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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

Senegal travel advice

Latest updates: Health – editorial update

Last updated: August 20, 2024 14:43 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, senegal - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in Senegal due to levels of crime.

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Casamance and border areas

The conflict in Casamance is historically characterized by clashes between the military and rebel groups. Periods of relative calm are followed by periods of conflict fuelled by mine explosions, direct or indirect attacks, robberies and attacks on businesses or villages.

Rebel groups operate sporadically on roads (often closed at night) and in areas close to the borders with Gambia and Guinea Bissau. Anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, as well as unexploded explosive ordnance are found in many areas (North Sindian, Niassya, South Oussouye, Niaguis).

• Only travel overland during daytime
• Stay on the main roads
• Travel in a convoy when you can
• Hire reputable carriers or tour operators

Areas close to the borders with Mauritania and Mali, where jihadist groups are active, are at risk, as they may harbour external elements due to the porosity of the borders.

Demonstrations and strikes

Strikes and demonstrations are common in larger cities. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.

Mass gatherings (large-scale events)

Senegal has not suffered any recent terrorist attacks. However, in the context of the regional terrorist threat to West African countries, including Senegal, attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

• government buildings, including schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.

Hotel selection

Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, including:

• metal detectors
• security cameras

Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations are not completely free of risk.

Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are sometimes committed by thieves on motorcycles. The Gorée pier is a favourite spot for pickpockets.

• Remain vigilant when travelling
• Ensure that your belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
• Avoid displays of affluence

Don’t walk alone. Avoid walking along the Corniche road in the evening, especially on East Corniche (Petite Corniche) and on West Corniche. Avoid also lingering along the beach at the end of the day.

Home robberies and armed robberies occur frequently. In general, assaults take place early in the morning and after dusk.

• Avoid areas where demonstrations and large gatherings are taking place
• Follow the instructions of local authorities
• Monitor local media for information on ongoing demonstrations

Identification

You must carry photo identification, as well as a certified copy of your passport, as authorities may conduct identity checks at any time.

Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or confiscated.

Road safety

Main roads are in good condition, but travel after dark can be difficult because of poor lighting. Most secondary roads require a four-wheel-drive vehicle, particularly in the rainy season.

Driving can also be dangerous due to:

• the presence of pedestrians and animals on the road
• bad driving habits
• poorly maintained vehicles

If you are involved in a road accident, stay at the scene and don’t move your vehicle until a police officer authorizes you to do so. However, if you do not feel safe or if there is a large crowd gathering, leave the scene and report to the nearest police station in order to avoid any conflict between the parties involved. The police may keep your documents for a few days, until the file is closed. It is therefore recommended that you carry certified photocopies that will be accepted by police.

• Avoid driving at night between cities
• Keep doors locked and windows closed
• Do not leave valuables in the vehicle

Taxis are often poorly maintained and the drivers may have poor driving habits.

• Use only officially marked taxis (yellow and black)
• Taxis do not have a meter. Negotiate fares in advance
• Avoid boarding a public transit vehicle if it appears to be overloaded or in poor condition

The Grand Magal of Touba

The Grand Magal of Touba is an annual pilgrimage that attracts a large number of pilgrims each year.

The next event should take place on August 22, 2024.

Before and during the pilgrimage, you can expect:

• higher volumes of traffic
• street closures
• transportation delays
• limited available accommodations

Be alert at all times if you travel to Touba during the pilgrimage.

Cases of Internet fraud are reported. Be extremely vigilant, especially if someone:

• sends you an electronic request for funds
• makes you an online job offer
• offers you a business opportunity by email

Overseas fraud

Women's safety

Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.

Advice for women travellers

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.

Water safety abroad

Wildlife viewing

Wildlife viewing poses risks, particularly on foot or at close range.

• Always maintain a safe distance when observing wildlife
• Only exit a vehicle when a professional guide or warden says it’s safe to do so
• Only use reputable and professional guides or tour operators
• Closely follow park regulations and wardens’ advice

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the Senegalese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Senegal.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Tourist visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days Business visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days Student visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days

Canadians can enter Senegal without a visa for stays of less than 90 days. A traveller arriving in Senegal without a visa who wishes to extend his or her stay will have to leave the country and re-enter afterwards or contact the Foreigner’s Bureau of the Ministry of the Interior and Public Security to obtain a long-stay visa.

Canadians planning on staying in Senegal for more than 90 days must apply for a visa at the nearest Senegalese embassy or consulate. The visa allows the holder to stay in Senegal for 90 days so that steps can be taken to obtain a “carte d’identité d’étranger” (foreign national identity card) before the end of the period.

Foreign national identity card

To stay in Senegal for more than 90 days, you must obtain a foreign national identity card from the Direction de la Police des étrangers et des titres de voyage.

Direction de la police des étrangers et des titres de voyage – Ministère de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité Publique (en français)

• Children and travel

Learn more about travelling with children .

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

• Global Measles Notice - 13 March, 2024
• Zika virus: Advice for travellers - 31 August, 2023
• COVID-19 and International Travel - 13 March, 2024
• Dengue: Advice for travellers - 2 July, 2024
• Polio: Advice for travellers - 20 August, 2024

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

• There is a risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

• Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs . 

Recommendation

• Vaccination is recommended.
• Contact a designated   Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre   well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.
• Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites .

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada

* It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. 

Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Malaria is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.

Malaria is a risk to travellers to this destination.   Antimalarial medication is recommended for most travellers to this destination and should be taken as recommended. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.    Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times: 

• Cover your skin and use an approved insect repellent on uncovered skin.
• Exclude mosquitoes from your living area with screening and/or closed, well-sealed doors and windows.
• Use insecticide-treated bed nets if mosquitoes cannot be excluded from your living area.
• Wear permethrin-treated clothing. 

 If you develop symptoms similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. 

In this destination, rabies is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions , including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.

If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.  

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). 

Polio (poliomyelitis) is an infectious disease that can be prevented by vaccination. It is caused by poliovirus type 1, 2 or 3. Circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus 2 (cVDPV2) is present in this country.

Polio is spread from person to person and through contaminated food and water. Infection with the polio virus can cause paralysis and death in individuals of any age who are not immune.

Recommendations:

• Be sure that your polio vaccinations are up to date before travelling. Polio is part of the routine vaccine schedule for children in Canada.
• One booster dose of the polio vaccine is recommended as an adult .

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

• Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
• Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
• Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Travellers' diarrhea is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.

Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.

The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

There is a risk of schistosomiasis in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and r ural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.

Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

• Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
• Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
• Minimize exposure to insects
• Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The level of risk may vary by:

The virus that causes chikungunya is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can cause fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times.

Learn more:

Insect bite and pest prevention Chikungunya

• In this country, risk of  dengue  is sporadic. It is a viral disease spread to humans by mosquito bites.
• Dengue can cause flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can lead to severe dengue, which can be fatal.
• The level of risk of dengue changes seasonally, and varies from year to year. The level of risk also varies between regions in a country and can depend on the elevation in the region.
• Mosquitoes carrying dengue typically bite during the daytime, particularly around sunrise and sunset.
• Protect yourself from mosquito bites . There is no vaccine or medication that protects against dengue fever.

Rift Valley fever is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.

Zika virus is a risk in this country. 

Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.

During your trip:

• Prevent mosquito bites at all times.
• Use condoms correctly or avoid sexual contact, particularly if you are pregnant.

If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. 

For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

•   washing your hands often
• avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
• avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Tuberculosis is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.

For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.

Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.

High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.

HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)   is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). 

High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.

Medical services and facilities

Medical facilities are adequate in the capital, Dakar, but are limited elsewhere. Medical evacuation is often very expensive and may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Health and safety outside Canada

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Photography

It is prohibited to photograph government buildings, airports or other official facilities.

Senegal River

It is illegal and dangerous to cross the Senegal River by private pirogue.

Child sex tourism

Canadians travelling to Senegal for the express purpose of having sex with children or prostitutes should know that such activities are punishable with fines and prison sentences of up to 10 years.

Child Sex Tourism: It’s a Crime

Pornography

Possession and importation of pornographic material is forbidden.

2SLGBTQI+ persons

The laws of Senegal prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ persons should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Senegal.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dress and behaviour

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

In 2025, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around February 28.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, be discreet when:

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in Senegal.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of Senegal, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements .

Dual citizens

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and Senegal.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in Senegal by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in Senegal to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children's Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country's judicial affairs.

• International Child Abductions: A guide for affected parents
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Request emergency assistance

Some items are subject to strict customs regulations, including:

• computers and computer parts
• stereo equipment
• tape players
• video cameras and players

These items cannot be brought into the country without clearance by Senegalese authorities.

You must carry an international driving permit.

International Driving Permit

The currency in Senegal is the CFA franc (XOF).

Avoid exchanging large quantities of CFA francs for foreign currency at other than reputable exchange bureaus.

ATMs are widespread and reliable in Dakar, although withdrawal limits may be quite low.

Rainy season

The rainy season extends from July to October. Seasonal flooding can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable due to mudslides and landslides.

• Monitor local media for the latest updates, including those on road conditions
• Stay away from flooded areas
• Monitor weather reports

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

• medical assistance: 15
• firefighters: 18

Consular assistance

Cabo Verde, The Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mauritania

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to Senegal, in Dakar, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

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Latest update

Exercise a high degree of caution in Senegal overall due to the risk of civil unrest.

Higher levels apply.

Senegal (PDF 749.94 KB)

Africa (PDF 1.76 MB)

Local emergency contacts

Fire and rescue services, medical emergencies.

Call 15, or go to the nearest hospital.

Call 33 860 3810 for the Tourist Police, or go to the nearest police station.

