8-Hour Pelican Island Birdwatching and Reptile Farm Tour in Gambia

8 Hours Round trip from Guest's hotel or accommodation in The Gambia Easy pace

The journey

Trip highlights
  • 01 Explore the Kartong Reptile Farm and discover Gambian reptiles
  • 02 Observe pelicans and other coastal birds around Pelican Island
  • 03 Experience birdwatching across wetlands, mangroves, and sandbanks
  • 04 Choose between lively Tanji Fishing Beach or relaxed Sanyang Beach

Discover two very different sides of Gambian wildlife on this full-day experience, combining the fascinating reptiles of the Kartong Reptile Farm with the birdlife around Pelican Island. Encounter snakes, chameleons, monitor lizards, turtles, and crocodiles, then continue to the coastal wetlands and waterways where pelicans and other seabirds can be observed. The day also includes your choice of a visit to lively Tanji Fishing Beach or the more relaxed setting of Sanyang Beach. This tour is ideal for travellers looking to combine reptiles, birdwatching, and the Atlantic coast in one day.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 8 Hours
Tour type Shared
Activity level Easy
Accommodation Not included
Transport Included
Wheelchair access Not applicable
Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

1
Day 01

Kartong Reptiles, Pelican Island Birdwatching and Coastal Gambia

  • EUR 115 per person | EUR 125 for a solo traveller.

  • Pick-up from your accommodation.

  • Visit the Kartong Reptile Farm, also known locally as the snake farm, and discover a variety of Gambian reptiles.

  • Depending on the animals available during your visit, you may encounter snakes, chameleons, monitor lizards, turtles, and crocodiles.

  • Learn about reptile behaviour, ecology, and their importance within the natural environment through a guided experience.

  • Some animals may be available for supervised interaction, depending on the conditions and guidance at the farm. Dangerous reptiles are kept at a safe distance.

  • Continue to the coastal area around Pelican Island, where you can observe pelicans and other coastal and waterbird species.

  • The area around Tanji and Pelican Island includes a variety of habitats such as coastal areas, wetlands, mangroves, and sandbanks, creating excellent conditions for birdwatching.

  • Pelicans, terns, herons, cormorants, and other seabirds can be observed in the area, although specific species and sightings depend on the season, tides, and weather conditions.

  • Bring your camera - and binoculars if you have them - for a closer look at the birdlife.

  • Choose your coastal experience: Tanji or Sanyang.

  • Visit Tanji Fishing Beach and experience one of the most active fishing areas along The Gambia's coast. Observe local fishermen, fishing boats, and the everyday activity surrounding the beach.

  • Alternatively, Sanyang provides a more relaxed Atlantic coastal experience and offers the opportunity to enjoy the beach after the wildlife activities.

  • Drop-off at your accommodation.

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

  • Pick-up and drop-off
  • Local guide
  • Transport
  • Entry fees
  • Wildlife and birdwatching experiences

What's Not Included

  • Food and drinks
  • Personal purchases

What to bring

  • Comfortable clothing and closed shoes.

  • Sun protection, including a hat and sunscreen.

  • Camera and binoculars for wildlife and birdwatching.

  • Drinking water.

Know before you go

  • Pelicans are one of the main attractions of the area, but wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed because the birds are wild and their location can vary according to tides, season, and weather.

  • Some supervised interactions may be available depending on the animal and the conditions at the farm. Your guide will explain which interactions are appropriate.

  • The dangerous reptiles are kept at a safe distance.

  • Families can enjoy the educational experience, although children should always follow the instructions of the guide and farm staff.

Logistics

Meeting & route

Meeting point
Hotel pick-up. Your guide will meet you at the reception or agreed pick-up point at your accommodation.
Tour start
Guest's hotel or accommodation in The Gambia
Tour ends at the same location as the start point.
End of the journey

Your 8 hours finish where they began, in Guest's hotel or accommodation in The Gambia.

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Starting from

EUR 115 /person
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