Abuko Nature Reserve Bird Watching Itinerary

Hotel Pickup & Preparation

We collect you from your hotel/accommodation. Brief introduction to the day's birding adventure and equipment check.

• Equipment distribution (binoculars, bird identification guide)
• Safety briefing and birding etiquette
• Light refreshments provided

Arrival at Abuko Nature Reserve

Enter Gambia's oldest nature reserve during the golden hour when birds are most active.

• Reserve entrance and registration
• First bird sightings at the entrance area
• Expected species: Village Weaver, Red-eyed Dove, Pied Crow

Forest Canopy Trail

Begin our walk through the dense forest section, perfect for spotting forest-dwelling species.

• Quiet walking along established trails
• Focus on canopy-dwelling birds
• Target species: Green Turaco, African Grey Hornbill, Red-billed Firefinch
• Photography opportunities: Great lighting through forest canopy

Wetland Areas & River Section

Move to the wetland habitat where water birds congregate for morning feeding.

• Observation from designated viewing points
• Water bird identification and behavior study
• Target species: Malachite Kingfisher, Senegal Thick-knee, Purple Heron
• Special highlight: Possible crocodile sightings in river areas

Breakfast Break & Bird Log Review

Rest break at the reserve's picnic area with provided refreshments.

• Traditional Gambian breakfast items
• Review and record morning sightings
• Bird identification quiz and learning session
• Rest and hydration break

Savanna & Grassland Section

Explore the open savanna areas for different habitat-specific bird species.

• Ground-dwelling and grassland bird observation
• Raptor watching opportunities
• Target species: Yellow-crowned Gonolek, Senegal Parrot, Tawny-flanked Prinia
• Bonus wildlife: Vervet monkeys, ground squirrels, monitor lizards

Final Forest Circuit & Rare Species Hunt

Return through different forest paths targeting any missed species and rare finds.

• Focus on elusive forest species
• Silent observation techniques
• Target species: White-spotted Flufftail, Green Hylia, Rufous-crowned Eremomela
• Final photography session

Day Summary & Departure

Complete bird count, farewell, and return journey to your accommodation.

• Final bird species count and recording
• Presentation of personalized bird sighting list
• Group photo and certificate of participation
• Return transport to hotel

Hotel Drop-off

Safe return to your accommodation with memories and knowledge to last a lifetime.