If the Tourist Police can't help you, call one of the general police hotline numbers:

• 800-00-20-20
• 800-00-17-00
• 33-821-2431

Advice levels

Exercise a high degree of caution in Senegal overall.

See Safety .

Reconsider your need to travel to the Casamance region of southern Senegal (except Cap Skirring, Ziguinchor and the main road between these cities). 

Reconsider your need to travel to the Casamance region of southern Senegal (except Cap Skirring, Ziguinchor and the main road between these cities) due to the volatile security situation. 

Reconsider your need to travel to the eastern border with Senegal and Mali.

Reconsider your need to travel to the eastern border with Senegal and Mali due to the volatile security situation.

• Protests and large public gatherings are common near government buildings and public areas. These can turn violent, and rioting can occur across several neighbourhoods in Dakar and other areas of Senegal. Recent protests across Senegal have turned violent, resulting in several deaths and injuries. Avoid protests and public gatherings and remain vigilant. Avoid unnecessary travel, follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media for updates. 
• Armed bandits and separatist groups operate in the Casamance region. Landmines are in this area, particularly in remote areas off main roads, including near the Guinea-Bissau border. Don't travel after dark if you travel in the Casamance region and use the main roads. Be aware of your personal security.
• Pickpockets, bag snatchers and thieves on motorbikes are common in large crowds. Muggings and robberies occur. Criminals target foreigners, especially at night. Officials or people posing as them may try to extort money from foreigners. Don't walk after dark. Always lock your doors, even when you're inside.
• Terrorism is a threat. Possible targets include hotels and other places foreigners visit. Remote regions are also vulnerable to terror attacks, including near the borders with Mauritania and Mali. Always have an exit plan if you visit a possible terror target.

Full travel advice:  Safety

• Yellow fever is common. Get vaccinated before you travel.
• Other insect-borne diseases include malaria and dengue. Ensure your accommodation is insect-proof. Use insect repellent. Consider taking anti-malarial medication.
• The rate of HIV/AIDS infection is high. Take precautions if you're taking part in high-risk activities.
• Common waterborne, foodborne and other infectious diseases include cholera, typhoid and hepatitis. Drink only boiled or bottled water. Avoid raw or undercooked food.
• Medical facilities in Senegal are limited, especially outside Dakar. You may need to pay cash up-front, even in an emergency. If you're seriously ill or injured, you'll need medical evacuation. Ensure your travel insurance covers this.

Full travel advice:  Health

• Don't use or carry illegal drugs. Penalties for drug offences are severe. They include lengthy jail terms.
• Always carry photo ID. Officials can detain you if you can't show it on request.
• Don't drink and drive. Driving after drinking any amount of alcohol is illegal.
• Same-sex relations are against the law.
• Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph government buildings, official facilities and airports.
• Senegal's dress and behaviour standards are conservative. If in doubt, seek local advice.

Full travel advice:  Local laws

• Only use registered taxis and limousines. Arrange these through your hotel. Don't use public transport. Vehicles are poorly maintained and roads are unsafe.
• The local currency is the Central African Franc (CFA Franc or XAF). It's difficult to exchange Australian dollars. Exchange US dollars and euros at commercial banks and exchange services. Major hotels in Dakar accept credit cards. There are ATMs in Dakar, but are limited outside the capital. Bring enough cash to cover your stay.
• Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest high commission/embassy or consulate of Senegal for the latest details.

Full travel advice:  Travel

Local contacts

• The  Consular Services Charter  details what we can and can't do to help you overseas.
• Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Senegal. The  Canadian Embassy in Dakar  can provide consular help, including provisional travel documents.
• You can also get consular help from the  Australian High Commission in Ghana . 
• To stay up to date with local information, follow the High Commission’s social media accounts.

Full travel advice:  Local contacts

Full advice

Civil unrest and political tension, demonstrations and protests.

Demonstrations are common, particularly around Senegal's government buildings and in public areas. 

Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. Recent protests across Senegal have resulted in several deaths and injuries. Protestors sometimes block major roads, including the road between Blaise Diagne International Airport and the city of Dakar. Disruptions to communication networks and internet service can occur with little notice, especially during periods of civil unrest. 

Avoid protests and public gatherings and remain vigilant. Limit unnecessary travel. Follow the advice of local authorities and monitor local media for updates.

More information:

• Demonstrations and civil unrest

Casamance and border regions

The situation in the Casamance region in southern Senegal is volatile. Armed bandits sometimes attack travellers in the area. Conflict between separatist groups and the Senegalese Army is possible. People have died. Landmines from prior conflicts remain a concern, particularly in more remote areas off main roads, including the border with Guinea-Bissau. 

If you travel elsewhere in the Casamance region:

• don't travel after dark
• stick to main roads, travel in a convoy 
• always be aware of your personal security
• monitor news of possible civil unrest

Officials or people posing as officials, may try to detain or extort money from foreigners, including at the airport.

Petty crime

In Dakar, muggings and robberies are common. You're most at risk of petty crime in large crowds. Look out for:

• pickpockets
• bag snatchers
• thieves on motorbikes

Criminals target foreigners, especially at night.

Home robberies also happen often.

To protect yourself from crime:

• don't walk alone
• don't carry bags that are easy to snatch
• avoid walking at night, especially in isolated areas
• always lock your doors, even when you're inside
• always keep vehicle doors and windows locked, even when moving

Internet  scams  come in many forms, including romance, friendship, business and job offers. These scams often originate in West African countries, including Senegal.

If you travel to Senegal as a scam victim, you may be at risk of  kidnapping ,  assault  and robbery. Some scam victims have been killed.

In commercial scams, criminals ask for details of safe bank accounts to transfer large amounts of money. They may:

• promise a percentage of this amount to you
• send fake cashier cheques for urgent goods shipments
• request large fees for a fake government contract
• extort money from you for a bogus business opportunity

In relationship scams, criminals often meet their victims through internet dating sites or chat rooms. Once a connection develops, they may ask you to send money so they can come to Australia.

After you transfer money, the relationship ends.

They may also ask you to come to Africa to meet them. 

To protect yourself from scams:

• be wary of online contact from people you don't know
• don't send money to anyone until you've thoroughly checked them

If you suspect a scam, get legal advice.

Don't travel to Senegal to get your money back or to get revenge. You could be in danger.

Cyber security

You may be at risk of cyber-based threats during overseas travel to any country. Digital identity theft is a growing concern. Your devices and personal data can be compromised, especially if you’re connecting to Wi-Fi, using or connecting to shared or public computers, or to Bluetooth. 

Social media can also be risky in destinations where there are social or political tensions, or laws that may seem unreasonable by Australian standards. Travellers have been arrested for things they have said on social media. Don't comment on local or political events on your social media. 

More information:   

• Cyber security when travelling overseas

Terrorism is a threat worldwide. This includes in Senegal.

Although Senegal has not experienced recent terrorist attacks, there is a regional terrorist threat to West African countries and attacks could occur at any time. Remote areas are particularly vulnerable to terror attacks, including by groups from nearby and neighbouring countries. This includes areas:

• near the borders with Mauritania and Mali

Attacks can be random and occur in places foreigners visit, such as:

• public transport
• shopping areas
• places of worship
• sporting events
• entertainment and food venues
• airports and other transport hubs
• embassies and government buildings 
• be alert to possible threats, especially in public places
• avoid crowds and other possible targets for terror attacks
• report any suspicious activity or items to police
• take official warnings seriously
• follow the advice of local authorities

To stay safe from terrorism:

If you must visit a possible terror target, always have an exit plan.

If there's an attack, leave the area immediately if you can.

Avoid the area where the attack occurred, due to the risk of secondary attacks.

There is a threat of  kidnapping  in Senegal and in the wider Sahel region, which includes Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso, so take precautions to reduce the risk of kidnap in remote regions and border areas.

The Australian Government's longstanding policy is that it doesn't make payments or concessions to kidnappers.

Read our advice about  kidnapping  before you travel to Senegal, especially if your travel plans include remote regions and border areas. 

More information

Climate and natural disasters

The rainy season is July to September. Flooding may happen, which makes some roads hard to travel.

To protect yourself if a  natural disaster  or  severe weather  occurs:

• secure your passport in a safe, waterproof location
• closely monitor local media and other sources
• follow advice from local authorities
• keep in contact with your friends and family

Register with the  Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System  to receive alerts on major disasters.

Travel insurance

Get comprehensive  travel insurance  before you leave.

Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.

If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.

If you're not insured, you may have to pay many thousands of dollars up-front for medical care.

• what activities and care your policy covers
• that your insurance covers you for the whole time you'll be away

Physical and mental health

If you have immediate concerns for your welfare, or the welfare of another Australian, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on +61 2 6261 3305 or contact your  nearest Australian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate  to discuss counselling hotlines and services available in your location.

Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition.

See your doctor or travel clinic to:

• have a basic health check-up
• ask if your travel plans may affect your health
• plan any vaccinations you need

Do this at least eight weeks before you leave.

• General health advice
• Healthy holiday tips  (Healthdirect Australia)

Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor. 

If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Senegal. Take enough legal medicine for your trip. 

Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor stating: 

• what the medication is 
• your required dosage 
• that it's for personal use 

More information: 

Health risks

Insect-borne diseases.

Yellow fever (Department of Health and Aged Care) is common in Senegal. Yellow fever is a potentially fatal virus spread by mosquitoes. It's prevented by vaccination. Get vaccinated before you travel.

Other common insect-borne diseases include:

• malaria (World Health Organization)
• dengue (Department of Health and Aged Care)

To protect yourself from disease:

• make sure your accommodation is insect-proof
• use treated mosquito nets
• use insect repellent
• wear long, loose, light-coloured clothes
• consider taking medicine to prevent malaria

Get medical advice if you have a fever, muscle pain, rash or severe headache.

