Because this southern region of Senegal boasts a coastline that was early visited by Portuguese navigators, there has long been speculation about a Lusophone influence in its name.

[3] Casamance is religiously diverse, with the inhabitants practicing Islam, Christianity, and traditional African religions.

The historical ties to Portugal were a factor in Senegal's decision to seek membership of the Community of Portuguese Language Countries (CPLP), becoming an associate observer in 2008.

[5] Interest in Portuguese heritage has been revived in order to exert a distinct identity,[citation needed] particularly in Baixa Casamança.

Bissau-Guineans are also present in the region, as expatriates, immigrants, and refugees from the poverty and instability that since long affects the neighbouring country, including the 1998–1999 Guinea-Bissau Civil War.

The entire Casamance region experiences a tropical savanna climate, with average rainfall greater than the rest of Senegal.