Senegal Travel Advice & Safety: Is Senegal Safe For Tourists?

Is Senegal safe for tourists? If you’re wondering how safe Senegal is to travel to, this is the post for you! Before my dad and I visited, I did some research on safety in Senegal as I knew we would be driving across the Casamance region. 

If you’ve been researching Senegal travel advice online, you’ve probably noticed the overall consensus is positive. 

So when I get asked the question, “Is Senegal safe to travel to”? Generally speaking, I say yes — Senegal is a safe country to travel to, but there are particular regions best avoided, namely the eastern territories along the border and the Casamance region… exactly where we’d be driving through. Go figure!

I also read that within the coastal areas and main cities, violent crime is rare. Instead, the biggest concerns are petty theft, pickpocketing, and bag snatching, which one could argue are the same in most large cities. 

In the end, I had a wonderful experience in Senegal. We had no issues with bandits in Casamance, we were never robbed, and I felt safe wandering as a solo female traveller – often leaving my dad to rest in the hotel.

In this safety guide to Senegal, I’m sharing my views about visiting, my first-hand experience and the reasons why it can be a safe or potentially unsafe country, including the precautions I took to ensure my safety.

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Senegal Travel Advice: Why Is Senegal Safe For Tourists

I’m writing this post to provide you with travel advice on visiting Senegal based on my own experience, which is more than likely not going to be the same for everyone. 

It’s impossible for me to say there are no safety risks; however, generally speaking, safety in Senegal is regarded as one of the best (if not the best) in West Africa, and I felt safe.

Senegal is one of the most developed nations in West Africa, and due to this, it sees more tourism than in neighbouring countries. This is great news if you’re looking for a place to visit in West Africa for the first time – I always tell people Senegal is a great gateway country.

Senegal is growing in popularity, and the government continue to implement strategies to keep the country as safe as possible for residents and foreigners. 

Dakar is definitely the most Westernised city on the West African coast – whether this is a good thing or not is up for debate – but it does mean better security measures are in place.

Throughout the country, there are police checkpoints (nowhere near as many as in Mauritania), but this provides a level of security for people moving around.

I read a few advisories and forums, mainly from a selection of government foreign travel websites and Reddit, and the consensus was the same. Overall, Senegal is a safe country to visit, but I suggest implementing standard safety precautions.

However, they all mention that increased caution is necessary in the Casamance region and along the eastern territories bordering Mauritania and Mali. 

I won’t lie, when I read this little lump of panic cemented in my stomach. 

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My Experience in Senegal: How Safe Is It?

Initially, I was a little worried about driving through the Casamance region, but we had no alternative. 

As it transpired, there was no reason to be concerned. After a few hours, I had completely forgotten we were in a region of caution and passing through certain areas of “advise against all but essential travel”.

When we passed through villages, we were given welcoming smiles and waves – no one looked malicious. When we made stops, it felt safe and friendly. These stops were quick, usually for food or water, and we never left the tuk-tuk or our possessions alone.

The journey began crossing the Guinea/Senegal border at Niokolo-Koba National Park and driving west towards Kolda. Actually, we found a lovely hotel in Kolda – Hôtel Kolidado – if you’re heading that way, I recommend it.

We got pulled over a few times at checkpoints, mainly before we reached Kolda, which is strange since the UK Government suggests it’s the area to the west of Kolda that is most dangerous. 

Nevertheless, we continued until we reached the N4. This main road actually got very bad and we decided (my bright idea) to cut across the country on the backroads, beelining towards the Gambia. 

It was a solid plan. We wanted to see more of the countryside and Google told us there was a road. Of course it had to be right, right? I recommend downloading iOverlander if you’re overlanding Africa since Google is a little liar!

It was an amusing adventure in the end, apart from getting lost, we made it safely to the Gambia (where we encountered worse problems with the police since we had “technically” entered illegally). Anyways, that was the Casamance region.

Enter northern Senegal, and it’s completely different. 

Normal precautions are important; yet, most of the safety concerns revolve around scams, pickpocketing, dressing appropriately, not taking photos of locals without permission and pushy street sellers, rather than armed robbery, terrorism and kidnapping – although this still remains a threat along the eastern border.

Best Day Trips In Senegal

✔️ Lac Rose (Pink Lake) – Salty, otherworldly and perfect for a day trip
✔️ Gorée Island – Historical, pretty, and easy to reach from Dakar
✔️ Bandia Reserve – A chance to spot giraffes, rhinos, and more
✔️ Ngor Island – Surf, seafood, and colourful alleyways near Dakar

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How Safe Is Senegal For Tourists

I’m a well-travelled individual and I’m certain this helps me navigate tricky situations when travelling off the beaten path; however, I think Senegal would be a safe country for most tourists.

