Experience Pelicans, Reptiles & Coastal Wildlife in One Day 

Discover two very different sides of Gambian wildlife on a full-day experience combining the fascinating reptiles of the Kartong Reptile Farm with the birdlife around Pelican Island.

Start your wildlife adventure at the reptile farm, where you'll encounter a variety of reptiles including snakes, chameleons, monitor lizards, turtles and crocodiles. Learn about these animals and their role in the natural environment through a guided experience.

Continue to the coastal wetlands around Pelican Island, a well-known birdwatching location where pelicans and other seabirds can be observed from the surrounding waterways and coastline. The area is recognised for its rich coastal and wetland habitats, which attract both resident and migratory birds.

Depending on your preferred experience, the day can also include time at Tanji Fishing Beach to experience local coastal life or Sanyang Beach for a more relaxed beach experience.

This tour is particularly suitable for travellers looking for birdwatching and wildlife experiences in The Gambia, combining reptiles, pelicans and the Atlantic coast in one day.

Why This Tour is Different

This isn't simply a birdwatching tour or a reptile farm visit.

It combines two completely different wildlife experiences:

Reptiles on land + birdlife around Pelican Island.

You'll discover some of The Gambia's most fascinating reptiles before experiencing one of the country's best-known coastal birdwatching areas.

The final coastal stop adds another dimension to the experience, allowing you to choose between the lively atmosphere of Tanji Fishing Beach or the more relaxed setting of Sanyang Beach.

What You'll Experience on the Pelican Island & Reptile Farm Tour 

Enjoy a 6–8 hour guided wildlife and coastal experience, starting with pick-up from your accommodation. 

Kartong Reptile Farm

Visit the Kartong Reptile Farm, also known locally as the snake farm, and discover a variety of Gambian reptiles.

Depending on the animals available during your visit, you may encounter:

• Snakes

• Chameleons

• Monitor lizards

• Turtles

• Crocodiles

Learn about reptile behaviour, ecology and their importance within the natural environment.

Some animals may be available for supervised interaction depending on the conditions and guidance at the farm. The dangerous reptiles are kept at a safe distance.

Pelican Island Birdwatching Experience 

• Continue to the coastal area around Pelican Island, where you can observe pelicans and other coastal and waterbird species.

• The area around Tanji and Pelican Island includes a variety of habitats such as coastal areas, wetlands, mangroves and sandbanks, creating excellent conditions for birdwatching. Pelicans, terns, herons, cormorants and other seabirds can be observed in the area, although specific species and sightings depend on season, tides and weather conditions.

• Bring your camera—and binoculars if you have them—for a closer look at the birdlife.

Choose Your Coastal Experience: Tanji or Sanyang

• After your wildlife and conservation experiences, choose between two different coastal options.

• Tanji Fishing Beach

• Visit Tanji Fishing Beach and experience one of the most active fishing areas along The Gambia's coast.

• Observe local fishermen, fishing boats and the everyday activity surrounding the beach.

• This option is particularly interesting for travellers who want to experience local coastal life and Gambian fishing culture.