Stuff you need backpacking around Senegal

See also: Wolof phrasebook Wolof is the native language of some Senegalese people, but you will find that almost everyone speaks it. Knowing the basic Wolof greetings and phrases will go a long way in getting you better service and prices. The Senegalese people learn French in school and it is a very useful language for travellers to know. While some Senegalese merchants speak English, most business is conducted in French or Wolof. Other languages used in Senegal include Sereer, Soninke, Pulaar, Jola, and Mandinka are spoken. The basic Muslim greeting is often used: Salaam aleikum - Peace to you. The response is Malecum salaam - And unto you peace.

Avoid cooked food prepared by the road, these often cause diarrhea. Western-style meals are available and can be found at restaurants in various parts of Dakar, Thies, Saint Louis and other towns and near the big hotels in the Petite Côte and in some other touristic regions of the country too. If you really want to try the genuine Senegalese food you can buy it at restaurants serving Senegalese dishes or alternatively, you can make it yourself with the food gathered fresh from the markets or supermarkets. The official dish of Senegal is ceebu jen (or thebou diene) -- rice and fish. It comes in two varieties (red and white -- named for the different sauces). The Senegalese love ceebu jen and will often ask if you've ever tried it, and it is definitely part of the experience. Even better if you get the chance to eat with your hands around the bowl with a Senegalese family!

If you intent to explore the arid area of Senegal (Saint-Louis & Ferlo), you need to drink several liters of water a day. Even in Dakar, dehyrdation is possible during warmer months if you do not drink enough water each day.

Maps

Tourist maps are available at the tourist offices (see au-senegal.com for that one)

International Driving Permit (IDP)

If you want to explore the country by (rented) car, you need one.

Vaccines

Yellow fever vaccine needed to enter the country (you will receive a WHO-"passport" to verify it to customs).

Mosquito repellents

Buy at least a mosquito net (preferably permethrin-impregnated) and a good repellent (preferably DEET-based).