• Infectious diseases

The rate of  HIV/AIDS (World Health Organization) infection is high.

Take precautions if you engage in activities that may expose you to the virus.

Other health risks

Common waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases occur, including these listed by the World Health Organization:

• leptospirosis
• tuberculosis

Serious outbreaks sometimes occur. Follow the advice of local authorities.

To protect yourself from illness:

• drink boiled water or bottled water with sealed lids
• avoid ice cubes
• avoid raw and undercooked food, such as salads
• don't swim in fresh water
• g et medical attention straight away if an animal scratches or bites you

Get medical advice if you have a fever or diarrhoea.

Medical care

Medical facilities.

Medical care and facilities in Senegal are limited, especially outside Dakar.

Local health services may have difficulty responding to outbreaks of infectious disease.

You may need to pay cash up-front before doctors and hospitals will treat you, even in an emergency.

If you're seriously sick or injured, you'll need to be evacuated to a location with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.

You're subject to all local laws and penalties, including those that may appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling.

If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our  Consular Services Charter . But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.

Penalties for drug offences are severe. This can include long jail terms.

• Carrying or using drugs

You must carry photo ID at all times. If authorities request ID and you can't provide it, they can put you in jail.

Be careful when taking photos. It's illegal to photograph:

• government buildings
• other official facilities

It's also illegal to:

• drink and drive
• engage in same-sex relationships
• cross the Senegal River by pirate pirogue or canoe

You must have approval to import:

• computers and computer parts
• stereo equipment
• video cameras

Get customs clearance if you take any of these items.

• Advice for LGBTQIA+ travellers

Australian laws

Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.

• Staying within the law and respecting customs

Dual nationality

Senegal recognises dual nationality.

If you're a dual national, this limits the  consular services  we can give if you're arrested or detained.

Always travel on your  Australian passport .

Australia-Senegal dual nationals may have civil or military service obligations in Senegal. Check with an  embassy or consulate of Senegal  before you travel.

• Dual nationals

Local customs

Senegal has conservative standard of behaviour and dress. Avoid revealing clothing and inappropriate displays of public affection. Take care not to offend.

Government offices, schools and most businesses close for the Islamic holiday feast of sacrifice ('Eid al-Adha' or 'Tabaski').

The Islamic holiday month of Ramadan is observed in Senegal. Respect religious and cultural customs and laws at this time.

During Ramadan, eating, drinking and smoking may be illegal in public during the day. If you're not fasting, avoid these activities around people who are. Seek local advice to avoid offence.

Explore our Ramadan page to learn more, including dates for Ramadan.

Visas and border measures

Every country or territory decides who can enter or leave through its borders. For specific information about the evidence you'll need to enter a foreign destination, check with the nearest embassy, consulate or immigration department of the destination you're entering. 

Visa requirements

Contact an  Embassy or Consulate of Senegal  for entry and exit details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.

Entry to Senegal

Air, land and sea borders are open. Contact your travel provider for details.

Travel requirements can change at short notice. Check with your nearest  Senegal Embassy  for details.

Other formalities

Yellow fever vaccination.

You'll need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Senegal. If you don't have a certificate, authorities may quarantine you. You may also need a mandatory vaccination at your own cost.

You may need a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate to travel to other countries after visiting Senegal.

Find out about returning to Australia  after exposure to yellow fever (Department of Health and Aged Care).

• Countries with a risk of yellow fever (PDF 74KB) (World Health Organization)

Some countries won't let you enter unless your passport is valid for six months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you're just transiting or stopping over.

Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.

You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than six months.

The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport's expiry date before you travel. If you're not sure it'll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport .

Lost or stolen passport

Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.

Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.

If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:

• In Australia, contact the  Australian Passport Information Service .
• If you're overseas, contact the nearest  Australian embassy or consulate .

Passport with ‘X’ gender identifier

Although Australian passports comply with international standards for sex and gender, we can’t guarantee that a passport showing 'X' in the sex field will be accepted for entry or transit by another country. Contact the nearest  embassy, high commission or consulate of your destination  before you arrive at the border to confirm if authorities will accept passports with 'X' gender markers. 

More information:   

• LGBTQIA+ travellers  

The local currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF).

You can't easily change Australian dollars.

You can change US dollars and euros at commercial banks and exchange bureaus.

Major hotels in Dakar accept credit cards. You'll find ATMs in Dakar, but banking facilities are hard to find outside the capital.

Plan ahead. Have enough cash to meet your needs.

Ask your bank if your cards will work. Credit and debit card fraud is common.

Local travel

Local restrictions.

There are currently no restrictions on travel between regions, and authorisation isn't needed to travel between regions.

Monitor the media for information on latest developments and follow the advice of local authorities.

Landmines are dangerous in the Casamance region, particularly in more remote locations off main roads, including along the Guinea-Bissau border (refer to safety and security). 

Driving permit

To drive in Senegal, you need both:

• an International Driving Permit (IDP)
• an Australian driver's licence

Get an IDP before you leave Australia.

Road travel

Driving in Senegal can be dangerous. Hazards include:

• poor-quality roads
• unsafe driving practices
• poorly maintained vehicles
• not enough street lighting
• pedestrians and animals on the road

If you plan to drive in Senegal:

• understand local traffic laws and practices
• look out for hazards, especially after dark
• Driving or riding

Motorcycles

Check with your travel insurer if your policy covers you to ride a motorbike.

Always wear a helmet.

Only use registered taxis and limousines. It's best to arrange these through your hotel.

Public transport

Avoid using public transport in Senegal. Road safety is an issue, and vehicles are poorly maintained.

Ferry travel is risky due to low safety standards and bad weather. There may be too many passengers and not enough life jackets. Always wear a life jacket, even if others don't.

• Travelling by boat

DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.

Check  Senegal's air safety profile  with the Aviation Safety Network.

Emergencies

Depending on what you need, contact your:

• family and friends
• travel agent
• insurance provider

Call 15 or go to the nearest hospital.

Call 33 860 3810 for the Tourist Police or go to the nearest police station.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.

Consular contacts

Read the  Consular Services Charter  for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.

Australia doesn't have an embassy or consulate in Senegal.

The Canadian Embassy in Dakar can provide consular help, including  provisional travel documents .

You can also get consular help from the Australian High Commission in Ghana. 

You can also get consular help from the Australian High Commission in Ghana.  Subscribe  to this travel advice to get the latest updates directly. 

Monitor for security alerts from the  US Embassy in Senegal  and the  Canadian Embassy in Senegal . 

Canadian Embassy, Dakar

Corner of Gallieni and Amadou Cisse Dia Streets Dakar, Senegal Phone: (+22 1) 3 3889 4700 Email:  [email protected] Website:  canadainternational.gc.ca/senegal/index.aspx

Australian High Commission, Accra

2, Second Rangoon Close (cnr Josef Broz Tito Ave) Cantonments Accra, Ghana Phone: +23 3 3 0221 6400 Email:  [email protected] Website:  ghana.highcommission.gov.au Facebook:  Australian High Commission, Ghana X:  @AusAmbGHA

The Australian High Commission in Accra currently has very limited capacity to provide consular assistance in West Africa, except in Ghana.

Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours.

24-hour Consular Emergency Centre

In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:

• +61 2 6261 3305 from overseas
• 1300 555 135 in Australia

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Security Alert May 17, 2024

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Senegal Travel Restrictions

Traveler's COVID-19 vaccination status

Traveling from the United States to Senegal

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Ready to travel?

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Can I travel to Senegal from the United States?

Most visitors from the United States, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Senegal.

Can I travel to Senegal if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Senegal without restrictions.

Can I travel to Senegal without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United States can enter Senegal without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter Senegal?

Visitors from the United States are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering Senegal.

Can I travel to Senegal without quarantine?

Travelers from the United States are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in Senegal?

Mask usage in Senegal is not required in public spaces, enclosed environments and public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in Senegal?

Restaurants in Senegal are open. Bars in Senegal are .

• English (EN)
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• 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.

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• Transport & Taxis Risk
• Pickpockets Risk
• Natural Disasters Risk
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Last verified: Tuesday, 13. August 2024 at 08:21 AM

Senegal Travel Advisory

• Western Africa
• Senegal Travel Advice

Please reconsider your need to travel to Senegal

Local situation: 3.6 / 5.

Please reconsider your need to travel to Senegal. We detected travel advisories from 5 sources for this specific country.

Regional Situation: 3.6 / 5

Senegal shares a land border with 5 neighbouring states. For this region of countries (including Senegal), the Advisory Index is 3.6 (average value over all countries). All countries have some reported advisories: Mali (4.6), Guinea (4), Mauritania (3.8), Guinea-Bissau with 3 and Gambia with 2.8 (of 5).

Current informationen on Covid-19 in Senegal

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Senegal. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET).

There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Senegal.

Source: www.ecdc.europa.eu

Advice scoring history for Senegal

Chart of the risk level over that last 200 days. This is the daily calculated travel risk for Senegal.

Chart of the number of sources over that last 200 days. This is the daily number of advisory sources (of any rating) that have been active on that day.

Note: Changes happening on the 28th/29th of July 2019 are related to a change in the software and number of sources processed.

Rating Details (single travel warnings)

These are the individual advisories published by other countries about the destination Senegal from a travellers perspective. The scoring of all messages combined is the foundation for the current rating 3.6 out of 5.0 .

This is the general advisory usually covering the country as a whole.

Advisory issued by: New Zealand

Exercise increased caution elsewhere in Senegal due to the level of crime. (level 2 of 4).

Source: https://www.safetravel.govt.nz/senegal

This is a regional information covering specific areas of Senegal.

