The accommodation was excellent. Situation is beautiful, food superb and the bed was extremely comfortable. There was a stunning number and variety of birds.
P.S. Kent, Dec 23
Tour Itinerary and Reports
- Itinerary
- Tour report - April 2024
- Tour report - April 2024
- Tour report - March 2024
- Tour report - March 2024
- Tour report - February 2024
- Tour report - January 2024
- Tour report - December 2023
- Tour report - November 2023
- Tour report - April 2023
- Tour report - March 2023
- Tour report - March 2023
- Tour report - January 2023
- Tour report - December 2022
- Tour report - November 2022
- Tour report - April 2022
- Tour report - March 2022
- Tour report - March 2022
- Tour report - January 2022
- Tour report - January 2022
- Tour report - December 2021
- Tour report - January 2020
- Tour report - December 2019
- Tour report - November 2019
- Tour report - April 2019
- Tour report - March 2019
- Tour report - January 2019
- Tour report - December 2018
- Tour report - November 2018
- Tour report - April 2018
- Tour report - March 2018
- Tour report - March 2018
- Tour report - January 2018
- Tour report - December 2017
- Tour report - April 2017
- Tour report - March 2017
- Tour report - February 2017
- Tour report - January 2017
- Tour report - December 2016
- Tour report - November 2016
- Tour report - April 2016
- Tour report - January 2016
- Tour report - December 2015
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The Gambia in Style
Tour Code: GMB02An 8-day holiday enjoying the spectacular birdlife and other natural history of The Gambia, based in the tranquil and relaxing surroundings of the exclusive Mandina Lodges.
£2,695 (Inc flights)
£
Highlights
Tour Itinerary and Reports
- Itinerary
- Tour report - April 2024
- Tour report - April 2024
- Tour report - March 2024
- Tour report - March 2024
- Tour report - February 2024
- Tour report - January 2024
- Tour report - December 2023
- Tour report - November 2023
- Tour report - April 2023
- Tour report - March 2023
- Tour report - March 2023
- Tour report - January 2023
- Tour report - December 2022
- Tour report - November 2022
- Tour report - March 2022
- Tour report - April 2022
- Tour report - January 2022
- Tour report - March 2022
- Tour report - January 2022
- Tour report - December 2021
- Tour report - November 2018
- Tour report - March 2018
- Tour report - March 2018
- Tour report - April 2019
- Tour report - April 2017
- Tour report - January 2019
- Tour report - December 2018
- Tour report - January 2018
- Tour report - November 2019
- Tour report - April 2018
- Tour report - December 2019
- Tour report - March 2017
- Tour report - March 2019
- Tour report - December 2017
- Tour report - January 2020
- Tour report - April 2016
- Tour report - December 2015
- Tour report - November 2016
- Tour report - December 2016
- Tour report - January 2017
- Tour report - February 2017
- Tour report - January 2016
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Summary
Of all the tropical destinations for European birdwatchers, The Gambia has arguably the most allure for drawing birders of all skill levels back year after year, from complete beginners to the highly experienced. Many of its 570+ species are extremely easy to see and many wonderful birds can be seen without even leaving your resort. We will be based for the week at the superb Mandina Lodges, a delightful riverside resort which is surrounded by the 1,000-acre Makasutu Forest in south-west Gambia. Exotics are found here in abundance as well as more familiar wintering European migrants. Our friendly local guides will take us on morning and afternoon tours, often by boat, into the surrounding area in search of herons, egrets, ibises, jacanas, kingfishers, sunbirds, raptors, rollers and glossy starlings. Other wildlife of interest includes Nile Monitor Lizards and a variety of primates, and back at the resort you may choose to unwind each day with a swim in the pool, or simply enjoy birdwatching from the beautiful grounds!
- A leisurely 8-day, single-centre, birdwatching holiday
- Easy, yet exciting & varied, birding from a luxurious base
- Stay at the picturesque riverside Mandina Lodges in The Gambia’s Makasutu Forest
- Lodge & Makasutu Forest listed in the book ‘1001 Escapes Before You Die’
- Rollers, kingfishers & bee-eaters plus sunbirds & orioles galore
- Excellent photographic opportunities
- Led by expert naturalist guides
We also offer a specialist Photographic departure to Mandina Lodges, as well as one at Christmas.
Grading
Grade A. Leisurely morning and afternoon excursions on foot and by boat, plus two full day excursions by vehicle, all of which are optional.
Affectionately known as the ‘Smiling Coast of West Africa’, the Republic of The Gambia is a tiny country that packs a mighty avian punch, being home to more than 570 species. For the birder, it offers an exciting kaleidoscope of colour and variety, plus just a touch of familiarity for those of us travelling from the UK! Along with plenty of photographic opportunities (we also offer a special ‘Photography’ departure each year) and examples of fascinating African culture in the rural heart of West Africa, The Gambia boasts a friendly, easy-going atmosphere and an appealing combination of superlative birdwatching and a warm sunny climate, making it the perfect winter sun getaway.
