Welcome to Senegal 🇸🇳 — a remarkable destination in Western Africa. Its official name is Republic of Senegal, and today around 18.5 million people call this Africa nation home, spread across roughly 196,722 km² of territory.
Below is your complete country profile for Senegal: key statistics, an introduction to Dakar, an interactive map, cultural notes and answers to the questions people most often ask about this corner of Africa.
Geography of Senegal
Geographically, Senegal belongs to Western Africa within Africa. Its territory spans approximately 196,722 km², which makes it the 89th largest country or territory on Earth.
Senegal has a coastline as well as land borders with Gambia, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali and Mauritania — a crossroads position that has influenced its culture and economy for centuries.
The capital city is Dakar, the political and cultural heart of the country and usually the first stop for visitors who want to understand how senegalese life really works.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
People, language and culture
Around 18.5 million people live in Senegal, making it the 69th most populous country or territory in the world. A person from Senegal is called a Senegalese.
The main language spoken here is French. Learning even a handful of phrases before a visit goes a long way with locals.
Beyond the numbers, everyday culture in Senegal — from markets and music to family traditions — is what makes discovering it through a random spin so rewarding.
Currency, travel and practical facts
The official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF, symbol Fr). Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before travelling.
The international dialling code for Senegal is +221. Websites from the country typically use the .sn internet domain.
Quiz tip: the three facts most worth memorising about Senegal are its flag, its capital Dakar, and its approximate population of 18.5 million.
Neighbouring countries
Senegal shares borders with 5 countries:
Fun facts about Senegal
- Senegal's flag emoji is 🇸🇳 — its two-letter country code is SN and its three-letter code is SEN.
- Senegal covers 196,722 km², ranking 89th in the world by area.
- With about 18.5 million people, Senegal holds the 69th spot in the world population ranking.
- Senegal is a member state of the United Nations.
- Senegal shares borders with 5 countries.
Senegal — frequently asked questions
- What is the capital of Senegal?
- The capital of Senegal is Dakar.
- What is the population of Senegal?
- Senegal has a population of approximately 18,501,984 people, ranking 69th in the world.
- Where is Senegal located?
- Senegal is located in Western Africa, part of the Africa region.
- What language is spoken in Senegal?
- The main language spoken in Senegal is French.
- What currency is used in Senegal?
- Senegal uses the West African CFA franc (XOF).
