Travel in French-speaking Africa

It depends on your nationality and on the country. Depending on the passport, the same country can be visa-free, require an e-visa, a visa on arrival or an embassy visa: for example, with a US passport, 4 of the 26 countries can be visited without a visa for a short stay (Mauritius, Morocco, Tunisia and Senegal). Our visa tool gives the rule for your passport, with a link to the official site. Our advice: apply one to two weeks before you leave, even if the answer often comes sooner.

It is required to enter 15 of the 26 countries, and may be required depending on where you are coming from in 8 others. Since 2016, a single dose is valid for life for most adults (WHO). Keep your yellow card with your passport: each country guide gives the rule.

In 13 of the 26 countries, the currency is the CFA franc, pegged to the euro: 1 euro = 655.957 CFA francs. Elsewhere, each country has its own currency: the dirham in Morocco, the dinar in Tunisia and Algeria, the ariary in Madagascar, the rupee in Mauritius and the Seychelles. The Money section of each guide explains where to withdraw cash and how to pay.

The situation varies a lot from one country to another, and sometimes from one region to another. As of October 17, 2026, the French foreign ministry (France Diplomatie) advises against all travel to Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso, and to some areas of many other countries. Before booking, read the Safety section of the country guide and check your own government's travel advice.

Hambya, from the Zulu word hamba, “to travel”, is a practical guide to the 26 countries of French-speaking Africa: entry requirements checked against official sources, places to see on the map, festivals and holidays. An audio guide app is coming soon.