Best time to travel to Senegal

Choosing the right period for your trip to Senegal can make all the difference. It's important to consider climatic elements, seasonal events and peak tourist periods to maximize your travel experience.

Photo d'un paysage localisé en Sénégal

Location

Climate

January 17.9→33°C
0mm
7:24→18:49
February 19.4→34.8°C
0mm
7:20→19:02
March 21.5→38°C
0.02mm
7:03→19:09
April 23.5→40.3°C
0.01mm
6:42→19:13
May 24.4→40.5°C
0.04mm
6:29→19:19
June 25.2→38.4°C
0.46mm
6:28→19:28
July 24.9→34.7°C
2.38mm
6:35→19:31
August 24.2→32°C
4.75mm
6:42→19:20
September 24.1→32.1°C
3.94mm
6:45→19:00
October 24.4→35.5°C
0.92mm
6:48→18:38
November 21.7→36°C
0.08mm
6:58→18:28
December 18.9→33.4°C
0.01mm
7:13→18:33
17.9→33°C
19.4→34.8°C
21.5→38°C
23.5→40.3°C
24.4→40.5°C
25.2→38.4°C
24.9→34.7°C
24.2→32°C
24.1→32.1°C
24.4→35.5°C
21.7→36°C
18.9→33.4°C
Jan 7:24→18:49
Feb 7:20→19:02
Mar 7:03→19:09
Apr 6:42→19:13
May 6:29→19:19
Jun 6:28→19:28
Jul 6:35→19:31
Aug 6:42→19:20
Sep 6:45→19:00
Oct 6:48→18:38
Nov 6:58→18:28
Dec 7:13→18:33
0mm
0mm
0.02mm
0.01mm
0.04mm
0.46mm
2.38mm
4.75mm
3.94mm
0.92mm
0.08mm
0.01mm

The seasons in Senegal: choosing the right time to go

Senegal's climate is characterized by two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. Each offers advantages and disadvantages for travel, depending on your priorities and interests.

The dry season: ideal for exploring the country

The dry season, from October to June, is generally considered the best time to visit Senegal. During this period, temperatures are milder and rainfall is scarce, making it easier to get around and enjoy outdoor activities. January and February are particularly pleasant, with moderate heat and sunny weather. On the other hand, the dry season also corresponds to the high tourist season, especially during the European school vacations. Accommodation and flight prices can therefore be higher at this time of year.

The rainy season: to be avoided if possible

The rainy season in Senegal extends from July to September. During this period, rainfall is heavy, especially on the country's southern coast, and temperatures can reach 35°C or more. Although some travelers choose to go to Senegal during the rainy season to take advantage of more attractive rates, it's often best to avoid this period. Travel can be difficult due to flooding, and some tourist activities such as safaris can be compromised by bad weather.

Major cultural events in Senegal

Senegal is a country rich in traditions and cultural events, allowing visitors to discover the diversity of its peoples and artistic expressions. Here are some of the major events not to be missed:

Dak'Art: a biennial dedicated to contemporary African art

Held every two years in Dakar, the capital of Senegal, the Dak'Art is one of the most important events for contemporary African art. The event brings together artists from all over the continent, with exhibitions, performances and conferences focusing on the challenges of art and culture in Africa. The next edition will take place in 2023.

International Neighborhood Film Festival (FIFQ)

Every year in December, the International Neighborhood Film Festival is an opportunity to discover an eclectic selection of short films by Senegalese and international filmmakers. Screenings take place in different parts of Dakar, and are often followed by debates and meetings with the filmmakers.

Saint-Louis Jazz: a not-to-be-missed event for music lovers

For more than 25 years, the city of Saint-Louis has hosted the annual Saint-Louis Jazzone of Africa's most important jazz festivals. For a week, the streets of the city resound to the sound of free and ticketed concerts, featuring local and international artists.

