🦜 Birdwatching in The Gambia: The Complete Guide

Despite being one of Africa’s smallest countries, The Gambia is one of the best birdwatching destinations in Africa. With over 560 recorded bird species across 4,361 square miles, it has one of the highest bird densities per square kilometre on the continent.

Whether you’re a seasoned birder or a curious beginner, birdwatching in The Gambia is accessible, affordable, and incredibly rewarding.

🦉 Why Choose The Gambia for Birdwatching?

The Gambia consistently ranks among the top African birding destinations — and for good reason.

Key advantages:

• Exceptional species density in a compact area

• Multiple habitats in a single day (forest, river, coast, wetlands)

• Just 6 hours from Europe, with direct flights from the UK

• Year-round birding opportunities

• Highly skilled local bird guides

• Affordable, especially compared to East and Southern Africa

📅 Best Time for Birdwatching in The Gambia

⭐ Peak Birding Season: November to February

This is the best time for birdwatching in The Gambia.

During these months:

• European & Asian migrants are present

• Resident birds are in breeding plumage

• Lower water levels make birds easier to spot

• The weather is dry, sunny, and comfortable

• 300+ species can be recorded in a single week

Other Birding Seasons

• March–May: Migrants departing, some residents breeding

• June–October: Wet season, fewer migrants but excellent breeding activity

🗺️ Top Birdwatching Sites in The Gambia

1. Abuko Nature Reserve

The most famous birding site in The Gambia.

• Location: 30 minutes from the coast

• Habitat: Gallery forest, savanna, river

• Key species: African Finfoot, White-spotted Flufftail, Violet Turaco, Ahanta Francolin

• Tip: Hire a guide at the entrance for rare species

2. Kotu Creek

Possibly the easiest birdwatching site in Africa — right in the tourist zone.

• Location: Walking distance from Kololi hotels

• Habitat: Mangroves, mudflats, lagoons

• Key species: Goliath Heron, Western Reef Heron, kingfishers, waders

• Tip: Visit at low tide for the best wader viewing

3. Bijilo Forest Park (Monkey Park)

A compact but productive site.

• Habitat: Coastal woodland

• Key species: Green Wood-Hoopoe, Senegal Parrot, turacos, bee-eaters

• Bonus: Habituated green vervet monkeys

4. Tanji Bird Reserve

Excellent coastal birding.

• Habitat: Lagoons, scrub, beach

• Key species: Caspian Tern, Royal Tern, shorebirds, raptors

5. Makasutu Cultural Forest

One of the most scenic birding areas.

• Habitat: River, palm groves, mangroves

• Key species: Giant Kingfisher, Palm-nut Vulture, African Fish Eagle

6. Brufut Woods

Great woodland birding.

• Key species: Brown-necked Parrot, Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl, White-crowned Robin-Chat

7. Georgetown (Janjanbureh)

Ideal for upcountry birding.

• Habitat: Riverbanks, farmland, woodland

• Key species: Egyptian Plover, African Finfoot, Oriole Warbler

🐦 Must-See Birds of The Gambia

The “Big Five” of Gambian Birding

• African Finfoot – shy river specialist

• Egyptian Plover – the famous “Crocodile Bird”

• White-spotted Flufftail – notoriously elusive

• Verreaux’s Eagle-Owl – powerful nocturnal predator

• Standard-winged Nightjar – spectacular breeding display (April–May)

Colourful Crowd-Pleasers

• Violet Turaco

• Northern Carmine Bee-eater

• Woodland Kingfisher

• Yellow-crowned Gonolek

• Beautiful Sunbird

Raptors

• African Fish Eagle

• Palm-nut Vulture

• Hooded Vulture

• Western Marsh Harrier

• Dark Chanting Goshawk

👨‍🏫 Hiring a Bird Guide in The Gambia

Hiring a local bird guide dramatically improves your experience and supports conservation.

Typical costs:

• Half-day: 500–1,000 Dalasi

• Full day: 1,000–2,000 Dalasi

• Multi-day tours: Negotiable

Where to find guides:

• Gambia Birdwatchers’ Guide Association

• Abuko Nature Reserve entrance

• Kotu Creek birding guides

📷 What to Bring for Birdwatching

• Binoculars (essential)

• Field guide: Birds of The Gambia and Senegal

• Camera with a zoom lens

• Notebook or eBird app

• Comfortable walking shoes

• Sun hat & sunscreen

• Insect repellent

• Plenty of water

🏨 Birder-Friendly Accommodation in The Gambia

• Footsteps Eco-Lodge (Gunjur) – excellent birding grounds

• Mandina Lodges (Makasutu) – prime habitat

• Senegambia Hotel – close to Kotu Creek

• Tendaba Camp – riverside upcountry birding

🗓️ Sample 5-Day Birdwatching Itinerary

💡 Top Birding Tips

• Start early — dawn is best

• Be patient at water sources

• Learn a few bird calls before arriving

• Tip guides modestly but fairly

• Record sightings on eBird

❓ FAQ: Birdwatching in The Gambia (Rich Snippet Ready)

Is The Gambia good for birdwatching?

Yes, The Gambia is one of Africa’s best birdwatching destinations due to its high species density, diverse habitats, and easy accessibility.

What is the best time for birdwatching in The Gambia?

The best time is from November to February, when migratory birds are present, and weather conditions are ideal.

How many bird species are in The Gambia?

Over 560 bird species have been recorded, an exceptional number for such a small country.

Do I need a guide for birdwatching in The Gambia?

A guide is not essential, but highly recommended to help locate rare species and identify bird calls.

Is birdwatching in The Gambia suitable for beginners?

Absolutely. Many birding sites are easily accessible and offer excellent sightings even for first-time birders.