World Wildlife Day: Discover the nature of Gambia | News
In honor of World Wildlife Day, specialist tour operator The Gambia Experience invites nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts to explore the country’s rich biodiversity. Just a six-hour flight from Britain and in the same time zone, this small but nature-rich West African country offers more than pristine beaches and year-round sunshine. A world-class destination for bird watchers, Gambia also offers excellent opportunities to witness exotic wildlife, lush landscapes and unique flora, all within easy reach of popular coastal towns.
To mark this occasion, The Gambia Experience is offering travelers the chance to discover the destination’s remarkable wildlife and save £75 per person on selected package holidays using the discount code WILDLIFE75*.
A bird watcher’s paradise – over 600 species to spot – With over 600 native and migratory species, including vibrant kingfishers, egrets and pelicans, Gambia is a hotspot for bird watchers. It offers a rewarding experience for both novice and experienced bird watchers.
With more than 20 years of experience birdwatching throughout The Gambia, Malick Suso is widely regarded as one of the country’s leading guides, combining exceptional field knowledge with an instinct for locating even the rarest species. Hailed by Chris Packham as one of the very best birdwatchers and guides in The Gambia and named Wanderlust Best Wildlife and Safari Guide in 2023, Malick offers half- and full-day birding excursions, exploring different habitats in search of the most colorful and elusive species. He also leads private birding trips upriver from two to five nights, including accommodation and fully personalized guidance.
Birdwatching around Mandina Lodges – Hidden in the heart of the African bush yet within an hour’s drive of the seaside resorts, the Mandina Lodges lie along a tributary of the Gambia River at Makasutu Forest. Surrounded by nature, with a choice of floating, stilt, mangrove and jungle lodges, the location offers a unique and peaceful base. Playful baboons and monkeys roam freely, while early morning canoe trips reveal a wealth of birdlife, from kingfishers and herons to weaverbirds.
Chimp Rehabilitation Project – A visit to the Chimp Rehabilitation Project is one of the most memorable wildlife experiences in The Gambia. Founded in 1979 and located 4.5 hours upstream in the River Gambia National Park, the project offers incredible observations of chimpanzees in their natural habitat, via private boat trips around the three islands where the primates roam. Access to the islands is prohibited. However, the daily boat trips and feeding on the river banks provide excellent visibility, while nature walks and night walks to see bush babies add to the excitement.
Hippos and Crocodiles – Hippos and crocodiles are additional highlights of River Gambia National Park. Their powerful presence upstream provides unforgettable scenes for nature lovers.
New Upriver Adventure – Explore Kauren River Camp and Janjangbureh on a 3-day tour. Located 147 km upstream, this eco-friendly retreat offers panoramic views of the majestic Gambia River and pristine forests, perfect for bird watchers and nature lovers.
Fathala Wildlife Reserve – Just across the border in Senegal, Fathala Wildlife Reserve offers the opportunity to witness big game, including giraffes, warthogs and giant elk derbies, roaming free. Guests stay in luxurious, air-conditioned safari tents and can enjoy guided game drives. In the evening, the fire pit and nearby watering hole provide a magical nature experience before dining in the traditional thatched-roof restaurant.
Mangroves to savanna – Diverse flora – From mangrove-lined tributaries to dry savanna forests, Gambia’s habitats are rich in plant biodiversity. Many species are used locally for traditional medicines and herbal remedies, highlighting the deep connection between nature and community.
Conservation through engagement and tourism – Tourism plays a crucial role in wildlife conservation in The Gambia. By traveling responsibly with The Gambia Experience, holidaymakers support local communities in protecting these habitats. In January 2026, the company received accreditation from CAPED Gambia for its long-term support of mangrove restoration and rural tree planting projects, preserving the country’s unique flora and fauna for future generations.
Discover Gambia with The Gambia Experience
The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays, excursions and tours designed to create memorable and meaningful experiences:
Wildlife & Nature Tours – Expert-led excursions to important reserves and habitats.
Birdwatching Adventures – Tailor-made itineraries and group excursions.
Nature lodges and riverside stays – Comfortable, immersive stays in the middle of nature.
Cultural and Conservation Experiences – Combine wildlife exploration with community involvement.
“With its remarkable biodiversity and welcoming culture, The Gambia offers beautiful wildlife experiences and a real taste of unspoilt Africa, while being just six hours from Britain,” says Karen Durham, product manager for The Gambia Experience. “This World Wildlife Day, we invite travelers to celebrate the wonders of nature while contributing to sustainable tourism and conservation.”
*Valid for Gambia bookings made between March 3, 2026 and April 30, 2027. Discount code applies to stays that include Bakotu Hotel, Fathala Wildlife, Mandina Lodges or Chimp Rehabilitation Camp.
Book your wildlife adventure today: www.gambia.co.uk
