Among the national languages of Senegal are, among others, Peul, Wolof, Diola, Serer, Maningue, Soninké and Toucouleurs. French, however, is the official language of government.
Among the national languages of Senegal are, among others, Peul, Wolof, Diola, Serer, Maningue, Soninké and Toucouleurs. French, however, is the official language of government. Around 94 percent of the population are Muslim, with a small number of Christians and animists also living in Senegal.
Sights in Senegal
Among Senegal’s attractions is the capital, Dakar. This port city is a popular destination for tourists thanks to its vibrant nightlife and numerous restaurants and cafés. Another interesting city is Saint-Louis. Characteristic of this city are its narrow streets and old colonial-era houses. In addition, Senegal’s coastline offers visitors countless opportunities for a relaxing holiday on the Atlantic with its many beaches. Popular beaches in Senegal include, for example, the beaches near Petite Côte close to Dakar or the beaches near Cap Skiring.
Other attractions in Senegal include the country’s national parks, which are home to many large mammals and numerous bird species. Crocodiles, colobus monkeys and even leopards can, for example, be spotted in Basse Casamance National Park.
Location and climate of Senegal
Senegal is located in the far west of Africa and borders Mauritania, Guinea-Bissau, Guinea, Mali, Gambia, as well as the Atlantic Ocean to the west. The coastal strip is around 500 kilometres long. Most of Senegal’s landscape is flat, with only the Bambouk Mountains and the foothills of the Fouta Djallon rising higher.
Senegal lies in a transitional zone where the Sahel region merges into the tropics. As a result, the country has a subtropical climate with a rainy and a dry season. The rainy season lasts from May to November, while the rest of the year is dominated by the dry season. In the coastal regions, temperatures are more pleasant at around 24 to 32 degrees in July than in the interior of the country. There, temperatures can reach up to 50 degrees in some parts.
Arrival and entry
The international Léopold Sédar Senghor Airport is located more than 15 kilometres from the capital Dakar. This airport can be reached directly from Germany via Frankfurt Airport. It is also possible to fly to the airports in Cap Skiring or Saint-Louis via Paris. From the individual airports, the journey can be continued by local buses or taxis. Ships also sail from some European ports to the port of Dakar.
German tourists require a passport to enter the country. This must still be valid for at least six months upon entry. If a long-term stay is planned, a separate residence permit is required. This requires, among other things, a birth certificate and a certificate of good conduct. Travellers entering directly from Europe are not required to have a yellow fever vaccination. However, this is recommended by the WHO as Senegal is one of the yellow fever risk areas.
