Senegal entry requirements for visitors: Dakar 2026

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Passport, visa by nationality, yellow fever, insurance and arrival at AIBD: the Senegal entry requirements for visitors to check before Dakar 2026.

Senegal entry requirements for visitors: your checklist before Dakar

To enter Senegal you need a valid passport, possibly a visa depending on your nationality, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate if you are arriving from a country where the disease is present. With the Dakar 2026 Youth Olympic Games running from 31 October to 13 November, many athletes' families and media will be travelling. Rules can change, so always confirm with the Senegalese embassy or consulate before you book.

Passport and visa: it depends on where you are from

Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, with blank pages.

  • ECOWAS citizens: free movement applies, and a recognised ID card is usually enough.
  • Many European, North American and African countries: short tourist stays are often visa free for a limited period.
  • Other nationalities: a visa may be required and must be requested before departure.

The list of exempt countries is sometimes revised, including on the basis of reciprocity. Skip old forum posts and contact the Senegalese embassy or consulate in your country of residence. If a minor is travelling without both parents, which is common for young athletes aged 15 to 18, carry a parental consent letter and copies of the parents' IDs.

Yellow fever and health: based on where you arrive from

The international certificate of yellow fever vaccination (the "yellow card") is required if you arrive from an at-risk country. Even when it is not mandatory, the vaccine is strongly advised for Senegal. Get it at least ten days before departure at an approved centre and keep the card with your passport.

Malaria is the other concern: in October, at the end of the rainy season, mosquitoes are still around. Pack repellent, wear long sleeves in the evening and ask a doctor about preventive treatment. Our guide to travel vaccines for Senegal covers this in more detail.

Travel insurance and money

Border officers rarely ask for it, but travel insurance with medical and repatriation cover is essential. A private clinic consultation in Dakar typically costs 15,000 to 40,000 FCFA, and a hospital stay far more.

For payments, Visa cards are the most widely accepted foreign cards in hotels, supermarkets and malls, but cash in FCFA is still essential for taxis, markets and small shops. ATMs are the easiest way to get cash. Ride hailing apps such as Yango and Heetch are paid in cash or through Wave and Orange Money, which require a Senegalese SIM card. If you want help with bookings or excursions, you can browse travel and tourism agencies in Dakar.

Arriving at AIBD airport

Blaise Diagne International Airport is in Diass, about 45 km from central Dakar. At immigration, have your passport, any visa and your vaccination card ready. Keep your accommodation address and return ticket handy.

  • TER train: the regional express train links the airport with Diamniadio, Rufisque, Thiaroye, Pikine, Hann, Colobane and Dakar (Plateau).
  • Taxi: to the Plateau, Mermoz, Point E, Almadies or Ngor, expect roughly 20,000 to 35,000 FCFA depending on the area and your bargaining.
  • Currency exchange: bureaux de change are mainly at the airport and in central Dakar.

During the Games, venues are spread across Dakar (Tour de l'Œuf, Iba Mar Diop in Médina, Corniche Ouest), Diamniadio and Saly, about 80 km away. For schedules and tickets, rely on the organising committee's official website or app. Our guide to getting from AIBD airport to Dakar walks you through every option.

Recommended addresses on SeneFinder

To compare more options, see all addresses in this category or explore the Dakar directory.

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Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa to visit Senegal?

It depends on your nationality. ECOWAS citizens and travellers from many countries can make short stays without a visa, while others must apply in advance. Always confirm with the Senegalese embassy or consulate before travelling.

Is the yellow fever vaccine mandatory for Senegal?

It is required if you arrive from a country where yellow fever is present. Otherwise it is strongly recommended.

How do I get from AIBD airport to Dakar?

You can take the TER train to Dakar (Plateau) or a taxi, which usually costs 20,000 to 35,000 FCFA depending on the neighbourhood.