The bird-watching safari at Fathala takes place over 6,000 hectares of preserved forest, on foot or in an open vehicle, with a naturalist guide. Guide, binoculars and notebook are included, to watch and photograph birds, but also giraffes, rhinos and zebras.

Birds, and big game as a bonus

The reserve is renowned for the richness of its wildlife and landscapes. The routes follow the waterholes, the savannah and the wooded areas, good for meeting species in courtship display or feeding. You look for the Abyssinian roller, the rose-ringed parakeet, the Western red-billed hornbill, the long-tailed glossy starling, bee-eaters, weavers, bulbuls, turacos and many colourful passerines depending on the season.

Sunrise and sunset are the best hours, for the golden light and peak bird activity. The safari also gives you the chance to photograph big game: giraffes, antelopes, zebras, rhinos, buffalo and monkeys. A naturalist guide goes with the outing, with educational stops, hides in the open countryside and tips for good photos and discreet observation. The guides speak French and English.

The safari suits families as well as keen birders. Bring a telephoto lens of 200 mm or more, binoculars, sun protection, neutral-coloured clothes and a water bottle. Advance booking is recommended, for the best periods and to be sure of a guide.

If you live in Senegal, it is the nature outing that is organised like an escape into the delta, with a specific theme. If you are visiting, it is a way to watch wildlife without limiting yourself to the best-known species, with someone who knows where to look.

Fathala, south of the delta

The Fathala reserve is a safari on a grand scale, and the Fathala page brings together the offers at this place. It lies in the Fatick region, south of Dakar.

To extend your trip

Other outings in the same spirit exist: bird watching, safaris, reserves and wildlife parks and leisure animal parks for a family day.