Communication: Dakar

Mobile Connectivity

Easy to purchase SIM cards at Blaise Diagne International Airport (DSS) upon arrival or at official stores of major providers in the city.

Getting Started

Major providers: Orange, Free (formerly Tigo), and Expresso.
Your passport is needed for registration.
Data plans are affordable and widely available.

Online Access

Wi-Fi is common in hotels, many restaurants, and cafes in Dakar, especially in tourist-friendly areas.

Staying Online

Many places offer free Wi-Fi, others may require a purchase.
Mobile data coverage (4G) is generally good within Dakar.
Some cybercafes still exist, for internet access for a small fee.

Mail Services

La Poste, the national postal service, operates throughout the country.

Sending & Receiving

You find post offices in major neighborhoods.
International mail services are available.
For urgent documents or packages, consider DHL or FedEx.

Bridging Language Gaps

The official language is French. Wolof is the most widely spoken local language, used by almost everyone in Dakar.

Communication Support

Pulaar, Serer, Jola, and Mandinka are also spoken in specific communities.
Download Airalo eSIM or Solis Wi-Fi for internet; Rosetta Stone for language learning.
Carry a small French or Wolof phrasebook for common phrases.

Essential Wolof Phrases

Basic Greetings

Hello (Peace be upon you): Salaam alaikum (response: Malekum salaam)
How are you?: Nanga def?
I'm fine / It's good: Maa ngi fi / Baax na
Thank you: Jerejef (or Merci in French)

Common Responses

Yes: Waaw
No: Dedet
Please: S'il te plaît (French more commonly used here)
No problem: Amul problem (also common in French as "Pas de problème")

Learn a Few Phrases

Learning a few phrases in Wolof demonstrates respect and often opens doors to warmer interactions.

Business Hours & Schedules

Government Offices

Generally Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, often with a long lunch break.

Banks

Typically operate Monday to Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Some close earlier on Fridays.

Shops

General retail shops open Monday to Saturday, around 9:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Many close on Sundays.

Banking Access

Banking hours are standard business days. Automated Teller Machines are widely available.

Cash & ATMs

Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM.
ATMs are available in city center, shopping areas, and bank branches.
Look for ATMs from major banks like CBAO, SGBS, and BICIS.

Holiday Impact

Senegal observes both Christian and Muslim holidays, which are public holidays. Businesses, banks, and public services may close on these days.

Important Dates

Muslim holidays (e.g., Korité/Eid al-Fitr, Tabaski/Eid al-Adha) vary annually.
During Ramadan, many businesses may operate on reduced hours.
National Holidays: Independence Day (April 4th), Labour Day (May 1st).

General Schedules

Year-Round Activity

General tourism services in Dakar operate year-round.
No widespread seasonal closures for hotels or major businesses.
The city accommodates visitors continuously.

Limited Instances

Some smaller businesses might close during major religious holidays.
Family-run establishments might close for annual vacations, especially in the low season.
Limited schedules occur during the hottest months.

Check Holiday Dates

Check a local calendar for specific public holiday dates during your travel period. This avoids arriving at closed businesses.

Etiquette & Cultural Norms

The concept of "Teranga" (hospitality) guides Senegalese culture.

Local Greetings

Greetings are very important in Senegal. Always greet people upon entering a shop, restaurant, or starting a conversation.

Respectful Introductions

Handshakes are common among men and between men and women (if initiated).
"Salaam alaikum" (Peace be upon you) is widely understood and accepted.
Show particular respect to elders by greeting them first.

Dressing for Respect

Modesty is valued. Wear culturally appropriate clothing, especially outside of hotel areas.

Modesty Guidelines

For women, covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
Men should opt for trousers or longer shorts; avoid going shirtless.
When visiting mosques, dress very modestly. Women should cover their heads.

Mealtime Manners

Observe local dining customs to show respect.

Culinary Etiquette

If sharing a communal dish, always use your right hand for eating.
It is polite to accept food or drink if offered.
Tipping is appreciated for good service.

Photography Guidelines

Exercise caution and respect when taking photos in public places.

Capture with Care

Always ask for permission before taking photos of individuals.
Be discreet when taking photos in public places.
Avoid sensitive areas like military installations or protests.

Cultural Sensitivities

Taboos

Never use your left hand for eating, greeting, or handling objects.
Avoid discussing local politics or religion unless initiated by locals.
Public displays of affection are generally not approved.

Gender Considerations and LGBTQ+

Senegal is a conservative society with traditional gender roles.
Acts between individuals of the same sex are illegal in Senegal.
Discretion is strongly advised for LGBTQ+ travelers.

Cultural Connection Practices

Engage Locally

Engage with locals in conversation.
Participate in local events if invited.
Seek insights into daily life.

Adapting to Culture

Read about Senegalese history and society.
Observe local behaviors and adapt.
Show reverence for religious practices.

Embrace Teranga

Your interactions reflect an appreciation for Senegalese traditions and values, fostering positive experiences.

Accessibility Information

Travelers with mobility challenges may find Dakar's infrastructure presents significant hurdles.

Infrastructure Limitations

Dakar's urban infrastructure is generally not designed with accessibility in mind.

Navigating the City

Sidewalks are often uneven, broken, or obstructed by vendors.
Curbs frequently lack ramps for easy access.
Public transportation systems are not accessible for wheelchairs.

Mobility for Visits

Major modern museums, like the Museum of Black Civilizations, may have ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms.

Planning for Access

Historical sites like Gorée Island present significant challenges due to terrain.
Private taxis or pre-arranged accessible vans are needed.
Many taxis are not spacious, book a larger vehicle.

Sensory Support

Specialized services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are limited.

Recommended Approaches

It is wise to travel with a companion for assistance.
Learn French phrases for communicating your needs.
Use a translation app for real-time help.

Finding Assistance

Specific resources for accessible travel within Senegal are scarce compared to more developed tourist destinations.

Seeking Information

Contact hotels directly to discuss specific needs.
Inquire about tour operators' capabilities and facilities.
Online forums or expat groups might provide anecdotal advice.

Practical Considerations

General Travel Notes

Language: French (official), Wolof (most common).
Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF). Carry cash.
Tipping: Not mandatory, appreciated for good service.

Operational Hours & Safety

Business Hours: Varies by type; religious holidays close many businesses.
Safety: Petty crime (pickpocketing) common in crowded areas.
Water Safety: Drink only bottled or purified water. Avoid tap water.

Communication