If you’re backpacking in Senegal, I suggest having some experience in less offbeat countries before visiting. Thailand is a great starting point for newbie backpackers!

It’s important to take standard precautions, for example, be aware of your surroundings, stay connected, secure valuables and respect local customs. 

Aside from the usual precautions you should be taking at all times when travelling, it’s also essential to be mindful of the economic situation in Senegal. 

Many locals rely on tourism to make a living and can get quite pushy for a sale. Be polite but firm if you’re not interested in buying something or taking a tour — and don’t linger if you’re not planning to purchase. 

At the same time, poverty and high unemployment is what tends to lead to petty crime, so keep your belongings secure.

The country is becoming more accustomed to tourism. Security measures such as providing up-to-date information on risk areas, crime risks, and political unrest/planned protests are readily available, helping you plan a trip.

Is Senegal safe for tourists? In my opinion, yes — especially if you dress modestly and follow basic travel safety practices. Senegal is predominantly a Muslim country (97.2% in 2019), and very tolerant, but this is one of the best ways to fly under the radar and not become a target. 

Senegal is a very tolerant country

Although Senegal is mostly Muslim, the residents have blended Islam with their ethnic African culture (or at least that’s how I perceived it), which has created more of a community-based, egalitarian mindset.

I found the Senegalese to be inclusive and accepting of other cultures and religions, which made visiting a really positive experience.

That said, it’s still important to cover your knees and shoulders in rural areas and near religious sites. 

I’d actually recommend dressing modestly at all times unless you’re at a beach resort – it’s the best way to avoid unwanted attention and stay safe.

So, is Senegal safe? Why I felt safe travelling in Senegal

As a tourist and a female travelling around West Africa, I can happily say I never felt unsafe or uncomfortable, which I think is particularly important.

The reasons I felt safe in Senegal are simple. I was never harassed, disrespected or treated any less than the males I was travelling with. I will note, however, that Senegal was probably the country where I interacted the least with locals.

This was for no particular reason. For those I did meet, I had a lovely exchange with a young lady in Saint-Louis who was selling jewellery and spoke a little English. The hotel staff in Kolda, Koalack and Saint Louis were especially welcoming. 

During the road trip, we passed through many rural villages and always had children running along beside us, shouting and waving. Since there are no tuk-tuks in Senegal, I think this was quite a novelty for them to see. 

In Saint Louis, I wandered from my hotel along the streets alone and never felt vulnerable. At times, I was alone on a dusty street, admiring the architecture and still felt safe. This was during the day and I don’t ever recommend going out alone after dark. 

Even the border crossing into Mauritania was a seamless journey. We passed through the quieter Diama border crossing with ease and quite peacefully. 

If you’re wondering “Is Senegal safe for tourists?”, my honest answer is yes – as long as you’re sensible, alert, and respectful of the culture.

Overall, my trip to Senegal was serene with flashes of excitement but no real chaos – unlike that of Sierra Leone or my decision for a solo side trip through Mauritania.

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Reasons Senegal Is Said To Be Unsafe

The above is my experience travelling in Senegal. However, I’m not sugar-coating this for you. 

As I mentioned above, there is room for concern when visiting Senegal and I want to highlight that here. But overall, few insurgent attacks or incidents of banditry occur.

The best way to stay safe in Senegal is to go in with the knowledge of potential dangers and a plan to avoid those dangers. So let’s keep going.

Crime and Scams

First, there is the risk of crime in Senegal.

The UK government states: “Cases of robbery, burglary and assault have become more common in Dakar, and in some cases, involve the use of weapons. Hotels frequented by foreign nationals have been targeted and robbed at gunpoint. Street crime like pickpocketing and bag-snatching is also on the increase in Dakar”.

If you’re doing your research, you’ve likely come across this statement as well. It’s something to keep in mind when travelling to Senegal, and although I was never targeted, it’s clear tourists have been in the past.

To avoid being targeted, use common sense and be smart. Don’t go wandering alone after dark, avoid walking down quiet streets, don’t flash money and expensive belongings, keep an eye on your surroundings, and most importantly, trust your gut. 

For Senegal travel safety, dress appropriately, respect the culture and drink sensibly. 

