14 day Tours
14 Day Comprehensive Gambia Birding Tour
The Ultimate Birding Adventure
Luxury Accommodations
Stay in the finest eco-lodges and boutique hotels throughout The Gambia
Complete Coverage
Visit all major birding sites from coast to interior, including remote locations
Cultural Immersion
Extensive cultural experiences including traditional villages and local customs
Tour Statistics
Expected Species : 400+
Habitats Visited :8 Different
Accommodation Level : Mid-range
Physical Difficulty : Easy-Moderate
What's Included
- Expert guide Karanta Camara
- Airport transfers
- All transportation
- All meals and beverages
- Park entrance fees
- Boat trip expenses
- Binoculars and field guides
Golden Hour Focus
Scheduled around optimal lighting conditions for bird photography
Tour Overview
Comprehensive Birding Adventure
1
Arrival & First Encounters with Coastal Birds
Upon arrival at the airport, you will be welcomed and transferred to Lemon Creek Hotel on the coast. Along the way, we will begin birding familiarization, observing common coastal and woodland species to get your first taste of The Gambia’s rich avifauna. Depending on your arrival time, we will also explore the hotel’s immediate surroundings, including its gardens, which are home to species such as Blue-breasted Kingfishers, Pygmy Kingfishers, Woodland Kingfishers, Broad-billed Rollers, Pearl-spotted Owlets, and various Bee-eaters.
- Hotel check-in
- Afternoon at Kotu Bridge
- Welcome dinner
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2
Brufut Woods & Tanji Lagoons
We begin the day with an early 7:00 am departure after breakfast, driving just 10 km (under 25 minutes) to Brufut Woods, a community-managed forest and one of the region’s birding gems. Here we’ll explore the woodland trails, moving quietly through the most productive areas in search of both forest and edge-dwelling species. By mid-morning, we’ll gather at a woodland hide and refreshment bar, where a specially designed drinking pool attracts some of the area’s most exotic birds, offering excellent opportunities for close viewing and photography. Species frequently seen here include Green and Violet Turacos, Grey-headed Bristlebills, Pygmy Kingfisher, Yellow-throated Leaflove, and Yellow White-eye. Other highlights of the forest may include Long-tailed Nightjar, Klaas’s and Diederik Cuckoo, Shikra, Red-necked Falcon, Black-shouldered Kite, and White-faced Scops Owl. At 12:30 pm we continue just 5 km (15 minutes) to Tanji Eco Lodge for a leisurely lunch break beside another birding pool, where species such as Sulphur-breasted Bushshrike, African Silverbill, Western Bluebill, and Yellow-crowned Gonolek are regular visitors.
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3
Abuko Nature Reserve, Tambi Wetland & Kotu Birding Circuit
We start the day early at 7:00 am with a 25-minute (20 km) drive from the hotel to Abuko Nature Reserve, one of the oldest and most iconic birding sites in the region. This reserve protects a lush stretch of gallery forest, semi-wooded scrub, and dense undergrowth interlaced with streams, creating a haven for both resident and migratory species. Expected highlights include Black Crake, Western Bluebill, Common Wattle-eye, African Goshawk, Violet and Green Turacos, Palm-nut Vulture, Giant Kingfisher, Oriole Warbler, Black-necked Weaver, Little Greenbul, among many others. By mid-morning, we’ll move just across the road to the Tambi Wetlands, an important rice field and market garden habitat tended by local women. This area is excellent for elusive and skulking species such as Dwarf Bittern, Little Bittern, African Crake, Black Crake, Pearl-spotted Owlet, Lizard Buzzard, and Squacco Heron. At 1:00 pm, we’ll return to the coast for lunch at one of the best beachfront restaurants in Kotu. After lunch, the rest of the day will be spent birding around the Kotu Circuit, a compact yet highly productive area that includes the famous Kotu Bridge, rice fields, nature trail, golf course, ponds, and mangroves.
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4
Journey Up River to Morgan Kunda Lodge
We depart early at 7:00 am from the hotel for a full day journey upriver towards Morgan Kunda Lodge on the north bank, where we will stay overnight. The drive covers approximately 170 km and takes about 7 hours, allowing for multiple birding stops along diverse habitats on the way. Our first stop will be at Mandinaba Woods, followed by Farasutu Forest, both excellent sites for forest and woodland specialists. Continuing onward, we’ll make a series of key birding stops including Kampanti rice fields, Bullock Woods, Kanlagi wetlands and woods, Kwinala Bateling tracks, Nema Woods, and eventually the stretch around Soma and Yelli Tenda–Farafenyi crossing into the north bank.
