In celebration of World Wildlife Day, specialist tour operator The Gambia Experience invites wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers to explore the country's rich biodiversity. Just a six-hour flight from the UK and in the same time zone, this tiny but wildlife-rich West African country offers more than unspoiled beaches and year-round sunshine. A world-class destination for birders, The Gambia also provides excellent opportunities to witness exotic wildlife, lush landscapes, and unique flora, all within easy reach of popular coastal resorts. 

To mark the occasion, The Gambia Experience is offering travellers the chance to discover the destination's remarkable wildlife and save £75 per person on selected package holidays using the discount code WILDLIFE75*. 

A Birdwatcher's Paradise – 600+ Species to Spot - With over 600 resident and migratory species, including vibrant kingfishers, egrets, and pelicans, The Gambia is a hotspot for birdwatchers. It offers a rewarding experience for both novice and expert birdwatchers.  

With more than 20 years' experience birdwatching across The Gambia, Malick Suso is widely regarded as one of the country's leading guides, combining exceptional field knowledge with an instinct for locating even the rarest species. Praised by Chris Packham as one of the very best birdwatchers and guides in The Gambia and named Wanderlust Best Wildlife and Safari Guide in 2023, Malick offers half- and full-day birding excursions, exploring diverse habitats in search of the most colourful and elusive species. He also leads private upriver birding journeys of two to five nights, including accommodation and fully personalised guiding throughout. 

Birdwatching Around Mandina Lodges – Hidden in the heart of the African bush yet within an hour's drive of the beach resorts, the Mandina Lodges are located along a tributary of the River Gambia at Makasutu Forest. Surrounded by nature, with a choice of floating, stilted, mangrove and jungle Lodges the location provides a unique and tranquil base. Playful baboons and monkeys roam freely, while early morning canoe trips reveal a wealth of birdlife, from kingfishers and herons to weaver birds. 

Chimp Rehabilitation Project – A visit to the Chimp Rehabilitation Project is among the most memorable wildlife experiences in The Gambia. Established in 1979 and located 4 ½ hours upriver within the River Gambia National Park, the project offers incredible observation of chimpanzees in their natural habitat, via private boat trips around the three islands where the primates roam. Access to the islands is forbidden. However, the daily boat trips and food supply on the riverbanks provide excellent viewing, while nature walks and night walks to see bush babies add to the excitement. 

Hippos & Crocodiles - Hippos and crocodiles are additional highlights of River Gambia National Park. Their powerful presence upriver provides unforgettable scenes for wildlife enthusiasts. 

New Upriver Adventure – Explore Kauren River Camp and Janjangbureh on a three-day tour. This environmentally friendly retreat, located 147 km upriver, offers panoramic views of the majestic River Gambia and pristine forests—perfect for birdwatchers and nature lovers. 

Fathala Wildlife Reserve - Just across the border in Senegal, Fathala Wildlife Reserve provides an opportunity to witness large game, including giraffes, warthogs and giant eland derby, roam freely. Guests stay in luxurious, air-conditioned safari tents and can enjoy guided game drives.   At night, the fire pit and nearby watering hole create a magical wildlife experience before dining in the traditional thatched restaurant. 

Mangroves to Savannah – Diverse Flora - From mangrove-lined tributaries to dry forest savannah, The Gambia's habitats are rich in plant biodiversity. Many species are used locally for traditional medicine and herbal remedies, highlighting the deep connection between nature and community. 

Conservation Through Engagement and Tourism - Tourism plays a vital role in wildlife conservation in The Gambia. By travelling responsibly with The Gambia Experience, holidaymakers support local communities in protecting these habitats. In January 2026, the company received accreditation from CAPED Gambia for its long-standing support of mangrove restoration and nationwide tree-planting projects, helping to preserve the country's unique flora and fauna for future generations. 

Discover The Gambia with The Gambia Experience 

The Gambia Experience offers a range of holidays, excursions, and tours designed to create memorable and meaningful experiences: 

• Wildlife & Nature Tours – Expert-guided excursions to key reserves and habitats. 

• Birdwatching Adventures – Tailored itineraries and group excursions. 

• Nature Lodges & Riverside Stays – Comfortable, immersive stays nestled in nature. 

• Cultural & Conservation Experiences – Combine wildlife exploration with community engagement. 

“With its remarkable biodiversity and welcoming culture, The Gambia offers wonderful wildlife experiences and a real taste of unspoilt Africa, while being just six hours from the UK,” said Karen Durham, product manager for The Gambia Experience. “This World Wildlife Day, we invite travellers to celebrate nature's wonders while contributing to sustainable tourism and conservation.” 

* Valid for Gambia bookings made between 3 March 2026 and 30 April 2027. Discount code applies to stays that include Bakotu Hotel, Fathala Wildlife, Mandina Lodges or Chimp Rehabilitation Camp. 

Book your wildlife adventure today: www.gambia.co.uk 

ENDS