The bird-watching safari in Joal is for those who want to see, and photograph, the birds of the mangrove and lagoons in the south of the Petite Côte, towards the Saloum Delta. The guide, binoculars and a notebook are included, and depending on the site the outing is on foot, by pirogue or by bike.

The birds of the Saloum Delta

Joal is a gateway to a territory of water where mangroves, bolongs (tidal creeks), sandbanks, forests and small islands mix. The Saloum Delta, a UNESCO site, shelters more than 300 bird species, migrants and residents. The area is renowned for the royal tern, but also holds grey and white pelicans, lesser flamingos, Goliath herons, egrets, ospreys, avocets, bee-eaters and kingfishers. Around a bend in a bolong, you may meet dolphins, manatees or patas monkeys.

A naturalist guide goes with the outing and leads you to the best nesting sites: islets, mudflats, salt pans, flooded forests. Mornings and late afternoons are the best times, with golden light and plenty of bird activity. The best season runs from November to April, when migrants pass through and the vegetation is less dense.

Included are the guide, the binoculars and a notebook. For photographers, a telephoto lens and sun protection are recommended. The outings are open to everyone, with short, educational routes for children. Booking is preferable, especially in high season, to get the best slots.

If you live in Senegal, it is a weekend outing that makes a change from the beaches. If you are visiting, it is a light excursion to fit into a stay on the Petite Côte, with no prior skills needed.

Joal and the Petite Côte towards the Saloum

Joal lies at the southern end of the Petite Côte, facing Fadiouth, the shell island, and opens onto the Sine-Saloum Delta. The Sine-Saloum page brings together the offers of the area, and the Fatick region gives the administrative setting.

Things to do nearby

To complete the picture, a pirogue ride lets you get closer to the birds, bird watching brings together the country’s other outings, and the island excursion leads to Fadiouth and beyond.