Issued by: New Zealand government

Info: If you are planning international travel at this time, please read our COVID-19 related travel advice here, alongside our destination specific travel advice below.

Info: Avoid non-essential travel to the Casamance region, except for Cap Skirring, Zinguinchor and the main road connecting these two cities due to armed banditry and clashes between separatist groups and the Senegalese army (level 3 of 4). Avoid non-essential travel to the eastern border with Senegal and Mali due to the volatile security situation (level 3 of 4).

Advisory issued by: United States

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.       Exercise normal precautions in Senegal. Some areas have increased risk.  Read the entire Travel Advisory. Exercise Increased Caution in: The Casamance region due to crime and landmines. Read the country information page for additional information on travel to Senegal.

Source: http://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/traveladvisories/traveladvisories/senegal-travel-advisory.html

Advisory issued by: Canada

The Canadian goverment suggests: Exercise a high degree of caution.

Source: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/senegal

Individual rating changes for Senegal

This is the recent history of individual changes of travel advices that affected the total asessment of Senegal. Most recent events first.

Changes from August 7th 2020

The total rating for Senegal changed from 3.5 to 4.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government increased their existing warning for Senegal to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 1.0 (by +3.0).

Changes from April 5th 2020

The total rating for Senegal changed from 3.2 to 3.5 . Here are the influencing details:

The Austrian government issued a new warning for Senegal with a rating of 5.0.

Changes from March 23rd 2020

The total rating for Senegal changed from 3.0 to 3.2 . Here are the influencing details:

The Canadian government increased their existing warning for Senegal to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 18th 2020

The total rating for Senegal changed from 2.6 to 3.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government increased their existing warning for Senegal to 5.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 4.0 (by +1.0).

The Irish government increased their existing warning for Senegal to 4.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 3.0 (by +1.0).

Changes from March 16th 2020

The total rating for Senegal changed from 2.3 to 2.6 . Here are the influencing details:

The Australian government issued a new warning for Senegal with a rating of 4.0.

Changes from September 25th 2019

The total rating for Senegal changed from 0.0 to 0.0 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government issued a new warning for Senegal with a rating of 1.0.

The Canadian government issued a new warning for Senegal with a rating of 3.0.

The New Zealand government issued a new warning for Senegal with a rating of 2.0.

The Irish government issued a new warning for Senegal with a rating of 3.0.

Changes from April 26th 2019

The total rating for Senegal changed from 2.3 to 2.2 . Here are the influencing details:

The United States government decreased their existing warning for Senegal to 1.0 (of 5.0) from the previous rating of 2.0 (by -1.0).

About Senegal

Senegal with its capital Dakar is a country in Africa (Western Africa), slightly smaller than South Dakota (196,190 km²). The country is located Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Mauritania. The climate can be described as tropical; hot, humid; rainy season (May to November) has strong southeast winds; dry season (December to April) dominated by hot, dry, harmattan wind. The landscape is generally low, rolling, plains rising to foothills in southeast. With a population of about 12.85 million citizens.

Senegalese flag

Introduction Video

Basic Statistics and Facts

Environmental problems and natural hazzards.

These are problems Senegal is facing. Environmental issues refer to damages of the nature due to industry and society. Natural hazzards refer to potential dangers originating in nature.

Environmental problems

• deforestation
• desertification
• overfishing
• overgrazing
• soil erosion
• wildlife populations threatened by poaching

Natural hazzards

• lowlands seasonally flooded
• periodic droughts

Top Industries and Agricultural Products

These are the main product industries and agricultural products of Senegal. This list indicates what this country is good at producing.

• agricultural
• construction materials
• fertilizer production
• fish processing
• gold mining
• petroleum refining
• phosphate mining
• ship construction

Agriculture products

• green vegetables

Senegalese Imports and Exports

These are the main product categories of imports and exports to and from Senegal.

Export products

• groundnuts (peanuts)
• petroleum products

Import products

• capital goods

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the current travel advisory for senegal.

Senegal is currently rated at 3,6 out of a possible 5.0. Collected from 5 official sources. Please reconsider your need to travel to Senegal.

Is it safe to travel Senegal in 2024?

The score is rather high ( 3,6 ) and you should avoid all non-essential travel to Senegal. Maybe pick another location.

How many travel advisories do you know for Senegal?

We currently evaluate 11 official sources each morning. Today, we know of active advisories from 5 individual sources for Senegal.

What is the current Corona virus situation in Senegal?

There are currently no officially reported cases of infections with SARS-CoV-2 (or Coronavirus) in Senegal. As reported by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control this morning (~8:30am CET). There are currently no officially reported deaths related to this disease in Senegal.

What is the size of Senegal?

Senegal has a size of 196,190 km² or 75,749 mi² which is slightly smaller than South Dakota.

Common Frequently Asked Questions

For non-country specific questions, please check our global F.A.Q.

Travel safety map for Senegal and bordering countries.

If you want to embed Senegal travel warning information into your website or application, check out these tools.

• Is Senegal safe to travel?
• What's the safety situation in Senegal?
• Are there security warnings for Senegal?

2020-03-10: Integrated data from European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (COVID-19/ SARS-CoV-2/ Coronavirus).

2019-09-01: Added timeline charts for risk level and number of advisories.

2019-07-29: Added two more sources (Finland and Denmark). Affects country ratings.

2019-07-15: South-Sudan was missing and was added today.

2019-05-18: Performance improvements for API users.

2019-03-23: Introduced professional API with more data.

2019-02-13: Added three more sources (Cyprus, Ireland and Malta). Affects country ratings.

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Travel Health Notices

Search By Country Name or Disease

CDC uses Travel Health Notices (THNs) to inform travelers about global health risks during outbreaks, special events or gatherings, and natural disasters, and to provide advice about protective actions travelers can take to prevent infection or adverse health effects.

A THN can be posted for: 1) a disease outbreak (higher number of expected cases) in a country or region, 2) sporadic cases of a disease in an unusual or new geographic location, 3) natural and human-made disasters with severe environmental health risks, or infrastructure damage that would limit healthcare services availability and 4) mass gathering events that can lead to disease outbreaks. See types of travel notices .

Level 4 - Avoid All Travel

• Currently there are no Travel Health Notices at this level.

Level 3 - Reconsider Nonessential Travel

Level 2 - practice enhanced precautions.

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• Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Country List : Afghanistan, Algeria, Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Madagascar, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Yemen, Indonesia, Sudan, Mali, Botswana, Zambia, Republic of the Congo , Burundi, Burkina Faso, Kenya, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, Guinea, Mauritania, Egypt, Zimbabwe, Angola, Liberia, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Ethiopia, The Gambia, Republic of South Sudan, UgandaGlobal Polio734 Updated   Global Polio August 20, 2024 Some international destinations have circulating poliovirus. Before any international travel, make sure you are up to date on your polio vaccines. Destination List: Afghanistan, Algeria, Angola, Benin, Botswana, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Egypt, Ethiopia, Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Liberia, Madagascar, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, Tanzania, including Zanzibar, The Gambia, Uganda, Yemen, Zambia, Zimbabwe Read More >>
• There is an outbreak of Oropouche in Cuba. Oropouche is spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes.Oropouche in Cuba764 New   Oropouche in Cuba August 16, 2024 There is an outbreak of Oropouche in Cuba. Oropouche is spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Read More >>
• There is an outbreak of clade I mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Countries sharing borders with DRC are considered at risk for spread. Country List : Burundi, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo , Rwanda, UgandaClade I Mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Neighboring Countries763 Clade I Mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Neighboring Countries August 07, 2024 There is an outbreak of clade I mpox in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Countries sharing borders with DRC are considered at risk for spread. Destination List: Burundi, Central African Republic, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo, Rwanda, Uganda Read More >>
• There are confirmed and suspect cases of diphtheria in several regions in Guinea. Vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect against disease. If you are traveling to an affected area, you should be up to date with your diphtheria vaccines.Diphtheria in Guinea751 Diphtheria in Guinea April 23, 2024 There are confirmed and suspect cases of diphtheria in several regions in Guinea. Vaccination against diphtheria is essential to protect against disease. If you are traveling to an affected area, you should be up to date with your diphtheria vaccines. Read More >>
• Yellow fever cases remain elevated in Nigeria, after an outbreak was first reported in November 2020. Travelers to Nigeria should take steps to prevent yellow fever by getting vaccinated at least 10 days before travel and taking steps to prevent mosquito bites.Yellow Fever in Nigeria392 Yellow Fever in Nigeria March 28, 2024 Yellow fever cases remain elevated in Nigeria, after an outbreak was first reported in November 2020. Travelers to Nigeria should take steps to prevent yellow fever by getting vaccinated at least 10 days before travel and taking steps to prevent mosquito bites. Read More >>
• There is an outbreak of diphtheria in Niger. If you are traveling to an affected area, you should be up to date with your diphtheria vaccines.Diphtheria in Niger752 Diphtheria in Niger February 25, 2024 There is an outbreak of diphtheria in Niger. If you are traveling to an affected area, you should be up to date with your diphtheria vaccines. Read More >>
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Level 1 - Practice Usual Precautions

