Where to stay in Senegal

Hotels

Senegal offers a wide range of accommodation, from international hotels and business hotels in Dakar to boutique hotels, guesthouses and budget hostels throughout the country. Beach resorts are concentrated along the Petite Côte, particularly around Saly and Somone, while eco-lodges are found in destinations such as the Sine-Saloum Delta, Casamance and Niokolo-Koba National Park.

Traditional camps (campements) provide simple, locally run accommodation in many rural and coastal areas, offering visitors an opportunity to experience Senegalese hospitality. Self-catering apartments and holiday villas are also available in Dakar and the main beach resorts.

Standards and facilities vary, particularly outside the major cities and established tourist areas. Power outages and interruptions to water supplies may occur, and some smaller properties rely on generators or solar power for backup.

Advance booking is recommended during the dry season (November to May), particularly around Christmas, New Year and major festivals, when accommodation in popular coastal resorts and wildlife destinations can fill quickly.

Camping

Camping is available in many national parks, coastal areas and tourist destinations throughout Senegal. Facilities range from basic campsites with shared amenities to well-equipped sites offering electricity, showers and restaurants.

Many eco-lodges and beach resorts also provide camping facilities, particularly in the Sine-Saloum Delta, Casamance, Saint-Louis and along the Petite Côte. Some sites offer tent hire and organised camping excursions.

Wild camping is not recommended. Travellers should use designated campsites or obtain permission before camping on private or community land, and should seek local advice regarding safety and environmental conditions.

Other accomodation

A village will sometimes courteously offer a stranger one of the local huts as living accommodation, but it is necessary for visitors to provide their own bedding.