Culture & Etiquette

Islam has been the major influence on life in this country since the 7th and 8th centuries. Foreigners should respect local laws and dress modestly, particularly if visiting a mosque or other religious site.

The bulk of the population is divided into two main Moorish groups, the Bidan (55%) and the Harattin (20%), with the non-Moorish population concentrated in the Senegal River area. Different classes and tribes tend to be contiguous. Visitors should respect local customs.