We depart on a direct flight from London Gatwick to Banjul, and from here it is just a short transfer of around 45 minutes to the exclusive Mandina Lodges. This is our home for the week and it feels a world away from the bustle of Banjul and the touristic Atlantic coast, being set within 1,000 acres of the peaceful Makasutu Cultural Forest and bordering the secluded mangrove-lined tributary of the River Gambia. There are just nine striking chalets at Mandina, with some discreetly positioned over the water and others set back within the lush forest wilderness. The large pool is perfect for cooling off during the heat of the day and meals are served al fresco in the thatched dining areas. The entire setting has been thoughtfully and beautifully designed to promote a tranquil retreat from everyday life, and around the lodge guests frequently encounter such avian delights as African Golden Oriole, Yellow-fronted Tinkerbird, Bearded Barbet, White-throated and Little Bee-eaters, Pied and Blue-breasted Kingfishers, Green-headed, Scarlet-chested and Beautiful Sunbirds, Northern Crombec and Violet Turaco. Sitting in the bar overlooking the mangroves at sunset whilst watching the herons and egrets return to their roost, it is easy to see why this place has been selected as one of the ‘1001 escapes to make before you die’!
On four days, during our stay at Mandina Lodges, we remain based at the lodge and explore the nearby forest, rice fields, mud flats and surrounding savannah both on foot and using traditional dugout canoes. We will set off from the lodge just as it is getting light and, as the sun warms us up, it can sometimes be hard to know where to look as parrots, turacos, rollers, bush-shrikes, sunbirds, glossy starlings and bee-eaters all vie for our attention! Raptors commonly seen overhead include Black Kite, Palm-nut Vulture, African Harrier-hawk, Dark Chanting Goshawk and Beaudouin’s Snake Eagle, whilst Guinea Baboons are resident in the forest and are very approachable, and Green Vervet Monkeys are also commonly seen. Boat trips along the creek are sure to reveal a diverse selection of herons, egrets and other waterbirds, plus a dazzling selection of kingfishers. We will return to Mandina for a leisurely brunch and then, during the heat of the day, we will be free to relax, enjoy a dip in the lodge’s beautiful swimming pool, explore the mangroves or perhaps go for an independent walk in the nearby forest. Meeting up again in the late afternoon once the air has started to cool, we will enjoy a second excursion and return to Mandina in time for a drink and dinner.
On one evening during our stay we will also enjoy a special sunset cruise through the mangroves and out onto the vast expanse of River Gambia proper, which extends as far as the eye can see. We will take our time to scan the mangroves, looking out for species such as Goliath Heron, Pink-backed Pelican, Long-tailed Cormorants, as well as numerous egrets and darters, and perhaps African Finfoot.
On two days we will enjoy full day excursions away from Makasutu in order to explore some of the area’s other top nature reserves. None are further than about an hour’s drive away, and we are sure to include Kartong wetlands on the coast, close to the border with Senegal, which host a whole array of species including various species of Sandpiper, Hamerkop, Black Crake, Jacana and African Spoonbill in the various pools, and if eagle-eyed we might see African Crocodile basking in the sun on a bank. The surrounding scrubland is no less fruitful, with Blue-bellied and Abyssinian Rollers likely, Woodland and Grey-headed Kingfisher perched, and with Palm and Mosque Swifts screeching overheard as well as various raptors soaring over, it is sometimes difficult to know where to look. Another location is a disused shrimp farm in Pirang which nature has reclaimed and is a very productive spot, and nearby is a section of gallery forest which is a particularly good location for roosting owls including Verreaux’s Eagle Owl as well as Long-tailed Nightjar if lucky.
Finally, after a week of easy, yet exciting and varied birding from an extremely comfortable base, we must drag ourselves away and return to Banjul for our flight home.
Outline Itinerary
What's Included?
- Flights
- Accommodation:
Mandina Lodges consists of nine comfortable and discreetly positioned individual lodges. All the lodges are en-suite, and all have one king-sized bed, with the exception of two Jungle Lodges and one Garden Lodge which have two king-sized beds and can therefore be used for twin occupancy. Mangrove and Jungle Lodges are included in the standard tour price; Garden, Stilted and Floating Lodges are available for an additional supplement. Please refer to the detailed tour itinerary for more information on the different lodge types.
- Food:
Breakfast and dinner are included throughout the holiday, lunches are not. We recommend allowing around £10-15 per lunch.
