# Updated Senegal Travel Advisory: What Ottawa Travellers Need to Know Before Departure
If you’re an Ottawa traveller planning a trip to Senegal, the Government of Canada has just updated its travel advisory on April 22, 2026. The country remains at **Level 2 — Exercise a High Degree of Caution**, primarily due to crime levels and regional security concerns. Before you pack your bags, here’s what you need to understand about the current situation and how to prepare properly.
## Understanding the Current Advisory
Canada maintains a Level 2 risk rating for Senegal, which means travellers should exercise heightened caution throughout their visit. The most recent update reflects a comprehensive review of security conditions across the country, with particular attention to the Casamance region and areas bordering Mali and Mauritania.
## Regional Security Concerns
While Senegal’s Casamance region has seen improvements following a February 2025 peace agreement, not all armed groups signed on. Some rebel factions remain active near the Gambian border, where clashes with security forces can erupt unexpectedly. Landmines and unexploded ordnance still pose dangers in specific districts including Northern Sindian, Niassya, and areas around Oussouye.
The border zones with Mali and Mauritania present additional risks due to terrorist groups that operate in these frontier areas, with kidnapping being a serious concern. If your itinerary includes these regions, reconsider the necessity of visiting them.
## Urban Safety Considerations
Senegal’s larger cities experience frequent strikes and demonstrations that can escalate from peaceful gatherings to violent confrontations without warning. These events disrupt transportation networks and create unpredictable situations for visitors. Crime remains the primary reason for the elevated advisory level throughout the country.
## Essential Preparation for Ottawa Travellers
Beyond understanding security risks, Ottawa travellers must prioritize health preparation before departing for Senegal. West Africa presents specific health challenges including malaria, yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis A. Many of these diseases are preventable through proper vaccination and prophylactic medications.
A pre-travel health consultation allows you to receive personalized advice based on your specific itinerary, medical history, and planned activities. Your travel health provider can recommend appropriate vaccines, prescribe anti-malarial medications, and help you assemble a medical kit tailored to Senegalese health risks.
Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage and evacuation provisions is non-negotiable for Senegal travel. Ensure your policy covers the specific regions you’ll visit and activities you’ll undertake.
## Smart Travel Practices
If visiting Casamance, travel only during daylight hours, stick to main roads, and consider joining a convoy with reputable tour operators. Throughout Senegal, avoid demonstration areas, monitor local news sources, and maintain awareness of your surroundings to reduce crime risk.
Register with the Canadian government’s Registration of Canadians Abroad service so authorities can reach you during emergencies or natural disasters.
Travelling to Senegal? Before you go, speak with one of our ISTM-certified travel health physicians – virtually, 7 days a week. A pre-travel consultation covers vaccines, medications, and destination-specific health risks. Book your virtual consultation at Orleans Travel Clinic Pharmacy.