Senegal is located in Western Africa, and its capital is Dakar. It has a population of approximately 18,501,984 and covers an area of about 196,710 km². Its official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF).
What stands out
People & place
94.1 /km² across 196,710 km²
Senegal has a recorded population of 18,501,984 and a reported surface area of 196,710 km².
Economic snapshot
$32.81 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $32.81 billion and GDP per capita at $1,773 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
West African CFA franc (XOF)
Senegal uses West African CFA franc (XOF), calling code +221, internet domain .sn.
About Senegal
Senegal, officially the Republic of Senegal, is a country in West Africa. It is the westernmost country of the African mainland, from which the name "Senegal" is derived.
Senegal has a total area of 196,722 square kilometers (75,955 sq mi). Its territory lies between the Sénégal River in the north and the Gambia River in the south. The country's climate is largely Sahelian, characterized by a dry season and a rainy season.
Senegalese culture is a rich blend of Wolof, Pulaar, Serer, Mandinka, Soninke, and various other ethnic groups. Islam is the predominant religion, and music, dance, and storytelling play significant roles in daily life and celebrations. The national sport is wrestling (laamb).
Senegal has a long history, with evidence of early human habitation. It was influenced by various empires, including the Ghana, Mali, and Songhai empires. Colonized by the French, Senegal gained independence in 1960. Its history is marked by periods of both consolidation and regional interaction.
Key facts
Capital: Dakar
Official Language: French
Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Senegal has a recorded population of approximately 18,501,984 people.
How big is Senegal?
Senegal covers an area of about 196,710 km².
What is the population density of Senegal?
Senegal has a population density of roughly 94.1 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Senegal?
Senegal has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $32.81 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Senegal?
Senegal has a GDP per capita of approximately $1,773.
What currency is used in Senegal?
Senegal uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), with the symbol CFA.
Where is Senegal located?
Senegal is located in Western Africa, Africa.
What is the native name of Senegal?
The native name of Senegal is Sénégal.
What are people from Senegal called?
People from Senegal are referred to as Senegalese.
What is the phone calling code for Senegal?
The international dialing code for Senegal is +221.
What is the internet domain for Senegal?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Senegal is .sn.
What time zone is Senegal in?
Senegal uses the Africa/Dakar time zone.
What is Senegal known for?
Senegal, officially the Republic of Senegal, is a country in West Africa. It is the westernmost country of the African mainland, from which the name "Senegal" is derived.
Western Africa