Sundarbans Birding Expedition
- 4 Days
- 6 Pax
- Explore Sundarbans
Tour Overview
Experience the exclusive 4-day birding adventure into the heart of the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This specialized package is meticulously designed for avid birders and nature photographers seeking the "Magnificent Seven" of the mangroves. Beyond the thrill of spotting the enigmatic Masked Finfoot and the nocturnal White-eared Night Heron, we will venture into the most pristine habitats to observe the shy Mangrove Pitta, the haunting Buffy Fish Owl, the vocal Mangrove Whistler, and a plethora of other resident and migratory species. This isn't just a tour; it is a dedicated quest into the avian biodiversity of the Ganges Delta, led by expert local guides who know the exact hotspots for these elusive birds.
Key Highlights Included:
● Specialized Birding Focus: Dedicated quests for the Masked Finfoot, White-eared Night Heron, Mangrove Pitta, Buffy Fish Owl, and Mangrove Whistler.
● Expert Avian Guide: Services of a seasoned local Eco-guide with expert knowledge of bird calls, behavior, and prime nesting/hunting grounds.
● Extended Canal Exploration: Extensive use of a silent country boat to access the narrowest, most secluded creeks where shy species thrive.
● Golden Hour Cruising: Daily early morning and late afternoon river/canal cruising timed precisely for peak bird activity.
● Nocturnal Birding Excursions: Specialized night safaris using torches and spotlights to search for nightjars, owls, and the elusive night heron.
● Watchtower Vigils: Visits to strategic watchtowers offering canopy-level views for raptors and kingfishers.
● Comprehensive Birding Gear Support: Dedicated space on the boat for handling cameras, tripods, and scopes.
Tour Details
Package Includes
Your comprehensive 4-Day Sundarban birding expedition is crafted for seamless immersion. We handle all essential arrangements, allowing you to focus entirely on your avian quest.
Accommodation & Meals:
◦ Three nights' accommodation on a fully-equipped, comfortable liveaboard boat. Choose your preferred cabin type:
◦ Shared Cabin with Bunk Beds (Standard)
◦ Private Double-Bedded Cabin
◦ Private Double-Bedded Cabin with Attached Bathroom (Deluxe)
◦ All meals provided onboard from Day 1 lunch to Day 4 lunch. Enjoy freshly prepared, hygienic local dishes (Veg/Non-Veg options available) with early breakfast options for pre-dawn birding starts.
◦ Daily snacks (two per day) and unlimited tea, coffee & drinking water available 24/7 to keep you energized.
Expert Guidance & Entry:
◦ Services of an experienced local Eco-guide specializing in ornithology throughout the tour for insightful, safe, and successful birding.
◦ All necessary government permissions, forest entry fees, and boat fees for the itinerary.
◦ Services of a professional and experienced boat crew adept at maneuvering in narrow canals.
Core Experiences & Activities:
All sightseeing and birding activities as per the detailed itinerary, including:
⚬ Dedicated wildlife sanctuary and ecotourism center visits focused on bird habitats.
⚬ Multiple daily river and canal cruising sessions, including exclusive silent country boat trips into the most restricted creeks.
⚬ Specialized night excursions for nocturnal bird species.
⚬ Strategic watchtower visits for forest vistas and canopy birding.
⚬ Mangrove jungle walks in designated safe zones for ground-dwelling species like the Mangrove Pitta.
Package Excludes
For complete transparency, please note the following items and services are not included in the base tour package price:
Transportation:
⚬ Pick-up and drop-off from your city hotel or agreed meeting point in Khulna/Mongla. However, we can gladly arrange this service for you at an additional cost upon request.
Fees & Permits:
⚬ Forest Entry Fees for Foreign Nationals: Currently USD 105 per person. This mandatory fee is payable separately to the Forest Department.
⚬ Single Room Supplement: An additional fee applies for guests preferring single occupancy in a double-bedded cabin.
Personal Expenses:
⚬ Any personal expenditures, including souvenirs, additional beverages beyond standard offerings, or phone calls.
⚬ Tips or gratuities for the guide and boat crew (always appreciated but at your discretion).
Additional Activities:
⚬ Any activities or excursions not explicitly mentioned in the "Package Includes" section or the standard itinerary.
Need Transport or Other Arrangements?
We are happy to assist! Please contact us in advance to seamlessly organize your pick-up, drop-off, or any other additional services for a worry-free journey from start to finish.
Food and Accommodation
Your comfort and authentic experience are our priority throughout this 4-day Sundarban journey. We provide a unique "liveaboard" setup, where your floating home takes you deep into the heart of the mangrove wilderness.
Accommodation Onboard
Stay in a traditional, yet comfortable, liveaboard vessel designed for river navigation. All cabins are secure and provide essential bedding. You can choose from the following cabin configurations to best suit your needs:
● Standard Shared Cabin: Equipped with secure bunk beds. Ideal for solo travelers or friends.
● Private Twin/Double Cabin: Features a double bed or two single beds. Perfect for couples or travelers seeking privacy.
● Deluxe Private Cabin: Includes a double bed and a private attached bathroom (subject to boat availability).
