Bird Photography Tour Gambia

Itinerary – Wildlife Photography Expedition Through The Gambia & Senegal

A Flexible Wildlife Photography Adventure

This itinerary has been designed with flexibility at its core, allowing us to adapt to wildlife activity, weather, light and unexpected photographic opportunities as they arise. Nature rarely works to a fixed schedule, and this approach gives us the best possible chance of making the most of every day in the field.

Over two unforgettable weeks, we journey through some of West Africa’s richest wildlife habitats — from mangrove creeks and winding rivers to tropical forests, wetlands and remote savannah landscapes. Along the way we photograph an extraordinary diversity of birds, monkeys, crocodiles, hippos and, with luck, even chimpanzees and the rare West African lion.

Day 1: Arrival in The Gambia & First Impressions of West Africa

Our adventure begins in Banjul, where we meet at Banjul International Airport after our flights from the UK.

On arrival we are welcomed by our local guide, Burama, whose knowledge of Gambian wildlife, birds and photography locations is second to none. He will accompany us throughout the journey, helping us make the very most of every photographic opportunity over the next two weeks.

From the airport we travel around an hour to our first lodge, where we will spend the next three nights.

After check-in there is time to freshen up and relax before our first dinner together. If time allows, we may take a short walk around the surrounding area for our first taste of Gambian birdlife and scenery.

Days 2 & 3: Canoe Safaris, Coastal Birdlife & Photography Hides

Our lodge is beautifully located beside the winding Allahein River, surrounded by lush gardens alive with birdsong and wildlife. Crocodiles are regularly seen along the riverbanks, while the peaceful setting offers the perfect introduction to West African wildlife photography.

To keep the experience personal and photography-friendly, the group divides into two smaller groups. On Day 3 the groups swap activities so everyone experiences the full programme.

 

Activity 1 – Silent Canoe Safari on the Allahein River

At first light we head out onto the calm waters of the Allahein River in traditional canoes, expertly paddled by local guides. Travelling silently allows us to approach wildlife closely without disturbance, while shooting from just above the water creates stunning low-angle, eye-level perspectives.

Species regularly encountered include kingfishers, bee-eaters, rollers, weavers, sunbirds, herons, ducks, waders and birds of prey.

After breakfast overlooking the river, the remainder of the day is spent around the lodge and gardens, with time to relax, photograph around the grounds or review images. Lunch is served at the lodge.

In the evening we gather for dinner and optional photo reviews.

 

Activity 2 – Guided Bird Walks, Fishing Villages & Photography Hides

This morning we explore woodland, wetlands and open terrain on foot with a local guide in search of birds including hornbills, kingfishers, rollers, bee-eaters, glossy starlings, turacos, herons and waders.

After breakfast we drive to a traditional fishing village on the Atlantic coast, offering both fascinating cultural scenes and excellent bird photography opportunities. Here we photograph terns in flight alongside pied kingfishers, sandpipers, curlews and African fish eagles.

In the afternoon we photograph from a nearby hide, where species may include African paradise flycatcher, firefinch, kingfisher, turaco, bee-eater, blue-bellied roller, bulbul, babbler, pigeons and weavers.

Later we return to the lodge to relax before dinner.

Day 4: Nightjars, Woodland Walks & Mangrove Eco-Camp

Today we travel around 130 km inland to the oldest eco-camp in The Gambia, beautifully situated within mangroves on the southern bank of the Gambia River.

En route we explore community-managed woodland near Farasuta, where we search for woodpeckers, bee-eaters and sunbirds, with excellent opportunities for owls and nightjars deeper within the forest.

A local scout joins us after checking bird activity earlier in the morning, helping maximise our chances in the field.

If time allows, we also visit a public bird hide for species such as firefinches, sunbirds and blue-bellied rollers.

After lunch at the eco-camp, the group splits to photograph from nearby hides frequented by colourful birdlife, along with mongooses, squirrels, lizards and colobus monkeys.

Dinner is served back at the eco-camp.

Day 5: Mangrove Boat Safari, Crocodiles & River Birds

Today we explore deep into the mangroves on one of the photographic highlights of the trip.

Crossing the Gambia River by boat, we navigate a maze of winding creeks and hidden waterways rich in wildlife.

From the boat we photograph pelicans, herons, kingfishers, bee-eaters, cormorants, storks, birds of prey and numerous waders. Crocodiles are commonly seen along the muddy banks, with occasional sightings of Nile monitors.

With luck, we may also encounter elusive species such as African finfoot, white-backed night heron and even Pel’s fishing owl.

After lunch at the lodge, we return to the alternative photography hide before another relaxed evening together.

Day 6: East to Bansang & Riverside Bird Photography

Today we continue east towards Bansang, travelling roughly 170 km through rural Gambian landscapes.

Along the route we stop frequently for bird sightings and photographic opportunities, and if time allows we may also visit a hotspot for bee-eaters and other species.