• There are outbreaks of Oropouche in parts of Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru. Oropouche is spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Country List : Brazil, Bolivia, Peru, ColombiaOropouche in South America758 Updated   Oropouche in South America August 16, 2024 There are outbreaks of Oropouche in parts of Brazil, Bolivia, Colombia, and Peru. Oropouche is spread by the bite of infected midges (small flies) and mosquitoes. Destination List: Bolivia, Brazil, Colombia, Peru Read More >>
• Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Country List : Afghanistan, Angola, Benin, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Ethiopia, Gabon, India, Indonesia, Liberia, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Republic of the Congo , Senegal, Somalia, Republic of South Sudan, Sudan, Togo, Yemen, Zambia, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, Mauritania, Lebanon, Equatorial Guinea, Syria, Ghana, Kazakhstan, Burkina Faso, Turkey, Qatar, United Arab Emirates, Burundi, Romania, Malaysia, Russia, Azerbaijan, Sri Lanka, Uzbekistan, Philippines, Austria, Belarus, Georgia, Mali, Bosnia and Herzegovina, San Marino, Bhutan, Guinea, MozambiqueGlobal Measles743 Updated   Global Measles August 14, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Benin, Bhutan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Georgia, Ghana, Guinea, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Malaysia, Mali, Mauritania, Mozambique, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Philippines, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, San Marino, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia Read More >>
• Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Country List : Brazil, Burkina Faso, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, French Guiana (France), Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Laos, Mali, Mauritius, Mexico, Panama, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Uruguay, Afghanistan, Cape Verde, Cuba, Ghana, El Salvador, French Polynesia, including the island groups of Society Islands (Tahiti, Moorea, and Bora-Bora), Marquesas Islands (Hiva Oa and Ua Huka), and Austral Islands (Tubuai and Rurutu), IranGlobal Dengue762 Updated   Global Dengue August 14, 2024 Dengue is a year-round risk in many parts of the world, with outbreaks commonly occurring every 2–5 years. Travelers to risk areas should prevent mosquito bites. Destination List: Afghanistan, and Austral Islands (Tubuai and Rurutu), and Bora-Bora), Brazil, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Colombia, Costa Rica, Cuba, Ecuador, including the Galápagos Islands, El Salvador, French Guiana (France), French Polynesia, including the island groups of Society Islands (Tahiti, Ghana, Guatemala, Guyana, Honduras, Iran, Laos, Mali, Marquesas Islands (Hiva Oa and Ua Huka), Mauritius, Mexico, Moorea, Panama, Samoa, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Uruguay Read More >>
• Some travelers who have spent time in Mexico have been infected with multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella Newport. Salmonella Newport in Mexico732 Salmonella Newport in Mexico May 30, 2024 Some travelers who have spent time in Mexico have been infected with multidrug-resistant (MDR) Salmonella Newport. Read More >>
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Types of Notices

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Tips on Dakar Warnings or Dangers – Stay Safe!

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Dakar Warnings or Dangers

Traveling to Dakar means knowing about all of the warnings or dangers that go on. This will allow you to prepare for travel more effectively.

How to Travel

When travelling to Dakar, it is not safe for women to travel unescorted, especially at night. There are various health concerns throughout the region, including malaria and dengue fever. Prior to traveling, it’s important to get the necessary immunizations and medications.

Know the Scams

There are a lot of people in the streets hocking goods. Don’t show interest in the items. Instead, move quickly down the streets. There are even police officers that will ask for money. Be firm that you have no fault and move on.

Some handicapped people in the streets will ask things of you, whether it’s a pen or something else. Don’t give anything to anyone, especially when there are crowds.

How to Shop

Throughout Dakar, the prices are not set. You can haggle over all prices. Generally, you must plan to deal with the salesmen being pushy. The price should come down to one third of the original price.

It’s best to have cash and maybe one VISA card. Traveler’s checks are useless and many of the credit card and ATM machines do not work.

General Safety Tips

There are a lot of pickpockets and they are not always subtle about it. If you’re going to travel, don’t do so alone.

Silence is key when doing a lot of walking around. If you don’t want anything from any of the vendors, simply don’t say anything.

Get a room with a safe so you have a place to keep important documents when you’re out in the city.

Editor’s Note:  The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about warnings or dangers in Dakar.

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Travel Advice for Senegal

Going to Senegal and need to know about the latest government travel advice for Senegal? Find the updated travel advice and travel warnings for Senegal from governments around the world, here.

General Travel Advice and Warnings for Senegal

The decision to travel to Senegal is your decision and you are in charge of your individual safety and security whilst in Senegal.

The content on this web page is given information only and gathered from travel advice and warnings for Senegal by governments around the globe to their citizens.

While we make every effort to give you correct travel advice info, it is provided on an “as is” basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied.

This operators of this web site does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information supplied.

General Cautions Travellers Need to Keep in Mind When Taking a Trip in Senegal

Crime – Petty crimes such as pick pocketing in a crowded environment to sexual assault and robberies do occur in bigger cities of Senegal. Ensure that all your personal valuables, including passports and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Terrorism – Constantly be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly alert if attending sporting events and during religious holidays and other public events, as terrorists often make use of such occasions to mount attacks.

Demonstrations and Protests – Demonstrations might take place. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent any time. They can also result in disruptions to traffic and public transport. It is in your interest of safety to avoid locations where demonstrations and large events are occurring and comply with the guidelines of local authorities. Monitor local media in Senegal for details on continuous protests in Senegal.

Scams – Exercise care in crowded tourist areas in Senegal, where scammers target foreigners. If you have actually been scammed in Senegal, get to a safe place quickly; take note, as soon as possible of the name and address of the facility where you were held; inform the authorities in Senegal and obtain a record and if your credit card is used by the scammer call your credit card company to inform the scam; they will likely ask for a copy of the police report to cancel the transaction.

Spiked Food and Beverages – Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers whilst taking a trip in Senegal or anywhere else. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items might have drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

What is the entry/exit requirements for Senegal?

Every nation or territory chooses who can get in or leave through its borders, in the same manner Senegal decides exactly who enter its territories. The Government of your home country can not intervene on your behalf if you do not fulfill your Senegal’s entry or exit requirements.

To find out more about the entry/exit requirement for Senegal see visa requirements for Senegal or get the current info with the visa office at the Senegalese consulate in your home country.

Travel insurance for Senegal

Travel health cover is among the major factors travellers obtain travel insurance policy. It will not prevent you getting ill or injured, though it can avoid you suffering financially. Medical assistance overseas can be very expensive.

You have to pay for all medical care you get overseas. You can not expect to get free or subsidised care through your Senegal’s public health system, like you would in your home country.

If you can’t pay, local authorities could apprehend you. The government from your home country can not pay you health care costs for you, loan you money or get you out of jail.

You require travel insurance policy for travelling to Senegal . You also need to ensure you select a plan that is right for you.

Read the fine print of your travel insurance policy.

Declare all pre-existing conditions to your travel insurance company upfront. If you do not, you might invalidate your travel insurance plan.

Tell your travel insurer the activities you intend to do, before you go. Many common activities like skiing are excluded in basic plans. You might need to pay added.

Check if you have free credit card travel insurance policy. Some cards include travel insurance cover. Nonetheless, they commonly have different conditions than paid policies. Be aware of the differences.

If you’re travelling to Senegal from a country that has a reciprocal health care agreement, you still require travel health insurance. Agreements are limited in what they’ll will cover.

If you have an incurable ailment, you might not have the ability to obtain standard travel insurance. Nevertheless you may have the ability to find a specialised insurance firm that covers you for health, accidents or property troubles unassociated to your ailment. Speak to your insurance provider to learn.

Discover more about obtaining international travel insurance for Senegal before you go.

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Introducing Senegal

About senegal.

• Images of Senegal
• History, language & culture
• Weather & geography
• Doing business & staying in touch

Plan your trip

• Travel to Senegal
• Where to stay

While you’re there

• Things to see & do
• Shopping & nightlife
• Food & drink
• Getting around

Before you go

• Passport & visa
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Book your flights

Senegal travel guide

Senegal is often known as 'The Country of Teranga'. Teranga means hospitality in the local tongue of Wolof, and you will indeed find Senegal to be one of the friendliest spots in West Africa. The locals are hospitable - once you get to know them, you may find yourself being invited to share a steaming cup of tea or even some delicious home-cooked meals.

A simple wander around the local markets will unearth handmade fabrics and authentic arts and crafts, while on almost every street corner in the towns and cities you'll find musicians full of energy. It is also worth checking out bustling restaurants that serve up rich Senegalese cuisine influenced by the Maghrebis (inhabitants of northern Africa), French and Portuguese.

Most visitors land in Dakar, the chaotic, fast-growing capital, packed with great nightlife and restaurants. However, Senegal also offers beautiful, untouched rural scenery, along with golden beaches, tropical rainforests and semiarid grasslands. Suffice to say, Senegal offers something unique for every traveller.

Indeed, the diversity of Senegal is perhaps its best feature. The southern Casamance region boasts palm-fringed tropical beaches. The western region is bounded by the Atlantic Ocean, featuring a series of wetlands teeming with biodiversity, including one of the largest concentrations of migratory birds in the world. Then you have the relatively flat plains which give way to the mountainous region in the southeast – this is where the highest point of Senegal is found, reaching an elevation of 581m (1,906ft) near Népen Diakha.

Adventurous travellers come to Senegal to surf some of the best waves in West Africa in year-round warm waters, hike through lush tropical rainforest-clad mountains, discover towering waterfalls or go deep-sea fishing in the depth of the continental shelf. With birds, giraffes, elephants, hippos, rhinos, lions and panthers abound, wildlife viewing is also high on the agenda among some travellers.

Highbrow tourists won't be disappointed either. There are year-round music and art festivals such as the Saint-Louis Jazz Festival, as well as well-managed museums displaying some of the most interesting artefacts found in the region. You'll also find well-preserved colonial ruins and sites that remember the dehumanising Transatlantic slave trade.

Senegal is easily accessible from Europe and the USA. The country offers an array of experiences, has warm temperature year-round and one of the best infrastructures in the region, so it is time to put Senegal on your radar and come for a visit.

196,712 sq km (75,951 sq miles).

