Senegal
Region
🌍 Africa
Population
👥 19
Currency
💱 West African CFA franc
Languages
🗣️ French
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Senegal, the westernmost nation of Africa, beckons with its vibrant culture, stunning coastlines, and rich history. Best known for its warm hospitality and the infectious rhythms of its music, Senegal offers a diverse range of experiences. From the bustling markets of Dakar to the serene shores of the Petite Côte and the historical significance of Île de Gorée, there's something for every traveler. Visitors can expect a friendly introduction to West African life, characterized by colorful traditions, delicious cuisine, and a deep sense of community. Explore ancient kingdoms, witness lively festivals, and relax on sun-drenched beaches. Senegal promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa.
Official NameSource: REST Countries
Republic of Senegal
Continent
Africa
DemonymSource: REST Countries
Senegalese
Independence
April 4, 1960 (from France)
Top-Level Domain
.sn
Calling CodeSource: REST Countries
+221
Time ZoneSource: REST Countries
UTC
Capital CitySource: REST Countries
Dakar
ISO Alpha-2
SN
ISO Alpha-3
SEN
UN Code
686
Geographic Coordinates
14,-14
Area (km²)Source: REST Countries
196,722#88 of 249
PopulationSource: REST Countries
19,575,061#68 of 247
Population Density (per km²)
93.89
Highest Point (m)
581 meters (Unnamed feature in the Fouta Djallon)
Lowest Point (m)
0 meters (Atlantic Ocean)
Land Use
Agricultural land: 63.3%; Forest: 31.9%; Other: 4.8% (2018 est.)
Irrigated Land
780 sq km (2012)
Coastline Length
531 km
Climate
Tropical; hot, humid; rainy season (June to October) with southwesterly winds; dry season (December to April) with harmattan winds.
Natural Resources
Fish, phosphates, iron ore, gold, titanium, petroleum.
Bordering CountriesSource: REST Countries
Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Mauritania
Major Rivers
Senegal River, Saloum River, Gambia River, Casamance River
Major Lakes
Lake Retba (Lac Rose)
Government Type
Republic
Administrative Divisions
14 regions
Legal System
Based on French civil law and customary law.
Chief of State
President Macky Sall
Head of Government
Prime Minister Amadou Ba
Cabinet
Council of Ministers is appointed by the president.
Elections
Presidential elections are held every five years; legislative elections are held every five years.
Judicial Branch
Supreme Court; Constitutional Council; High Court of Justice.
Legislative Branch
Unicameral National Assembly
Major Political Parties
Alliance for the Republic (APR), Socialist Party (PS), Democratic Party of Senegal (PDS)
CurrencySource: REST Countries
West African CFA franc
GDP, Nominal (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
37.01#109 of 211
GDP, PPP (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: GDP, PPP (current international $) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
103.43#103 of 201
GDP per Capita (US$)Source: World Bank: GDP per capita (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
1,954.71#175 of 211
GDP - Agriculture (%)Source: World Bank: Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
17.08
GDP - Industry (%)Source: World Bank: Industry (including construction), value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
26.15
GDP - Services (%)Source: World Bank: Services, value added (% of GDP) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
46.33
Inflation Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Inflation, consumer prices (annual %) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
1.46#141 of 191
Labor Force (people)Source: World Bank: Labor force, total (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
6,131,225
Unemployment Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Unemployment, total (% of total labor force) (modeled ILO estimate) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
2.74#156 of 185
Public Debt (% of GDP)
Approximately 70% of GDP.
Budget
The annual budget is in the billions of USD.
Exports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Exports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
12.02#103 of 192
Imports (US$ billion)Source: World Bank: Imports of goods and services (current US$) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
14.28#107 of 192
Foreign Reserves
In the billions of USD.
Currency Exchange
Currency exchange rates can be found on major financial websites.
GDP by Sector
Services, agriculture, and industry are the main sectors.
Major Industries
Fishing, agriculture, and tourism are major industries.
Major Export Partners
France, Mali, and India are major partners.
Major Import Partners
France, Nigeria, and China are major partners.
Society
Literacy Rate (%)Source: World Bank: Literacy rate, adult total (% of people ages 15 and above) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
50.36#158 of 169
Birth Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Birth rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
29.2
Death Rate (per 1,000 people)Source: World Bank: Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
5.5
Net Migration Rate
Slightly negative.