Reviews
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David Jackson was simply excellent: very knowledgeable, and extremely approachable and helpful. He expertly sorted out any problems we encountered. There was a huge variety of birdlife which was identified in detail by the guides. A very impressive level of knowledge. I particularly enjoyed an unscheduled half an hour sitting in the middle of a 50-strong group of Guinea baboons, watching and photographing them as they went about their business.
D.C. Cardiff, Nov 23 -
First of all let me express my appreciation for the privilege of traveling through Gambia with Solomon. I do know how lucky we were. All the local guides at Mandina and Tamba were excellent. The Naturetrek leaders were both great but I am going to rave about Andy Bunten. I can’t commend him enough. As a birding trip it was brilliant and it was very interesting to see so much of Gambia and understand more of its history. Overall this has been one of the most enjoyable and satisfying trips I have been on. For me it worked really well having the gentle , comfortable week at Mandina to acclimatize and learn my common birds before the adventure.
D.L. West Midlands, Nov 23 -
The holiday has been wonderful in so many aspects. I enjoyed the leisurely walks in the sunshine and the canoe trips on the Bolong. The mangroves with the oysters were formidable. I have never been in such an environment before. Our floating lodge was at the shore so we basically stayed within mangroves. The tidal changes where stunning. The atmosphere at the river shore was wonderful. Another highlight was our bus ride to Kartong, Sanyang and the Tanji fish market along the Atlantic. The holiday lasted for only one week, but we have done and seen so many interesting things.
H.K. Germany, Nov 23 -
Keith Buchanan made this very good trip outstandingly good for us. Highly knowledgeable, good-humoured, funny, calm, tolerant, tactful and diplomatic throughout. We were glad to meet him and very much enjoyed his company.
A.W. Herefordshire, Mar 23 -
This holiday was structured to ensure that we saw not only birds but also enjoyed our time in Gambia. The guides were excellent at seeing/hearing birds and then pointing them out to all. The guides ensured that all of us were brought to the front to see the birds and wildlife: including the somewhat large cobra slowly slithering off in to the under-growth. The split between early morning and late afternoon walks was well designed to miss the heat of the day: phew. A sign of a pleasant and thrilling holiday is arriving home relaxed, happy, fond memories of the group, lots of photographs to go through and the desire to return. Well done and thank you to Keith our guide and all the team at Mandina Lodge.
B.V. Suffolk, Mar 23 -
A great location for bird watching with particular highlights including seeing; Guinea Turaco, Harrier Hawk and Ospreys flying low overhead. Hotel staff and local guides were excellent. I enjoyed the food and considering the location, the chef worked miracles - good choice of meals each evening.
J.G. Buckinghamshire, Mar 23 -
The experience was very good. Mandina Lodge is very well organised and everything went very smoothly. The staff were very efficient and meals were excellently prepared. The guides were very knowledgeable and made sure everyone saw the various birds they located. Keep up the good work!
A.S. Kent, Mar 23 -
The accommodation was lovely and the staff could not have been better. It was a unique opportunity to be able to get a great view - or even a great photo - of birds that I'd never seen before. Richard was the most knowledgeable birder I have ever met, and he put in so much to ensure everyone saw the birds and felt included. The local guides were amazing too, bringing their detailed knowledge of the area and its birds, enabling us to observe birds we would not have seen otherwise.
S.C. Perthshire, Mar 23 -
Being paddled down the river in a canoe and seeing so many new birds was a brilliant experience. I thoroughly enjoyed staying at Mandina Lodge and the leader Richard Bashford gave us a wonderful holiday.
C.W Suffolk, Mar 23 -
A more lovely spot than Mandina cannot be imagined. Visits to the fish market, taking the canoes out to nearby villages provided glimpses of rural life and was a real highlight. Chris and the local guides all much commended for their care, enthusiasm and expertise. Together they made the holiday.
A.T. Northumberland, Jan 23 -
The overall setting, the beautiful gardens and scenery, the numerous colourful birds, the mixture of boat trips and walks, the plentiful relaxation, the fantastic dinners, and the great company (guides, staff and fellow guests) were all highlights. I was very happy with the jungle lodge that my husband and I stayed in, which was comfortable and stayed cool despite the heat outside. The staff were all extremely friendly and helpful. I would particularly like to thank Barney for helping me at very short notice before the holiday.
H.S. Surrey, Jan 23 -
Lovely warm sunshine in January! The fabulous variety of birds the Gambia has to offer and the excellent local guides always keen to help you spot the bird in the bush make it a trip to remember! Chris Griffin was excellent, very knowledgeable about the local bird life and made every effort to ensure that people in the group didn't miss out on views in the scope.
