Senegal has rich traditions and the importance of greeting in a Senegal village cannot be over emphasised, although the ritual can seem strange to people living in the hurly burly of the west. 'Salaamalekum' is an almost requirement before further interaction can take place. If not said, you'll probably be told "s/he went to learn how to greet" in other words, you're rude!

The values of Senegal are represented in the colours of the national flag. The yellow represents the savannah, the green symbolising forest and hope whilst the red reflects the blood spilt in the fight for liberty. Senegal's national motto is "One people, one aim, one faith" and its national identity is deeply rooted in 'Thiossane', a word used by the Wolof as well as the Serer (Fulani) ethnic groups, that means "history, tradition, and culture." The Wolof people, who live mainly in the north of the country, live traditional lifestyles built around goat herding and, if you ever meet a tribesman, the following expression "Degouma ouolof" will be handy as it means "I don't understand Wolof"! Along the coastline Serere fishermen take to the sea in their wooden pirogues returning in the afternoon to sell their catch at market, whilst the Pulaar occupy the Senegal river valley and Ferlo region, engaged mainly in farming.

Festivals and celebrations in Senegal culture are a common occurrence. The birth of each child is marked with the naming of the baby by the elders accompanied by the slaying of an animal in line with the family's wealth, ranging from a chicken to a cow. A party follows during which a collection is made for the newborn and this often continues long into the night.