Rich in French colonial heritage, Senegal doesn’t only have a lot of natural attractions but also diverse cultures. Senegal also has a sad history due to Slave Trade; you could learn this when you tour Goree Island.

Philippine Passport Holders can get a visa on arrival for Senegal as well as most Nationalities. It’s really accessible and amazing, so you should go see this interesting country!

Other Articles You can Read:

Visa Guide and Travel Tips to Traveling to West Africa for Filipinos with Suggestions on Flight Routes
Vaccination Needed for Travels in Africa - Required Vaccines Before Your African Trip
Quick Visa Application & Travel Guide to Traveling to Central Africa for Filipinos [With Extra Tips on Flight Routes]
Benin Visa Free Guide - How Filipinos Can Enter Visa Free to Benin in Africa
How Filipinos Can Enter Visa Free to Bermuda [Visa Free Guide to Bermuda]

Visa Free Countries

Can enter up to 3 months as per website:

Visa Exempt

Visa On Arrival

Who can get: All nationals except those who are from Hong Kong (not British National), Macao, Kosovo, and Yemen

Where to get: Any border in Senegal

Validity: 30 days

Requirements for Entering Senegal

Valid Passport (for at least 6 months (for VOA) / 3 months (for Visa Exempt) from arrival date)
Return or onward ticket
Hotel Accommodation
Yellow Fever Vaccination certificate is recommended not required unless you are arriving from a country that requires one

Overview of Senegal

Capital: Dakar
Language: French
Currency: West African CFA Franc

Senegal is a West African Country that has been under the French Rule, like most of its neighbors, and gained independence in the 1960s. This country is a popular destination for those who want a taste of the Atlantic Ocean as well as a great exposure to its Senegalese culture. It’s a country that has tropical climates so you would enjoy more than a year of sun.

Senegal has a mix of African and French cultures. With the buildings inspired by the French, griots (West-African) way of story-telling, and a merge of two to create such delicious Senegalese cuisine. Plus, the culture of hospitality - it’s truly one you would never forget. Go and enjoy the beauty of Senegal!

Going to Senegal

Aside from passing through borders in Mauritania, Mali, Guinea or Guinea-Bissau, you could fly to Leopold Sedar Senghor International Airport (Dakar). There are flights to/from Africa, Europe (Spain, France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, etc.), the Americas (Argentina, Brazil) or Middle East (Dubai, Turkey.) Ask your travel agent or search google flights.

For Filipinos, you can pass Turkey or Dubai for your trip to Senegal.

What to do in Senegal

1. Visit Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary

This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a wetland that serves as a sanctuary, not only for birds but also for other animals like Pumba (warthogs) and lizards. If you don’t want to see regular pelicans or flamingos, try going during the migrating season like December to April. Ready your cameras and clean your lenses for these spectacular creatures.

2. Stroll around Dakar

Stroll around the streets of Senegal’s capital, Dakar. With colorful markets, amazing beaches and warm people, you will enjoy the place. Don’t forget to try the local cuisine as well as buy locally made items for souvenirs or personal use!

3. Be in awe of Lake Retba

If other places have pink beaches, Senegal has a pink lake! Lake Retba or Lac Rose’s color is due to algae with high salt content. Witness workers harvesting salt during the day. It’s a good day trip and just a few hours’ rides from Dakar. November to June are pinker than the other months.

4. Have a boat trip at Saloum Delta National Park

Breathe in the fresh air and absorb the beauty of nature as enjoy the boat ride at Saloum Delta National Park. Fill with mangroves and wildlife, you would give a big thumbs-up to mother nature. You will definitely agree with this being a UNESCO Heritage site.

5. Learn history at Goree Island

Goree Island is where you could learn the history of the Africans being slaves traded to the US and Europe. It’s a sad part of the past, but let’s all hope to widen our knowledge so it doesn’t come back to that. It’s going to be an eye-opener and you’ll be emotional; bring tissues!

6. Walk around Saint Louis

Another UNESCO site in this amazing country is the Island of Saint Louis or Ndar, the capital of Senegal during French time. With beautiful buildings dating to the 1600s, it’s truly a feast for the eyes. The beaches and the astounding Faidherbe Bridge are also spots you should not miss.

Frequently Asked Questions for your travel in Senegal

1. Is Senegal Visa-free?

For Philippine Passport Holders, you can get a visa on arrival for Senega. For other nationalities, see the list above!

2. Is it safe to travel to Senegal?

Senegal is one of the safest countries in West Africa. There will be petty crimes like thefts, pickpockets, and etc. so be vigilant. However, I always recommend buying travel insurance since we don’t know what will happen on the road. Check out Safety Wing, my insurance provider.

3. Is it expensive in Senegal for tourists?

Senegal is quite expensive. However, your visit here would be worth it.

4. When is the best time to visit Senegal?

Senegal’s dry season is from December to April. Those are great months to visit since the temperature is good, the birds are migrating, and Lac Rose is quite pink.

5. Where should I stay in Senegal?

I recommend staying in Dakar (near the airport and amazing tourist spots) or Saint Louis (has an old charm and great spots too.) Both also have amazing beaches.

With a colorful history, UNESCO world heritage sites, scenic views, and warm people - Senegal is a stunning country. With getting a visa on arrival for almost all Nationals, it’s easy to enter. You can choose to go here or have fun as you back-pack around West Africa. Enjoy your travels!