Our riverside lodge sits directly beside the Gambia River and is surrounded by gardens rich in birdlife.

After check-in, the afternoon is free to relax, explore with your camera or continue photographing around the lodge before dinner together in the evening.

Day 7: Crossing into Senegal & Arrival at Niokolo-Koba

Today we leave The Gambia and cross into Senegal.

After a drive of approximately 200 km we arrive at our riverside lodge, which will serve as our base for the next three nights. Surrounded by wilderness and located close to Niokolo-Koba National Park, it is perfectly placed for exploring one of West Africa’s most important wildlife regions.

As always, we make regular photography stops along the route before arriving in the late afternoon for dinner and relaxation.

Day 8: Hippos, River Wildlife & Boat Photography

This morning we enjoy a relaxed exploration of the river around the lodge, a rich habitat for birds, hippos and other wildlife.

After lunch we head out by boat to photograph the river from water level. Hippos, crocodiles, monkeys and a huge variety of bird species are all possible.

We return to the lodge in the evening for dinner together.

Day 9: Full-Day Safari in Niokolo-Koba National Park

Today we spend the full day exploring Niokolo-Koba National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of West Africa’s premier wildlife reserves.

Travelling by 4×4 with a local guide, we search for wildlife across this vast wilderness. Possible sightings include Guinea baboons, green monkeys, patas monkeys, warthogs and antelope such as waterbuck and roan antelope, alongside hornbills, herons and a remarkable diversity of birdlife.

With exceptional luck, there is even a chance of encountering the rare West African lion, a critically endangered and slowly recovering population found within the park.

Lunch is taken inside the reserve before returning to the lodge for dinner and relaxation.

Day 10: Boat Safari & Chimpanzees on the Riverbank

Today we leave Senegal and return to The Gambia.

At Janjanbureh we cross the river by ferry before continuing to our peaceful riverside lodge in Kuntaur.

In the afternoon we head out by boat into Gambia River National Park. Birdlife is abundant and hippos are occasionally seen, but the true highlight is the opportunity to photograph wild chimpanzees directly from the water.

As the chimpanzees feed, move and rest along the riverbanks, the low angle from the boat creates rare eye-level perspectives, often with beautiful reflections and clean natural backgrounds — an exceptional wildlife photography experience.

After returning to the lodge we relax before dinner.

Day 11: Georgetown River Safari & Red-Throated Bee-Eaters

After breakfast we travel to Georgetown for another superb river safari along the main river and its tributaries.

The focus today is bird photography, with excellent opportunities throughout the morning.

After lunch we explore nearby rice fields and open savannah before visiting a colony of striking red-throated bee-eaters.

Dinner is back at the lodge.

Day 12: Bird Hides & Walking Safari near Illiassa

Today we travel around 100 km to a lodge near Illiassa, an excellent area for bird photography.

Species regularly encountered include golden-headed gonolek, fairy sunbird and African paradise flycatcher.

After lunch the group splits, with half exploring on foot while the other photographs from a bird hide before swapping later in the afternoon.

We finish the day with dinner and optional photo discussions.

Day 13: Luxury Mangrove Lodge & Relaxed Garden Photography

After breakfast we continue west, crossing back to the southern side of the Gambia River via the Farafenni Bridge.

Around midday we arrive at one of the more luxurious lodges in The Gambia, beautifully situated beside a mangrove creek and surrounded by gardens filled with birds, monkeys and fruit bats.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace — whether relaxing with a drink or photographing wildlife around the lodge grounds.

We end the day with an excellent dinner together.

Day 14: Bijilo Forest & Monkey Photography

After a relaxed breakfast we visit a nearby birding area known for bee-eaters and rollers before continuing to a private bird hide for firefinches, weavers and blue-bellied rollers.

We then travel to Bijilo for lunch by the beach.

In the afternoon we explore Bijilo Forest Park, home to green vervet monkeys and photogenic colobus monkeys.

Later we head to our lodge before dinner at a nearby beachside restaurant.

Day 15: Kotu Creek Birding & Departure

After breakfast we visit Kotu Creek, one of the country’s most famous birding locations and a superb final chance for wildlife photography.

We then continue to Mandinari for lunch within the beautiful Tanbi Wetlands, followed by one final photography session.

Later in the afternoon we transfer to the airport and say our goodbyes.

We leave West Africa with unforgettable memories, extraordinary wildlife encounters, and memory cards and hard drives full of spectacular images from one of Africa’s most rewarding wildlife photography destinations.

Prices & Inclusions

This trip can be booked starting from £3,849 based on shared accommodation.
Single Room Supplement: £450
Single room availability depends on group size and location and may not be possible everywhere.

Room Options

• 1 person – in a shared twin room:
  If you book this option, you will share a room with another person of the same gender. The room will have separate beds.
  If no one of the same gender is available to share, you will be charged the single room supplement applicable to a private room.
• 2 people – twin or double room:
  Booking a twin or double room is ideal for couples or two friends travelling together.
  Please indicate in the comments field when booking whether you would prefer a double bed or twin beds.
• 1 person – single room:
  This room is for your sole use. A single room supplement applies.
  You may also be allocated a twin, double or triple room for sole occupancy — in all cases, the same supplement applies.

