Senegal
Senegal travel guide for Americans
US citizens need a visa for Senegal; apply online before travel (90 days stay, 30‑day fee ≈ USD 90). If you already have a visa, you can enter any time; otherwise you must obtain one before arrival.
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GuideSenegal
Key facts
- Visa fee (30‑day)check
- ≈ USD 90
- Currency ratecheck
- ≈ 560 XOF per US$
- Emergency numberscheck
- 17 police, 18 fire, 1515 SAMU
Entry requirements for US citizens
US passport holders must obtain an e‑visa before travel. The online portal issues a single‑entry visa valid for 90 days, with a 30‑day stay limit. No visa‑on‑arrival is available.
Passport must be valid at least six months beyond the intended departure date. A return or onward ticket is required.
- Apply at https://evisa.gouv.sn (official Senegal e‑visa portal).
- Pay the fee (≈ USD 90) by credit card.
- Print the approved visa PDF and carry it with your passport.
US Embassy and consular contacts
The United States Embassy is located in Dakar. It handles passport services, emergency assistance and notarial acts.
- Address: Rue du 14 Octobre, Dakar, Senegal
- Phone: +221 33 824 8000 (check)
- Emergency line (24 h): +221 33 824 8000
Typical travel costs in USD
A moderate budget of USD 60‑80 per day covers mid‑range hotels, meals, local transport and entrance fees. Backpacker hostels can be found for USD 20‑30 per night.
| Item | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Mid‑range hotel | 50‑80 per night |
| Meal (restaurant) | 8‑15 |
| Local taxi (short ride) | 2‑5 |
| Domestic flight (Dakar‑Saint‑Louis) | 120‑150 |
Prices are 2026 estimates; exchange rate check.
Flights and time difference
Direct flights from major US hubs (New York, Washington, Atlanta) connect via European carriers (Paris, Brussels) to Dakar’s Blaise Diagne Airport. Total travel time is typically 12‑16 hours including layover.
Senegal stays on UTC+0 year‑round, matching US Eastern Standard Time only during winter months.
Power plugs and voltage
Senegal uses plug types C, D, E and K, 230 V, 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter and, if your 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 (≈ USD 1‑2) for small services such as taxis, guides or restaurant staff.
Emergency numbers
Police: 17, Fire: 18, Medical (SAMU): 1515. The US Embassy can assist with lost passports, arrests or serious illness.
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Senegal?
Yes. US citizens must obtain an e‑visa before arrival; no visa‑on‑arrival is offered.
How much does a trip to Senegal cost in USD?
A moderate budget is about USD 60‑80 per day for accommodation, meals, transport and activities; backpacker options can be lower.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Senegal?
The US Embassy is in Dakar, on Rue du 14 Octobre. It provides consular services and emergency assistance.
What plug types are used in Senegal?
Types C, D, E and K plugs, 230 V, 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter.
Is tipping required in Senegal?
Tipping is not required; rounding up or leaving 500‑1 000 XOF (≈ USD 1‑2) for small services is customary.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
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