Arrival in Senegal

Dakar - Upon arrival at Blaise Diagne Airport (DSS), the journey continues to Thies for dinner and accommodation.

Northbound Journey – Thiès to Podor via Kebemer and Richard Toll

Birding in Podor

Birding in Djoudj

Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary - The trip to Djoudj offers sightings of Orange-breasted Waxbills, Quailfinches, River Prinia, and Winding Cisticola, along with a diverse array of waterbirds. After lunch, the visit to Grand Lac (Le lac de Guiers) provides opportunities to see Lesser Flamingos, sometimes mingling with Greater Flamingos.

Birding at Bango-Marigots

Saint-Louis - The day begins at the nearby wetlands, showcasing numerous Palearctic waders and many Eurasian Spoonbills. African Spoonbill, White Pelicans, Pink-backed Pelicans, and various other waterbirds are also visible. In the afternoon, the journey heads inland towards the Marigots, where Double-spurred Francolins, African Pygmy Geese, African Swamphens, ‘Iberian’ Yellow Wagtails, and Winding Cisticolas can be observed.

Birding in Saint Louis

Saint-Louis - The morning is spent in the St. Louis area, with sightings of West African Crested Terns, Caspian, Sandwich, and Gull-billed Terns, Slender-billed Gulls, Lesser Black-backed, and Mediterranean Gull, among others. In the afternoon, the return to the Marigots offers chances to spot Orange-breasted Waxbills and Greater Swamp Warblers.

Scenic birding and journey to Kaolack

Travel to Kedougou

Kedougou - The drive to Kedougou, near the Guinea border in southeastern Senegal, begins with a visit to the outskirts of Kaolack, hoping to see Scissor-tailed Kites departing from their roost in the Saloum Delta. On the way to Tambacounda (where lunch is enjoyed), sightings of Piapiac, Red-necked Falcon, and Scissor-tailed Kites are possible. During lunch, Brown Babblers and Purple Starlings may be seen.

Birding in Kedougou

Kedougou - The first morning in the Kedougou area involves exploring the eastern escarpment, where Martial Eagles, Gosling’s Buntings, African Blue Flycatcher, Snowy-crowned Robin Chats, and Sahel Bush Sparrows (formerly known as Bush Petronia) are easily spotted. In the afternoon, the journey heads west of Kedougou in search of Sun Larks, Finespotted Woodpeckers, Heuglin’s Masked Weavers, Red-throated Bee-eaters, and Grey-headed Kingfisher.

Dindefelo

Escarpment Birding and Transfer to Wassadou via Niokolo Koba NP

Wassadou - The final morning in the Kedougou area focuses on the escarpment near Fongolimbi, with a stop to see Fox Kestrels, Northern Red-headed Weavers, and Senegal Eremomelas. After collecting bags in Kedougou (and a picnic lunch), the journey continues north through Niokolo Koba NP to the next base on the Gambia River at Wassadou.

Birding in Wassadou

Wassadou - Two days are dedicated to exploring the river, with morning and evening trips on the small lodge boat or along the trails. Sightings include Adamawa Turtle Doves, European Turtle Dove, Egyptian Plovers, African Finfoots, Northern Carmine Bee-eaters, Giant Kingfishers, and many others, including numerous Senegal Thick-knees and African Wattled Lapwings.

Birding in Wassadou

Wassadou - Similar to day 12, another day in Wassadou offers opportunities to add species like Northern Carmine Bee-eaters, Giant Kingfishers, and many others, including plenty of Senegal Thick-knees and African Wattled Lapwings.

Travel to Coast

Parc National du Delta du Saloum - After a final night at Wassadou, a long drive to the coast begins. Along the way, sightings of Lesser Blue-eared Starling, Paradise-whydahs, Tawny Eagle, African Hawk Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle, Red-necked Falcon, and Verreaux’s Eagle Owls are possible.

Birding in Delta du Saloum and driving to Dakar

Parc National du Delta du Saloum - The Saloum Delta, characterized by marine habitats, mangroves, and saltwater vegetation, as well as river islands, is explored early in the morning by boat. The mangrove-lined streams and mud banks of the Saloum Delta host wintering shorebirds, including Caspian and Gull-billed Terns. Ospreys can also be observed along the Senegambia coast. In the afternoon, a visit to Sandicoly offers sightings of Yellow-throated Leafloves and Black-necked Weavers. Later in the afternoon, the journey continues to Dakar (230km/4 hours).

Birding at Technopole and drive to the airport

Dakar - Breakfast is served at 7:30 am, followed by a trip to Technopole (30 minutes) for morning bird watching. Technopole is a lush and humid area within Dakar, featuring a freshwater area and terrestrial shrubs. After lunch, visits to the African Renaissance Monument and handicraft shops are planned before heading to the airport. END

• Private transport
• Fullboard accommodation
• Lunch
• Dinner
• Breakfast

• Gratuities
• laundry, alcohol drinks, visa

Embark on a captivating 16-day birdwatching journey through Senegal’s vibrant landscapes, where over 698 bird species are ready to be discovered. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Gorée Island and the expansive wetlands of Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary, and delve into the rich natural heritage of West Africa. Experience the beauty of migratory and endemic birds amidst stunning scenery, all while enjoying the comfort of full-board accommodations and expert guidance. This tour is ideal for passionate birdwatchers eager to thoroughly explore Senegal’s diverse birdlife.

• Explore renowned birdwatching locations such as Djoudj and Saloum Delta National Park
• Benefit from full-board accommodations with meals included
• Travel in a private safari vehicle with an English/French-speaking driver
• A minimum of 6 participants is required for this adventure

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.