Culture and 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.