Please note: Cabins are cozy and functional, prioritizing the immersive outdoor experience. Electricity is typically available for several hours in the evening via generator for charging essential camera gear and lighting.
Dining Onboard
Savor the flavors of the delta with freshly prepared meals served in the boat's dining area or on the open deck with panoramic views.
● Full Board Plan: Enjoy three hearty meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and two light snacks daily, starting with lunch on Day 1 and concluding with evening snacks/dinner on Day 4. We offer flexible early breakfast options to accommodate pre-dawn birding starts.
● Local Cuisine: Meals predominantly feature fresh, local ingredients and traditional Bengali cooking (both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options are available). Expect to taste locally caught fish and regional specialties.
● Beverages: Unlimited tea, coffee, and safe drinking water are available 24/7.
All food is prepared with high standards of hygiene by our onboard cook. Please inform us of any specific dietary requirements (e.g., vegan, allergies) at the time of booking so we can accommodate you wherever possible.
What to bring
● High-Quality Binoculars (Essential for spotting distant species)
● Spotting Scope & Tripod (Recommended for serious birders and listers)
● Camera, Extra Camera Batteries & High-Speed Memory Cards (Charging opportunities are limited)
● Night Vision/Thermal Monocular or Scope (Highly recommended for night safaris for owls and night herons)
● Powerful Torch/Flashlight with Red Filter (Red light reduces disturbance to wildlife and preserves night vision)
● Headlamp (with extra batteries, essential for pre-dawn setup and post-dusk pack-up)
● Comfortable, Quiet, Earth-Toned Clothing (Avoid bright colors; opt for muted greens, browns, and khakis)
● Waterproof Bags/Covers (For protecting sensitive electronics from humidity and sudden rain)
● Broad-brimmed Hat, Sunglasses & High-SPF Suntan Lotion
● Sturdy, Comfortable Walking Shoes & Quick-Dry Sandals
● Mosquito & Insect Repellent (High DEET content recommended)
● Raincoat/Poncho (Essential for monsoon: April--October)
● Small Notebook and Pen (For maintaining your lifer list and field notes)
● Personal First-Aid Kit & Any Required Medications
● Raincoat (Essential for monsoon: April–October)
Getting there
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The gateway to your Sundarban adventure is the city of Khulna or the port town of Mongla. The most common and convenient route from Dhaka is by road.
● The journey from Dhaka to Khulna/Mongla takes approximately 5-6 hours by air-conditioned luxury coach.
● Overnight bus services: from Dhaka are readily available, offering a time-efficient travel option.
● Our tour officially begins with boarding the liveaboard boat at the designated ghat (jetty) near Mongla. Detailed reporting instructions will be provided upon booking confirmation.
From 800.00 USD/Person
Tour Itinery
Four-Day Birding Expedition Itinerary
Day One: Arrival and Sundarbans Introduction
Your birding adventure begins with embarkation and a morning cruise into the labyrinthine waterways, serving as an introduction to the commoner species like kingfishers, eagles, and herons. After settling in, we will undertake our first deep forest expedition, navigating towards the prime habitats of the Mangrove Whistler. The day includes a visit to an Ecotourism Center to understand the region's conservation efforts. As dusk falls, we prepare for our first nocturnal excursion, using torches and spotlights along the forest fringe to search for the iconic Buffy Fish Owl and the ghostly Brown Hawk-Owl, listening for their distinct calls in the tranquil wilderness.
Day Two: Quest for the Masked Finfoot & Night Heron
We greet the dawn with a silent country boat trip, venturing into the most secluded canals before sunrise. This is prime time to stake out the exact hotspots where the prehistoric-looking Masked Finfoot is known to skulk along the water's edge. Patience and silence are key as we drift with the current, scanning the muddy banks and overhanging vegetation. The afternoon is dedicated to further exploration of these narrow creeks, maximizing observation opportunities. As evening approaches, we will position ourselves in a zone known for the White-eared Night Heron. With the help of our guide's expertise, we will use thermal tools and spotlights to scan the dense canopy along the waterways as the sun sets, hoping to glimpse this elusive nocturnal species emerging to hunt.
Day Three: Pittas, Owls, and Remote Beach Birding
The focus today shifts to the forest floor and the interior. After an early morning birding cruise targeting the Buffy Fish Owl returning to roost, we embark on an adventurous guided walk through the deep mangrove forest. Here, with stealth and patience, we will attempt to spot the brilliantly colored Mangrove Pitta, often heard calling before it is seen. The itinerary then offers a contrast with leisure time to enjoy a serene beach within the delta, scanning for waders, terns, and gulls. The day concludes with further exploration of a wildlife sanctuary, seeking out diverse raptors and passerines during the golden hours before another optional night safari for any species we may have missed.
Day Four: Final Hotspot Exploration and Departure
The return journey commences but with a final series of birding stops. We will revisit a prime canal that has proven fruitful, giving us a last chance to observe the Masked Finfoot or Mangrove Pitta in good light. This final morning is dedicated to consolidating your bird list and capturing last-minute photographs. The educational immersion concludes with a visit to a Sundarbans Information Center, consolidating your understanding of this unique biosphere before disembarkation and departure, leaving you with a prized lifer list and profound memories of the majestic mangroves.
