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Senegal

Senegal travel guide for Britons

Britons can enter Senegal visa‑free for stays up to 90 days; if you plan longer or need a work permit, apply for a visa before travel. Check the UK government site for any changes before you go.

Updated Sep 20263 min read
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Key facts

Currency
West African CFA franc (XOF)
Plugs
Types C, D, E and K; 230 V 50 Hz
Time zone
UTC+0 all year

Entry requirements for UK citizens

UK passport holders may stay in Senegal visa‑free for up to 90 days for tourism or business. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date. If you need a longer stay, a tourist visa (single‑entry) can be obtained from the Senegalese embassy in Paris or via an online e‑visa portal; fees are around 30 USD (≈£24) and processing takes 3‑5 business days.

All arrivals must present a completed health declaration form (available at the airport) and may be asked for proof of sufficient funds (about 50 USD per day).

  • Visa‑free: up to 90 days
  • Passport validity: ≥6 months
  • Longer stays: apply for a tourist visa (≈£24, 3‑5 days processing)
  • Health declaration required on arrival

British embassy and consular help

The United Kingdom does not have an embassy in Senegal; the British High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria, provides consular assistance to UK nationals in Senegal.

  • High Commission (Nigeria): +234 9 461 9000
  • Email: [email protected] (check for updates)
  • UK emergency line (outside UK): +44 111

Estimated travel costs (GBP)

A typical 10‑day itinerary (3 nights Dakar, 2 nights Saint‑Louis, 2 nights Sine‑Saloum, transport and meals) costs roughly:

• Flights from London to Dakar (return): £450‑£650, depending on airline and season.

• Mid‑range accommodation: £30‑£50 per night.

• Meals: £10‑£15 per day.

• Domestic transport (car with driver, fuel, ferry to Gorée): £150‑£200 total.

Overall budget: £1,200‑£1,600 per person (check current rates).

Estimated travel costs (GBP)
ItemCost (GBP)
Return flight London‑Dakar£450‑£650
Accommodation (mid‑range, 10 nights)£300‑£500
Meals (10 days)£100‑£150
Domestic transport & ferries£150‑£200

Prices are 2026 estimates; vary by season and booking time.

Flights and time difference

Direct flights from London (Heathrow or Gatwick) to Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport take about 5 hours 30 minutes. Senegal is on GMT (UTC+0) year‑round, the same as the UK outside British Summer Time; during UK DST there is a 1‑hour difference.

  • Main airlines: British Airways, Air Senegal, Turkish Airlines (1‑stop).
  • Typical flight time: 5 h 30 m direct.

Electrical plugs and voltage

Senegal uses plug types C, D, E and K with a standard voltage of 230 V and frequency 50 Hz. UK travellers should bring a universal travel adapter and, if their devices are not dual‑voltage, a voltage converter.

Tipping etiquette

Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. Round up bills or leave 500‑1,000 XOF (≈£2‑£4) for small services such as restaurant wait staff, taxi drivers, and hotel housekeeping.

Emergency contacts

Police: 17

Fire: 18

Medical (SAMU): 1515

  • Dial the numbers directly from any phone.

Quick answer

Britons do not need a visa for stays up to 90 days; apply for a visa only if you plan a longer stay or work. Check the UK foreign travel advice before you travel.

Questions people ask

Do Britons need a visa for Senegal?

No, UK passport holders can stay visa‑free for up to 90 days. For longer stays or work, apply for a tourist visa (≈£24) before travel.

How much does a trip to Senegal cost in GBP?

A 10‑day mid‑range trip costs about £1,200‑£1,600, covering flights, accommodation, meals and domestic transport (prices vary).

Where is the nearest United Kingdom embassy in Senegal?

The UK does not have an embassy in Senegal; consular assistance is provided by the British High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria.

What plug type and voltage does Senegal use?

Types C, D, E and K plugs, 230 V 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter and a converter if your device is not dual‑voltage.

Is tipping expected in Senegal?

Tipping is optional; rounding up or leaving 500‑1,000 XOF (≈£2‑£4) for small services is customary.

Verify with the official source

Draft, not field-verified

Rules, fees, schedules and prices change. Verify with the official source (the government, embassy, operator or venue) before you book or travel.

Deep dive

Every source; changeable facts are marked check

Sources

Ask about Senegal

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