Senegal holidays

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Holidays to Senegal show off Africa’s next big name, where beaches along the continent’s sand-covered west coast serve as the centre of attention.

Dive in to Dakar

Dakar – Senegal’s colourful capital city – is where you’ll see most of the country’s culture on show. Its bustling centre’s home to everything from museums and galleries to nightclubs and open-air markets. The former two are where you can get to know a bit about Senegal’s history, and in the latter you'll see brightly coloured fabrics and fully laden fruit stalls competing for sales.

Peruse Pointe Sarene

Head two hours down the coast from Dakar and you’ll find one of Senegal’s up-and-coming resorts – Pointe Sarene. This sleepy fishing village is getting a massive holiday makeover, with a collection of huge hotels and over 200 luxury villas being built along its six-mile-long beachfront. The crowds haven’t picked up on Pointe Sarene's potential yet, so you can be one of the first to spread out on its postcard-worthy coast.

No shortage of nature

Senegal has six national parks up its sleeve, the easiest of which to get your hands on is Saloum Delta National Park – it’s 20 miles south of Pointe Sarene. This sprawling reserve stretches out for more than 440,000 acres, and is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The delta’s saltwater canals and forest-wrapped wetlands are home to hundreds of species of birds, including flamingos, terns and spoonbills – you might be able to spot them during a guided cruise around a portion of the park.

Popular hotels in Senegal

Facts about Senegal

Capital

Dakar

Currency

West African CFA Franc

(XOF)

Population

15,854,323

Language

French

Time zone

GMT -1

Flight duration

5 hours 15 minutes from Gatwick

FAQs

Where can I find the latest travel advice?

All your questions about entry requirements, visas, passports or health information are answered on our Travel Advice page.

What are the best beaches in Senegal?

"Senegal offers a variety of inviting coastal experiences. You'll find the sun-drenched shores of Saly particularly appealing, with its golden sands and excellent resort facilities. For a more tranquil setting, we recommend exploring the unspoiled beaches of Cap Skirring in the Casamance region, known for their picturesque landscapes and serene atmosphere."

What is the nightlife like in Senegal?

"Senegal's nightlife is vibrant, especially in Dakar. Many resorts offer evening entertainment with live music and dance performances. In the city, you'll find a mix of bars, clubs, and live music venues. The area around Place de l'Indépendance is popular for nightlife activities."

Where can I find traditional Senegal cuisine?

"Traditional Senegalese cuisine can be found in local restaurants called 'tanganas' in cities like Dakar and Saint-Louis. Many resorts also offer Senegalese dishes. We recommend trying thieboudienne rice with fish and mafe meat in peanut sauce, which are popular local specialties."

Is tipping customary in Senegal?

"While tipping isn't obligatory in Senegal, it's warmly appreciated for good service. In restaurants, you might consider leaving 5-10% if a service charge isn't included. For other services, rounding up the bill or offering a small amount is appreciated. If you're staying at a resort, tipping practices may vary, so feel free to ask your TUI rep for advice."

What electrical plug do I need for Senegal?

"Senegal uses Type C and Type E sockets, both with two round pins. Bring a European-style adapter for your UK devices. These adapters are widely available and will allow you to use your electronics throughout your stay in Senegal."

What should I pack for Senegal?

"For Senegal, pack lightweight, modest clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a sun hat. Bring high-SPF sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications. We recommend a reusable water bottle, a day bag for exploring, and a light jacket for cooler evenings."