From Avignon: Camargue Tour with Pont de Gau Bird Park Entry

Discover the Diverse Wildlife and Historic Towns of the Camargue in One Day

This 9-hour tour from Avignon offers an immersive experience into the natural beauty and historic sites of the Rhône delta. Priced at $129 per person, it combines wildlife observation, cultural visits, and scenic landscapes, making it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive day trip. The tour is led by a knowledgeable guide, with a small group size limited to 8 participants, ensuring a personalized experience.

From pink flamingos at Pont de Gau to exploring medieval Aigues Mortes, this tour balances nature, history, and local culture. While lunch is not included, there are opportunities to enjoy regional specialties along the way. The tour departs from the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon and is suitable for those comfortable with walking and outdoor activities.

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Key Points

• Includes entry to Pont de Gau Bird Park, with a well-signed walk to observe flamingos and other bird species
• Visits Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, famous for its fortified church and seaside charm
• Explores the medieval walled town of Aigues Mortes, built in 1240 and once a starting point for Crusades
• Guides provide live commentary in a small group setting, ensuring personalized insights
• Offers photo stops at scenic viewpoints, including salt marshes and coastal landscapes
• Tour duration of 9 hours balances sightseeing, walking, and relaxation

Starting from Avignon with a Scenic Drive through the Rhône Delta

The adventure begins at the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon, where the group sets off in an air-conditioned vehicle. The drive lasts about 1 hour, passing through rice fields and brackish ponds, giving a glimpse of the delta’s landscape. During this time, the guide shares background on Camargue’s unique environment, setting the stage for the day ahead.

The initial trip through the landscape offers a peaceful start, with opportunities to appreciate the vast marshes and the region’s ecological importance. This drive prepares visitors for the close-up wildlife encounters and historic explorations to come, making it an ideal way to ease into the day.

Pont de Gau Bird Park: Close Encounters with Pink Flamingos and Bird Species

The highlight for many is the visit to Pont de Gau Bird Park, where admission is included. Established in 1949 by a family of nature lovers, the park is situated in the regional nature park of the Camargue, an important bird habitat.

The walk along marshes and ponds takes about 1.5 hours, during which visitors can see pink flamingos up close—especially during the breeding season when their colors are more vibrant. The well-marked footpath makes it easy to follow, and the park is home to hundreds of other bird species, offering a rich display of regional avifauna. The setting is quiet and natural, providing perfect opportunities for nature photography and birdwatching.

Exploring Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer: Legend, Church, and Beach

Next, the tour moves to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a lively coastal town with a deep cultural and religious heritage. The fortified church of Our Lady from the Sea dates back to the early 11th century and is central to local lore. During the May feast, the town attracts large crowds celebrating the relics of Sarah, their patron saint, with festivities and processions.

Visitors have about 2 hours to explore the town, enjoy a walk along the sandy beach, or browse the local shops. The promenade features reproductions of Van Gogh’s paintings, adding a touch of artistic charm. For those interested in leisure, a swim in the Mediterranean Sea offers a refreshing break before continuing the journey.

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Tasting Regional Specialties in Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

While the lunch is not included, there are many opportunities to sample local seafood, bull meat, and rice dishes along the coast. The town offers various eateries, providing a chance to enjoy regional flavors and relax before heading to the next destination. Visitors are encouraged to try local specialties to experience the authentic flavors of the Camargue.

Wild Landscapes, Camargue Horses, and Bulls

After lunch, the tour continues through wild landscapes, including salt marshes and farms. The guide stops at spots where Camargue horses and bulls are often observed and photographed. These animals are integral to the region’s culture and folklore, often participating in bull races and other traditional events.

The landscape is vast and open, with moments dedicated to appreciating the region’s rural charm. The animals’ presence emphasizes the authentic connection between the region’s natural environment and local traditions.

Visiting the Historic Walled City of Aigues Mortes

Before returning to Avignon, the group visits Aigues Mortes, a well-preserved medieval walled town established in 1240 by King Louis IX. The town’s massive ramparts and narrow streets evoke a sense of stepping back in time. Originally built as a launching point for Crusades, it now offers a picturesque setting with small squares and shops.

Visitors can stroll along the sentry walk atop the ramparts for panoramic views of neighboring salt pans and marshes. The town’s charm is complemented by opportunities to sample local desserts and enjoy some shopping, making it a fitting conclusion to the day’s exploration.

Easy Return and Flexibility with Booking Options

The tour concludes with a comfortable drive back to the Office de Tourisme d’Avignon. The small group size ensures plenty of space for questions and personalized attention from the guide.

Booking includes live commentary in English, and travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. For flexible planning, the tour allows you to reserve now and pay later—a useful feature if your schedule might change. Since the tour does not include hotel pickup or food, travelers should plan accordingly.

Why This Camargue Tour Offers Great Value

At just $129 per person, this tour packs a full day of sightseeing, wildlife, and cultural highlights. The inclusion of Pont de Gau Bird Park entry and the small group setting makes it a practical choice for those wanting a detailed yet relaxed experience. The knowledgeable guides, especially noted for their expertise and engaging commentary, elevate the experience further.

While the tour is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments and does not include lunch, ample opportunities to explore on foot and enjoy regional foods compensate for these points. The photo stops and varied stops at both natural and historic sites make this a well-rounded day trip.

Camargue Tour: A Rich Blend of Nature, History, and Culture

This Avignon-based tour delivers a thoughtful mix of birdwatching, coastal relaxation, rural landscapes, and medieval history. It offers an accessible, well-organized way to experience the diverse environment of the Rhône delta. The expert guides and small group format ensure an engaging and memorable visit.

Perfect for nature lovers, history buffs, and those eager to see regional traditions up close, this tour provides a comprehensive look at the Camargue’s unique charm. The balance of activities means you can enjoy wildlife spotting, cultural insights, and scenic views—all in one carefully curated package.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers admission to Pont de Gau Bird Park, the guided tour, live commentary in English, and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 9 hours from start to finish, including all stops and free time at the sites.

Is lunch included?
No, lunch is not included, but there are plenty of local eateries offering regional specialties at Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.

Are there any physical limitations or accessibility concerns?
The tour is not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to walking and uneven surfaces at some sites.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refund is available if you cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start.

This Camargue tour from Avignon offers a compact yet rich experience, blending nature and history with the convenience of a guided day trip.

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