Situated on the westernmost curved mass of Africa, Senegal is an independent republic with a democratic government which forms part of the West African Region. The capital city is Dakar. Other major cities are Saint Louis, Thies and Kaolack.
Senegal's main attractions are the good beaches, swimming, boating, fishing, sailing, scuba diving, and spearfishing, and world-class surfing. There are several national parks including Niokola Koba and the bird refuge at Djoudj. Cosmopolitan Dakar is a major port of entry into West Africa and has interesting French colonial architecture, a few museums and other places of historical interest. Goree Island, accessed by ferry from Dakar, and its slave museum are sad reminders of the West African slave.
Senegalese people are mainly Muslim and their official language is French. The country has a rainy season (May to November) and a dry one (December to April). Senegal's currency is the Communaute Financiere Africaine franc.
Some tips to take into account when visiting Senegal: the electricity runs on 230 Volts and the country code is 221.
Travellers should be aware that diseases such as Malaria, tuberculosis, cholera, hepatitis A, meningitis, typhoid fever, yellow fever (regional) and schistosomiasis (bilharzia) may be contracted while travelling in Senegal. Advance payment for medical services may be required. Prescription medicines should be carried in their original containers together with the prescription. Vaccinations should be obtained before entering Senegal.
