Question 1

What is the best time to travel to Senegal? Dry season vs rains

Accepted Answer

The best time to travel to Senegal is the dry season, from November to April: there is no rain, temperatures hover around 24–32 °C and the national parks are open. From May to October is the rainy season and lower prices.

☀️ Dry season (November – April) — optimal season
Temperatures are pleasant, there is no rain and all national parks are open and operating at full capacity. The harmattan (dry Sahara wind) may appear between December and February, creating a light haze in the atmosphere, but without affecting tourism operations.

🌧️ Rainy season (May – October) — low season
Rainfall gradually arrives from May and reaches its peak intensity between July and September. Some rural routes can become difficult and the Djoudj National Bird Park closes between May and November. However, it is possible to design itineraries adapted to this period with an emphasis on the Atlantic coast (Saly, Petite Côte), urban excursions in Dakar and areas less affected by the rain.

Question 2

Do Spanish citizens need a visa to travel to Senegal?

Accepted Answer

No. Spanish citizens and in general those of the European Union do not need a visa to enter Senegal for tourist stays of up to 90 days. Only a valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months is required. For Gambia, access is also visa-free for European citizens. We always recommend checking the updated conditions before each trip, as regulations can change.

Question 3

What vaccines are necessary to travel to Senegal?

Accepted Answer

The only mandatory vaccine to enter Senegal is the yellow fever vaccine, which must be accredited with the international vaccination certificate. Additionally, international vaccination centers usually recommend: hepatitis A and B, typhoid, meningitis and tetanus. Antimalarial prophylaxis is highly recommended and should be consulted with a specialist doctor in tropical medicine before the trip. Our circuits include detailed health information in the itinerary of each program.

Question 4

Is Senegal a safe country?

Accepted Answer

Senegal is one of the most stable and safe countries in West Africa, with a long democratic tradition and a very welcoming environment for international tourism. NeoGeo DMC operates exclusively in verified areas, with certified local guides, approved vehicles, and updated safety protocols. We continuously monitor the political, health, and climate situation of each area. In over 12 years of operations through NeoGeo Global, we have not recorded any serious security incidents with our groups.

According to the Global Peace Index 2024, Senegal holds a significantly better position than the African average in terms of stability and security. It is one of the few countries in West Africa that has not suffered any coup d'etat since its independence in 1960, with continued democratic power transfers for over six decades.

Question 5

What to see in Senegal in 8 days?

Accepted Answer

In 8 days it is possible to make a complete immersion in the best of Senegal following a circular route from Dakar. An optimal itinerary includes: Dakar and the Island of Gorée (UNESCO Heritage), the Pink Lake (Lac Retba), the Lompoul Desert with a night in a tent, colonial Saint-Louis (UNESCO Heritage) and the Djoudj National Bird Park (UNESCO Heritage), the holy city of Touba, the Saloum Delta (UNESCO Biosphere Reserve) and Joal-Fadiouth with its shell cemetery. This is exactly the route of our Pearls of Senegal circuit, designed to maximize the experience in 8 days without giving up anything essential.

Question 6

What difference is there between Senegal and Gambia as tourist destinations?

Accepted Answer

Senegal is a diverse and extensive destination, with an offer ranging from the Saharan dunes of Lompoul to the mangroves of the Saloum Delta, through the history of Saint-Louis and the spirituality of Touba. Gambia, on the other hand, is the smallest country in continental Africa, completely surrounded by Senegal, and offers a more concentrated experience: Atlantic beaches, exceptional ornithology on the Gambia River and a very welcoming local culture. Our African Symphony circuit combines both destinations in a single 12-day itinerary.

Question 7

Can Senegal and Gambia be combined in the same circuit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, and it is one of the most interesting combinations of West Africa. Gambia is the smallest country in the African continent, completely surrounded by Senegal, so the transition between both destinations is natural and logistically simple. The combination allows adding to the Senegalese circuit the experience of the Gambia River, the Atlantic Gambian beaches, exceptional ornithologyand a local culture slightly different from the Senegalese. Our 12-day African Symphony circuit combines both destinations in a single itinerary with a Spanish-speaking guide and fully integrated logistics.

