Senegal Family Travel Guide 2025
Everything families need to know for a successful trip to Senegal with kids.
Senegal offers a vibrant blend of West African culture, French colonial heritage, and stunning Atlantic coastlines. From the bustling markets of Dakar to the historic Gorée Island and the pink waters of Lake Retba, this welcoming nation captivates visitors with its warm hospitality and rich traditions.
Top Family Activities
The best experiences for families in Senegal.
Bandia Wildlife Reserve Safari
Open-top 4x4 game drives through 3,500 hectares of savanna to spot giraffes, white rhinos, zebras, ostriches, and hundreds of birds. The most family-friendly wildlife experience near Dakar, only 65km away.
Lake Retba (Lac Rose) Float
Children are fascinated by the pink lake where the salt content is so high everyone floats effortlessly. Watching salt collectors work and playing in the ultra-buoyant water is a unique and memorable experience.
Gorée Island Ferry and Exploration
The short ferry ride and car-free cobblestone island are perfect for children. While the history is heavy, the colorful buildings, ocean views, and lack of traffic make it an engaging family outing.
African Renaissance Monument Climb
Children love climbing Africa's tallest statue and looking out from the observation deck for panoramic views of Dakar, the Atlantic, and the city skyline. Fun fact: the statue is taller than the Statue of Liberty.
Saloum Delta Pirogue Trip
A traditional pirogue boat ride through mangrove channels in the Saloum Delta, spotting dolphins, pelicans, flamingos, and oyster-picking villages. Older children find this magical and educational.
Activities by Age Group
Find activities suited to your children's ages.
👶 Toddlers (0-3)
- Parks with shaded play areas
- Short, stroller-friendly walks
- Swimming pools at family hotels
- Animal encounters
🧒 Young Kids (4-7)
- Interactive museums
- Easy outdoor adventures
- Cultural shows and performances
- Market explorations
🧑 Older Kids (8-12)
- Historical site tours
- Adventure activities
- Cooking classes for kids
- Nature excursions
👦 Teens (13+)
- Adventure sports
- Photography walks
- Cultural immersion experiences
- Food tours
Complete Family Travel Guide
Family itineraries, packing checklists, and activity planning tips.
Family-Friendly Accommodations
Where to stay with kids.
Hotel Riu Baobab
Senegal's best family all-inclusive resort at Pointe Sarène beach with dedicated kids club, four pools, direct beach access, multiple restaurants, and extensive entertainment programs for all ages.
Royal Saly Hotel
Good-value family resort in Saly with safe beach access, family rooms, pool, and tennis courts. Friendly staff who know how to accommodate families with young children.
Radisson Blu Dakar Sea Plaza
Dakar's top luxury hotel with a rooftop pool suitable for older children, spacious rooms, multiple dining options, and a safe location on the Corniche for city-based family stays.
What to Look For
- Family rooms or connecting rooms
- Swimming pool (supervised)
- Restaurant with kids' menu
- Babysitting/kids' club services
- Safe, enclosed outdoor spaces
- Proximity to attractions
Kid-Friendly Dining
Where to eat with children.
Most Senegalese restaurants welcome children warmly — servers will often go out of their way for families
High chairs are available at major hotels and tourist restaurants but rare at local spots; bring a travel booster seat
Kids menus featuring pasta, pizza, and simple chicken dishes available at Chez Nini and international hotels
Familiar fast food (shawarma, pizza) is widely available in Dakar as a backup for picky eaters
Order thiéboudienne as a family sharing dish — arriving in a large communal bowl makes it interactive and fun
Family Travel Tips
Make traveling with kids easier.
Malaria prevention is essential for children — consult a pediatric doctor about appropriate prophylaxis well before travel
Pack SPF 50+ sunscreen and rash guards — equatorial sun is intense and children burn quickly
Watch children carefully at beaches due to strong riptides; swim only in designated areas or hotel-managed beaches
Bottled water only for children; avoid ice at non-hotel restaurants
Health & Safety
- Check recommended vaccinations for children
- Pack enough prescription medications
- Bring sun protection and stay hydrated
- Research nearest hospitals/clinics
- Get travel insurance covering the whole family
Plan Your Family Adventure
Get our complete family travel guide with kid-friendly itineraries, packing lists, and activity recommendations.
Download Family Guide