When the word “safari” is mentioned, it’s often Africa that comes to mind, isn’t it? Well, turn your gaze away from the African savanna and towards Europe, more specifically in the south of France. The Camargue, a magnificent region in the south of the country, offers fabulous safari opportunities.
Discover all the information you need to plan your safari.
Safari in the Camargue: an unusual way to visit a magical place
The Camargue is a wild land, both gentle and harsh, magnificent, and mysterious. Embarking on a Camargue safari is an adventure you won’t regret.
You’re on a journey through nature. You can meet the famous Camargue bulls, observe the magnificent pink flamingos in their natural habitat, and admire the white Camargue horses dancing freely across the marshes.
You may even feel a little like an explorer, discovering a fascinating new world.
Highlights of Safari in Camargue
- A unique and varied fauna, including the famous Camargue horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos.
- Breathtaking landscapes, with marshes, ponds, rice paddies and the Mediterranean Sea as a backdrop.
- Experienced local guides who share their knowledge of the region.
- The chance to see animals in their natural habitat, without interruption or disturbance.
Disadvantages of a Camargue Safari
- The weather can sometimes be unpredictable, especially out of season.
- At the height of summer, the influx of tourists is detrimental to the visit.
- Depending on the season, not all animal species may be visible.
What can you see on a Camargue safari?
On a Camargue safari, you’ll encounter a wide variety of animals.
The white horses of the Camargue, renowned for their beauty and agility, are undoubtedly one of the main attractions. You can also see black bulls, a unique breed that has adapted to the Camargue’s marshy environment.
But the Camargue’s wildlife doesn’t stop there. Ornithologists and bird lovers will be delighted to learn that the region is home to over 400 species of birds, including the iconic pink flamingo.
What’s more, the landscapes of the Camargue are a spectacle. Imagine sparkling marshes, pink salt fields, verdant rice paddies and sand dunes blending into the azure Mediterranean Sea. Not forgetting, of course, the region’s unique flora, from wild irises to tamarisk and reeds.
This is a guided tour. He or she drives the vehicle, helps you observe the animals and gives you lots of information about the area.
How much does a Camargue safari cost?
Prices depend on many criteria: the time of year, the type of vehicle, the number of visitors, the duration of the safari…
On average, however, the price is between €50 and €100 per person.
Check out the current price on GetyourGuide.
How long does a Camargue safari last?
The most common formulas are half-day or full-day safaris.
Where is a Camargue safari located?
The safari takes place in the Camargue regional nature park. The town is 30 minutes from Nîmes, 1 hour from Marseille and 1h10 from Montpellier.
How do I get to a safari in the Camargue?
The easiest way to get to the safari is by car. From the north, the Camargue is easily reached via the A9 freeway, then by following the signs for Arles and Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
For those who prefer public transport, take a train to Arles, then a bus to Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, which is the starting point for many safaris.
My opinion of a Camargue safari: is it a good visit?
If you ask me, the answer is a resounding yes. The Camargue safari was one of my most memorable experiences in the south of France. The sublime landscapes, the proximity to extraordinary wildlife and the discovery of a region full of character made the moment unique.
I had the privilege of seeing the famous Camargue horses up close. Their graceful movements in the marshes, their immaculate gowns standing out against the blue of the Mediterranean Sea, it was simply incredible.
The black bulls were less frolicking, but still impressive in their physique. Seeing the pink flamingos was another highlight of the safari. In a zoo, I often find their enclosures sad and uninspiring. Seeing them in their natural habitat is completely different.
On this safari, I was also lucky enough to meet a wonderful guide. A true enthusiast who knew the Camargue like the back of his hand, and who shared his love of the region with enthusiasm.
I won’t hide the fact that there were moments of discomfort. The heat was sometimes overwhelming, especially at the height of the day. And the mosquitoes? Well, they were present. Despite my mosquito spray, I came home with a few bites. But you know what? It was all part of the adventure. After all, we were out in the wilderness, and it didn’t spoil the moment.
What else can you do on a Camargue safari?
In addition to safaris, the Camargue offers a myriad of other activities to enrich your stay:
- Visit the historic towns of Arles and Nîmes.
- Enjoy the beach and water sports at Les Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer.
- Discover the Maison du Riz and the Salt Museum.
- Take a horseback ride to discover the region in a different way.
- Take part in a wine tasting at one of the region’s many vineyards.
And now you have all the information you need to plan your Camargue safari. So what are you waiting for to embark on this fascinating adventure?
As a professional blogger, I take advantage of my flexible schedule to travel a lot. I haven’t been everywhere, but it’s on my list!