Question 8

Where to stay in Senegal? Types of accommodation in our tours

Accepted Answer

Senegal offers a wide range of accommodation options tailored to different traveler profiles. In our circuits, we work mainly with three types: boutique hotels in Dakar and Saint-Louis, camps in the Lompoul Desert, and ecolodges and camps in the Saloum Delta. We deliberately avoid large international hotel chains: our philosophy is that accommodation should be part of the authentic experience, not neutralize it. All accommodations are personally verified by our team at the destination.

Question 9

What currency is used in Senegal and how to manage money at the destination?

Accepted Answer

The official currency of Senegal is the West African CFA Franc (XOF), linked to the euro at an official exchange rate of 1€ = 655,957 XOF. This parity is guaranteed by the Bank of France since 1945, making the CFA Franc one of the most stable currencies on the African continent and eliminating the risk of currency fluctuation for European agencies. The street exchange rate (bureaux de change in Dakar) usually fluctuates between 640 and 650 XOF per euro, slightly lower than the official one.

Question 10

What language is spoken in Senegal? Will there be communication barriers?

Accepted Answer

The official language of Senegal is French, used in administration, business, and education. However, the most spoken language on the street is Wolof, present throughout the country and especially in Dakar and rural areas. In the tourist areas of the south (Saly, Saloum Delta) English is also spoken frequently. NeoGeo DMC is the only Spanish-speaking receptive operating directly in Senegal and Gambia: all our guides communicate in Spanish with travelers, completely eliminating the language barrier for Spanish-speaking groups. Coordination with our office in Dakar is done in Spanish, French, and English.

Question 11

What is Teranga and why is it important to know it before traveling to Senegal?

Accepted Answer

Teranga is the Wolof concept that defines Senegalese hospitality: a philosophy of life based on unconditional welcome to the visitor, sharing, and generosity. It is not just kindness — it is a deep cultural value that structures social relationships in Senegal and which the traveler experiences from the first moment: in homes, in markets, in the villages of the Saloum Delta. Understanding Teranga before traveling helps agencies better prepare their clients for an experience that can surprise those who expect conventional tourism. It is also the reason why Senegal generates an exceptional loyalty index: most travelers who know Senegal repeat or recommend the destination.

Question 12

In what languages are the services performed?

Accepted Answer

In NeoGeo DMC we understand the importance of clear communication in such specific destinations. Therefore, our teams manage and offer services in four main languages: Spanish, English, French and Italian.
This ensures that both coordination with the agency and the traveler’s experience at the destination are smooth and without language barriers.

Question 13

What is a DMC and how does it differ from a tour operator?

Accepted Answer

A DMC is a local specialized operator that manages destination services: transfers, guides, accommodations, excursions, and on-site logistics. Unlike a tour operator, which designs and sells packages to the end customer, the DMC works exclusively with travel agencies and tour operators, providing them with ground services that they then integrate into their own packages. NeoGeo DMC is the first Spanish-speaking receptive operating directly in Senegal and Gambia, eliminating intermediaries and guaranteeing quality and competitive price.

Question 14

What is the minimum advance time needed to book a circuit in Senegal?

Accepted Answer

We recommend a minimum of 21 days' notice for standard private circuits, although we can manage last-minute bookings subject to availability. For guaranteed group departures, dates are published on the platform months in advance. In high season (December–February) we recommend booking at least 45–60 days in advance to guarantee availability in the most in-demand accommodations, especially in the Lompoul Desert and the Saloum Delta.

Question 15

Can we customize the tourist circuits through Senegal and Gambia?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Although we offer standard circuits with real-time availability, our specialty as a DMC is customization. Agencies can request a quote for tailored itineraries: change of accommodations, extensions, combinations with Gambia, special groups, exclusive dates or premium services. Contact our team through the contact form or directly from your agency panel.

Question 16

Do you issue invoices for European travel agencies?