M.W. Hampshire, Feb 23 -
It was a lovely Lodge with excellent facilities and staff. Chris was a fantastic leader who was knowledgeable, great company and really helpful when any problems arose. The highlights were too numerous to list but include seeing an African Finfoot and such a large variety of bird (we tried to think of a top 10 birds and had to stop as we hit 20!).
T.F. Surrey, Jan 23 -
I enjoyed the balance of walking and boat trips from Mandina and two days of excursions out. Having plenty of time to rest in the heat of the afternoon enabled me to enjoy the birding trips. I cannot praise Chris Griffin more highly. His field skills for birding are exceptionally good - it was almost unbelievable! He showed care and attention to individuals in the group, particularly looking after one client who had to walk slowly and found seeing the birds with her binoculars difficult. He was warm and exuded infectious enthusiasm for what we were seeing and displayed a lovely sense of humour too. We saw a lot of different bird species and we had some excellent views of some of them in beautiful evening light. For me the absolute highlight was seeing the Black Egret doing its 'umbrella' behaviour. I wanted to stay somewhere beautiful with a warm climate and immerse myself in the bird life and this trip ticked all the boxes for defeating the winter blues! I had an excellent weeks holiday.
C.B. Gwent, Jan 23 -
A great trip, well organised and well led. Very pleased to have managed to get 200 species in the week! Loads of highlights, far too many to mention, including the Vervet monkeys around the camp and the baboons with babies. Loads of bird highlights but the best was probably seeing a Giant Kingfisher perched on our balcony! The canoe and boat trips were an excellent way of exploring the habitats without too much effort or disturbance. The floating lodge gave excellent views of the river and mangroves and the wildlife that frequented the area. The food was good and I enjoyed the opportunity to try different Gambian dishes. Chris was a very enthusiastic and knowledgeable leader and always willing to answer questions. Also he was very caring and good at making sure everybody was looked after on the walks and understanding of any problems we might be having. The local guides who were very helpful and shared their excellent local knowledge. Special thanks to AJ who realised I was having difficulty getting good shots of some birds with my camera and got me some better shots of the owls than I could have done!
P.S. Norfolk, Dec 23 -
This was a holiday to discover and experience the bird life of The Gambia. We were not disappointed with daily excursions on foot, by boat and by bus led by knowledgeable local guides. Mandina Lodges was a very special place to stay. Naturetrek provides excellent information about the holiday in print and online with full pre-trip notes and reports from previous trips. Our Naturetrek leader was a great and knowledgeable resource and an invaluable link between us and the local guides.
A.B. Berkshire, Jan 24 -
Plenty of birdwatching without having to travel far. Excellent lodge & location. Pace was just right for us as even in the midday down time we could bird around the lodge. Excellent tour leader & local guides.
H.T. Gloucestershire, Dec 23 -
This was my first birding holiday to the tropics, and in the course of a single week We found over 160 species, with 132 lifers for me personally. Among these were many species of colourful kingfishers, rollers ands bee-eaters, as well as many kinds of sunbird. Mammals included four species of monkey including Teminck's Red Colobus and Patas Monkey as well as a large troupe of Guinea Baboons. Reptiles included West African Crocodile and Nile Monitor. Accommodation was excellent and the food was very good. I would certainly travel there again. Naturetrek has been running holidays to the Gambia and elsewhere for many years and I have travelled to many parts of Europe with them before, but this was my first African trip. Everything went smoothly and the tour leader and local guides were all excellent.
A.G. Avon, Apr 23 -
It was a tremendous holiday. We were based at Mandina Lodge, which is extremely comfortable and well equipped. We were taken on daily excursions to see birds, by canoe, on foot and by bus, led by expert local guides as well as by Naturetrek's tour leader. It was altogether a fantastic experience. They arrange, suggest, and organise a large range of wildlife holidays. They provide expert leaders and very reliable backup. I always feel confident booking with them.
C.W. Suffolk, Mar 23 -
Eight day trip to Gambia with Naturetrek to Mandina Lodges, for R&R, and birdwatching with a small group of similar minded people. Naturetrek provide an excellent balance in all their holidays, which always use excellent local guides in locations appropriate to the type of holiday. Great company, always there when you need them, can't speak too highly of them.
C.A. Suffolk, Jan 22 -
Fantastic first trip, I did not know that such an interesting destination with wildlife and winter sunshine could be enjoyed only a 6 hour flight from the UK. Mandina Lodge was very special - set in the Makasutu Cultural Forest on a tributary of the Gambia river, it had unusual accommodation, wonderful fresh food and friendly knowledgeable local guides.
