Information about staying at Mandinari River Lodge and photo hide.

A unique alternative to a round trip, perfect for those who wish to photograph in complete peace and quiet.
For anyone looking for a calmer yet equally fascinating alternative to a tour, Mandinari River Lodge offers a wonderful option with the same high quality services. This charming lodge is set amidst lush greenery, right on the edge of the wetlands and mangroves, making it the perfect base for short, well-organised excursions. Visit the impressive Tanbi Wetlands, a true paradise for raptor enthusiasts, the iconic Kotu Bridge, or the picturesque rice fields of Lamin. For bird photographers, Mandinari River Lodge is a dream location. You can photograph freely in the large, bird-rich garden or take advantage of an exceptional facility: the only professional photo hide in The Gambia with an eye-level water pool, water circulation, and overflow system. This hide offers a clean, natural background without distracting branches or obstacles – ideal for photographers who prefer hide photography without extensive travel. This formula is perfect for those who wish to photograph and relax in comfort, all in one location. You’ll enjoy an intimate setting, personal service, and maximum flexibility. On your departure day, you’ll be taken back to the airport in good time, in line with your flight schedule. Mandinari River Lodge is the perfect alternative to a round trip ,the same quality of service, but with extra peace, more photographic opportunities, and a unique stay in the heart of The Gambia’s nature.

Tour 3 and 4.

Tour 3.

Bird Photography: Stay in Mandinari River Lodge Photo hide, plus 4 excursions and boat trip.

8 days / 7 nights full board - 650 euros pp. from 2 persons.

- 1050 euros for 1 person.

Tour 4.

Bird Photography: Stay in Mandinari River Lodge Photo hide, plus 5 excursions and boat trip.

10 Days / 9 nights Full Board - 850 euros pp. from 2 persons.

- 1250 euros for 1 person.

8 days stay.

Excursion 1: Tanbi Wetlands – also known as "the petrol station.

This diverse, bird-rich area is renowned for its exceptional opportunities to observe rare and iconic bird species such as Beaudouin's Snake Eagle, Long-crested Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle, Abyssinian Roller, White-throated Bee-eater, Dark Chanting Goshawk and various falcons. Depending on the position of the sun, we will visit this stunning area at the most favourable time of day.

Excursion 2: Farasuto Forest, a paradise for bird photographers.

Farasuto is particularly appealing to photographers thanks to its easy accessibility. The forest's diffuse light creates ideal conditions for spotting and photographing species such as the elusive White-spotted Flufftail, colourful Turacos, Western Bluebills, African Wood Owl and several species of Woodpecker. These birds are difficult to approach elsewhere, but in Farasuto they can often be photographed with surprising ease.

Excursion 3: Kotu Bridge and boat trip

The iconic bridge over Kotu Creek, near the coast, is a true haven for photographers and birdwatchers alike. Here, you can expect to see a wide variety of waterbirds and almost every species of kingfisher.

Excursion 4: The Rice Fields of Lamin

In this wetland area, you can encounter various species of kingfisher, the striking African Jacana, the remarkable Black Heron, numerous types of herons, and a wide variety of other bird species.

We visit this location in the morning, when the sunlight offers optimal conditions for both observation and photography.

10-Day Stay

Excursion 1: Tanbi Wetlands – also known as "the petrol station"
This diverse, bird-rich area is renowned for its exceptional opportunities to observe and photograph iconic bird species such as Beaudouin’s Snake Eagle, Long-crested Eagle, Brown Snake Eagle, Abyssinian Roller, White-throated Bee-eater, Dark Chanting Goshawk, and various falcon species. Depending on the position of the sun, we will visit this beautiful area at the most favourable time of day.

Excursion 2: Farasuto Forest – a paradise for bird photographers
Farasuto is particularly appealing to photographers due to its easy accessibility. The forest’s soft, diffused light provides ideal conditions for spotting and photographing species such as the elusive White-spotted Flufftail, the colourful Turacos, Western Bluebills, African Wood Owl, and several species of woodpecker. These birds are typically difficult to approach elsewhere, but in Farasuto they can often be photographed with surprising ease.

Excursion 3: Kotu Bridge and boat trip
The iconic bridge over Kotu Creek, located near the coast, is a true haven for photographers and birdwatchers alike. Here you can expect to encounter a wide range of waterbirds as well as nearly all species of kingfisher.

