March 2001 EDT Australian travellers to Senegal should avoid travel to the Casamance region. Since 1997, armed clashes between a separatist movement and the Government have claimed many victims including civilians, military personnel and rebels. The army and armed rebels have clashed in Cap-Skirring. Visitors should only travel to Cap-Skirring by air and should not venture from the hotel district.
Land mines remain a danger.
Australian travellers should maintain a high level of personal security awareness - pickpockets, purse snatchers and scam artists are active in large crowds. Foreigners have been victims of muggings and robberies. Travellers should remain vigilant, secure their valuables against theft and avoid displays of wealth. Roads are in adequate to poor condition with stretches of pot-holes and other obstacles. Travellers should drive defensively, restrict overland travel to daylight hours on major roads and exercise caution if using public transportation.