Accepted Answer

NeoGeo DMC offers total flexibility in billing, adapting to the customer's needs. It is possible to choose payment in euros in Spain through NeoGeo, which simplifies community tax management. If preferred, payment can be made to NeoGeo DMC Senegal, billing from the local company directly in euros. The final price is identical in both options and all invoices are issued net, guaranteeing 100% clear accounting, without surprises from currencies or complications with African taxation.

Question 17

Are international flights included in your packages?

Accepted Answer

No, as a receptive company (DMC) we do not offer international flight services. Our focus and specialization are exclusively centered on destination operations: land logistics, accommodations, expert guides and exclusive experiences in West Africa. Flights are managed directly by travel agencies and professional tour operators that collaborate with us. They are the ones who integrate our land services with air transportation to offer you the complete package.

Question 18

What happens if weather conditions affect the circuit?

Accepted Answer

Senegal has a rainy season that runs from May to October, with peak intensity between July and September, and that can affect some rural routes or outdoor activities. 
In the dry season, from November to April, conditions are very stable and predictable. 
In the event of any unforeseen weather incident, our on‑site team has contingency plans for each circuit: alternative routes, re‑ordering of stages or substitute activities of equal or greater value. 
The safety of the group always takes precedence over the original itinerary.

Question 19

What type of vehicles do you use for transfers in Senegal and Gambia?

Accepted Answer

All our vehicles are cars, 4x4 or minibuses with air conditioning, periodically reviewed and approved for tourist transportation in Senegal and Gambia. The drivers are professional specialists in local tourist logistics, with extensive knowledge of routes and safety protocols. At NeoGeo DMC the guide and the driver are always different people: each one is exclusively dedicated to their function, which guarantees greater professionalism and safety throughout the journey.

Question 20

Why don't your itineraries usually include large international hotel chains?

Accepted Answer

Our philosophy as a local DMC is based on offering an authentic and transformative experience. We believe that if you travel to Africa, you do so to discover its essence, not to stay in a generic environment that you could find anywhere else in the world.

Therefore, we work mainly with eco-lodges and camps, strategically selected so that your experience is as authentic as possible, allowing you to sleep under the stars or in the very heart of nature.

Question 21

What happens if my clients' flight is delayed or cancelled?

Accepted Answer

We know that air incidents are one of the biggest headaches when traveling to West Africa. That's why we operate with total flexibility in the face of flight setbacks.
Our team at the destination monitors the arrival flights of all groups. If a delay occurs, the arrival transfer is automatically adapted without additional cost, as long as the incident has been communicated with the greatest possible advance notice through our platform or by direct contact with our team.
In the event of a flight cancellation that affects the start of the circuit, we analyze each situation on an individual basis to find the solution that minimizes the impact for both the agency and the traveler.

⚠️ We recommend that you always hire a travel insurance that covers cancellations and air delays for your clients.

Question 22

What are the cancellation conditions?

Accepted Answer

In NeoGeo DMC we distinguish two types of cancellation that it is important to know before operating with our platform.
Automatic cancellation due to non-payment
As indicated in our payment conditions, if the service has not been paid before the deadline, the system will automatically cancel the reservation to release the places. Remember that the payment deadline always appears on the service voucher, so we recommend checking it as soon as you make the reservation. The system will also send you reminders by email in advance.
Voluntary cancellation by the agency
The cancellation conditions vary depending on the contracted service and the notice with which it is requested. Like payments, the cancellation deadline without penalty is also reflected on the voucher. Cancellations made outside of that period may be subject to economic penalties according to the specific conditions of each service.
Recommendation
Always check the service voucher as soon as you formalize the reservation. You will find both the payment deadline and the cancellation deadline clearly and summarized, thus avoiding last-minute surprises.

⚠️ In case of doubt, contact our administration team before proceeding with any cancellation.

Question 23

What documentation do travelers need?

