GUIDED BIRDWATCHING TOURS
WITH SONKO
The Gambia is Sonko’s home — and his lifelong field of experience. Having grown up in this unique landscape, he combines deep local knowledge with years of guiding expertise to offer professional, well-organised and rewarding birding tours.
Within short distances, The Gambia presents an exceptional diversity of habitats: mangrove creeks, coastal wetlands, savannah, riverbanks and forest reserves. This remarkable variety makes the country one of West Africa’s most exciting birding destinations.
Whether you are targeting specific species or simply wish to experience the richness of West African birdlife, Sonko provides focused guidance, local insight and a calm, attentive approach in the field.
Explore the tours below and discover The Gambia through experienced local guidance.
Pirang Shrimp Farm
Just an hour from the coastal hotels, Pirang’s wetlands open up a world of shimmering lagoons and endless skies. This peaceful coastal habitat attracts flamingos, storks and a wonderful mix of resident and migratory birds.
A perfect introduction to The Gambia’s rich marshland birdlife – calm, scenic and full of surprises.
Abuko Nature Reserve
& Rice Fields
The Gambia’s first protected area is a true forest oasis. Towering trees, freshwater pools and shaded trails create a magical atmosphere for birdwatching.
Here you may encounter kingfishers flashing over the water, colourful turacos moving through the canopy and many secretive forest species hidden in the undergrowth.
A must-visit for anyone who wants to experience rainforest birding in West Africa.
Kartong Wetlands
In the far south of the country lies Kartong – a full-day adventure through one of The Gambia’s most diverse landscapes. From coastal shoreline to reedbeds, rice fields and woodland, the variety of habitats makes every hour exciting.
Pelicans, raptors, bee-eaters and waders can all be found here, making it one of the richest birding areas in the country.
Farasutu Forest
A peaceful community-run forest sanctuary where birdlife thrives. Shaded trails lead through woodland and past permanent water pools bordered by mangroves.
Farasutu is especially rewarding for colourful forest species, nightjars and owls. The atmosphere is quiet, authentic and deeply connected to nature.
Brufut Wood & Tanji Bird Reserve
Close to the hotel areas, Brufut offers excellent birding in open savannah woodland. It is one of the best places in the country to see Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl and a variety of birds of prey.
Nearby Tanji Bird Reserve combines coastal scenery with vibrant local life. Along the shoreline and mudflats, large numbers of terns, gulls and waders gather – especially during migration.
Marakissa Wood
A relaxed and beautiful setting just minutes from the hotels. A canoe trip along the creek allows close encounters with kingfishers, herons and other waterbirds.
With its restaurant and accommodation, Marakissa is ideal for a calm and enjoyable day surrounded by nature.
Kotu Creek & Surroundings
Right on the doorstep of the coastal hotels, Kotu Creek offers easy yet rewarding birdwatching. Mangroves, mudflats and rice fields create a rich mosaic of habitats.
From jacanas walking on lily pads to colourful kingfishers diving into the water, this area provides fantastic photographic opportunities and a gentle introduction to Gambian birdlife.
Tendaba Camp
& River Gambia
Set along the River Gambia, Tendaba is a classic birding destination with a true wilderness atmosphere. Rice fields, dry woodland and riverbanks attract an impressive variety of species.
Boat trips along the river may also reveal hippos and other wildlife, adding a special touch to the experience.
Jajari & Morgan Kunda (North Bank)
On the northern shore of the River Gambia, diverse habitats offer outstanding birding opportunities. Open savannah, farmland and riverine areas host bustards, sandgrouse and many raptors.
This region feels remote and authentic – perfect for travellers seeking something beyond the usual routes.
Janjanbureh (Georgetown) & Up-River Adventures
Further inland, Janjanbureh provides access to some of the country’s most spectacular natural sites. Visits to Kunkilling Forest Park and the famous Red-throated Bee-eater colony at Bansang Quarry are unforgettable highlights.
Boat excursions along the freshwater stretches of the river offer chances to see rare species as well as hippos, chimpanzees and other African wildlife.
An adventure for true nature lovers.
Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary & Northern Senegal
Located near the Senegal River in northern Senegal, Djoudj is one of the most important wetland reserves in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During the migration season, the area becomes a spectacular gathering place for hundreds of thousands of waterbirds.
Boat excursions through the marshes reveal vast flocks of pelicans, flamingos, herons and other waterbirds, creating one of the most impressive birdwatching experiences in Africa.
Surrounding semi-desert landscapes add another dimension, hosting unique species adapted to dry Sahel conditions. The contrast between wetlands and arid plains makes this region exceptionally rich in birdlife.
A remarkable destination for serious birdwatchers as well as travellers looking for a dramatic and unforgettable natural spectacle.
Best season: November to April
Niokolo-Koba National Park (Northern Senegal)
One of West Africa’s last great wilderness areas, Niokolo-Koba National Park offers a true African safari experience. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest national park in Senegal, it is home to an extraordinary diversity of wildlife and birdlife.
Exploring this vast landscape means entering a world where lions still roam freely, herds of antelope move through the savannah and hippos rest along remote riverbanks. Troops of baboons, crocodiles and countless bird species complete this unforgettable wilderness scene.
For birdwatchers, the park is equally exceptional, with rare raptors, river specialists and savannah species that are difficult to see elsewhere in West Africa.
This multi-day adventure is ideal for nature lovers, photographers and travellers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Best season: Year-round
Duration: Overnight trips
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THE GAMBIA´S BIRDLIFE?
Get in touch to plan your personal birding experience.