16,657,759 (UN estimate 2020).

87 per sq km.

Bassirou Diomaye Diakhar Faye since 2024.

Prime Minister Ousmane Sonko since April 2024.

Travel Advice

Before you travel.

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to: 

• see  general advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• see  general advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read about  safety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

About FCDO travel advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help you make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications  when this advice is updated.

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of Senegal’s current rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Senegal set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Embassy of Senegal in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Senegal.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Senegal, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can visit Senegal without a visa for up to 3 months.

You need to show border officials evidence of return or onward travel and proof of your arranged accommodation. If you do not have these, you may be refused entry.

If you want to stay longer than 3 months, you must register with local authorities after you arrive. They will issue you with a Carte d’étranger , which you must carry as identification.

Vaccine requirements

You must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re arriving from a country listed as a transmission risk . This includes if you have transited through the airport of a country with risk of yellow fever transmission. Babies aged 9 months and under are exempt.

You may need a yellow fever certificate for onward travel to some other countries, due to the risk of yellow fever in Senegal.

For full details about health entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s Senegal guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Senegal (in French). You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

This guide also has safety advice for regions of Senegal .

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.    

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Senegal

Terrorist attacks in Senegal cannot be ruled out.

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners. Terrorist groups in the Sahel region in West Africa have shown their capability and intent by mounting attacks in Mali, which shares a border with Senegal.

Terrorist kidnap

There is a threat of kidnapping in the wider Sahel region, which incorporates Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Chad and Burkina Faso, so take precautions to reduce the risk of kidnap in remote regions and border areas.

British nationals are seen as legitimate targets, including tourists, humanitarian aid workers, journalists and business travellers. If you are kidnapped, the reason for your presence is unlikely to protect you or secure your safe release. 

The long-standing policy of the British government is not to make substantive concessions to hostage takers. The British government considers that paying ransoms and releasing prisoners builds the capability of terrorist groups and finances their activities. This can, in turn, increase the risk of further hostage-taking. The Terrorism Act (2000) makes payments to terrorists illegal. 

Political situation

There are frequent demonstrations about political issues in Dakar and other cities.

Demonstrations can turn violent. Protestors sometimes block major roads, including the road between Blaise Diagne International Airport and the city of Dakar.

Monitor local media and ask local contacts about possible upcoming protests. Ahead of big demonstrations, if you’re in Dakar or another major city, consider stocking up on food, water and fuel. Once they have begun, you should:

• continue to monitor local media for information
• follow the instructions of local authorities
• stay away from areas where demonstrations are taking place and exercise caution

If you are in doubt about where protests are taking place, or the level of safety of an area, stay at home or in your hotel.

Foreign nationals have been prosecuted for attending protests that have not been approved by the government.

Street crime

Pickpocketing and bag-snatching, especially from scooters or motorbikes, are common in Dakar.

This type of crime is more common in the run-up to religious festivals. It can also increase early in the month after salaries are paid. To reduce your personal risk:

• avoid walking alone in the evening and after dark, especially if you are a woman
• avoid wearing conspicuous jewellery and keep any handbags or satchels on the side of your body that is furthest from the street
• step inside a shop or restaurant if you need to use your mobile

Bogus taxis at the airport

There is a risk of bogus taxi drivers pretending to know you and then overcharging you for the journey from the airport. Pre-arrange transport with your accommodation or an authorised operator. If you’re expecting someone to collect you at the airport, make sure they show you their ID.

Fake currency

Be cautious when changing cash, as there is a risk you will be scammed with fake money. Use ATMs or reputable exchange bureaux.

Laws and cultural differences

Senegal is a predominantly Muslim country. Dress and behave modestly in public, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you visit religious areas. In the main tourist areas there is more acceptance of western-style holiday clothing.

Bars and restaurants usually serve alcoholic drinks but drunkenness is considered offensive and penalties for drink-driving are severe.

Kissing as a greeting is acceptable, but kissing romantically in public is not.

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, do not drink alcohol or wear revealing clothes in public during Friday prayers between 1pm and 3pm.

Get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.

You should also: 

• check opening hours of shops and restaurants
• be aware that fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the late afternoon and early evening when traffic will also be heavier than usual
• be patient and show tolerance

Illegal drugs and prison sentences

There are severe penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs. People accused regularly spend lengthy periods on remand before being tried. The maximum sentence for trafficking is 20 years.

Prison conditions in Senegal are considerably poorer than in UK prisons. There may be problems such as overcrowding, lack of adequate meals, clean drinking water and electricity, and poor sanitation.

Only use reputable exchange bureaux to change your money. Dakar has ATMs that accept foreign bank cards, but there are few ATMs or bank facilities in the rest of the country. Withdrawal limits can be low, and ATMs regularly run out of money, including in Dakar.

Larger or more upmarket establishments that cater for tourists usually accept foreign credit cards. Mobile payment applications, such as Orange Money and Wave, are also widely used around the country.

LGBT+ travellers

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal. Same-sex relationships are generally not tolerated in Senegal’s conservative society.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

 Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Senegal, see information on driving abroad .

You can drive in Senegal with a UK driving licence for up to 6 months. A 1968 international driving permit may be helpful in offering a translation for traffic officials. If you’re staying longer or living in Senegal, you must get a Senegalese driving licence.

Road conditions

Most main roads are of good quality, but minor roads can be in very poor repair. During the rainy season from June to September, torrential rains can cause floods and landslides which damage roads.

Driving standards are not the same as in the UK. Drivers can make sudden movements without signalling and speeding is common. Many taxis and public mini-buses (‘cars rapides’) are not roadworthy by UK standards. Driving after dark is more dangerous because of poorly lit roads and vehicles without lights.

Traffic congestion gets worse in the run-up to and during religious festivals.

If you have an accident, you must contact the police on 17 and wait for them to arrive at the scene. Do not move your car until a police officer gives you permission. In remote areas, go to the nearest police station to report the accident.

This section has safety advice for regions of Senegal. It only covers regions where FCDO has specific advice.

You should also read FCDO ’s overall travel advice and safety and security advice .

Northern and eastern border areas

Take particular care in remote areas of Senegal near the border areas with Mauritania and Mali, and to the east of the city of Podor as far as Kidira.

Casamance Region

Casamance, the spur of land south of The Gambia, has suffered from decades of low-intensity separatist violence, largely directed at Senegalese security forces. Be on alert for clashes if you are travelling in the region. The risk of attacks is lower in the main tourist areas of the Casamance.

When driving:

• avoid travelling at night
• stick to main roads
• travel in convoy if possible
• do not pull over if anyone tries flag you down
• be aware that many roads in the Casamance are of low quality

Senegalese forces carry out minor operations near the border with The Gambia to combat wood trafficking.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 15 and ask for an ambulance.

Contact your insurance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccine recommendations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:  

• check the latest vaccine recommendations for Senegal
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

See what health risks you’ll face in Senegal including:

• yellow fever

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

You’ll find pharmacies which accept UK prescriptions in major cities. The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

Healthcare in Senegal

Medical facilities in Dakar are reasonable, but are limited in the rest of Senegal. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

FCDO has a list of medical providers in Senegal where some staff will speak English.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Senegal

Ambulance: 15

Call 123 for the military police, who may be more responsive if you are in the countryside.

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Senegal
• dealing with a  death in Senegal
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Senegal
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications  when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

If you’re in Senegal and you need emergency help from the UK government, contact the British Embassy in Dakar .

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The Overseas Business Risk service offers information and advice for British companies operating in Senegal on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

Related Articles

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

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© Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved 2024

Dear Abby: Partner’s hesitancy to travel with pregnant woman a warning sign on committment

• Published: Aug. 24, 2024, 1:00 a.m.

Dear Abby: My partner and the father of my unborn child has backed out of traveling with me to Mexico for a wedding. What should I make of that? Canva

• Abigail Van Buren

Dear Abby: Should I be mad at the father of my unborn child for not coming with me to travel out of the country? My cousin is being married in Mexico. However, my partner, “Gabriel,” isn’t going because one of his good friends is getting married the same weekend.

We found out only recently that I am pregnant, and by the time my cousin’s wedding comes around, I’ll be five months along. My family will be going, but they already booked their flights, which are now sold out, so I will have to travel pregnant and alone in Mexico.

The night I found out I was pregnant, Gabriel told me he would go with me, as he didn’t want the mother of his unborn child to travel alone to a different country. However, as the wedding got closer, he said he no longer wants to go, as it will be expensive and he’d miss his friend’s wedding.

Abby, am I wrong for being upset that he doesn’t want to come with me? I think I’m more disappointed because I assumed he’d want to be protective in this situation, but it almost feels like he’s choosing his friend over us. I know I am biased and my emotions are high, but I really want to be level-headed about this and try to understand.

-- Expectant Traveler in California

Dear Traveler: Forgive me if this seems harsh, but what you should understand is your partner is self-centered and more concerned with the good time he will have with his buddy than he is about the soon-to-be mother of his child. This should be an indication of the kind of husband and father he may make IF you plan to marry him.

That said, if your doctor says you are OK to travel, your family will be around to keep an eye on you, so you shouldn’t be in danger. The independence you demonstrate now may be necessary in whatever future you have with -- or without -- your partner.

Dear Abby: When I left my husband, he moved in with my sister, and somehow I’m the villain!

Dear Abby: When my lover snooped in my email, he saw an old fling’s old note and everything blew up

Dear Abby: Advice? I’ve helped care for others so long I now feel guilty if I think about myself

See all “Dear Abby” columns

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, California 90069. Copyright 2024, Andrews, McMeel Syndication.

