{"metadata":{"generated":{"timestamp":1711642155,"date":"2024-03-28 12:09:15"}},"data":{"country-iso":"SN","advisory-state":1,"has-advisory-warning":0,"has-regional-advisory":0,"has-content":1,"update-metadata":"Regular text update","eng":{"name":"Senegal","url-slug":"senegal","geo-group":"Africa","flag":null,"friendly-date":"March 28, 2024 11:49 EDT","advisory-text":"Exercise a high degree of caution","recent-updates":"Safety and security \u2013 removed information on the presidential elections","advisories":"
Exercise a high degree of caution<\/a> in Senegal due to levels of crime.<\/p><\/div>","security":" The conflict in Casamance is historically characterized by clashes between the military and rebel groups. Periods of relative calm are followed by periods of conflict fuelled by mine explosions, direct or indirect attacks, robberies and attacks on businesses or villages.<\/p> Rebel groups operate sporadically on roads (often closed at night) and in areas close to the borders with Gambia and Guinea Bissau. Anti-personnel and anti-tank mines, as well as unexploded explosive ordnance are found in many areas (North Sindian, Niassya, South Oussouye, Niaguis).<\/p> Areas close to the borders with Mauritania and Mali, where jihadist groups are active, are at risk, as they may harbour external elements due to the porosity of the borders.<\/p> Strikes and demonstrations are common in larger cities. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.<\/p> Mass gatherings (large-scale events)<\/a><\/p> Senegal has not suffered any recent terrorist attacks. However, in the context of the regional terrorist threat to West African countries, including Senegal, attacks could occur at any time.<\/p> Targets could include:<\/p> Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places.<\/p> Stay at hotels that have robust security measures, including:<\/p> Keep in mind, however, that even the most secure locations are not completely free of risk.<\/p> Petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching are sometimes committed by thieves on motorcycles. The Gorée pier is a favourite spot for pickpockets.<\/p> Don’t walk alone. Avoid walking along the Corniche road in the evening, especially on East Corniche (Petite Corniche) and on West Corniche. Avoid also lingering along the beach at the end of the day.<\/p> Home robberies and armed robberies occur frequently. In general, assaults take place early in the morning and after dusk.<\/p> Strikes and demonstrations are common in larger cities. Even peaceful demonstrations can turn violent at any time. They can also lead to disruptions to traffic and public transportation.<\/p> Mass gatherings (large-scale events)<\/a><\/p> You must carry photo identification, as well as a certified copy of your passport, as authorities may conduct identity checks at any time.<\/p> Keep a photocopy of your passport in a safe place, in case it is lost or confiscated.<\/p> Main roads are in good condition, but travel after dark can be difficult because of poor lighting. Most secondary roads require a four-wheel-drive vehicle, particularly in the rainy season.<\/p> Driving can also be dangerous due to:<\/p> If you are involved in a road accident, stay at the scene and don’t move your vehicle until a police officer authorizes you to do so. However, if you do not feel safe or if there is a large crowd gathering, leave the scene and report to the nearest police station in order to avoid any conflict between the parties involved. The police may keep your documents for a few days, until the file is closed. It is therefore recommended that you carry certified photocopies that will be accepted by police.<\/p> Taxis are often poorly maintained and the drivers may have poor driving habits.<\/p> The Grand Magal of Touba is an annual pilgrimage that attracts a large number of pilgrims each year.<\/p> The next event should take place on August 22, 2024.<\/p> Before and during the pilgrimage, you can expect:<\/p> Be alert at all times if you travel to Touba during the pilgrimage.<\/p> Mass gatherings (large-scale events)<\/a><\/p> Cases of Internet fraud are reported. Be extremely vigilant, especially if someone:<\/p> Overseas fraud<\/a><\/p> Women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment and verbal abuse.<\/p> Advice for women travellers<\/a><\/p> Coastal waters can be dangerous. Follow the instructions and warnings of local authorities.<\/p> Water safety abroad<\/a><\/p> Wildlife viewing poses risks, particularly on foot or at close range.<\/p> We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.<\/p> Information about foreign domestic airlines<\/a><\/p>","entry-exit":" Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.<\/p> We have obtained the information on this page from the Senegalese authorities. It can, however, change at any time.<\/p> Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada<\/a>.<\/p> Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.<\/p> Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.<\/p> Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave Senegal.<\/span><\/p> Different entry rules may apply.<\/p> Official travel<\/a><\/p> While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.<\/p> Tourist visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days Canadians can enter Senegal without a visa for stays of less than 90 days. A traveller arriving in Senegal without a visa who wishes to extend his or her stay will have to leave the country and re-enter afterwards or contact the Foreigner’s Bureau of the Ministry of the Interior and Public Security to obtain a long-stay visa.<\/p> Canadians planning on staying in Senegal for more than 90 days must apply for a visa at the nearest Senegalese embassy or consulate. The visa allows the holder to stay in Senegal for 90 days so that steps can be taken to obtain a “carte d’identité d’étranger” (foreign national identity card) before the end of the period.