C.C. Dorset, Nov 19 -
The Gambia in Style was everything it promised to be. The birdwatching was excellent lead with great skill by Richard who shared his knowledge in a professional yet relaxed manner. He took great care to ensure that all guests were catered for whatever their needs and abilities. The location was exceptional - luxurious and peaceful. All staff were very welcoming and helpful and we were all sorry to leave at the end of our week.
J.L. Nottinghamshire, Apr 19 -
A group of 9 of us plus marvellous Naturetrek leader stayed in the sumptuous and relaxing Mandina Lodges in the mangrove-lined tributaries of the River Gambia. During a mixture of canoe expeditions and walking excursions, with the occasional minibus trip to the coast, we saw an incredible, colourful array of nearly 200 magical Gambian bird species. The weather, local guides, quality of lodge and overwhelming wildlife made it an extraordinary and wonderful week.
N.W. Northamptonshire, Apr 19 -
We stayed at an Ecolodge on a tributary of the River Gambia, and could see the wildlife from our upgraded floating lodge on the river. We had safaris on foot or by canoe most days around the lodge, and on two days we went further afield. It was a birding tour, however we also saw various monkeys, reptiles and the resident baboon troupe who we liked! The food was delicious!
B.N. Kent, Dec 18 -
Wildlife watching with style and comfort. Wonderful tour leader and birding expert with the assistance of local guides who were able to take us to places which a group of western tourists might not have been so welcome by villagers. A trip to see the real Gambia!
R.H. East Yorkshire, Dec 18 -
Vast amount of birds. Excellent Naturetrek leader - Ed gets 12 out of 10. Took time with individuals to make sure everyone was catered for both in terms of logistics and also specific interest i.e. photography. He was also very knowledgeable on birds in Gambia. Likeable chap! Staff at Mandina Lodge gave a good level of service. Chef certainly looked after us - the food was scrumptious...felt spoilt.
P.L. Norfolk -
Beautiful site at Mandina - charming staff and local guides - nothing too much trouble. Very pleased the week was not exclusively aimed at birds as this gets very tedious for those with more general interest in natural history. Ed was the star turn. Not only was he cheerful, positive, organised and very helpful, he had excellent knowledge and observation skills across the whole spectrum of species in the areas, making it much more interesting for generalists. He was also very professional.
J.P. Herefordshire -
I have clocked up quite a few wildlife spotting trips over the last 15 years and have to say, this was probably the most enjoyable...for several reasons: A leader jointly skilled in identification of birds and interaction with people, who allowed the local guides to run the show, only chipping in to correct any mis-id's; a well run lodge with friendly, happy staff providing tasty meals; keen local guides; facilitated by a small friendly group of clients.
J.L. East Sussex -
The local guides were particularly good at ensuring that everyone got a chance to get a good view of all the birds. Where there were gaps in their knowledge, Marcus was very good at clarifying the identity of birds seen. The accommodation was excellent. Service and food was also very good.
S.C. West Midlands -
We had a wonderfully relaxing week in the tranquil surroundings of Mandina Lodge. Our hosts were well organised and tended to our every need; the guides were superbly knowledgeable and enabled us to see a splendid array of birds and baboons both on foot and by canoe. We have lovely memories of being paddled serenely along the river in the early mornings and evenings. We were also taken out from the base to visit very interesting places in the vicinity such as the beach where fish are landed in vast numbers every day. In between, we had a lovely pool and base in which to relax in or out of the sun! This trip is to be thoroughly recommended to anyone interested in birds.
T.R. Cleveland -
Gambia in Style lived up to its description- with exotic floating lodges in a mangrove creek but still felt close to nature, being surrounded by forest. The pace was leisurely with morning and afternoon birding - some from a canoe and afternoons free to relax (or not) with a couple of days further afield. We crammed a lot into a week and the Naturetrek tour leader was truly exceptional at bird recognition as well as having an easy going manner with group members. However, the excellence of the local guides was wonderful to experience and their enthusiasm very contagious. It made for a wonderful birthday treat.
D.W. South Yorkshire -
The staff were all excellent, very friendly. Great weather, and good food. Our guides really knew the birds. Overall an excellent trip and would like to return.
P.W. Hertfordshire -
The pace was just right. The leader was knowledgeable, enthusiastic, helpful and willing to be flexible. Any minor problems sorted quickly. The group 'gelled' very well. The local guides were also excellent - friendly, interested, keen to show us everything. I had my 60th birthday on the trip and it was really memorable.
A.B. Clwyd -
Mandina Lodge is a lovely place with lovely staff and very good service and food.
U.W. Buckinghamshire -
The tour leader Eric Barnes - one of life's gentlemen.
