The bird-watching safari in Popenguine takes place in a 1,009-hectare community nature reserve, among cliffs, savannah and wetlands, on the Petite Côte. Guide, binoculars and notebook are included, with an outing that often starts at dawn or late in the afternoon for the light.

A reserve of cliffs, savannah and waterholes

The Popenguine nature reserve is a mosaic of cliffs, savannahs and wetlands, which attracts a great diversity of species. Depending on the season, you can see blue rock thrushes, Alexander’s buntings, pelicans, flamingos, storks, kingfishers, fish eagles and small waders, along with more discreet species such as the black-rumped buttonquail. Several waterholes host gatherings of waterbirds, while the cliffs and the forest offer natural hides for photographing birds in flight or during courtship displays.

A local guide goes with the outing. The marked trails let you explore the reserve in peace, and the specialist guides give advice on spotting, observing and shooting. Included are the guide, the binoculars and a notebook. For photography, a telephoto lens of 200 to 400 mm, light clothing, a cap and water are recommended.

The reserve is run by the local community: access is supervised, with an entry permit and an access fee, and your visit directly supports the village’s conservation efforts.

If you live in Senegal, it is a nature half day that is easy to fit into a weekend on the Petite Côte, a change from the beach. If you are visiting, it is a site open to beginners and to seasoned birders alike, with educational routes for families.

Popenguine, between sea and reserve

Popenguine is a small coastal town on the Petite Côte, about 70 km south of Dakar, known for its Marian sanctuary, its reserve and its cliffs above an unspoilt beach. The Popenguine Reserve page describes the red cliffs and the birds, and the Thiès Region gives the administrative setting.

Complete the outing

To stay in nature, bird watching brings together other outings in the country, guided hikes let you walk in the reserve, and other safaris are available for wildlife.