Thinks to keep in mind
Terms and Conditions
By booking this tour, you acknowledge and agree to the following terms for a safe and enjoyable experience:
Tides & Weather: The itinerary, activity timings, and routing are subject to change based on tidal conditions, weather, and safety considerations. The tour operator reserves the right to modify the schedule for the safety of guests and to ensure the best possible experience.
Wildlife Encounters: The Sundarbans is a pristine natural habitat. While our guides expertly maximize opportunities, wildlife sightings (including of the Royal Bengal Tiger) are not guaranteed as they depend entirely on natural animal behavior and environmental factors.
Safety & Compliance: All guests must follow the guide's and crew's instructions at all times, especially during jungle walks, boat transfers, and wildlife watching, for personal and group safety.
Liability: The operator is not liable for any personal injury, loss, or damage to personal property arising from participation in tour activities, except where due to proven negligence.
Your understanding and cooperation ensure a respectful and secure adventure for everyone.
Cancellation Policy
We understand plans can change. Our clear and fair cancellation policy is designed for transparency.
Guest-Initiated Cancellations
● 21+ Days before departure: Full refund.
● 14–20 Days before departure: 50% refund.
● 7–13 Days before departure: 25% refund.
● Less than 7 Days / No-Show: No refund.
Operator-Initiated Cancellations: If we must cancel a tour due to unforeseen operational reasons, you will receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.
Weather & Safety Conditions: Tours may be modified or canceled for safety due to severe weather or government advisories. You will receive a full refund or a rescheduled date.
Itinerary Changes: For safety, wildlife movements, or operational necessities, the itinerary may be altered. No refunds are provided for such necessary changes.
For all cancellation requests or inquiries, please contact our customer service team via email or WhatsApp.
Other Information
To ensure a safe, respectful, and smooth experience for all, please review these final guidelines.
Safety First
⚬ Always follow the instructions of your experienced Eco-guide.
⚬ Remain within designated safe areas during all excursions and activities.
⚬ Crucially, please inform us of any relevant medical conditions, allergies, or dietary restrictions before the tour begins.
Protect Our Environment
⚬ Help preserve the pristine Sundarbans by using provided bins for all waste. Strictly no littering.
⚬ Observe wildlife from a safe distance without disturbing their natural habitat.
⚬ We encourage you to minimize single-use plastic; consider bringing a reusable water bottle.
Photography Etiquette
⚬ Cameras and smartphones are highly recommended to capture memories.
⚬ Please avoid using flash photography near wildlife, as it can disturb the animals.
Cultural Respect
⚬ We kindly ask you to be mindful of and respect local customs and traditions.
⚬ Please engage with local communities respectfully during any visits.
Timing & Connectivity
⚬ Punctuality is appreciated to keep the tour schedule smooth for everyone.
⚬ Daily activities typically run from morning until late afternoon.
⚬ Please note: Mobile network connectivity is very limited or unavailable once we are on the boat and deep within the forest. Prepare to disconnect and immerse yourself fully in nature.
Thank you for your cooperation in helping us conserve this incredible World Heritage site for future generations.
Gallery
Frequently Asked Questions
The ideal time for birding is from November to March. During the cool, dry winter, the weather is pleasant for long hours on the water, and the visibility is at its peak. This period also hosts a large number of migratory birds, increasing the species count significantly. The resident species, including the Masked Finfoot and Mangrove Pitta, are also active. The monsoon (June-September) is generally not recommended due to rough waters and limited access to narrow canals..
The Sundarbans is one of the last remaining strongholds for these species, but they are genuinely rare, shy, and elusive. Our expert guides know their territories, calls, and preferred micro-habitats intimately, which dramatically increases your chances compared to a general tour. However, as they are wild animals, sightings can never be 100% guaranteed. We focus on spending maximum time in the right hotspots using ethical techniques to give you the best possible opportunity..
Yes. The boat provides a stable platform for photography. We understand the needs of photographers and ensure there is ample space on the upper and main decks to set up tripods and large telephoto lenses. We also have designated dry areas to keep your gear safe from the humidity and splashes. The silent country boat used for narrow creeks is also extremely stable and perfect for low-angle photography..
Absolutely. Night safaris are conducted from the safety of our primary boat or the silent country boat, with powerful searchlights operated by the crew and your guide. You will remain on the boat at all times. These excursions target nocturnal birds like the White-eared Night Heron, Buffy Fish Owl, various nightjars, and potentially fishing cats or other nocturnal mammals along the banks..
Absolutely, we understand that keeping your gear powered is critical for a successful birding expedition. Our liveaboard vessel is equipped with a power generator that runs for several hours each evening (typically from 6 PM to 10 PM or later) to ensure all essential electronics can be charged. Additionally, for peace of mind, we have an emergency power backup system (IPS) to maintain basic charging capabilities and lighting outside of generator hours. For your convenience, standard power outlets are provided directly inside your cabin, allowing you to charge multiple camera batteries, laptops, and other devices securely and privately overnight. We still recommend bringing a universal adapter and a small power strip to maximize your charging capacity during your stay..