15-Day Birding & Photography Tour From Dakar airport (Senegal)
Tour 16
Bird Photography Tour in Senegal
15 days / 14 nights, full board.
€2550 per person, for groups of 2 or more.
This tour is also available for 18 and 21 days.
Embark on a remarkable 15-day journey through the heart of Senegal, where golden savannas, vast wetlands, and peaceful river landscapes create a paradise for bird photographers. Your adventure begins on the Atlantic coast at Popenguine, a tranquil seaside haven where forest trails meet the ocean breeze. From there, the journey continues north to the historic city of Saint-Louis and the world-famous Djoudj National Park, home to tens of thousands of pelicans, flamingos, and herons — a true spectacle for the lens. Travel deeper into the Senegal River Valley, discovering hidden gems such as Richard Toll and Gamagi Sarr, where rare species like the Golden Nightjar and Horus Swift await. As the scenery transforms, you’ll head south to Kaolack and further east to the wild heart of Niokolo-Koba National Park, where forest, savanna, and river habitats merge. Here, encounters with Pel’s Fishing Owl, African Finfoot, and colorful kingfishers will fill your memory cards with unforgettable images. The journey winds through the serene Sine-Saloum Delta, where Keur Saloum Lodge offers comfort amid mangroves and waterways alive with birdlife. Boat trips through tranquil creeks reveal ospreys, bee-eaters, and egrets in perfect light. Finally, the route returns to Popenguine, where the Atlantic sunsets and forest trails provide a peaceful close to your journey before your flight home from Dakar. This immersive expedition combines birding, photography, and authentic local experiences, blending the best of Senegal’s natural diversity with comfortable lodges, expert guidance, and an atmosphere of adventure and discovery.
Day 1 – Arrival Dakar – Popenguine
Arrival at Dakar International Airport. Meet and transfer to Villa Serere in Popenguine, a peaceful coastal retreat with beautiful ocean views.
Overnight at Villa Serere.
Day 2 – Forest Walk and Beach at Popenguine
Morning forest walk and bird photography along the beach at Popenguine, with opportunities to capture both woodland and coastal bird species.
Second overnight at Villa Serere.
Day 3 – Journey to Saint-Louis
Drive north along the Atlantic coast to the historic town of Saint-Louis, known for its colonial charm and proximity to the Senegal River delta.
Evening at leisure.
Day 4 – Djoudj National Park
Full day of bird photography in Djoudj National Park, one of Africa’s most important wetlands. Expect impressive gatherings of pelicans, flamingos, herons, and countless migratory species.
Day 5 – Boat Trip and Nature Walk
Morning boat trip through the waterways of Djoudj to photograph pelicans, herons, and kingfishers.
Afternoon nature walk exploring the savanna and reedbeds surrounding the park.
Overnight in Saint-Louis.
Day 6 – To Richard Toll
Drive to Richard Toll, a quiet town along the Senegal River.
Overnight at Hotel Gîte d’Étape, with an optional evening birding session along the riverbanks.
Day 7 – Gamagi Sarr Specialties
Early morning excursion to Gamagi Sarr, targeting the rare Golden Nightjar and Horus Swift – two of the most sought-after species in northern Senegal.
Return to Richard Toll for overnight.
Day 8 – Long Drive to Kaolack
Full-day drive south to Kaolack, with only a few short birding or rest stops along the way.
Evening arrival and overnight in Kaolack.
The itinerary for this tour.
Day 9 – Drive to Wassadou Camp
Journey eastwards to Wassadou Camp, beautifully located on the banks of the Gambia River.
A great location for bee-eaters, kingfishers, and hippos.
Overnight at Wassadou Camp.
Day 10 – Niokolo-Koba National Park
Morning safari in Niokolo-Koba National Park, searching for birds, monkeys, and antelopes.
Afternoon boat trip on the Gambia River for close encounters with African Finfoot and Pel’s Fishing Owl.
Overnight at Wassadou Camp.
Day 11 – Return to Kaolack
Drive back to Kaolack, focusing on the elegant Swallow-tailed Kites, often seen in large flocks.
Overnight in Kaolack.
Day 12 – To Keur Saloum Lodge
From Kaolack, drive to Keur Saloum Lodge in the heart of the Sine-Saloum Delta.
Afternoon boat trip through mangroves and creeks, searching for herons, ospreys, and bee-eaters.
Overnight at Keur Saloum Lodge.
Day 13 – Explore the Sine-Saloum Delta
Full day exploring the Keur Saloum area — a mix of mangroves, open savanna, and forest habitats.
Optional second boat trip or forest walk.
Second overnight at Keur Saloum Lodge.
Day 14 – Return to Popenguine
Drive back to Popenguine, conveniently close to Dakar Airport.
Afternoon at leisure or optional birding along the cliffs and beach.
Overnight at Villa Serere.
Day 15 – Departure
Morning forest walk in the Popenguine Nature Reserve for the final bird sightings.
Afternoon free time depending on your flight schedule.
Transfer to Dakar International Airport for departure.