<\/p> To stay in Senegal for more than 90 days, you must obtain a foreign national identity card from the Direction de la Police des étrangers et des titres de voyage.<\/p> Direction de la police des étrangers et des titres de voyage<\/a> – Ministère de l’Intérieur et de la Sécurité Publique (en français)<\/p> Learn more about travelling with children<\/a>.<\/p> Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever <\/a>(vaccines section).<\/p>","health":" This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.<\/p> Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.<\/p><\/div><\/div><\/div> Be sure that your routine vaccinations<\/a>, as per your province or territory<\/a>, are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.<\/p>\n Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. <\/p> Yellow fever<\/a> <\/span>is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.<\/p>\n Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.<\/p>\n Risk<\/strong><\/p>\n Country Entry Requirement*<\/strong><\/p>\n Recommendation<\/strong><\/p>\n <\/p>\n About Yellow Fever<\/a><\/p>\n Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada<\/a><\/p>\n * It is important to note that country entry requirements<\/a> may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest diplomatic or consular office<\/a> of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.<\/p><\/details> There is a risk of hepatitis A<\/a> in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Practise safe food and water precautions<\/a> and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present. <\/p><\/details> Malaria<\/a> is a serious and sometimes fatal disease that is caused by parasites spread through the bites of mosquitoes.<\/p>\n Malaria is a risk to travellers to this destination.<\/strong> If you develop symptoms<\/a> similar to malaria when you are travelling or up to a year after you return home, see a health care professional immediately. Tell them where you have been travelling or living. <\/p><\/details> In this destination, rabies<\/a> is commonly carried by dogs and some wildlife, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. While travelling, take precautions<\/a>, including keeping your distance from animals (including free-roaming dogs), and closely supervising children.<\/p>\n If you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. In this destination, rabies treatment may be limited or may not be available, therefore you may need to return to Canada for treatment.<\/strong> <\/p>\n Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who are at high risk of exposure (e.g., occupational risk such as veterinarians and wildlife workers, children, adventure travellers and spelunkers, and others in close contact with animals). <\/p><\/details> The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified this country as no longer poliovirus-infected but at high risk of an outbreak<\/a>. Polio can be prevented by vaccination.<\/p>\n Recommendations:<\/strong><\/p>\n Measles<\/a> is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/p>\n Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.<\/p>\n Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.<\/p><\/details> This destination is in the African Meningitis Belt, an area which has the highest rates of meningococcal disease in the world. Meningococcal disease<\/a> is a serious and sometimes fatal infection. <\/p>\n Travellers who are at higher risk should discuss vaccination with a health care provider. High-risk travellers include those living or working with the local population (e.g., health care workers) or those travelling to crowded areas or taking part in large gatherings.<\/p><\/details> Hepatitis B<\/a> is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus. Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.<\/p>\n <\/p>\n Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B<\/a> infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.<\/p><\/details> Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) <\/a><\/span>is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.<\/span><\/p>\n It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally. <\/span><\/p>\n Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry\/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19. <\/span><\/p><\/details> Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.<\/p>\n <\/p> Travellers' diarrhea<\/a> is the most common illness affecting travellers. It is spread from eating or drinking contaminated food or water.<\/p>\n Risk of developing travellers' diarrhea increases when travelling in regions with poor standards of hygiene and sanitation. Practise safe food and water precautions.<\/p>\n The most important treatment for travellers' diarrhea is rehydration (drinking lots of fluids). Carry oral rehydration salts when travelling.<\/p><\/details> Typhoid<\/a> <\/span>is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.<\/p>\n Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination. <\/p><\/details> There is a risk of schistosomiasis<\/a> in this destination. Schistosomiasis is a parasitic disease caused by tiny worms (blood flukes) which can be found in freshwater (lakes, rivers, ponds, and wetlands). The worms can break the skin, and their eggs can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, flu-like symptoms, or urinary problems. Schistosomiasis mostly affects underdeveloped and rural communities, particularly agricultural and fishing communities.<\/span><\/p>\n Most travellers are at low risk. Travellers should avoid contact with untreated freshwater such as lakes, rivers, and ponds (e.g., swimming, bathing, wading, ingesting). There is no vaccine or medication available to prevent infection.<\/p><\/details> Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:<\/p>\n To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention<\/a> page.<\/p>\n Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.