Private 14-Day Best of Sahelian Specialities Birding Tour
A private 14-day Senegal journey linking coastal reserves, the Saloum Delta, Sahel country around Podor and Richard Toll, Djoudj and Saint-Louis.
About this tour
Travel from Senegal’s Atlantic coast into the Sahel on a private 14-day route led by Abdoulie Jallow. The programme begins with coastal scrub, reserve and lagoon birding around Popenguine, Bandia and Somone before moving south-east to the salt pans and tidal habitats of the Saloum Delta.
Three days around Toubacouta and Kasumar Island combine dry-country specialities with a low-tide creek excursion. Swallow-tailed Kites and Lesser Kestrels use the island as a communal roost, while nearby woodland and delta habitats can support bustards, sandgrouse, owls, woodpeckers, herons and other regional birds.
The northern section follows the Senegal River valley through Podor and Richard Toll, where sandy fields, scrub thickets and dry woodland provide habitat for sought-after Sahel birds. Two days at Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary add extensive wetland birding among lakes, channels and backwaters used by large numbers of resident and migratory waterbirds.
Saint-Louis provides a final northern base for arid savannah, woodland, wetland and coastal birding before the route returns south to Palmarin in the Saloum Delta. All species remain possible observations rather than guarantees, and the order of activities within multi-day stops can be adjusted to season, water levels and current field conditions.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to Senegal.
Guides
Itinerary ▼
Locations & map
- Popenguine, Bandia and Somone - Thiès Region Senegal (Coastal scrub, reserve pools and lagoon habitat.)
- Kaolack and Saloum salt pans - Kaolack Region Senegal (Salt pans, mudflats and delta wetlands used by waders and flamingos.)
- Toubacouta and Kasumar Island - Fatick Region Senegal (Dry woodland, island roosts and Saloum Delta creeks.)
- Podor and Richard Toll - Saint-Louis Region Senegal (Sahel scrub, dry woodland and sandy fields in the Senegal River valley.)
- Djoudj National Bird Sanctuary - Saint-Louis Region Senegal (Large wetland complex of lakes, channels and backwaters.)
- Saint-Louis - Saint-Louis Region Senegal (Arid savannah, woodland, wetland and coastal habitats.)
- Palmarin and the Saloum Delta - Fatick Region Senegal (Delta wetlands and open coastal habitat.)
Availability & pricing
Availability: Available on request · Season: Available on request; migration, water levels and Sahel bird activity vary through the year.
Price: Price on request
Included
- Private birdwatching guide - Led by Abdoulie Jallow.
- Airport transfers and ground transport - Exact vehicle and pickup arrangements are confirmed with the final proposal.
- Programme boat trip and entrance fees - Route-specific boat, park and local access costs are confirmed before booking.
- Accommodation and meals - Exact properties and board basis are provided with the quotation.
Not included
- International flights and travel insurance - Guests arrange these independently.
- Personal expenses and unlisted services - Confirm any optional additions before travel.
Transport & stays
- Private road transport with a Saloum Delta boat ex Exact vehicle and boat arrangements are confirmed for the final party. | Meet: Arrival airport specified in the final proposal | Pickup: Airport pickup and departure arrangements can be included in the confirmed package.
Policies & FAQ
Cancellation Policy
Payment Terms
Insurance & Safety
Is this a private tour?
Yes. The route is prepared as a private 14-day journey and can be discussed around travel dates, mobility and priority species.
Can the route be customized?
Yes. Senegal Birding Experience offers tailored programmes; final timing and logistics are agreed before the trip.
Are the named birds guaranteed?
No. The programme visits habitat associated with many Sahel and wetland specialities, but sightings depend on season and current field conditions.