Fathala Wildlife Reserve - Full day safari guided tour
Embark on an exhilarating day trip from The Gambia to the heart of Senegal’s Fathala Wildlife Reserve. This carefully curated adventure is perfect for wildlife enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and anyone looking for a once-in-a-lifetime encounter with Africa’s majestic animals.
Your day begins with a scenic hotel pickup in Banjul, followed by a short drive to the ferry terminal. Relax and enjoy the views of the Gambia River as you cross to Barra, an essential river crossing connecting The Gambia to Senegal. Once you reach Amdallai, you’ll complete a brief border formalities before entering Senegal.
Discover the Reserve
Fathala Wildlife Reserve spans over 6,000 hectares of protected African wilderness. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to spot iconic animals such as lions, giraffes, zebras, rhinos, antelopes, and monkeys. The reserve is also a haven for birdwatchers, with species like Broadbill Rollers, Bearded Barbets, and Abyssinian Rollers populating the forest.
Why This Tour is Unique
This excursion offers a combination of adventure, education, and immersion into African nature. Your guide, with local knowledge and extensive research, ensures you encounter as much wildlife as possible while explaining the ecology and conservation efforts in the reserve. Whether you’re tracking lions, spotting giraffes, or listening to the calls of exotic birds, this day promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Tour Highlights
- Hotel Pickup & Scenic Ferry Ride – Begin your adventure with a comfortable pickup in Banjul, followed by a relaxing ferry crossing to Barra with picturesque river views.
- Border Crossing into Senegal – Smooth passport and visa formalities for entry into Senegal.
- Guided Safari Jeep Ride – Explore the vast wilderness in an open-top jeep, spotting giraffes, zebras, rhinos, antelopes, and monkeys.
- Optional Lion Walk – Get a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to safely walk alongside majestic lions in their natural habitat.
- Bush Walk & Birdwatching – Stroll through lush forests with expert guides while spotting exotic birds like Broadbill Rollers and Bearded Barbets.
- Open-Air Lunch in the Reserve – Enjoy a delicious meal surrounded by the sights and sounds of African wildlife.
- Return Journey – Travel back across the border, take the ferry to Banjul, and arrive at your hotel with memories of an unforgettable day.
Key Experiences
- Encounter iconic African wildlife up close, including lions, giraffes, and rhinos.
- Immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of a protected African forest.
- Learn from knowledgeable local guides about the flora, fauna, and conservation efforts.
- Capture incredible photos of wildlife and landscapes.
- Perfect for families, birdwatchers, and adventure enthusiasts.
- Ages
- 4 and above
- Duration
- 8-12hrs
- Live guide
- Live guide (English)
What's included
- Food (Breakfast & launch)
- Water & Refreshment
- Entry tickets
- Private transport
What's not included
- Personal expenses
Itinerary
Here's what you can expect during the tour.
You will be picked up at about
6:30 AM
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Hotel Pickup & Drive to Banjul Ferry
Start your day with a hotel pickup in Banjul. Enjoy a scenic drive through the city, taking in colonial architecture and riverside views, as you head to the Banjul ferry terminal.
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Ferry Crossing: Banjul to Barra
Board the ferry from Banjul to Barra, a vital river crossing connecting The Gambia to Senegal. Relax and enjoy the views of the Gambia River during the 20-minute crossing.
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Border Crossing into Senegal
In Amdallai, cross the border into Senegal. Ensure you carry a valid passport (minimum 6 months) and check visa requirements for your nationality. Yellow fever vaccination proof may also be required.
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Arrival at Fathala Wildlife Reserve
Enter the 6,000-hectare Fathala Wildlife Reserve. Explore the African wilderness, spotting iconic wildlife such as lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and monkeys. Bird enthusiasts can enjoy the diverse species found throughout the reserve.
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Safari Jeep Ride & Optional Lion Walk
Enjoy a guided safari in an open-top vehicle. Your expert guide will point out animals and explain their behavior and habitat. Optional lion walks allow you to safely observe lions up close in their natural environment.
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Lunch at the Reserve
Relax and enjoy a scenic lunch at the reserve’s open-air cafeteria, surrounded by the sounds and sights of the African bush.
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Return Journey to The Gambia
After the safari, retrace your steps back to the Senegal-Gambia border, ensuring all travel documents are ready for re-entry.
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Ferry Back to Banjul & Hotel Drop-off
Take the ferry from Barra back to Banjul and return to your hotel, completing a memorable day immersed in African wildlife.
You will return at about
5:00 PM
Important Information
Before you book, please review the following to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience:
Tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
- Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Don't forget your camera or smartphone for memorable photos.
- Lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended; neutral colors help blend with wildlife surroundings.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.
Accessibility
- The terrain throughout the reserve is mostly natural (dirt tracks, bush, uneven surfaces), so comfortable walking shoes are strongly recommended.
- Not suitable for wheelchair users in general, unless special arrangements are made (depending on vehicle, paths).
- The “lion walk” component involves being on foot and possibly stepping off trails; may not be suitable for those with limited mobility.
- Ferry crossings are involved; boarding/disembarking may require climbing steps or navigating benches/unfixed surfaces.
- Children aged 4 and above are welcome; under-4s may struggle with long rides and walking.
Health & Safety:
- Passport required for border crossing into Senegal or Guinea-Bissau; some nationalities may need a visa.
- Yellow fever card may be required; check with your local health authorities. (No problem if you don't have it.)
- Safari involves walking and riding in open-top vehicles; follow your guide's safety instructions.
Help
If you have questions about this tour or need assistance with your booking, we're here to help:
Travellers testimonials about this tour
Don't take it from us – here's what people have to say about this tour:
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We are 3 friends who spent two weeks in Gambia discovered its beauty with Aji Tours. She is amazing person with great knowledge about her countryside, history and local usages. She is full of empathy, joyful and attention to people. We were spending with her unforgettable moments. Makhasutu, Fatala and others were amazing experiences. We love You Aji. Margaret, Magda, Dorota.
Malgorzata O - Fathala Wildlife Reserve - Jan 2025