences. Homosexual activity is illegal and not tolerated in Senegal's conservative society – avoid open displays of homosexuality while in the country.

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Health facilities in Dakar are reasonable but limited elsewhere in Senegal – make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds for medical treatment and repatriation. Malaria, dengue fever and other tropical diseases are common, especially during the rainy season (June-September), and Senegal carries a risk of Zika virus transmission.

What to Bring

Senegal is very warm generally, so light cotton clothes are a good idea, along with a hat for the strong sun, even in winter. Shorts are generally acceptable, though long trousers are appropriate on some occasions and offer better protection on nature walks – bring a swimsuit for hotel pools. Walking shoes or boots plus a pair of sandals are ideal footwear.

Please allow yourself one main piece of luggage and a day-sack – you're expected to carry your own baggage, so don't overload yourself; a soft wheely bag may be easier to manage than a suitcase. We also recommend a high-factor sun cream, insect repellent (including bite spray), and a torch or flashlight for poorly-lit areas or unexpected power outages.

While You're There

The CFA franc (XOF) is the local currency – avoid exchanging large amounts anywhere other than reputable bureaus. ATMs are widespread and reliable in Dakar, but banking facilities are infrequent elsewhere, with low withdrawal limits – credit cards are accepted at larger tourist establishments, often with a commission added.

Senegal is warm year-round, averaging 35°C, with the best time to visit during the dry season (November-May), when conditions are mild with less rain. The country code is +221, and local prepaid SIM cards are available for unlocked phones – wifi is available in most Dakar hotels and restaurants but harder to find rurally. Senegal uses type C, D, E and K plugs, on a 230V/50Hz supply.