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5
Exploring Jimmansar Katchang Woods & Cross-Border Habitats
On our second day at Morgan Kunda Lodge, we will set off after breakfast at 7:30 am for a full day of birding across diverse habitats. Our first destination is Jimmansar Katchang Woods, just a 15-minute drive (15 km) from the lodge. This vast area comprises savannah woodland, farmland bordered by rice fields, wetlands, and rocky hills dotted with mature trees. Its strategic location along the Baobolong Wetland Reserve makes it an excellent site for migratory species passing through from Northeast Senegal, as well as a host of local specialties. Birds we can expect here include: Migrants & Passerines: Common Nightingale, Willow Warbler, Melodious Warbler, Quail Finch Bustards & Courser: Savile’s, Black-bellied, and White-bellied Bustards, Temminck’s Courser Specialty Species: Chestnut-bellied Sandgrouse, White-fronted Black Chat, Flappet Lark, Speckle-fronted Weaver Raptors: African Hawk-Eagle, Bateleur, Beaudouin’s Snake-Eagle Others: Brown-rumped Bunting, Senegal Batis, and many more.
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6
Swallow-tailed Kite Island & Cross-border Birding Adventure
After an early breakfast, we will depart Morgan Kunda Lodge at 7:00 am and head toward the Senegal border. The visa process here is usually quick, and once completed we will continue our journey, covering 140 km (approx. 3 hours) into Senegal. Along the way, we will enjoy en-route birding, arriving at Kaolack and onwards to Kousmar Island by around 10:30 am. This island is famous for hosting one of the most spectacular birding spectacles in the region—the Swallow-tailed Kites roosting in their thousands. Witnessing these elegant raptors in such numbers is truly unforgettable. After spending time at the roost, we will explore the surrounding semi-desert and grassland habitats, which are home to a variety of special species. Expected highlights include: Sudan Golden Sparrow Chestnut-bellied Starling Bronze-winged Courser Lesser Kestrel Plus, a supporting cast of semi-arid grassland and savannah species.
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7
Birding Journey to Georgetown (Janjanbureh Island)
Still on the northern part of the country, we will depart Morgan Kunda Lodge at 7:30 am after breakfast and begin our journey towards Georgetown (Janjanbureh Island). The drive covers about 170 km, taking 6–7 hours with frequent birding stops at key sites along the way. Notable birding locations include: Kaur Wetland Wassu Sand Pits Kuntaur Rice Fields Various waterholes and freshwater ponds dotted along the river corridor These habitats are rich in diversity, offering excellent opportunities to encounter some of the region’s most sought-after species. Expected highlights include: Red-throated Bee-eaters (at their breeding colonies) Northern Carmine Bee-eaters Black Coucal Marabou Stork Black-crowned Crane Pin-tailed Whydah Sahel & Exclamatory Paradise Whydahs Cut-throat Finch Egyptian Plover – a true highlight and specialty of this stretch Rüppell's Griffon Vulture White-backed Vulture Lappet-faced Vulture
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8
Crossing into Southern Senegal (Wassadu Camp)
After an early breakfast, we set off on a long journey of approximately 350 km, heading east through Basse and beyond the Gambian border to reach Wassadu Camp in southern Senegal. This will be a full-day trip of 7–8 hours, including birding stops along the way. At the Wellingara border point, we will complete a quick visa process before continuing into Senegal. From there, the road passes through grasslands, savannah woodlands, scrubland, farmlands, gallery forests with tall trees, and hilly rocky landscapes, creating a rich variety of habitats to explore. We will make frequent birding stops at key sites, with a picnic lunch en route, as we search for specialty species of this region. Expected highlights include: Little Green Bee-eater Dark Chanting Goshawk Bateleur White-headed Vulture Little Buttonquail White-throated Francolin White-shouldered Black Tit Great Sparrowhawk Ovambo Sparrowhawk And many more… By late evening, we will arrive at Wassadu Camp, our base for the next couple of nights. The camp is highly sought-after due to its strategic location overlooking the river, so advance booking is essential. After check-in, we will relax and enjoy the atmosphere before dinner and rest.
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9
River Gambia Boat Trip & Safari at Niokolo-Koba Park
Our second day at Wassadu Camp begins with an early breakfast, followed by a three-hour boat trip on the River Gambia. The river’s lush banks and overhanging trees are home to a dazzling variety of species, providing excellent opportunities to spot African Finfoot, White-backed Night Heron, Shining-blue Kingfisher, African Fish Eagle, and even the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl. Along the way, we will also encounter colonies of Red-throated Bee-eaters at their nesting holes. After a midday lunch break at the camp, we will set out on an afternoon safari in Niokolo-Koba National Park, the largest and wildest reserve in the region. The park boasts a remarkable range of habitats, from rainforest and gallery forest to thick savannah woodland, with towering riverbank trees offering shelter to both rare birds and iconic mammals. Birding and wildlife highlights may include: White-throated Francolin Fairy-blue Flycatcher Saddle-billed Stork White-headed and Egyptian Plovers Hadada Ibis Leopards, Lions, Warthogs, and Antelopes By late evening, we will return to Wassadu Camp for dinner and our second overnight stay, reflecting on a day filled with both birding treasures and wildlife encounters.
