Tanji Bird Reserve
A coastal reserve of lagoon, dune and woodland with a very long bird list.
Updated 2 October 2026
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
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
Some links on this page are Amazon affiliate links - if you buy through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
All packing kitsPlan your trip
Where to start if Tanji Bird Reserve is going on the list.
Booking links on this page are affiliate links - if you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It never changes what we write about a place.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.