Natural good looks, a breezy capital and an irresistable soundtrack.
Tropical Senegal is lauded for beauties both natural and urbane. With its suave capital, Dakar - many travellers' favourite amongst the larger African cities - and its entourage of internationally known musicians, Senegal brings in more visitors than any other country in the region.
Most of them head to Senegal for its stunning coastline, where lazy beach days can be followed by cocktail-fuelled nights. But just around the corner from the busy resorts, tiny fishing villages tempt with a slice of real life and winding estuaries invite solitary pirogue and bird watching trips.
The security situation remains uncertain in the Casamance region of southwestern Senegal. Despite the 2004 peace deal between the government and separatist forces, sporadic fighting and incidents of banditry occur. Travellers are advised to exercise extreme caution if travelling in the region, check the latest travel advice before starting out and avoid being on the Casamance roads after dark. Landmines planted during the government/rebel dispute are also a threat to safety in the Casamance region.
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