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Meridiela.

Brufut Woods

A small community woodland near the coast, one of the best birding spots in the country.

Updated 2 October 2026

Typewoodland
WhereWest Coast
Nearest citySerekunda
Best seasonNovember to February
Time to allowTwo to three hours
Getting thereAt Brufut near the coast; road from Serekunda, around twenty five minutes
EntryGuide fee

Brufut Woods is a small patch of coastal woodland managed by the community with birding money, and its reputation rests on what turns up in it: long-tailed nightjar, white-faced scops owl, Verreaux's eagle-owl and a long list of other species concentrated in a few hectares. A drinking pool has been built to draw birds in. Guides from the village work the site and know the roost trees.

What's there

  • The owl roosts - white-faced scops and Verreaux's eagle-owl in known trees.
  • The drinking pool - the water built to draw birds within view.
  • The species density - a long list in only a few hectares.
  • The community management - a woodland kept by the village on birding fees.

When to go

November to February is the cool dry season and peak for migrants. Early morning is best. The pool is most productive late in the dry season.

Good to know

A local guide is effectively required and fees are expected. The wood is small and the experience is entirely about birds. There are no facilities.

Nearby

Tanji is south, and Bijilo is north.

What to pack for Brufut Woods

Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.

  • Broken-in walking shoes or boots - Grip and ankle support matter more than looks; never hike in brand-new boots. Find on Amazon
  • Layers + a waterproof shell - Mountain weather turns fast; a packable rain jacket saves the day. Find on Amazon
  • Daypack with rain cover - 20-30 litres holds water, snacks, layers and a first-aid kit. Find on Amazon
  • Offline maps + a power bank - Download the trail before you lose signal; carry backup charge. Find on Amazon

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Plan your trip

Where to start if Brufut Woods is going on the list.

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Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.

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