If you purchase a product or register for an account through a link on our site, we may receive compensation. By using this site, you consent to our User Agreement and agree that your clicks, interactions, and personal information may be collected, recorded, and/or stored by us and social media and other third-party partners in accordance with our Privacy Policy.

NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

Multiple stages remain shut at Leeds Festival after Storm Lilian causes chaos

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At least two stages will remain shut at Leeds Festival after gale-force winds from Storm Lilian battered the site yesterday.

Artists were unable to perform after grim weather wreaked havoc in West Yorkshire, causing stages to close and attendees urged to stay in their tents by organisers.

The BBC Radio 1 and Aux stages will be shut today and tomorrow. ‘Mother nature has played her part,’ organisers said.

But there is a chance Chevron, the festival’s second largest stage will reopen today.

‘This is actual hell,’ wrote one festival-goer on X yesterday. ‘Everyone’s tents are broken – it’s not safe.’

Lilian has caused chaos across the country, from train delays and cancellations because of downed trees to thousands of power cuts and even flooding.

It comes after a yellow weather warning for rain was issued by the Met Office across Kent, London and the south east today as Storm Lilian lingers.

• 25s ago BBC Radio 1 stage among those to be shut at Leeds Festival
• 4h ago Map shows areas affected by Met Office rain warning
• 4h ago Multiple stages shut at Leeds Festival after Storm Lilian chaos
• 6h ago Is there a yellow weather warning today?

BBC Radio 1 stage among those to be shut at Leeds Festival

Sad times for anyone hoping to catch their favourite artists on the BBC Radio 1 stage at Leeds Festival today… the stage is shut.

Storm Lilian did her thing and rendered the makeshift arena unusable for the rest of the week end.

Organisers said in a statement issued yesterday: ‘Unfortunately the health and safety team have now confirmed we will not be able use the BBC Radio 1 tent & stage tomorrow [Saturday] or Sunday. We are devastated for you and of course the artists that were eager to play.

‘That is the same for the Aux stage too. Mother nature has played her part.’

Thunderstorms looming for some areas of UK

It’s not just wet, windy and generally completely miserable today – we could also be in for some dramatic thunderstorms later on.

The Met Office has warned the south east in particular could get some rumbling claps this afternoon.

Forecasters said of the outlook for London and surrounding areas today: ‘Starting wet and windy with persistent rain, this occasionally heavy.

‘Winds especially strong on southeast coasts, gradually easing. Rain clearing into the afternoon, but followed by blustery showers, perhaps locally heavy and thundery.’

Met Office radar shows brutal weather sweeping across UK amid flood warnings

The Met Office has shared a graphic this morning showing the severity of the rainfall across the UK.

A brutal weather front is battering parts of the country, in particular the south east.

It’s pretty much a washout for many who might have been hoping for a summer bank holiday BBQ or the like.

Forecasters have also warned of potential flooding and urged people to ‘take extra care’ if travelling.

A wet start across parts of the UK this morning, especially across southern England 🌧️ Take extra care if you are travelling, as some localised surface water flooding is possible in places ⚠️ pic.twitter.com/olaMtfDNWB — Met Office (@metoffice) August 24, 2024

Windy scenes at Leeds Festival…

And here’s another clip from yesterday morning at Leeds Festival…

Typically British Summer, at Leeds Festival “Good Luck Guys” Liam Gallagher will be worth it 😜 #leedsfestival #leedsfest pic.twitter.com/I6sBJUbiXa — Wonderfeed (@Wonderfeedai) August 23, 2024

Festival goers share video of tent flying in extreme winds at Leeds

@jamesheather0 #leedsfestival #flyaway #windy #cantparktheresir #leedsfestival2024 ♬ Come Fly With Me – Frank Sinatra & The Billy May & His Orchestra

If you were looking for some context over how windy it’s been at Leeds Festival because of Storm Lilian, then here you go.

One festival goer filmed a tent flying through the air after it was swept away by strong gusts.

Someone will be without a bed for the weekend now…

Met Office map shows heavy rain sweeping across UK

Making plans for the #BankHolidayWeekend or travelling away somewhere? Find out which day is best with a look at the latest forecast 👇 pic.twitter.com/Iq3JBluZOA — Met Office (@metoffice) August 23, 2024

UK bank holiday weekend weather ‘starts on damp note’

Ahh the summer bank holiday weekend… normally you’d imagine bright blue skies and glorious sunshine.

Not this time unfortunately, folks. It’s quite the opposite, especially if you’re in the south east of England today.

The Met Office’s chief meteorologist Matthew Lehnert said: ‘The weekend’s weather will start on a damp note for southern and eastern England, with 15-30mm of rain likely to fall in the warning area quite widely, with 50-70mm possible in a few spots where heavier bursts of rain converge.

‘Rainfall intensity will decrease in the afternoon, leaving some showers in southern England, as well as further showers in the northwest.’

Map shows areas affected by Met Office rain warning

This map shows the areas affected by the Met Office weather warning for rain today.

The yellow alert is in place until 1pm and forecasters say up to 70mm of rain could fall.

Kent is completely covered by the washout, while areas of London, East Sussex and Hampshire are also impacted.

Multiple stages shut at Leeds Festival after Storm Lilian chaos

At least two stages have been shut at Leeds Festival after strong winds from Storm Lilian battered the site yesterday.

Artists have been left unable to perform after the gale-force winds wreaked havoc in West Yorkshire throughout yesterday, forcing stages to close and organisers to urge attendees to stay in their tents.

Lilian has caused chaos across the country, from train delays and cancellations due to downed trees to thousands of power cuts and some flooding.

The storm itself has since passed, the Met Office says, though strong winds and heavy rains will continue to grip Britain today. The strongest winds seen yesterday were 73mph in Capel Curig, a village in Wales.

Is there a yellow weather warning today?

There is, alas.

A yellow weather warning for heavy rain is in effect from 6am to 1pm today, stretching across more or less all of east, southeast and south London. Large parts of Essex and the South East coast are also affected.

Up to 70mm of rain is expected in some areas, the Met Office says. The rain could upend public transport and cause delays on the roads.

A chance of flooding is strong – there is one flood warning in Kenswick Campsite as well as 23 flood alerts where flooding is possible nationwide.

Met Office weather forecast for today

The picture this morning isn’t exactly the sunniest this morning, according to the Met Office.

You can read its forecast for the day ahead here:

Rain moving eastwards across the south, showers later.

Today, heavy rain moves across the south through the morning, clearing the southeast by the afternoon. Sunshine and heavy showers follow, with winds increasing in the north to begin with but turning drier in the southwest later.  Feeling cooler.

Heavy rain may cause travel disruption and localised flooding on Saturday morning in the south and southeast of England ⚠️ Heavy showers elsewhere but also some bright or sunny spells🌦️ Windy in northwestern areas and possibly in the extreme southeast of England too🌬️ pic.twitter.com/zowfBgkX0K — Met Office (@metoffice) August 23, 2024

Tonight, daytime showers becoming confined to the far north and west. Turning drier with clear spells elsewhere. Wind easing overnight and feeling cooler than previous nights.

Tomorrow, cloud and wind generally increasing from the west with rain and showers becoming persistent for the north. Drier in the southeast but turning windy through the afternoon.

Met Office urges people to ‘avoid trees’ to stay safe from storm

The Met Office has urged people to ‘avoid trees’ and other falling debris as yellow weather warnings are in place across the country due to Storm Lilian.

The forecaster advised people to stay safe and avoid sheltering near buildings or trees due to the risk of falling debris and branches.

Met Office Chief Meteorologist Jason Kelly said: ‘Storm Lilian will bring some potentially damaging gusts during Friday morning, with gusts widely in the 50-60mph range, with the possibility of some gusts in excess of 75mph in a few places.

‘There’s associated rainfall with Lilian that has also resulted in a Met Office warning for parts of Scotland. Within the warning area, another 50mm of rain is possible over high ground, with 20-30mm falling quite widely.

‘Much of this is falling on saturated ground so increases the chance of some surface water flooding.’

Indie band say they are ‘absolutely gutted’ Leeds Fest slot was cancelled

Indie group Corella said they were ‘absolutely gutted’ their dream of playing the main stage at Leeds Festival was cancelled due to bad weather.

In a post on Twitter, lead singer Joel Smith said: ‘The weather has not been on our side and the safety of our fans come first.

‘We are absolutely gutted, to play the main stage at Leeds was a dream, but we will be back.’

Leeds we are gutted to announce we won’t be playing today due to the weather. The safety of our fans always comes first. We will be back x @OfficialRandL pic.twitter.com/I7I1SRttxa — Corella (@Corellamusic) August 23, 2024

Three stages at Leeds Festival to remain closed all weekend

Leeds Festival organisers have announced that three stages will be closed all weekend due to gale-force winds caused by Storm Lilian.

In a statement on X, the organisers said: ‘Unfortunately the health and safety team have now confirmed we will not be able use the BBC Radio 1 tent & stage tomorrow or Sunday.

‘We are devastated for you and of course the artists that were eager to play. That is the same for the Aux stage too. Mother nature has played her part.

‘On the positive side, we are able to be reasonably sure the Chevron will be fit to play tomorrow and will be opened by The Useless Hotline at midday.’

IMPORTANT UPDATE – LEEDS ⚠️ Unfortunately the health and safety team have now confirmed we will not be able use the BBC Radio 1 tent & stage tomorrow or Sunday. We are devastated for you and of course the artists that were eager to play. That is the same for the Aux stage too.… — Reading & Leeds Fest (@OfficialRandL) August 23, 2024

Lorry almost blown off the side of Humber Bridge

A lorry driving across the Humber Bridge earlier today was almost blown off the side after powerful winds saw the vehicle teeter dangerously close to the edge of the suspension bridge.