Accepted Answer

The necessary documentation to travel depends on the destination, the traveler's nationality, and the contracted circuit. Therefore, there is no single answer applicable to all cases.
Where do I find the specific documentation for each circuit?
Each circuit available on our platform includes its own detailed itinerary, where you will find all relevant information: entry requirements, visas, recommended or mandatory vaccines, and any other specific FAQ related to that destination and program. We recommend that you always consult it before formalizing the reservation.

Question 24

How do you guarantee safety on private tours?

Accepted Answer

The safety of travelers is our top priority and the pillar on which we build each itinerary.

Certified local guides: All our guides are accredited professionals, with specific training in each destination and proven experience with international groups.
Approved vehicles: We work exclusively with transportation providers that meet the safety standards required for tourist transportation in each country.
Verified routes: Before including any route or activity in our catalog, our team evaluates it on the ground. We continuously update the information based on the political, health and weather situation of each area.
24/7 assistance at destination: Throughout the trip, the agency and travelers have a direct contact with our local team for any incident, emergency or last-minute change.

Question 25

What assistance do travelers have in case of a medical emergency?

Accepted Answer

Our circuits include detailed information about the reference medical centers in each destination. Additionally, our local team is available to accompany and manage any medical emergency on the ground: transfers, contact with travel assistance insurance and coordination with local services.
From the platform we strongly recommend that all travelers travel with travel assistance insurance with medical coverage in Africa, since local health systems can be limited in rural or remote areas.

Question 26

What happens if a service is not provided correctly at the destination?

Accepted Answer

If at any moment a service is not provided as contracted, the procedure is clear:

Immediate communication: Contact our team at destination or administration at the time. The sooner it is reported, the faster the solution.
On-site management: Our local team intervenes to correct the situation or provide an alternative of equal or greater value.
Formal complaint: If the problem was not satisfactorily resolved at destination, the agency can submit a formal complaint with documentation of the incident for analysis and compensation if applicable.

No claim will be processed that has not been communicated during the trip itself, as we lose the ability to verify and act on the facts.

Question 27

Why is NeoGeo DMC the best choice for organizing corporate events in Senegal?

Accepted Answer

Senegal is an emerging destination for corporate and incentive tourism that combines three factors hard to find together: cultural authenticity, controllable logistics and competitive cost compared to established destinations such as Morocco or South Africa. NeoGeo DMC is the only Spanish‑speaking inbound agency operating directly on the ground in Senegal and Gambia, which makes us the natural partner for companies and agencies specialized in Spanish‑language corporate tourism.
What do we offer for corporate events?
🏨 Exclusive and out‑of‑the‑ordinary venues: from gala dinners on Gorée Island (UNESCO World Heritage) to events in private camps in the Lompoul Desert or eco‑lodges on the banks of the Saloum Delta. Spaces that no standard catalogue offers and that create a memorable impact on participants.
🚌 Comprehensive on‑site logistics: transfers with a certified private fleet, coordination of local suppliers, permit management, tailored catering and 24/7 assistance throughout the event. Our team in Dakar handles every detail without intermediaries.
📋 European invoicing: all invoices are issued from Spain in euros, without complications with African tax or currencies.
To request a quote for your corporate event in Senegal, contact our team through the contact form or directly from your agency dashboard.

Question 28

How to choose a DMC in Senegal for incentive trips? Guide for agencies

Accepted Answer

Incentive travel in Senegal is growing significantly among European companies seeking authentic and differentiating alternatives to usual destinations. However, choosing the right DMC in a destination like Senegal requires evaluating specific criteria that go beyond price. This guide helps you make the right decision.
✅ The 6 key criteria for choosing a DMC in Senegal:

1. Real presence in destination

A serious DMC has a physical office, a permanent local team, and its own verified suppliers. Be wary of operators who manage Senegal remotely from Europe — logistics on the ground in West Africa require constant physical presence. NeoGeo DMC has an office in Dakar with a dedicated local team.

2. Proven experience with European groups

The profile of the European incentive traveler has very specific expectations in terms of punctuality, hygiene standards, communication, and management of unforeseen events. Verify that the DMC has real experience with groups from your market, not just with local tourism. NeoGeo DMC operates exclusively with European agencies and tour operators.

