Where to stay in Senegal

Hotels

The government-controlled expansion of tourism has led to an increasing number of hotels, with international chains such as Pullman and Radisson opening hotels within the country. Increasing investment has led to more and more development and the choices for travellers are far more numerous than they were, even just a couple of years ago.

Dakar has the lion's share of hotels, but there are a number of ocean-front hotels along the Petite Côte (the stretch of beaches between Dakar and la Pointe de Sangomar), which are favoured by European visitors. In the Casamance, there is also a small selection of luxury resorts. It is advisable to book accommodation in advance, particularly in Dakar during the tourist season from November to May.

Grading: Hotels are classified from 1 to 4 stars.

Bed and breakfast

Campements are loosely translated as 'lodges' or 'inns' and are basically guesthouses in rural areas of Senegal. Despite the name, they are not a camping ground or a place for tents. Some campements provide cheap, basic accommodation while others have gone upmarket. These are good alternatives for the more budget-conscious travellers or those who don't want to stay in a large resort.

Camping

Camping is relatively rare in Senegal, but it is possible to pitch up a tent and bed down for the night in some areas.

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.