Welcome to Senegal
Land of Teranga
Experience the warmth of Senegalese hospitality, explore rich cultural heritage spanning 20+ ethnic groups and 36+ languages, and discover breathtaking landscapes from pink lakes to UNESCO World Heritage sites.
About Senegal
The westernmost country in mainland Africa, where tradition meets modernity
Geography & Climate
- Location: West Africa, bordered by Mauritania, Mali, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, and The Gambia
- Area: 196,722 km² (76,000 sq mi)
- Climate: Tropical with dry season (Nov-May) and rainy season (Jun-Oct)
- Coastline: 531 km along the Atlantic Ocean
Key Facts
- Capital: Dakar (population: 3.5 million)
- Independence: April 4, 1960 (from France)
- Population: ~17 million (2024)
- Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF)
Historical Highlights
Ancient Kingdoms
Part of the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires. The Jolof Empire (14th-16th century) was a powerful confederation of Wolof states.
Colonial Period
French colonization began in the 17th century. Saint-Louis was the capital of French West Africa. Gorée Island was a major slave trading center.
Independence Era
Led by Léopold Sédar Senghor, Senegal gained independence in 1960. Senghor was a renowned poet and philosopher of Négritude movement.
Modern Senegal
One of Africa's most stable democracies. Never experienced a military coup. Known for peaceful transitions of power and religious tolerance.