3. Communication in your language

Coordinating an incentive trip involves dozens of exchanges before, during, and after the trip. A DMC that only operates in French or English generates friction and risk of misunderstandings for Spanish-speaking agencies. NeoGeo DMC is the only Spanish-speaking receptive in Senegal and Gambia.

4. Customization capacity

An incentive trip cannot be a standard circuit with your company's logo on top. The DMC must be able to design exclusive experiences: private dinners in unique locations, cultural team-building activities, handmade welcome gifts, programs adapted to the group's profile. It's our specialty.

5. European billing and taxation

For a Spanish or European company, receiving invoices from Senegal in CFA francs with African taxation is a real accounting problem. Verify that the DMC can bill from Europe in euros. NeoGeo DMC invoices through NeoGeo Global, a Spanish company based in Spain.

6. Institutional backing and verifiable references

Always request references from agencies they have worked with previously and verify their presence in industry organizations. NeoGeo DMC is a member of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Senegal and part of the NeoGeo Global group, with over 12 years of experience in tourism in West Africa.

Why NeoGeo DMC for your next incentive trip to Senegal?
Contact our team to receive a personalized proposal for your group.

Question 29

Is it safe to travel to Mauritania?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it is possible to travel to Mauritania safely if the areas are chosen well and you go with local guides. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs divides the country into three zones. The coast between Nouadhibou, Nouakchott and Rosso is low risk. Between the coast and the 12° West meridian the risk is medium. East of that meridian and on the borders with Western Sahara, Algeria and Mali the risk is high and travel is not recommended. Chinguetti and Ouadane can be visited with caution, preparing the trip with expert local guides. It is also advised to use a well-maintained 4x4, with trustworthy Mauritanian drivers, and not to travel at night.

Question 30

Do I need a visa to travel to Mauritania from Spain?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Spaniards need a visa and must apply online before traveling, only on the official ANRPTS website, anrpts.gov.mr. Visas are no longer issued at Mauritania's embassies or consulates. The fee, about €55, is paid upon arrival, at the first entry point to the country. The passport must be valid for more than six months; otherwise, the visa is not issued.

Question 31

What is the best time to travel to Mauritania?

Accepted Answer

The best time is from November to March, when Sahara temperatures are milder for traveling the desert. It is advisable to avoid summer because of the extreme heat. Also, in the rainy season, from July to October approximately, there are frequent floods in the south. In those humid months the risk of malaria and dengue is also higher in the Senegal River area.

Question 32

What to see in Mauritania in a week?

Accepted Answer

In a week you can combine Nuakchot with the Adrar region, the country's tourist heart. A typical route starts in Nuakchot and its fish market, continues through Atar and the oasis of Terjit and ends in the caravan cities of Chinguetti and Ouadane, with their manuscript libraries. Near Ouadane is also the Richat Structure, known as the Eye of the Sahara. If you prefer the coast, the Banc d'Arguin National Park is one of the great bird sanctuaries of West Africa.

Question 33

Can you travel from Senegal to Mauritania by road?

Accepted Answer

Yes, from Saint-Louis there are two border crossings: Rosso and Diama. In Rosso the Senegal River is crossed by boat, for 500 MRU the journey. Diama is open except in the rainy season, from July to October, and requires crossing the Diawling National Park via a poorly maintained and unmarked dirt track. Many travelers prefer Diama, about 30 km downstream, because it is crossed via the dam bridge and avoids the abusive fees that are notorious in Rosso. The new Rosso bridge is not expected until 2027.

Question 34

What currency is used in Mauritania?

Accepted Answer

The currency is the Mauritanian ouguiya, MRU. One euro equals about 40 ouguiyas, but many people still give prices in the old ouguiyas, MRO, at about 400 per euro. Therefore it is advisable to ask in which currency the price is before paying. Almost nowhere are cards accepted, except some hotels in the capital, and there are only ATMs in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. It is prohibited to take ouguiyas out of the country.

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