15-Day Bird Photography Tour in Senegal – Departure from Dakar
This 15-day bird photography tour in Senegal offers an in-depth exploration of West Africa’s exceptional avian diversity, departing from Dakar. Designed for passionate photographers and birdwatchers, the route combines wetlands, savannas, river systems, and coastal habitats to maximise photographic opportunities.
With expert local guidance and carefully selected lodges, this tour provides access to Senegal’s most renowned birding regions, including Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary and Niokolo-Koba National Park.
Tour Highlights
Duration: 15 days / 14 nights
Tour type: Fully private, tailored to your own pace
Board basis: Full board
Guidance: Personally guided by Fatou Colley
Price: From €2,550 per person (based on 2 people sharing)
Extended options: Also available as an 18-day or 21-day tour
(Flights not included)
Join us on an unforgettable 15-day birding and photography expedition through Senegal
A land of contrasts where golden savannas, vast wetlands, and tranquil river landscapes create a true paradise for nature lovers and photographers alike, making it a prime destination for West African bird photography.
Your journey begins on the Atlantic coast in Popenguine, a peaceful seaside village where woodland trails meet the shore and the ocean breeze sets the tone for a relaxed start. Positioned along the Atlantic flyway, this coastal region offers rewarding photographic opportunities from the very first day. From there, you travel north to the historic city of Saint-Louis and the world-renowned Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary. Here, tens of thousands of pelicans, flamingos, and herons create a breathtaking spectacle—a dream location for any photographer exploring West Africa’s major migratory corridors.
Continuing along the Senegal River, you will discover quiet gems like Richard Toll and Gamagi Sarr, representative of classic Sahelian habitats. These areas host rare and sought-after species such as the Golden Nightjar and Horus Swift, alongside a range of endemic and regional specialties that define Senegal’s avian richness. The route then turns south to Kaolack and further east into the rugged heart of Niokolo-Koba National Park, where forest, savanna, and river converge. This is the place to spot specialties like the African Finfoot and vibrant kingfishers in their pristine natural environment.
In the enchanting Sine-Saloum Delta, you will stay at the atmospheric Keur Saloum Lodge, nestled among mangroves and winding waterways teeming with life. During boat excursions, you will capture Fish Eagles, Bee-eaters, and herons in the finest light of the day. Finally, you return to Popenguine, where the Atlantic sunset and the forest reserve provide a peaceful conclusion to an adventurous and inspiring photography tour.
This exceptional journey blends bird photography and nature immersion with authentic local experiences, offering a unique discovery of Senegal’s diversity through comfortable lodges, expert personal guidance, and unforgettable encounters in the African wild.
Why This Photo Tour is Unique:
Fully focused on Senegal, with departure from Dakar
Very wide variety of habitats across the country
Excellent opportunities for photographing West African speciality species
Ideal for experienced bird photographers looking to expand their species list
✅ Also available as an 18-day or 21-day round tou
The itinerary for this tour.
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.
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.