Living in Senegal

Senegal lies on the Atlantic coast of West Africa and borders, among others, Mauritania, Mali, Guinea and Guinea-Bissau; around 15.9 million people live in the country. In the north, dry Sahel landscapes and broad plains shape the scenery, while the south is greener and receives more rainfall. Temperatures are generally high, with a pronounced rainy season whose length varies by region. In Dakar, many people live in densely built-up neighborhoods and get around by bus, taxi or on foot; outside the capital, villages, family homesteads and longer distances are common. Work can be found in areas including trade, services, fishing and agriculture. Family, sharing meals, football and music are part of leisure time in many places.