I.N. Hertfordshire -
We thought the balance of days out and walks and canoes trips locally was spot on. Mandina itself was great. Very easy to relax during the heat of the day but just as easy to keep yourself entertained if you wished. We had a great time not only with the wildlife but also the other tour participants. We feel the key to all these trips are the guides and Mandina's guides are brilliant. Always friendly, patient and helpful in showing you what their country has to offer. They are a real asset to the Lodge. On top of that we had our Naturetrek guide as well. Marcus is one of those rare individuals who can turn a group of strangers into friends within an hour. His enthusiasm was infectious and we learnt so much from him during the course of the week. First class!
A.P. Kent -
Particularly impressed with the abilities of the trip leader and local guides to spot the birds and provide background information.
M.L. Buckinghamshire -
I enjoyed having more time than is usual to use the facilities at Mandina Lodges, especially the swimming pool! The adjoining gardens were ideal to potter around, with many birds to see.
J.C. Norfolk -
Very relaxed with itinerary changeable according to circumstances. Very capably led by Rob Mileto, who considered the views of all participants.
J.H. Hampshire -
A blissful holiday in beautiful surroundings with an itinerary that mixed prolific bird sightings with welcome periods of relaxation. Rob Mileto was a splendid tour leader, both knowledgeable and entertaining. Brilliant local guides.
M.F. Dorset -
Lovely accommodation, well situated for purpose with welcoming, helpful staff. Rob was an excellent tour leader: very knowledgeable, enthusiastic and well organised. And he didn't make this non-birder feel isolated!
D.F. Dorset
Dates & Prices
2024
Tour Leader: Rob Mileto
Rob puts his interest in wildlife and nature conservation down to being brought up in a 'new town' where fields, ponds and hedgerows were constantly being turned into houses and roads. After graduating in Ecology and Nature Conservation he worked for the Shropshire Wildlife Trust and RSPB, and spent two years wardening Aride Island Nature Reserve in the Seychelles. He has also travelled extensively in east and southern Africa and undertaken voluntary conservation work and research in Tanzania, Namibia and Zimbabwe. He now runs a wildlife consultancy in Shropshire but disappears off on long holidays and advisory projects abroad whenever he can.
Tour Leader: Philip Thompson
Philip was born in Nigeria and feels sure that at a subconscious level this has instilled in him his lifelong passion and interest in the natural world and the wildlife of Africa in particular. He was born of a generation who, as kids, would think nothing of disappearing of into the surrounding woods and countryside only to return at the end of the day hungry and tired. This enjoyment in the open country and experiencing at first hand the natural world has remained with him to this day and it is now his great pleasure to show and share with others the natural delights that drew him to tour leading. His main interest is in wild flowers but he remains a keen and able birder with an interest in all other forms of the natural environment. He is also interested in music, fashion and film, with European cinema a particular favourite.
Tour Leader: Andy Smith
Andy lives on the edge of Dartmoor in South Devon. He’s been a keen birder and naturalist for as long as he can remember and has enjoyed a varied career divided between conservation work in Britain and Ireland, school teaching and wildlife tour leading. He started leading for Naturetrek way back in 1997 and has now led over 150 tours to a wide range of destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas and Antarctica. When not currently leading tours Andy teaches geography and history to teenagers and in his spare time he explores the natural history of Dartmoor and the South Hams and serves on the records committee of Devon Birds. He also makes regular trips to the west of Ireland to visit his children and grandchildren.
2025
Tour Leader: Chris Griffin
Chris was obsessed with wildlife from an early age, when he spent every available moment either at a local nature reserve or buried in a bird book! Naturally this led to a wildlife orientated career, where he worked for the RSPB and various environmental consultancies as a Field Ornithologist. Now, three decades on, his life hasn’t changed much, as he still birds his local reserves and is regularly found delving his head into a field guide!
Chris is a keen wildlife photographer, and particularly enjoys the Somerset Levels where he photographs anything and everything. Birds are his first love, but Chris also enjoys watching, and has excellent knowledge of lepidoptera, odonata, reptiles, and amphibians. His enthusiasm for wildlife is infectious, and he relishes any opportunity to share his wealth of knowledge and experience!
Tour Leader: David Jackson
Dave has been fascinated by the natural world from an early age when his dad used to take him fishing at a local lake in Hertfordshire, however, he didn’t have the concentration to sit still for long unless trying to encourage a Robin to feed from his hand!
In adult life, he has been a long-serving committee member of the local RSPB Members’ Group and took part in the charity’s fund-raising bike rides from London to Oxford, ‘Pedal for Puffins’ and ‘Pedal for Parrots’.
Dave is also a serving committee member of the Northamptonshire Bird Club and, although birds are his first love, he has an interest in all natural history and gives illustrated talks to groups and societies from his travels to Iceland, New Zealand, Panama, South Africa, The Gambia and more.
