Where is Senegal Located?

by countryaah · Published December 10, 2020 · Updated December 19, 2024

Where is Senegal located on the map? Senegal is an independent nation located in Western Africa. Check out the following images to see location of Senegal on maps.

Senegal Location in World Map

Senegal is in West Africa. Click on the map to enlarge it! Then you can also see where Gambia is.

Location Information of Senegal

Senegal is a country located on the westernmost point of the African continent, bordered by the Atlantic Ocean to the west, Mauritania to the north and east, and Mali to the east and south. It shares a southern border with Guinea and Guinea-Bissau, making it a central part of West Africa. Senegal’s location at the tip of the African continent gives it a strategic position with historical significance as a center of trade and culture.

Latitude and Longitude

Senegal is located at the following approximate coordinates:

Latitude: 14.6928° N
Longitude: 14.0083° W

These coordinates place Senegal in the tropical zone, close to the equator, influencing its warm climate and seasonal rainfall patterns.

Capital City and Major Cities

The capital city of Senegal is Dakar, which is also the largest city in the country. Located on the Cape Verde Peninsula, Dakar is a bustling urban center and serves as the political, economic, and cultural heart of Senegal. It is known for its rich history, vibrant arts scene, and importance as a gateway to the rest of Africa and beyond.

Major Cities in Senegal:

Thiès: Located to the east of Dakar, Thiès is Senegal’s second-largest city and is an important industrial and transportation hub. It is known for its proximity to the Dakar-Diamniadio Toll Highway and the city’s bustling local markets.
Saint-Louis: Situated at the mouth of the Senegal River in the northwest, Saint-Louis was once the capital of French West Africa and remains an important historical and cultural center. The city is recognized for its colonial architecture and has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Kaolack: Located in central Senegal, Kaolack is an important trade and transportation center for agricultural products, especially peanuts. The city is often referred to as the “peanut capital” of Senegal due to its prominence in the peanut industry.
Ziguinchor: This city, located in the Casamance region in the southern part of the country, is the capital of the Ziguinchor region. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and significant role in the agricultural sector, particularly in the production of palm oil, peanuts, and cassava.
Louga: Located in the northwestern part of the country, Louga is a smaller city with historical importance, serving as a regional administrative center. Louga has a growing agricultural and trade-based economy.

Time Zone

Senegal operates under Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), with no daylight saving time observed throughout the year. This means that the time in Senegal remains constant at GMT +0. As a result, Senegal shares the same time zone as the United Kingdom and several other West African nations such as The Gambia and Guinea.

Climate

Senegal enjoys a tropical climate, but it experiences considerable variations between regions, particularly between the coastal areas and the interior. The climate is primarily influenced by the Atlantic Ocean, which moderates temperatures along the coast, and the Saharan air masses that affect the northern and inland parts of the country.

Seasonal Breakdown:

Dry Season (November to May): The dry season, also known as the harmattan season, is marked by lower humidity and cooler temperatures, especially in the interior regions. Coastal areas like Dakar are typically cooler than the inland areas during this time, with temperatures ranging between 20°C (68°F) to 30°C (86°F). In contrast, inland temperatures can rise to over 40°C (104°F). This season is characterized by limited rainfall, and the Harmattan wind, which brings dust from the Sahara Desert, affects air quality.
Rainy Season (June to October): The rainy season occurs from June to October, with the heaviest rains falling in August and September. During this period, coastal areas and the south receive more rainfall, while the northern and central parts of Senegal tend to remain drier. Temperatures during the rainy season typically range from 25°C (77°F) to 35°C (95°F). The rain is particularly important for agriculture, especially for crops such as peanuts, cotton, and millet.

Climate Zones:

Coastal Areas: These areas, including Dakar, experience a milder tropical climate due to the moderating effect of the Atlantic Ocean. The temperature is generally moderate throughout the year.
Inland Areas: The interior of the country has a more arid and hotter climate, with higher temperatures and a larger temperature range between day and night.
Southern Regions (Casamance): The southern region experiences a more humid climate with more rainfall, contributing to its dense vegetation.

Economic Status

Senegal is classified as one of West Africa’s most stable and emerging economies. It has experienced steady economic growth in recent years, driven by strong sectors such as agriculture, mining, and services. The country has made significant strides in infrastructure development, improving governance, and attracting foreign investment.

