Senegal
The practical basics before you go: plugs, emergency numbers, money, tipping and the time.
The country in brief
About 18.9 million people live in Senegal, on 196,722 km². The capital is Dakar.
- Capital
- Dakar
- Population
- 18,931,966
- Area
- 196,722 km²
- Official language
- French
Facts change, so check the important things before you travel.
Population: World Bank, 2025 (CC BY 4.0). Capital, area and languages: Wikidata. Facts fetched October 30, 2026.
Before you go
Which plugs are used in Senegal?
Sockets take plug type C/D/E/K, at 230 V and 50 Hz.
What is the emergency number in Senegal?
Call 17 for the police, 15 for an ambulance and 18 for the fire brigade.
Do you tip in Senegal?
Round up, or leave small change.
Which side of the road do they drive on in Senegal?
Traffic drives on the right.
What currency is used in Senegal?
Prices are in West African CFA Franc (XOF).
What language do they speak in Senegal?
Official language: French.
How do I call a number in Senegal from abroad?
To call a number there from abroad, start with +221.
Entry rules and travel advice
Visa rules depend on your passport and can change at short notice. Your own government keeps them up to date, so check its advice before you book.
Links checked October 30, 2026.