Median Age
Around 19 years.
Urban Population (%)Source: World Bank: Urban population (% of total population) (2025)Checked September 29, 2026
55.77#140 of 214
Urbanization Rate
About 3% annually.
Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: Life expectancy at birth, total (years) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
68.9#159 of 214
HIV/AIDS Prevalence
Around 0.5% of the adult population is estimated to be HIV-positive.
Health Expenditures (% of GDP)Source: World Bank: Current health expenditure (% of GDP) (2023)Checked September 29, 2026
4.32
Ethnic Groups
Wolof, Pular, Serer, and Mandinka are the largest ethnic groups.
Religions
Predominantly Muslim.
LanguagesSource: REST Countries
French
Education
Education System
The Senegalese education system follows a structure of primary, secondary, and higher education, influenced by the French system.
School Life Expectancy (years)Source: World Bank: School life expectancy, primary to tertiary, both sexes (years) (2019)Checked September 29, 2026
8.8
Government Education Spending
Government expenditure on education in Senegal is a significant portion of its budget, aiming to improve access and quality.
Primary Education Access
—
Secondary Education Access
—
Higher Education Access
—
Major Universities
Major universities in Senegal include Université Cheikh Anta Diop and Université Gaston Berger.
Culture
Cultural Overview
Senegal boasts a rich cultural heritage, with diverse ethnic groups, vibrant music, dance, and traditional arts.
National HolidaysSource: Nager.Date
- New Year's Day (2026-01-01)
- Independence Day (2026-04-04)
- Easter Monday (2026-04-06)
- Labour Day (2026-05-01)
- Ascension Day (2026-05-14)
- Whit Monday (2026-05-25)
- Assumption Day (2026-08-15)
- All Saints' Day (2026-11-01)
- Christmas Day (2026-12-25)
Popular Music
Popular music genres include Mbalax, a fusion of traditional Senegalese music and other influences.
Traditional Food
Traditional foods include Thieboudienne (rice and fish), Yassa (chicken or fish in onion sauce), and Mafé (meat stew).
Sports
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport, with a strong national team. Wrestling is also a significant cultural sport.
Major Festivals
Major festivals include the Dakar Biennale, the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival, and various religious celebrations.
Famous People
Famous people from Senegal include musicians Youssou N'Dour and Baaba Maal, and writer Léopold Sédar Senghor.
Cultural Heritage Sites
Senegal has various sites of cultural heritage, including historical landmarks and traditional villages.
UNESCO Sites
Senegal has UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Island of Gorée and the Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary.
Annual Tourist Visits
Around 1.5 million pre-pandemic. Numbers fluctuate.
Tourism Overview
Tourism is a significant sector, with focus on coastal resorts, cultural heritage, and wildlife.
Top Tourist Attractions
Île de Gorée, Lac Rose (Retba), Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, and the beaches of Saly.
Famous Cities
Dakar, Saint-Louis, Touba.
National Parks
Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, Niokolo-Koba National Park.
Protected Areas
Significant number of protected areas including national parks and reserves.
Best Time to Visit
The prime time to visit Senegal is during the dry season, from November to May. This period offers pleasant temperatures and minimal rainfall, ideal for exploring cities like Dakar and Saint-Louis. Beach lovers will find this season perfect for enjoying the sun and sea along the Petite Côte. For those interested in hiking and wildlife, the cooler months between December and February are particularly agreeable. Festival enthusiasts might aim for events like the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival, typically held in May. The shoulder months of October and November can also be pleasant, with fewer crowds and still good weather. Avoid the peak of the rainy season from July to September if outdoor activities are your priority.
Tourist Visa Info
Visa requirements vary depending on nationality. Check specific requirements.
Visa Requirements Overview
Visa requirements for Senegal vary significantly based on your nationality. Many nationalities can enter Senegal for short tourist stays without a visa. However, it is crucial to verify the specific requirements for your country of origin well in advance of your travel. For those who do require a visa, applications are typically processed through Senegalese embassies or consulates in your home country or country of residence. It is always best to consult the official website of the Senegalese Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the nearest Senegalese diplomatic mission for the most up-to-date and accurate information regarding visa policies and application procedures.
Travel Advisory
Exercise a high degree of caution due to crime and potential for civil unrest. Monitor local conditions.
Healthcare
Healthcare Quality
The healthcare quality index is moderate.