<\/p> There is a risk of chikungunya in this country. The risk may vary between regions of a country. Chikungunya<\/a> is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.<\/p>\n Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.<\/p><\/details> Rift Valley fever<\/a> is a viral disease that can cause severe flu-like symptoms. In some cases, it can be fatal. It is spread to humans through contact with infected animal blood or tissues, from the bite of an infected mosquito, or eating or drinking unpasteurized dairy. Risk is generally low for most travellers. Protect yourself from insect bites and avoid animals, particularly livestock, and unpasteurized dairy. There is no vaccine available for Rift Valley fever.<\/span><\/p><\/details> Zika virus<\/a> is a risk in this country. <\/p>\n Zika virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. It can also be sexually transmitted. Zika virus can cause serious birth defects.<\/p>\n During your trip:<\/p>\n If you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, you should discuss the potential risks of travelling to this destination with your health care provider. You may choose to avoid or postpone travel. <\/p>\n For more information, see Zika virus: Pregnant or planning a pregnancy.<\/a><\/p><\/details> Some infections, such as rabies<\/a> and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.<\/p>\n Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.<\/p>\n Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.<\/p>\n <\/p> Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette<\/a>, which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu<\/a> and other illnesses by:<\/p>\n Sexually transmitted infections (STIs)<\/a>, HIV<\/a>, and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority<\/a> pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine. <\/p> Tuberculosis<\/a> is an infection caused by bacteria and usually affects the lungs.<\/p>\n For most travellers the risk of tuberculosis is low.<\/p>\n Travellers who may be at high risk while travelling in regions with risk of tuberculosis should discuss pre- and post-travel options with a health care professional.<\/p>\n High-risk travellers include those visiting or working in prisons, refugee camps, homeless shelters, or hospitals, or travellers visiting friends and relatives.<\/p><\/details> HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus)<\/a> <\/span>is a virus that attacks and impairs the immune system, resulting in a chronic, progressive illness known as AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome). <\/p>\n High risk activities include anything which puts you in contact with blood or body fluids, such as unprotected sex and exposure to unsterilized needles for medications or other substances (for example, steroids and drugs), tattooing, body-piercing or acupuncture.<\/p><\/details> Medical facilities are adequate in the capital, Dakar, but are limited elsewhere. Medical evacuation is often very expensive and may be necessary in the event of serious illness or injury.<\/p> Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.<\/p> Travel health and safety<\/a><\/p>","laws-culture":" You must abide by local laws.<\/p> Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad<\/a>.<\/p> Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe. Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.<\/p> Drugs, alcohol and travel<\/a><\/p> It is prohibited to photograph government buildings, airports or other official facilities.<\/p> It is illegal and dangerous to cross the Senegal River by private pirogue.<\/p> Canadians travelling to Senegal for the express purpose of having sex with children or prostitutes should know that such activities are punishable with fines and prison sentences of up to 10 years.<\/p>Casamance and border areas<\/h3>
Demonstrations and strikes<\/h3>
Terrorism<\/h3>
Hotel selection<\/h3>
Dakar<\/h3>
Demonstrations and strikes<\/h3>
Identification<\/h3>
Road safety<\/h3>
Taxis<\/h3>
The Grand Magal of Touba<\/h3>
Fraud<\/h3>
Women's safety<\/h3>
Swimming<\/h3>
Wildlife viewing<\/h3>
Air travel<\/h3>
Passport<\/h3>
Regular Canadian passport<\/h4>
Passport for official travel<\/h4>
Passport with “X” gender identifier<\/h4>
Other travel documents<\/h4>
Useful links<\/h4>
Visas<\/h3>
Business visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days
Student visa: not required for stays of less than 90 days<\/p>Foreign national identity card<\/h3>
Children and travel<\/h3>
Yellow fever<\/h3>
Relevant Travel Health Notices<\/h3>
Routine vaccines<\/h3>\n
Pre-travel vaccines and medications<\/h3>\n
Yellow Fever - Country Entry Requirements <\/summary>
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Hepatitis A<\/summary>
Malaria <\/summary>
Antimalarial medication is recommended<\/a> for most travellers to this destination and should be taken as recommended. Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic before travelling to discuss your options. It is recommended to do this 6 weeks before travel, however, it is still a good idea any time before leaving.
Protect yourself from mosquito bites<\/a> at all times: <\/p>\n\n
Rabies <\/summary>
Polio <\/summary>
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Measles <\/summary>
Meningococcal disease <\/summary>
Hepatitis B<\/summary>
COVID-19<\/summary>
Safe food and water precautions<\/h3>\n
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Travellers' diarrhea<\/summary>
Typhoid <\/summary>
Schistosomiasis<\/summary>
Insect bite prevention<\/h3>\n
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Chikungunya<\/summary>
Dengue <\/summary>
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Rift Valley fever<\/summary>
Zika virus <\/summary>
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Animal precautions<\/h3>\n
Person-to-person infections<\/h3>\n
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Tuberculosis<\/summary>
HIV <\/summary>
Medical services and facilities<\/h3>
Drugs<\/h3>
Photography<\/h3>
Senegal River<\/h3>
Child sex tourism<\/h3>