It is also a very easy country to navigate and get around in. Having said that it pays to be prepared and below you will find a number of useful hints and tips for things to arrange and find out before you leave the UK or The Gambia.
Currency
The local currency is the CFA Franc: 1 Euro = 656 CFA Francs / £1 = 980 CFA Francs. Euros are also widely accepted and we would recommend that you take Euros in place of Sterling. Credit cards are accepted in larger establishments that cater for tourists (normally a commission will be charged). There are ATM facilities in Dakar, but banking facilities are sporadic in the rest of the country.
Language
French is the official language of Senegal but limited English is spoken.
Health and Medication
We strongly suggest you see your doctor before booking who will prescribe any necessary medication. As chemists are not readily available in the areas near the hotels, please ensure you have your own supplies of general medication, i.e. headache / stomach cures. Always drink bottled water.
Visa
British passport holders on our transfers do not require a visa for entry to Senegal. Passports must be valid for six months from date of entry. Other nationalities should check with the Embassy of Senegal, 39 Marloes Road, London W8 6LA. Telephone: 020 7938 4048 / Fax: 020 7938 2546
Email: mail@senegalembassy.co.uk / Website: http://www.senegalembassy.co.uk
Dress Code
Dress code is generally casual in all our hotels, with smart casual wear for the evening. Cool, long-sleeved cotton tops and sun-hats are also recommended as protection from the sun when sightseeing.
Dietary Requirements
Most of the hotels use fresh local produce for their meals, in particular fish and seafood, but any special requirements can be passed to the hotels direct on arrival.
Excursions
Excursions are available and can be arranged and paid for locally in the hotels. Fishing equipment is usually readily available to hire.
Time Difference
+0 hours GMT
Electricity
220V, 50Hz 220V. Plugs with two round pins (European standard). Power cuts are frequent due to the lack of power production.