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Tanji Bird Reserve

A coastal reserve of lagoon, dune and woodland with a very long bird list.

Updated 2 October 2026

Typebird reserve
WhereWest Coast
Nearest citySerekunda
Best seasonNovember to February
Time to allowHalf a day
Getting thereOn the coast road south of Tanji village; road from Serekunda, around thirty minutes
EntryEntry and guide fees

Tanji reserve runs along the coast south of the fishing village of the same name, taking in lagoon, dune scrub, coastal woodland and the Bijol Islands offshore, and something over three hundred bird species have been recorded in it. Terns and gulls breed on the islands, turtles nest on the beach, and the fishing centre at Tanji itself, with its smokehouses and landing beach, is worth the stop alongside.

What's there

  • The bird list - over three hundred species recorded in a small reserve.
  • The Bijol Islands - the offshore breeding site for terns and gulls.
  • The habitat range - lagoon, dune, scrub and woodland side by side.
  • The Tanji fish landing - the working beach and smokehouses at the village.

When to go

November to February is the cool dry season and peak for migrants. Terns breed on the islands in the wet season. Early morning is best for birds.

Things to know

Landing on the Bijol Islands is restricted during breeding. A guide is effectively necessary and fees are collected at the gate. Facilities are basic.

Nearby

Sanyang is south, and Bijilo is north.

Key facts

Location13.3667° N, 16.7953° W · map

Source: Wikidata, item Q980234, read on 18 October 2026.

What to pack for Tanji Bird Reserve

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
  • Travel rod + reel - A packable multi-piece rod fits in a case and covers most holiday fishing. Find on Amazon
  • Reef-safe sunscreen - High SPF that will not bleach the coral you are swimming over. Find on Amazon
  • Binoculars - The single best wildlife tool - even a compact pair transforms a sighting. Find on Amazon

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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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