As for common scams in Senegal, there are plenty enough happening in Senegal. I was told the most frequent is at the airport with bogus taxi drivers overcharging; luckily, we didn’t use the airport, so we didn’t encounter this. 

It’s best to pre-arrange if you’re using private transport, and always ask to see ID. 

One thing to be mindful of is fake currency. If you’re exchanging money on the streets, it can be a problem. We usually changed dollars at the borders, and it was fine. If you’re worried, best to use a reputable money exchange or ATM (although the latter can be unreliable).

How safe is Dakar Senegal?

I’ve read that in areas along the Corniche road in Dakar, especially on the Petite Corniche (east) and on Corniche d’Ouest, Goree Pier and Goree Island, pickpocketing and bag snatching are common. 

You’re most at risk of petty crime in large crowds, or at quiet beaches towards the end of the day. 

Some neighbourhoods are best avoided after dark if you don’t know your way around, particularly on the outskirts – ask your hotel.

However, Dakar is generally safe for tourists, especially in popular areas like Plateau and Almadies. It’s a lively city with a big expat community and a growing tourism scene in Senegal.

Taxis in Dakar are a safe way to get around, but agree on a price beforehand.

Political Unrest

During my time in Senegal, I didn’t witness any political demonstrations; however, in Sierra Leone, I’ve been there when party rallies have been taking place. Although it has an exciting atmosphere, it’s not somewhere to be in the midst of. 

Even though the political landscape in Senegal is stable, recent demonstrations have turned into violent riots. 

The most current was in 2024, when at least 65 people were killed in the run-up to elections, making it Senegal’s deadliest violent episode since it won independence from France in 1960 – evidently quite rare for this level of brutality to take place in Senegal.

With this in mind, demonstrations occur quite frequently in Dakar and are something to be mindful of.

If I wanted to stay safe in Senegal, I would stay away from areas where demonstrations are taking place and be extra cautious if I needed to travel around at this time.

Senegal is part of the Sahel Region

Alongside Nigeria, Mali, Chad, Sudan, Niger, Mauritania, Burkina Faso, Eritrea and South Sudan, Senegal is part of the Sahel Region, which is a notoriously dangerous territory.

The Sahel is a biogeographical region in Africa. It’s neither tropical nor temperate and falls within the transition zone between the humid Sudanian savannas and the drier Sahara.

The area has a hot, semi-arid climate that is facing severe desertification and droughts. Unfortunately, this has led to the rise of various coups, insurgencies, and terrorism within the Sahel countries.

If this concerns you, I suggest staying informed, following local advice, and avoiding border areas near Mali or Mauritania, and you’ll likely have no issues.

While the Sahel region does face serious challenges, Senegal is one of the most stable countries in West Africa and is still considered safe for tourists.

Terrorist and Kidnapping Threats

The police and military checkpoints do a great job of controlling foot traffic throughout the country. For me, this provides a higher sense of security.

There is an increased military presence in areas where terrorists are known to operate across the border, especially near eastern regions close to Mali and Mauritania. These efforts help deter threats and protect travellers.

Nevertheless, most Governments state there is a risk of terrorism and kidnapping in Senegal within the “wider Sahel region”, namely, Mauritania and Mali, which share the eastern border with Senegal. 

I’ve not been to Mali, and so I can’t comment from first-hand experience; however, the FCDO has declared it a red zone and advises against all travel. As for Mauritania, I’ve written a safety guide expressing my views on safety within the country.

On the whole, if you’re staying along the coast, there is a low risk of terrorism and kidnapping. Venturing closer to the borders increases the risk, especially in remote areas, but again, Senegal officials are constantly patrolling such regions. 

Health Concerns

Luckily, there are no severe health concerns in Senegal, and certainly nothing that should stop you from visiting. 

I recommend getting jabs and boosters for the main threats: polio, rabies, typhoid, malaria, yellow fever and meningitis, just to be on the safe side. The last outbreak of yellow fever was in 2020, where seven cases were reported and four people died. 

The CDC has a Level 2 warning for Polio and a Level 1 warning for Measles, which could affect your travel insurance, so just be mindful of this. I’ve written an article explaining how these health warnings can affect your policy.

During November and May, the Harmattan blows, creating dust storms in the northern Sahel region of Senegal, which can be detrimental if you suffer from breathing – best to avoid these months.  

Other than the above, I would certainly stay away from anything other than bottled water. If you must drink tap water, make sure that shiz-niz has been boiled to death.