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10
Return Journey from Wassadu to The Gambia
After an early breakfast at Wassadu Camp, we will begin our return journey, retracing the route back to The Gambia. Crossing the border at Wellingara, we will complete a quick passport process before re-entering the country. Our overnight stop will be at Maggie’s Lodge in Bansang, a welcoming base within the town. The drive will take most of the day, but as always, we will make several birding stops at key sites along the route. A picnic lunch under the shade of a large tree will provide a refreshing break during the journey. Birds we hope to encounter along the way include: Ahanta Francolin Gabar Goshawk African Goshawk Chestnut-backed Sparrow-Lark African Hobby Splendid Glossy Starling …and more regional specialties The landscapes we pass through will mirror those experienced on the journey out: savannah woodland, scattered farmlands, grasslands, and gallery forest patches. Each stop provides yet another chance to add valuable species to our growing checklist.
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11
Journey from Bansang to the Coast via Key Birding Sites
After breakfast at Bansang, we will begin the day by visiting the Bansang Quarry, briefly checking the breeding holes of the Red-throated Bee-eaters. From there, we will continue our journey toward the coast, enjoying a full day of birding along this diverse stretch of landscape. The route features vast woodlands, large trees, farmlands, wetlands, rice fields, hills, valleys, and waterholes, providing excellent opportunities to observe a wide variety of species in their natural habitats. Key stops along the way include: Jahally Rice Fields in Sapu Sambang Wetland Dalaba Waterhole Tonyataba Woods Wurrokang/Bateling Tracks And several additional sites en route A picnic lunch under the shade of a large tree will give everyone a chance to relax and enjoy the surrounding birdlife.
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12
Penyem Woods, Seffoe Wetlands & Coastal Birding
After an early breakfast at the lodge, we will start the day at 7:00 am, exploring the surrounding woods and nearby habitats. Our first half-day excursion takes us to Darslame and Seffoe Wetlands, just 10 minutes’ drive from the lodge. These wetlands offer excellent opportunities to observe a variety of waterbirds and wetland species. Following the morning session, we will return to the lodge for lunch, taking full advantage of the bird-friendly water jars and feeding stations on the premises. This is a great chance to photograph and observe species such as: Violet Turaco Yellow-throated Leaflove Lesser, Spotted, and Greater Honeyguides Malachite, Blue-breasted, and Giant Kingfishers Palm-nut Vulture African Harrier-Hawk After lunch, we will head to Penyem Woods, located 10 km from the lodge, for the afternoon session. This area features semi-savannah woodlands, gallery forests, farmlands, and rice fields, providing a diverse mix of habitats. Expected species include: White-breasted Cuckoo-shrike Red-shouldered Cuckoo-shrike African Scops Owl African Golden Oriole Shining-blue Kingfisher Grey-headed Kingfisher Lizard Buzzard White-crested Helmet Shrike White-throated Bee-eater And many more local and resident species By late afternoon, we will return to Lemon Creek Hotel on the coast, concluding our 12-day birding adventure with memories of an incredible variety of birds, habitats, and landscapes.
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13
Farasutu Forest & Community Birding Experience
After breakfast, we will set out for a day trip to Farasutu Forest, located about 30 km from the lodge, with lunch at Sitajoyeh Lodge on the island. This community-managed forest features a mix of woodland, gallery forest, farmlands, and riverine stretches along its edges, making it a hotspot for both resident and migratory birds. Bird species expected in this area include: African Wood Owl Greyish Eagle Owl Grey-headed Bristlebill Vieillot's Barbet Yellow-bellied Hyliota Black Wood Hoopoe Stripe Kingfisher Bruce’s Green Pigeon Yellow Penduline Tit Cardinal Woodpecker Brown-backed Woodpecker Fine-spotted Woodpecker Buff-spotted Woodpecker And many more In the afternoon, we will wrap up the day at a local photography hide, offering close-up views of some of the forest’s most colorful and charismatic species, such as: Green-headed Sunbird Purple Glossy Starling Splendid Glossy Starling Klaas’ Cuckoo Black-faced Firefinch Brown-necked Parrot And many more We will return to the camp for our final overnight stay, reflecting on a rewarding day filled with both birding and photography opportunities in one of the region’s richest habitats.
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14
Final Birding & Departure
After breakfast at the camp, we will have a few hours to enjoy some final birding around the lodge grounds, if time allows. Otherwise, we will depart directly for the airport, which is less than 20 minutes’ drive away. This concludes your unforgettable journey, leaving you with indelible memories of incredible birding experiences and a rich list of species observed across The Gambia and neighboring regions. This adventure is sure to inspire a return visit to explore even more of the region’s diverse habitats. Accommodation Note: Some lodges used during the tour offer basic standard facilities, as they are the only suitable options in these remote areas. Despite this, the service is excellent, and the locations provide optimal access to prime birding sites.
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Everything You Need for a Perfect Tour
What is included?
Airport Transfer
Double or twin accommodation
Food, Water Bottle
Park Fee
Transportation
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