Camargue Small-Group Day Trip from Avignon

Discover the many faces of the Camargue in one day, from its vast marshlands and iconic wildlife to its Mediterranean coast and historic towns. At the Bird Park, observe pink flamingos and many other emblematic bird species up close. Visit Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and Aigues-Mortes, with their rich history, local gastronomy and charming shops. Along the way, enjoy the coastal scenery and beach, stop at a traditional bull ranch (manade) to see bulls grazing, and look out for the famous Camargue horses roaming freely in their pastures. This tour is a wonderful introduction to the diversity of the Camargue.

1. 1

   Parc Ornithologique Du Pont De Gau

   1.5 hours

   After a 1-hour drive through rice fields and brackish ponds, during which your tour guide will introduce you to the peculiarities of the Camargue, you will be dropped off at the beautiful Bird Park of Pont de Gau (admission ticket included). Created by a family of nature lovers in 1949, the Bird Park is situated in the heart of the regional nature park of the Camargue, which is how we call the delta of the Rhône river. There's no better place to observe the iconic bird of the region. An easy walk along marshes and ponds, following a well-signed footpath, will allow you to get very close to pink flamingos, that cohabit here with hundreds of other bird species.

2. 2

   Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

   2 hours

   The Camargue is also a country of traditions and history. Meet your driver again and head to the charming coastal town of Saintes Maries de la Mer. Discover the legend that led to the construction of the impressive fortified church Our Lady from the Sea, known in France for the celebrations it holds for each Mary's feast, in May and October. The feast held in May draws large numbers of Roma Catholics to the town for a week. They come here to worship the relics of Sarah, their patron saint. Don't miss a visit to the interiors of the church, dating back to the beginning of the 11th century, and enjoy a panoramic view from the sentry walk on the roof (4€/adult). Afterwards head to the beach, where you can go for a relaxing walk along the promenade, where reproductions of Van Gogh's paintings are exhibited, or for a swim in the Mediterranean Sea. Don't forget to taste some local specialties, like seafood, bull meat and rice (lunch not included).

3. 3

   Bac du Sauvage

   30 min

   After lunch, meet your guide again and continue the journey through wild landscapes and picturesque farms, ranches and salt marshes. Your tour guide will stop along the way to observe and photograph Camargue horses and bulls. These animals are a fundamental element of the region's culture, where it is not unusal to come across a bull race or a folklore event involving horses.

4. 4

   Aigues-Mortes

   1.5 hours

   Before getting back to Avignon, discover Aigues Mortes, one of the highlights of the region, a wonderfully preserved walled city dating back in the 13th century. Funded by King Louis IX in 1240 as a starting base for the Crusades, Aigues Mortes comes out from nowhere among salt pans and rice fields. Its massive rampart shelters narrow paved streets and small squares, where you can do some shopping and taste delicious local desserts. You can also opt for a walk on the sentry walk atop the rampart, which is the best way to spot the neighboring salt marshes.

• Specialized infant seats are available
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Children must be accompanied by an adult.
• The tour guide may have to speak multiple languages during the same tour.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.