Cars behind the lorry can be seen slowing down as the vehicle comes swerves back and forth before eventually coming to a halt.

Watch the clip below:

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Storm Lilian is twelfth to hit UK this season

Storm Lilian is the 12th named storm of the season, and the first time the letter L has been used for the name.

Storm season, which runs from the start of September to the end of the following August, has only reached K twice since the Met Office began naming storms in 2015.

There were only two storms during last year’s season, which ran from September 2022 to August 2023, which made it only as far as the letter B, with Storm Betty in August.

By contrast, this year’s season has recorded Storm Agnes in September 2023; Babet in October; Ciaran and Debi in November; Elin, Fergus and Gerrit in December; Henk, Isha and Jocelyn in January 2024; Kathleen in April; and now Lilian in August.

Not all of the alphabet is used when naming storms.

The letters Q, U, X, Y and Z are omitted, in line with convention established by the US National Hurricane Centre.

It means the storm names still available for the current season, which ends next week, are Minnie, Nicholas, Olga, Piet, Regina, Stuart, Tamiko, Vincent and Walid.

73,000 people in left Yorkshire without power due to storm damage

Over 73,000 people in the North East and Yorkshire region have been left without power due to damage caused by Storm Lilian.

Northern Powergrid, who are responsible for restoring power to the region,said the majority of customers have been reconnected, but 11,741 remain disconnected from the grid.

Louise Lowes, director of customer service at Northern Powergrid, said: ‘We thank our customers for their patience. We are doing all we can to provide updates about when we will be able to get their power safely back on.’

The company encouraged anyone with neighbours or relatives who may be in a vulnerable position to call them so they can provide additional support.

Creamfields campers forced to leave festival early due to ‘impossible’ weather

Leeds Fest isn’t the only festival to be affected by the extreme weather this weekend- Creamfields attendees are battling Storm Lilian too.

An attendee at the dance music festival in Cheshire said it was ‘impossible’ to sleep last night because strong gusts shook his tent and the tents of ‘loads of people’ had been damaged.

Jason Kamara, 23, told reporters: ‘We were told it’d be windy but we had no idea it would be that bad.

‘I think it felt worse from inside the tents but it was impossible to sleep because of the rattling sounds.

‘I got out of bed at 6am to have a look at the damage and found loads of people trying to fix their damaged tents and pegs that had come undone.

‘But to be honest it’s a distant memory now, the sun is out and everyone is in great spirits.

‘Everyone has embraced the British weather and made the most of a bad situation which is what makes Creamfields special.’

Latest Met Office forecast

The national weather service has released its forecast for the rest of today and early tomorrow:

Blustery showers and sunny spells follow Storm Lilian

Storm Lilian has brought strong winds and heavy rain to parts of the UK, before clearing north-eastwards. Blustery showers and sunny spells follow the storm. Southern England and Wales will remain largely dry until the evening. Winds will slowly ease.

Tonight, blustery showers will continue in the north, with some being heavy in the northwest. Conditions will be drier across the south, before an area of rain pushes into southern parts during the early hours.

Heavy rain will move across the south through the morning tomorrow, clearing the southeast by the afternoon. Sunshine and heavy showers will follow, with winds increasing in the north. It will feel cooler.

On Sunday there will be showers in the north, but drier further south. On Monday there will be rain again for the northwest, but drier further south. Tuesday will see rain in the north, but drier further south.

Main Stage opens at Leeds Festival – without major singer

‘We’re pleased to say the arena is now open with the first live act, Bru-C, on the main stage at 3.10pm,’ organisers for the music festival confirmed on X.

However, as some users pointed out, the main stage opened without Reneé Rapp.

The singer clarified in an Instagram story that the weather was ‘too dangerous for our crew or myself to set up the stage all morning’.

‘I’m so sad to miss you but your safety and my team’s safety is of the utmost importance and I can’t risk that.’

Leeds Festival has also axed sets from  Skrillex, Beabadoobee and Nia Archives today.

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TV travel guide Rick Steves announces he has prostate cancer

TV travel guide Rick Steves announced Wednesday that he has cancer, saying on social media that he expects to emerge from the saga all the more grateful and wise.

He said he has been diagnosed with prostate cancer and will undergo surgery at Fred Hutchinson Cancer Center-Seattle next month, but not before he films two episodes of his PBS mainstay "Rick Steves' Europe" in France in the next three weeks.

Afterward, he plans to return for the procedure, rest for a month and be back to his work routine by late October, according to his announcement, posted to Facebook , X and Instagram .

He explained why he doesn't seem too worried about the diagnosis:

"While the statistics tell me I should be just fine, I’ve been fortunate to have never spent a night in a hospital — and I find myself going into this adventure almost like it’s some amazing, really important trip. I feel good about my positive attitude — and I expect to take home some delightful, if intangible, souvenirs like: appreciating and seeing a vibrancy in the little things; appreciating the goodness in people and the treasure of friends and family; being wowed by modern medicine and the army of amazing, smart, and dedicated people that make it possible; appreciating what a blessing life, health, and this world to enjoy is; and — just in general — being more thankful."

Steves is an industry based in Edmonds, Washington, near Seattle, though he spends a third of every year in Europe creating new content and honing the PBS show, printed guides and guided tours that make up his enterprise. He also guides visitors with his “Travel with Rick Steves” radio show, available via public radio airwaves and through commercial radio juggernaut iHeartRadio’s podcasting platforms.

"There's a clear path forward to getting healthy," he said Wednesday, as though his diagnosis is a road map for a new adventure.

Dennis Romero is a breaking news reporter for NBC News Digital.

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Storm Lilian dampens bank holiday weekend

Up to 70mm of rain could drench parts of the UK on Saturday with a yellow weather warning issued for the south-east of England, following widespread disruption caused by Storm Lilian.

The warning will be in place from 06:00 to 13:00 and will span Portsmouth, Hampshire and parts of Suffolk including Ipswich.

"With that yellow warning, expect some small travel disruption," Liam Eslick of the Met Office told PA Media.

"I know it's the start of the bank holiday so people may be out and about trying to get to their holiday destinations."

Storm Lilian brought travel disruption to parts of the UK on Friday, with more strong winds and rain forecast for Saturday.

The heaviest of the rain is expected to move away around mid-afternoon on Saturday, but showers will linger around central and south east England, and western Scotland.

Powerful gusts forced the organisers of Leeds Festival to close three stages on Friday and entry into Creamfields music festival in Cheshire was also delayed.

Downed energy lines led to tens of thousands experiencing power cuts.

Storm Lilian brought 70mph winds to the north west of England and Wales early on Friday, before moving eastwards.

Gusts of 50-60mph were recorded widely on Friday and winds reached 72mph at Capel Curig in Wales.

'Tents in the sky'

Festivalgoers hoping for an early start in Leeds had their plans disrupted when organisers said they would delay opening the site's main arena.

The BBC Radio 1, Chevron and Aux were closed due to high winds. It is hoped the Chevron will open on Saturday at midday but the Radio 1 and Aux stages will remain closed throughout the weekend, said organisers.

Attendees were advised to stay in their tents and cars until it was safe enough to venture out amid 60mph winds.

University student Carrie Gill, 19, said the weather had made the experience the "worst day ever".

She said she had seen "people's tents in the sky", adding that her own had flooded with rainwater and had to be replaced.

Tegan Mcivor told the BBC how she and her partner became a "bit lost" on the way to the festival after road signs were knocked over by the wind.

"I’m pregnant and I’m hoping the wind doesn’t blow the tent away," she added.

With the weather improving at the site and across much of northern England as Friday progressed, festivalgoers were heard sharing tips on repairing damaged tents as the first acts took to the main stage.

Northern Powergrid - which supplies electricity to the north east of England, Yorkshire and northern Lincolnshire - said 36,000 people were without power on Friday afternoon.

Electricity North West said engineers had restored power to almost 15,000 homes in north-west England, and were working to restore power in 3,000 more.

National Rail reported disruption on Friday caused by trees blocking lines in several parts of the country. It later said many services had returned to normal.

Metrolink tram services in Greater Manchester were also suspended on some routes.

British Airways cancelled 14 flights scheduled to take off from Heathrow on Friday morning and delayed others due to strong winds.

The M48 Severn Bridge in Gloucestershire was temporarily closed, while motorists were told to expect disruption on the M6 motorway, A66 and A1.

From Sunday, conditions are expected to ease, although rain is forecast in the east, northern England and southern Scotland.

Winds will ramp up and it will be blustery for much of the UK.

But the bank holiday weekend will not be a complete wash-out, Mr Eslick said.

"Monday looks like the best of the days," he said.

"There will be more in the way of some sunshine and winds are expected to ease.

"It will be a lot calmer coming into the Bank Holiday Monday and it will be nice to have that extra day this weekend to enjoy."

Why is it so windy in the UK?

By Simon King, BBC Weather

Lilian is the twelfth named storm of the current 12-month cycle, which ends in September.

It is the first time there have been that many named storms in a single cycle since the system was introduced by the Met Office in 2015.

While there were two named storms last August, Storm Lilian is more typical of an autumn storm.

Lilian is a deep area of low pressure which formed quite rapidly on Thursday night.

In meteorology, low pressure systems are the ones that give us the wet and windy weather.

The lower the pressure, the larger the pressure gradient is around its centre, which in turn creates strong winds.

These areas of low pressure have been directed to us by a fast wind high in the atmosphere flowing across the Atlantic.

Over the last few days, the jet stream has been particularly active, bringing the remnants of ex-hurricane Ernesto to our shores as well as creating Storm Lilian.

Storm Lilian: 80mph gusts forecast for parts of the UK

Power outages and travel disruption as storm lilian hits uk.