Avoid ice cubes, but ensure you drink enough water to stay hydrated. One of the biggest concerns in Senegal is dehydration due to the high temperatures. Purchase sealed drinks.

For medical emergencies, Dakar has reasonable facilities, but it is common to have to cover the cost of any medical treatment before it’s given; it’s vital to have adequate travel insurance which covers this and repatriation. 

Outside of Dakar, facilities are limited. 

Senegal Travel Insurance

When exploring countries like Senegal and engaging in adventurous travel, it’s essential to prioritise your safety in unexpected situations. Having the right travel insurance is important. Check the best quote for Senegal!

⭐ For my recent travels, I use SafetyWing to book my travel medical insurance. I need to have peace of mind, especially after seeing friends rushed to the hospital and another breaking her back. For backpackers, digital nomads and long-term travellers, SafetyWing offers an excellent insurance plan.

⭐ World Nomads offers comprehensive travel insurance for occasional travellers and high-risk sports activities. I’ve used them and have had a great experience. Their coverage includes medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost or stolen equipment.

I’ve written a comparison review for my two favourite travel insurers to help you decide which is best for you.

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Who Might Feel Uneasy In Senegal?

It’s important to know that homosexuality is not tolerated and is illegal in Senegal; it’s a capital offence carrying five years imprisonment.

That being said, it’s unlikely you’ll be questioned on your sexuality if you don’t make it obvious. I’ve not heard any negative experiences from other travellers, although I’m sure there have been some instances. 

If you are travelling as a couple, you need to be careful about displaying public affection, gay or otherwise; remember, Senegal is a Muslim country, and PDA’s aren’t well tolerated. It’s best to keep kissing and holding hands to a minimum while in public areas.

So, is Senegal safe for tourists? For most, yes – especially if you’re aware of cultural norms and travel sensibly.

Is Senegal safe for solo female travellers?

Although I didn’t travel around Senegal solo (I was with my dad), at times I was walking around and exploring alone. Using this as my evidence, I can honestly say I felt safe in Senegal and had an overall positive experience. 

One thing to keep in mind is that you’ll definitely make new friends – and possibly get a few marriage proposals too! There’s no two ways about it. I had a lot of men approach me and start chatting, some even straight up asking for my number.

If you find these unwanted advances overwhelming, perhaps reconsider solo travel in Senegal (or West Africa). Dr Felicity Nicholson writes, “While the attention is rarely dangerous or threatening in nature, it’s wise to have a plan to brush off solicitation of the romantic variety…”

And I agree. It’s best to have a plan to avoid awkward situations. Personally, I would just say I have a boyfriend. You could even wear a wedding ring if it would help.

Overall, was travelling around Senegal completely safe? There were elements I was worried about, such as driving through the Casamance region, but even this quickly subsided when I met the Senegalese people.

To ensure your safety in Senegal: dress modestly, don’t go around alone after dark, don’t get in unregistered taxis, and be respectful of local customs. Plan your journey as much as you can ahead of time and travel during daylight hours.

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Areas In Senegal That Are Considered Dangerous

I recommend against visiting areas along the Mali border (since this is the advice given, and I’ve not been to Mali). I’d also take care along the Mauritanian border eastwards from Podor. 

Podor is a village I would like to visit. I’ve visited Mauritania and felt safe there, so that’s why I’d not be overly concerned about Podor or the towns closer to the Mauritanian border in comparison to those closer to Mali. 

Personally, I think the Casamance region is safe enough for tourists; however, always keep your wits about you.

Due to the increased risk of terrorism in these regions, there are numerous police checkpoints between popular tourist sites in the Casamance region. Along the border, police patrol and even more checkpoints are prevalent. 

For more detailed advice, check the official “Senegal travel advice” on government websites before you go.

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Safety Things To Think About BEFORE Visiting Senegal

These are just some things that came up during my trip that I wanted to share with you because I thought they might help you plan a better trip.

Entry requirements

As a British citizen, you can visit Senegal for 90 days without a visa. In some cases, you might need to show onward travel and proof of where you’ll be staying.

We also had to get a vehicle pass (laissez-passer) while we were in Sierra Leone, but you won’t need this unless you bring a vehicle into the country.

Landmines

The truth is, there are still old, forgotten landmines left over from the conflict with the Movement of Democratic Forces of Casamance (MFDC), especially near the porous borders with The Gambia (to the north of the Casamance region) and Guinea-Bissau (to the south).