After a career in financial services, David took early retirement and finally found “his true vocation” - leading for Naturetrek. He has now led multiple tours to countries including Iceland, Scotland, St. Lucia and The Gambia. He also leads tours in our portfolio of Vegetarian and Vegan Wildlife Holidays.
When not touring, he volunteers for Wildlife Trust BCN at Pitsford Nature Reserve SSSI where he is involved in many aspects of conservation, maintenance and survey work.
He also runs Naturetrek’s 'Introduction to Macro Photography at Pitsford SSSI' Day Trip, where a number of Dave’s photos are displayed to commemorate the Trust’s 50-year anniversary and he is always pleased to assist those on his tours in improving their photography skills
A selection of Dave’s images (including his Eurasian Sparrowhawk voted Birdguides Photo of the Year 2022) can be viewed here: Birdguides Portfolio.
Tour Leader: Simon Woolley
Simon Woolley is a passionate birder and all-round naturalist. Having cut his birding teeth in childhood on the Dee Estuary, he has lived in Hampshire’s New Forest for many years now, and is the author of the definitive book on The Birds of Blashford Lakes. He has travelled extensively on six continents in search of wildlife. He has a particular interest in bird systematics and endemism, and is currently completing a book on the latter topic. He has worked for many years as a Geography teacher, so clients can be assured of lots of geological and climatological background exploration on the tours he leads…. As if any further endorsement of your choice of Naturetrek were needed, he met his wife, Julia, on a Naturetrek tour of Kenya in 1997!
Tour Leader: Matthew Capper
Matthew was born in Stamford and grew up with Rutland Water on his doorstep, where he volunteered during his teenage years and developed his lifelong interest in birds and other wildlife. After a Geography degree at Sheffield University, he settled in the Peak District and was soon involved in bird of prey protection, the National Park Ranger Service and the local birding scene. Matthew began working for the RSPB in 2006 and managed projects across the north of England, spent time as an Area Conservation Manager and 10 years as Senior Site Manager at RSPB Old Moor in Yorkshire. Passionate about connecting people with nature, he has led walks, activities and delivered talks for many different organisations. Having previously served on the board of trustees, Matthew became the Head of Public Engagement and Communications for the Lincolnshire Wildlife Trust in 2019.
Tour Leader: Bob Elliot
Bob enjoys leading groups and helping people to enjoy the natural world, which serve as a welcome antidote to his challenging day job as Director for OneKind, an animal welfare charity based in Edinburgh. Bob is an experienced naturalist with extensive knowledge of wildlife, nature conservation and animal welfare issues both in Scotland and internationally.
Bob was born in North Yorkshire, and spent much of his childhood in the Yorkshire Dales. His passion for nature led him to join the Harrogate and District Naturalists Society, in which he soon became a prominent member. His career in nature conservation started with two head warden posts on the Farne Islands before moving to Scotland to work for the National Trust for Scotland (NTS), undertaking Countryside Ranger/Naturalist roles at lowland sites in Dumfries and Galloway. A promotion to Countryside Manager for the Highlands and Islands meant overseeing the work of Rangers, as well as being involved with wider countryside management. His work involved the management of reserves including the mountainous areas of Glencoe, Kintail, West Affric and Torridon, and iconic islands such as Iona, Canna, Fair Isle and St Kilda. Bob also managed the Countryside Ranger and Warden Service for Scotland's first National Park, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, before joining the RSPB in 2007. Bob was the head of the investigations and species protection team for the RSPB for 14 years, fighting wildlife crime both in the UK and internationally. He is now the Director for OneKind, an animal welfare charity based in Edinburgh, which exposes cruelty and persecution to Scotland’s animals via investigations, research and campaigning.
Bob has much experience with wildlife overseas, having taken trips to Antarctica, Peru, South Africa and Europe. Bob has assisted in a vulture feeding project in the Spanish Pyrenees, Iberian Lynx watching in Spain and the nest monitoring of Bearded Vultures in France and Spain. In recent years he has worked on trips to Iceland, the Faroe Islands, Portugal, Ireland, Romania, Switzerland and the Scottish Islands, including St Kilda and Fair Isle. He's an expert on birds and mammals, and has specialist knowledge of birds of prey and seabirds, as well as field experience of using camera traps and remote surveillance techniques.
Tour Leader: Andy Bunten
Andy Bunten has been an obsessive enthusiast about wildlife ever since he can remember. Educated at Cambridge, Newcastle and Imperial College, he then embarked on a career in nature conservation. He has worked for local government, wildlife trusts and, for 26 years, the RSPB. He initially worked in RSPB Scotland then headed south to be the Regional Director for the South East of England for 5 years before, in 1991, moving to the North of England to take up the reins of Director there. An experienced lecturer, Andy has cruised extensively completing over 20 trips ranging from South America to the Philippines and from Argentina to Svalbard. Now an Environmental Consultant, Andy is an enthusiastic traveller and has led wildlife groups to numerous places around the world including the Seychelles, France, Egypt, Costa Rica, Panama, Borneo, Norway and Spitsbergen. Over the last few years, he has led Naturetrek holidays in France, Romania, Hungary, Sweden, Spain and Scotland. He loves leading trips!
