What bird species can be photographed?

Red-billed tropicbirds, great cormorants, African gannets, terns, kites, and occasionally ospreys on rocky perches.

Yes, specialized guides accompany each tour, explaining the island’s history and helping to spot interesting species.

Do we need to book in advance?

It is recommended to book in advance, especially during the dry season or weekends, to secure the crossing and a guide.

What photography equipment should be used?

A telephoto lens (200 mm or more), binoculars, and sun protection are recommended to take successful photos in bright light.

Bird watching safari on Île de la Madeleine

Birdwatching and photography safari on Île de la Madelaine

Conditions d'annulation

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Information

Ile de la maedlaine

Half-day

All levels

Group, private

Description of this activity

The ornithological and photographic safari on Île de la Madeleine, off the coast of Dakar, offers a rare experience in one of Senegal’s smallest national parks. Accessible by pirogue from Soumbédioune, the island stands out for its steep cliffs, isolated baobabs, and its reputation as “the island of birds.” The guided tour traverses rocky paths and offers stunning marine panoramas, perfect for wildlife or landscape photography enthusiasts.

Île de la Madeleine is home to one of the rare colonies of the famous red-billed tropicbird (paille-en-queue), as well as numerous great cormorants, terns, kites, and African gannets. The best times for birdwatching are in the morning or at sunset, when the light shapes the cliffs and the birds are active around their nests and natural perches. Local guides make stops near the nesting areas, allowing visitors to witness the tropicbird’s courtship display or the acrobatic fishing of the cormorants. The island’s relatively arid landscape, with its low vegetation, provides clear views of the birds in flight, making it easier to capture unique photos.

The safari is suitable for all levels: enthusiasts can bring binoculars and telephoto lenses (200mm or more), while families can discover the avifauna just a few meters away, in a spectacular and secure environment. The outing combines an introduction to local biology, nature photography, and immersion in a preserved site that serves both as an ecological refuge and a symbol of Dakar’s Lebou culture.