Excursion 4: The Rice Fields of Lamin
In this wetland area, you can spot various species of kingfisher, the striking African Jacana, the remarkable Black Heron, numerous types of herons, and a wide variety of other bird species.

We visit this location in the morning, when the sunlight provides ideal conditions for both observation and photography.

Excursion 5: Bonto and Pirang
The shrimp farm in Pirang is a paradise for bird enthusiasts.

The vast water areas of the shrimp farm attract large numbers of waterbirds, herons, waders, and spoonbills. There is also a good chance of spotting and photographing birds of prey. Pirang Shrimp Farm is a unique site for birdwatchers and nature photographers alike.

The excursions; These are always planned in consultation with the photographers, usually on the day prior to the activity. The photographic hide remains the central focus, with the aim of achieving the best possible photographic results. Excursions typically last between three and four hours and are conducted at a relaxed pace.

This photo hide was created in collaboration with Abou, the General Manager of Mandinari River Lodge, and myself Fatou Colley.

Photograph Birds All Year Round.

Mandinari River Lodge, located in the quiet village of Mandinari in The Gambia’s West Coast Region, is an ideal destination for photographers and for anyone seeking peace and relaxation. The lodge sits on the edge of the breathtaking Tanbi Wetlands, a protected nature reserve renowned for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty. Here, you’ll find a unique blend of mangroves, rice fields, and wetlands that together create an enchanting landscape. One of the highlights of Mandinari River Lodge is its spacious, beautifully landscaped garden a carefully designed oasis where visitors can unwind and enjoy nature. Within the garden is a dedicated bird photography hide, perfectly positioned to observe and capture the region’s many colourful and unique bird species. The Tanbi Wetlands host an impressive variety of birds, making the lodge a favourite among ornithologists. The nearby mangroves not only offer a serene atmosphere but also play a crucial role in the local ecosystem. Visitors can take guided walks or boat trips to learn more about the importance of mangroves and rice fields for both wildlife and village life. Mandinari River Lodge is a place to truly escape the rush of daily life. With its peaceful setting, natural beauty, and range of activities, it is an ideal base for exploring the wonders of the Tanbi Wetlands and surrounding landscapes in a unique way. Although you often hear that May, June, and July are not the best months for bird photography in West Africa, this is precisely when nature awakens from its dry-season rest. Humidity slowly rises, trees and shrubs turn lush green, and the air is filled with the songs of birds in courtship. The breeding season is about to begin – the perfect time for photographers to capture birds in their most striking plumage. The lodge amplifies this experience. Thanks to its large grounds, a true spectacle unfolds during these months for nature lovers and photographers alike. Countless birds start building nests, incubating eggs, and raising their young. Everywhere, there is activity, birds bathing and drinking at the hide’s pool create a vibrant, colourful scene. Along the water’s edge, photogenic species like the elusive Black Crake appear, moving cautiously through the reeds, alongside numerous heron species. And then there is the creek ,a picturesque ribbon of water that both reflects and conceals. Hidden among the reeds, crocodiles lie in wait , still and almost invisible until they suddenly reveal their presence.

The Photo Hide

We are proud to offer a truly unique facility for bird enthusiasts and photographers: a purpose-built photo hide. This exceptional feature is one of a kind in The Gambia, providing an unforgettable experience for both birdwatchers and photographers. The hide is equipped with a 7-metre-long, 3-metre-wide eye-level water pool, complete with overflow and a closed water circulation system to ensure a constant flow of fresh water. The focus here is on the photographic aspect a clean, even background while birds come to drink or bathe. The hide comfortably accommodates up to three people, ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience. This special project was made possible through the collaboration between Abou, General Manager of Mandinari River Lodge, and myself, Fatou Colley of Gambiabirdingadventures.com / birdingadventuresgambia.com / .nl. Together, we have created a hide and water pool perfectly tailored to the needs of photographers and nature lovers. It is the perfect complement to a stay filled with relaxation, discovery, and a deep connection to The Gambia’s incredible biodiversity. Whether you are a professional photographer or simply appreciate the beauty of birds in their natural habitat, this hide offers a rare opportunity to create lasting memories. Come and experience it for yourself at Mandinari River Lodge.