Medical Cost
Medical costs vary depending on the service.
Number of Hospitals
There are several hospitals throughout the country, particularly in major cities.
Universal Healthcare
Senegal's healthcare system includes public and private providers, with efforts to expand universal health coverage.
Medical Services Overview
Medical services are available in urban areas.
Emergency Medical Access
Emergency medical services are available, but access can be limited in rural areas.
Emergency & Safety
Emergency Number (Police)
The emergency number for the police in Senegal is 17.
Emergency Number (Ambulance)
The emergency number for ambulances in Senegal is 15.
Emergency Number (Fire)
The emergency number for the fire department in Senegal is 18.
Crime Rate
Crime rates vary, with certain areas experiencing higher levels of crime than others.
Safety Index
The safety index fluctuates, with considerations for petty crime, road safety, and political stability.
Military Expenditure
Senegal's military expenditure represents a portion of its national budget, supporting defense and security.
Emergency Services Overview
Emergency services are available, with police, ambulance, and fire services, though response times can vary.
Safety Overview
Senegal is generally a safe destination for tourists, with a low crime rate. However, like anywhere, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Petty theft, such as pickpocketing, can occur in crowded markets and on public transport in Dakar; keep valuables secure. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited tours or goods, as they might expect payment. It's advisable to use reputable taxis and agree on fares beforehand. Exercising common sense, such as avoiding walking alone at night in quiet areas, will significantly enhance your safety. Tourists are generally well-received, and locals are often helpful and friendly.
Military Branches
Senegal's military consists of an army, navy, and air force.
Infrastructure
Electricity Access
Electricity access varies, with higher rates in urban areas compared to rural areas.
Water Access
Access to clean water is a focus, with ongoing efforts to improve coverage, especially in rural areas.
Sanitation Access
Sanitation access is a challenge, with varying levels of coverage across the country.
Railways
Senegal has a railway system, primarily used for freight and passenger transport.
Roadways
Senegal has a road network, with ongoing efforts to improve its infrastructure.
Transportation System
The transportation system includes a mix of roads, railways, and air travel.
AirportsSource: OurAirports
Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS), Léopold Sédar Senghor International Airport (DKR), Bakel Airport (BXE), Cap Skirring Airport (CSK), Kaolack Airport (KLC), Kédougou Airport (KGG)
Ports
Dakar is the main port, serving as a significant hub for trade and transportation.
Public Transit
Public transit includes buses (cars rapides) and taxis, particularly in urban areas.
Technology & Communication
Internet Penetration (%)Source: World Bank: Individuals using the Internet (% of population) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
60.12#150 of 211
Mobile Subscriptions (per 100)
Approximately 94 per 100 people.
Tech Startups
Growing tech startup scene, particularly in fintech and agriculture.
Innovation Index
Generally low, but showing improvements in certain areas.
ICT Development Index
Moderate, with room for growth in ICT infrastructure and access.
TV Broadcast Stations
Several national and private television stations.
Radio Broadcast Stations
Numerous radio stations, including public, private, and community stations.
Plug Type & Voltage
Type C/E, 230V, 50Hz
CO2 Emissions (t per capita)Source: World Bank: Carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions excluding LULUCF per capita (t CO2e/capita) (2024)Checked September 29, 2026
0.77#147 of 202
Air Quality Index
Air quality is a concern in urban areas, often exceeding WHO guidelines.
Water Pollution Level
High levels of water pollution, especially in urban areas and coastal regions, due to industrial waste and sewage.
Renewable Energy Usage
Increasing focus on renewable energy, with solar and wind power projects expanding.
Environmental Issues
Deforestation, overgrazing, desertification, soil erosion, and coastal pollution are significant environmental challenges.
Natural Hazards
Droughts, floods, and coastal erosion are common natural hazards.
Waste Management
Inadequate waste management infrastructure, leading to significant pollution from landfills and open dumping.
Environmental Agreements
Party to major environmental agreements, including climate change, biodiversity, and desertification.
UN MembershipSource: REST Countries
Yes
Diplomatic Missions
Maintains diplomatic missions globally.
International OrganizationsSource: REST Countries
African Union
Major Treaties
Signed and ratified major international treaties and conventions.
Visa-Free Countries
Senegalese citizens can travel visa-free to a number of countries, primarily within Africa.