We had no idea about this when we visited. Honestly, if we’d known, we definitely wouldn’t have gone off-road near the Gambian border. 

Is Senegal safe to get around?

You can drive in Senegal with a UK driving licence for up to 6 months.

From my personal experience, Senegal was safe to get around, but we had our own vehicle and seldom used public transport. The main roads are of good quality; it was terrific to have smooth paved roads as soon as we hit Senegal after coming through Guinea’s not-so-brilliant network.

That said, in remote areas the roads remain questionable and I wouldn’t want to drive off the beaten path during the rainy season (June to September). You’ll find most roads wash away in the torrential rains.

At night, the streets are poorly lit, which can make driving dangerous and since safety standards are not regulated like they are at home, I found most vehicles to be in a terrible state of repair with no working headlights.

For a solid safety guide to Senegal, consider travelling during daylight and avoiding rural roads in poor weather.

Also worth mentioning is that the driving standard is much lower; lots of beeping, fast driving and no seatbelts. Animals are constantly on the road, like goats and sheep, and many people are about too, usually strolling along the roadside, since there’s no pavement. 

Keep in mind, if you are driving and have an accident, we are told not to move the car until a police officer gives you permission. In remote areas, go to the nearest police station to report the accident.

FCDO advises caution for travel to…

Senegal is not a country listed by the FCDO as a “dangerous” place to visit; there are no severe travel advisories in place. 

The Casamance region continues to be flagged as an area of caution, but travel is not restricted.

This is due to the ongoing low-intensity separatist insurgency. While the risk of attack is lower in main tourist hubs – violence is generally targeted at Senegalese security forces – I would remain alert.

By being vigilant and avoiding travelling at night, sticking to main roads, travelling in groups (if possible), not pulling over if anyone tries to flag you down and being aware that many roads in the Casamance are of low quality will help keep you safe.

Still wondering “how safe is Senegal?” The honest answer is: it depends on how you travel, but overall, it’s far safer than people assume.

Is the Senegal border safe?

The only mentions of caution are along the northern and eastern borders between Mauritania and Mali, in remote areas and to the east of Podor to Kidira.

Local laws in Senegal

And lastly, it’s worth becoming familiar with the local laws and customs in Senegal to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. 

It’s pretty standard to see horse and carts used to transport people and produce.

Although tolerant of other cultures and religions, Senegal is a Muslim country, it’s essential to respect this. 

It’s essential to dress modestly; I always wear trousers and a long-sleeved shirt. I suggest wearing loose clothing and showing less skin. For men, although there is more acceptance, it’s best to avoid wearing shorts in public areas, especially if you’re outside Dakar.

In the main tourist areas, there is more acceptance of Western-style holiday clothing, but you’ll still need to dress appropriately when visiting holy sites.

During the holy month of Ramadan, the country becomes stricter, alcohol is limited, and it’s essential to dress appropriately at all times.

Booze is allowed; however, drunkenness is not well-received. Public displays of affection that are more than a welcoming kiss are also frowned upon and should be avoided. You can hold hands in Dakar.

Also, remember that photographing government buildings and military sites is illegal. It’s also best to always ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially women. 

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Final Words: Is Senegal Safe For Tourists

Is Senegal safe for tourists? In my experience, yes – with a bit of planning and a respectful attitude, travelling here is a fantastic adventure.

Despite Senegal typically being thought of as an unstable country in Africa, the truth couldn’t be further from the truth. 

My experience was friendly people, a sobering history and unforgettable landscapes. The checkpoints, although frequent, provided a sense of security, and being mindful of local laws and customs ensured I had no issues.

If you’ve been thinking about a trip to Senegal, I recommend visiting. It’s a fantastic country to introduce yourself to African culture before taking on trips to more remote countries. 

There’s a beach holiday vibe in Saly and Cap Skirring, while the coast offers some incredible views. Saint-Louis is perfect for a hit of history. The national parks, nature reserves and lush landscapes of the Casamance make Senegal appealing for all types of visitors.

Travelling with a trusted guide or in a group can also improve your safety and experience if you’re concerned. In the end, don’t be too trusting. Senegal is still an offbeat country where anything goes!

With a bit of preparation and an adventurous spirit, you can enjoy the incredible experiences that Senegal has to offer. So, is Senegal safe for tourists? In my opinion, absolutely yes.

Thank you for reading my post. You can find my latest stories and articles on my blog homepage here. Follow me on Instagram (@abigailcarolina.dalton) and Facebook to see what I’m getting up to and where my upcoming trips are!

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