Public holidays in Senegal: take them into account when planning your trip

As in many countries, certain public holidays can affect the organization of your stay in Senegal. Here are the main public holidays to be aware of:
  • January 1st New Year's Day
  • April 4 Independence Day
  • May 1st Labour Day
  • December 25 : Christmas
Religious holidays must also be taken into account, particularly those of the Muslim calendar, which vary each year according to the phases of the moon:
  • Eid el-Fitr Ramadan: marks the end of Ramadan
  • Eid al-Adha The Feast of the Sacrifice
  • Mouride gathering in Touba A major annual pilgrimage in Senegal

Insurance

Your credit card does not cover you in all situations, that is whyIt is essential to take out insurance before you leave to avoid any unpleasant surprises. If you need to see a doctor or be hospitalized, in some countries, medical costs are very high and you will then find yourself having to pay several thousand euros.

Our partner Chapka Insurance proposes the contract CAP ASSISTANCE 24/24 with many essential guarantees.

Flights

Your flight has been cancelled or delayed ?
You may be eligible for a compensation of up to €600 ! For this, lawyers are responsible for handling your claim with the airline and are only paid when the reimbursement is effective.

In conclusion, no financial risk for you, only advantages!

Immigration statistics for Senegal

According to World Bank data, the number of immigrants living in Senegal has risen steadily in recent years. There are many reasons for this: some choose Senegal for its quality of life, while others come to work or study. Here are some key figures:
  • In 2000, the number of immigrants to Senegal was around 185,000.
  • In 2010, this figure reached almost 246,000.
  • By 2020, it is estimated that over 300,000 immigrants were living in Senegal.
It is essential to note that this rapid growth in immigration is not without consequences for Senegal's infrastructure, economy and society. However, it also contributes to enriching culture and strengthening ties with other countries.

Immigrant origins

The main countries of origin of immigrants to Senegal are :
  • Guinea-Bissau : around 50 % of immigrants come from this neighboring country.
  • Mauritania : almost 20 % of immigrants come from Mauritania, which also borders Senegal.
  • Other African countries : around 15 % of immigrants come from other African countries, such as Mali, Niger and Gambia.
  • France : Nearly 10 % of immigrants come from France, mainly because of the historical ties between the two countries.
  • Other non-African countries : the remaining 5 % come from other non-African countries, mainly Europe.

Most popular visas in Senegal

To stay in Senegal, foreigners generally need to obtain a visa. There are various types of visa, adapted to different purposes. The main categories of visa required in Senegal are as follows:

Tourist visas

Tourist visas are by far the most popular in Senegal. This type of visa allows visitors to stay in the country for up to 90 days without working or studying. The number of tourist visas issued has increased in recent years, due to the growth of international tourism in Senegal.

Business visas

Business visas are also in high demand. It allows foreign professionals to travel to Senegal for business activities such as meetings, conferences or negotiations. The duration of this visa generally varies between 30 and 90 days.

Study visas

Study visas are granted to foreign students wishing to study at a Senegalese institution. These visas are generally valid for the duration of the studies.

Work visas

Finally, work visas are issued to foreign nationals who have obtained employment in Senegal. The duration of these visas depends on the length of the employment contract.

International tourism figures for Senegal

Senegal is increasingly popular with tourists from all over the world. International tourism figures show steady growth in recent years:
  • In 2017, the number of international tourist arrivals was around 1.5 million.
  • In 2018, this figure rose to around 1.6 million.
  • In 2019, nearly 1.7 million international tourists visited Senegal.
The main reasons for this tourist success are cultural diversity, heavenly beaches, a wealth of historical and natural sites, and the warm welcome of the locals. Senegal's most popular destinations include the capital Dakar, the island of Gorée, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the seaside resort of Saly Portudal.

Nationalities of international tourists

Tourists visiting Senegal mainly come from the following countries:
  • France : around 30 % of international tourists are French.
  • West Africa : around 25 % of visitors come from other West African countries, such as the United States. Ivory Coast, THE Mali or Guinea-Bissau.
  • Europe : almost 20 % of tourists come from other European countries, such as Spain, Italy and the UK.
  • North Africa : around 10 % of tourists come from North Africa, in particular from Morocco and Tunisia.
  • North America : the United States and Canada together account for around 5 % of international tourists.
  • Other regions : finally, around 10 % of visitors come from other parts of the world, notably Asia and Oceania.