Tour Leader: Andy Smith
Andy lives on the edge of Dartmoor in South Devon. He’s been a keen birder and naturalist for as long as he can remember and has enjoyed a varied career divided between conservation work in Britain and Ireland, school teaching and wildlife tour leading. He started leading for Naturetrek way back in 1997 and has now led over 150 tours to a wide range of destinations in Europe, Africa, Asia, the Americas and Antarctica. When not currently leading tours Andy teaches geography and history to teenagers and in his spare time he explores the natural history of Dartmoor and the South Hams and serves on the records committee of Devon Birds. He also makes regular trips to the west of Ireland to visit his children and grandchildren.
2026
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The majority of our wildlife tours focus primarily on birds, allowing us to offer a huge choice of bird holidays. On most of our birdwatching tours we aim to see a wide variety of species, while taking time to enjoy other wildlife as well as cultural highlights and architecture.
Naturetrek Birdwatching Tours
We have one of the largest selections of professionally organised, small group birdwatching holidays around the world and all of our birdwatching tours are accompanied by at least one professional ornithologist leader with detailed knowledge of the area.
The majority of our bird tours have a relaxed, flexible approach which allows more time for photography, detailed wildlife exploration, leisure time and the region’s people, culture, history and architecture, while allowing the group to see a wide range of bird species.
Here is a small selection of our many bird holidays:
- Southern Morocco – an exploration of the birdlife in Morocco’s southern deserts, oases and mountains
- The Camargue in Spring – a short break to enjoy the spring birds of the Rhône Delta and Camargue wetland
- Wallcreepers & Cranes in Northern Spain – a 2-centre holiday focusing on Lammergeier, Wallcreepers, raptors, Cranes, bustards, sandgrouse and more!
- Madeira & Desertas Islands – A Seabird Extravaganza! – a short break focusing on special breeding seabirds, including a night on the remote Destertas Islands
- Peru – Macaws & Machu Picchu – searches for boobies, macaws and Inca Terns
- Spain & Morocco: Birding on Two Continents! – watch the spectacular spring bird migration from both sides of the Straits of Gibraltar
Our Bargain Birdwatching Selection
Our Bargain Bird Tours are intensive birdwatching holidays suitable for the serious birder. They are led by expert English-speaking local guides (and not accompanied from the UK by a tour leader). You can expect a higher-paced tour and to spend long hours in the field.
Our specialist recommends...
Byron Palacios - Tour Leader
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Tour Reports
- Tour report - April 2024
- Tour report - April 2024
- Tour report - March 2024
- Tour report - March 2024
- Tour report - February 2024
- Tour report - January 2024
- Tour report - December 2023
- Tour report - November 2023
- Tour report - April 2023
- Tour report - March 2023
- Tour report - March 2023
- Tour report - January 2023
- Tour report - December 2022
- Tour report - November 2022
- Tour report - April 2022
- Tour report - March 2022
- Tour report - March 2022
- Tour report - January 2022
- Tour report - January 2022
- Tour report - December 2021
- Tour report - January 2020
- Tour report - December 2019
- Tour report - November 2019
- Tour report - April 2019
- Tour report - March 2019
- Tour report - January 2019
- Tour report - December 2018
- Tour report - November 2018
- Tour report - April 2018
- Tour report - March 2018
- Tour report - March 2018
- Tour report - January 2018
- Tour report - December 2017
- Tour report - April 2017
- Tour report - March 2017
- Tour report - February 2017
- Tour report - January 2017
- Tour report - December 2016
- Tour report - November 2016
- Tour report - April 2016
- Tour report - January 2016
- Tour report - December 2015
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Why Naturetrek?
At Naturetrek we craft expertly-guided group and tailor-made wildlife holidays and cruises to all seven continents. On one of our holidays, you can be assured that our passionate team will enable you to experience and enjoy the best of the world's wildlife and natural spectacles in as comfortable and rewarding a manner as possible, caring as best we can for the environment in the process. We are proud to provide:
- The widest choice of wildlife holidays worldwide
- Tours managed and led by naturalists, for naturalists
- Outstanding value and exceptional customer service
Furthermore, as a Naturetrek client, our office team are always to on hand to help you – so if you have any queries about your holiday, whether before or after you have booked, we will be delighted to answer them on the phone. Please just give our team a call!