Key Economic Sectors:

Agriculture: Agriculture is a cornerstone of Senegal’s economy, employing a large proportion of the population. The country is one of the world’s largest exporters of peanuts, and it also produces other crops such as millet, sorghum, cotton, maize, and cassava. Senegal’s agricultural output is essential for both local consumption and export, particularly to Europe.
Mining: Senegal is rich in natural resources, particularly phosphates, gold, and zircon. The mining sector has attracted significant foreign investment, and gold production has become a key driver of the country’s economy. The country’s mineral resources are increasingly being tapped for export.
Fishing: Senegal has one of the most productive and profitable fishing industries in West Africa, with large quantities of fish being caught and exported, particularly to Europe and Asia. The country’s coastline along the Atlantic Ocean provides access to rich marine resources, including fish, shrimp, and other seafood.
Services: The services sector in Senegal, particularly in banking, telecommunications, and tourism, has grown significantly in recent years. Senegal has attracted regional and international companies due to its strategic location, relatively stable political environment, and expanding infrastructure.
Tourism: Senegal is an increasingly popular tourist destination due to its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and historical significance. While it has not yet reached the tourism levels of some African countries, tourism is growing steadily and has become a significant contributor to the national economy.

Tourist Attractions

Senegal offers a range of attractions for tourists, from stunning beaches to historic landmarks, wildlife, and cultural experiences. Some of the top tourist destinations include:

1. Dakar:

Gorée Island: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Gorée Island is known for its role in the Atlantic slave trade. The Maison des Esclaves (House of Slaves) on the island is a poignant historical site that attracts visitors interested in the history of slavery.
African Renaissance Monument: This 49-meter-high statue in Dakar is one of the tallest in Africa and is a symbol of Senegal’s independence and its modern aspirations.
Le Monument de la Réunification: A symbol of national unity, this monument commemorates Senegal’s independence and its history.

2. Saint-Louis:

Saint-Louis Colonial Architecture: Known for its historical significance as the capital of French West Africa, Saint-Louis features colonial-era buildings and an old-world charm. It is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Langue de Barbarie National Park: This park is a haven for birdwatchers, offering a mix of coastal, mangrove, and lagoon ecosystems, and is home to various species of birds and wildlife.

3. Sine-Saloum Delta:

A UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, the Sine-Saloum Delta is an area of rich biodiversity, offering wetlands, mangroves, and wildlife. It’s a perfect spot for ecotourism, with opportunities for birdwatching, fishing, and boat tours.

4. Niokolo-Koba National Park:

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, this vast national park is a haven for wildlife, including lions, elephants, and antelopes. The park is one of the most significant conservation areas in West Africa and is ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

5. Casamance Region:

This lush and tropical region offers beautiful beaches, villages, and cultural traditions. The Casamance River, dense forests, and tranquil atmosphere make it a popular spot for relaxation and nature exploration.

6. Pink Lake (Lac Rose):

Located near Dakar, this lake is famous for its unique pink color, which is caused by the high salt content and certain algae. Visitors can take boat tours, see the traditional salt harvest, or relax on the shores of this unusual natural wonder.

Visa Requirements for U.S. Citizens

U.S. citizens are required to have a visa to visit Senegal for stays exceeding 90 days. However, for short-term visits (tourism, business, or family visits) under 90 days, U.S. citizens do not need a visa. They will need the following:

Passport: A valid U.S. passport with at least six months of validity beyond the intended departure date from Senegal.
Proof of Accommodation: Travelers must provide evidence of accommodation arrangements, such as a hotel booking or invitation from a host in Senegal.
Return or Onward Travel: A return or onward travel ticket is necessary to show the intent to leave the country after the visit.
Financial Means: Evidence of sufficient funds to support the stay in Senegal, such as a bank statement or credit card.

For stays longer than 90 days, or for purposes like work or study, U.S. citizens must apply for the appropriate visa through the Senegalese Embassy or Consulate.

Distance to Major U.S. Cities

Senegal is located approximately 4,800 to 5,000 miles away from the United States. The distances between Senegal and major U.S. cities are as follows:

1. Distance from New York City

The distance from New York City (JFK) to Dakar (DSS) is approximately 4,800 miles (7,725 kilometers). A direct flight typically takes about 8 to 9 hours.

2. Distance from Los Angeles

The distance from Los Angeles (LAX) to Dakar is about 6,000 miles (9,656 kilometers). The flight duration is usually between 12 to 13 hours, depending on the route and any layovers.

Senegal Facts

Size	196,722 km²
Residents	15.85 million
Language	French (official language)
Capital	Dakar
Longest river	Senegal (border river with Mauritania 813 km)
Highest mountain	Nameless mountain (581 m)
Currency	CFA franc