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Some Facts About Senegal

Full country name: Republic of Senegal

Area: 196,190 sq km (75,750 sq mi)

Population: 10.3 million

Capital city: Dakar (pop 2 million)

People: Wolof (36%), Fula (17%), Sérèr (17%), Toucouleur (9%), Diola (9%), Mandinka (9%), European and Lebanese(1%)

Languages: French (official), Wolof, Pulaar, Diola, Mandingo

Religion: 96% Islam, 6% indigenous beliefs, 2% Christian

Government: Republic under multi-party democratic rule

President: Aboulaye Wade

GDP: US$15.6 billion

GDP per head: US$1700

Annual growth: 5%

Inflation: 1.8%

Major industries: agricultural and fish processing, phosphate mining, petroleum refining, construction materials.

Major trading partners: France, EU, Nigeria, Cameroon, Côte d'Ivoire, Mali, Algeria, China, Japan.

Senegal, a democracy of free press and several political parties, is located on the most western part of Africa. It is bordered by the Atlantic Ocean on the west, along 350 miles of beautiful sandy beaches.

The country’s relationship with Europe started in 1444 when Portuguese navigators reached the Senegal River. From Goree Island and Saint-Louis, numerous Senegalese were shipped to the Americas during the slave trade. Senegal gained its independence from France in 1960.

Known for its dynamic culture, friendly people, beautiful beaches, and warm climate, Senegal has become one of the most sought-after destinations in Africa. Senegal's arts are just as lively, with a thriving textile market and an entourage of internationally known musicians, such as Youssou N'Dour and Touré Kunda.

Passport and Visa: For US and Canadian citizens: a passport valid for at least 6 months is required but no visa is necessary if the stay does not exceed 90 days. For other nationalities visas might be required so please inquire at the nearest Senegal Embassy.

CUSTOMS: There is no limit on the amount of money that can be imported into Senegal. Only 50 000 FCFA per person are allowed out of the country. One camera, one (non-professional) video camera, 200 cigarettes, 50 cigars, one bottle of wine, one bottle of alcohol will be allowed into the country duty-free.

HEALTH: There is no vaccination required for entry to Senegal. However for those visiting the country during the raining season (June to September) we recommend that they take along some anti-malaria pills. See with your doctor.

TIME ZONE: Universal Time (GMT). Senegal is 4 hours ahead of the US Eastern Time during Daylight Savings Time and 5 hours ahead the rest of the year.

CLIMATE: Dry from September to May; Rainy in June, July and August, lightly in Dakar and Northern Senegal including Saint-Louis, sometimes heavily in the South. Temperature is in the 80's from May to November and in the 70's from December to April.

ELECTRICITY: 220 volts/50 cycles AC

CURRENCY: CFA (African Financial Community) Franc. The official rate of exchange fluctuates daily. $1 = approximately 690 FCFA.

Additional information can be viewed at the following:

http://www.lonelyplanet.com/destinations/africa/senegal