What’s Included

• All accommodation in shared twin rooms with separate beds;
• Image review sessions;
• Three meals per day;
• Mineral water;
• Rental car costs and all other local transport;
• Guidance from a nature photographer and a local expert guide;
• Use of hides and canoes;
• Boat trips;
• Camping equipment for two nights;
• Pre-trip participant meeting;

What’s Not Included

• Alcoholic and soft drinks;
• Personal purchases;
• Tips;
• Costs of any vaccinations and/or malaria prophylaxis;
• Travel and cancellation insurance;
• Airport tax: approximately £/$40 (20 per visit);
• Single room supplement;

Practical Information for Your Photography Trip

Participants Meeting

Prior to the trip, we will organise a participants’ meeting so that you can get to know your fellow travellers and ask any questions you may have about the trip.

Accommodation

All accommodation offers rooms with private showers and Western-style toilets, along with good-quality meals. The level of comfort varies, but all properties provide the essentials, including beds, bathroom facilities and opportunities to charge your batteries.

The accommodation on the northern bank of the Gambia River is the most basic, and we need to be mindful of our water usage. In return, we are surrounded by birdlife and have more opportunities to connect with the local community.

All accommodation is locally run, sometimes under joint Dutch and Gambian management.

Physical Requirements

This trip is not particularly physically demanding. The walks are short, and you can set your own pace. However, The Gambia is warm throughout the year, and the heat can make activities feel more tiring. Protect yourself from the sun and stay well hydrated throughout the day.

Local Transportation

Transport during the trip will be provided by two vehicles, using cars or minibuses. Boat trips are included in the tour price.

Required Equipment and Materials

Our main focus is bird photography, for which you will need a lens with a focal length of at least 400mm. We recommend bringing the following:

• Camera
• Telephoto lens: At least 400mm for bird photography.
• Wide-angle lens: For landscape photography.
• Portrait lens: A 70–200mm lens or a suitable prime lens.
• Tripod / Monopod
• Empty beanbag / Rice bag
• Sufficient batteries + chargers
• Sufficient memory cards
• Waterproof dry bag: To protect your camera when getting into and out of canoes.
• Mosquito repellent
• Hat and sun protection

When photographing from a canoe or small boat, there is usually sufficient light to shoot handheld. Being comfortable holding your telephoto lens will be useful. A monopod may provide additional support.

Climate and Clothing

January falls within the dry season, with low humidity. Daytime temperatures can reach around 34°C, while overnight temperatures are approximately 18°C. With around 10 hours of sunshine per day, sun protection is essential.

• Clothing: Bring plenty of lightweight, breathable clothing.
• Essentials: Pack sunscreen and a hat or cap to protect yourself from the sun.
• Hydration: Carry drinking water and drink regularly throughout the day.

Photography Hides and Local Communities

The photography hides may be more basic than those you are accustomed to in Europe, but they offer excellent photographic opportunities. They are built and managed by local people, and our visits help support their livelihoods.

Income from our visits helps fund essential needs, such as food, and investment in local vegetable gardens. These gardens are managed organically to help preserve the surrounding environment.

The people managing the hides recognise that sustainable tourism can provide a long-term source of income, giving them an incentive to protect the local environment and wildlife.

Vaccinations

For the latest information on recommended vaccinations and other health precautions, please consult the UK government’s health advice for The Gambia and seek advice from a travel health professional before departure.

Passport and Visa

Before travelling, check the passport validity, visa and entry requirements that apply to your nationality. Consult your government’s official travel advice and the relevant Gambian authorities for current requirements.

Safety

Follow your guides’ advice throughout the trip and remain aware of your surroundings. Avoid walking through tall grass or dense bushes, where snakes may be present. Check your government’s current travel advice before departure.

Expected Species

The Gambia offers opportunities to photograph a wide variety of wildlife. The following list outlines potential sightings, although encounters cannot be guaranteed.

Birds

• Bee-eaters, including red-throated bee-eaters
• Kingfishers
• Pelicans
• Ospreys
• Waders
• Herons and storks
• Swallow-tailed kites
• African finfoots
• Various species of terns
• Many more bird species

Mammals

• Various species of mongooses
• Monkeys and apes, including chimpanzees, baboons and red colobus monkeys
• Various species of bats
• Hyenas (rarely seen)
• Bushbabies (rarely seen)
• Wild boars (rarely seen)
• Various species of antelopes (rarely seen)

Reptiles and Amphibians

• West African crocodiles
• Nile monitors
• Agama lizards
• Senegal chameleons
• Other lizards and geckos
• Various species of snakes, including non-venomous species and venomous species such as cobras
• Tortoises
• Frogs and toads