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

Discover the Authentic Flavors of the Camargue: A Full-Day Tour from Avignon

Taking a full-day trip from Avignon to the Camargue offers a wonderful way to see a less touristy side of southern France. This 9-hour guided tour captures the region’s wild beauty, cultural richness, and unique traditions, all in a well-balanced package. With expert guides leading the way, you’ll experience stunning birdlife, medieval architecture, and vibrant local life—without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

We love that this tour combines nature, history, and local flavor in just one day—perfect for travelers wanting a comprehensive taste of the region. The highlights include pink flamingos, the walled town of Aigues Mortes, and the lively atmosphere of Saintes Maries de la Mer. The only potential downside? The day can be quite full, so pace yourself if you prefer relaxed, leisure-focused excursions. Still, this trip suits those eager for an authentic, active experience with plenty of picture-worthy moments and cultural insights.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Balanced itinerary covering natural parks, coastal towns, and medieval sites.
• Knowledgeable guides with strong local expertise, enhancing the experience.
• Cost-effective value with included entry to Pont de Gau Bird Park.
• Diverse sights from flamingos and horses to historic ramparts and salt marshes.
• Small group size (limited to 8 participants) for a more personalized feel.
• Comfortable transportation in air-conditioned vehicles, with well-timed stops.

Why Choose This Camargue Tour? A Deep Dive

When searching for a day trip from Avignon that truly showcases the Camargue’s charm, this tour ticks many boxes. It’s a mix of nature, history, and local culture, all delivered by guides who not only know their stuff but make the day engaging and fun.

The price of $129 per person reflects a generous offering of inclusions—like the Pont de Gau Bird Park entry, guided commentary, and comfortable transportation. Unlike some tours that charge extra for attractions, this one packs in several highlights without additional costs, offering real value for travelers keen to see as much as possible.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Starting Point: Avignon Office de Tourisme

The tour kicks off with a quick check-in at the Office de Tourisme. Early mornings are generally best for avoiding crowds and catching the full vibrancy of the region.

Viewpoint Photo Stop

Your first stop offers a chance to stretch your legs and snap a panoramic shot of the landscape—rice fields, ponds, and the shimmering horizon. It’s a quick, scenic introduction to what’s ahead.

Pont de Gau Bird Park

The highlight for many travelers is the 1.5-hour visit to Pont de Gau, a family-founded bird park since 1949, right in the heart of the Camargue’s nature reserve. The admission is included, making this a stress-free visit. You’ll walk along well-marked paths through marshes and ponds, getting astonishingly close to pink flamingos and hundreds of other bird species. Reviewers mention that the flamingos look particularly vibrant during mating season, which is an extra visual treat.

Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer

Next, the lively coastal town is the place to soak up local atmosphere. The church of Our Lady from the Sea is medieval and impressive, especially if you climb the sentry walk for views over the town and salt flats. The feast of Marys in May is a major event, drawing many pilgrims, as one reviewer noted, to worship Sarah, their patron saint.

You’ll have two hours here, giving you time to explore, grab a bite, or simply walk along the sandy beach. Many visitors appreciate the chance to relax after the bird park, with the added bonus of seeing reproductions of Van Gogh paintings displayed along the promenade, creating a charming seaside mood.

Lunch and Free Time

While lunch isn’t included, the tour’s timing allows for enjoying local seafood, bull meat, and rice, specialties of the region. The town offers several eateries, and the guide can recommend favorites. Many guests mention savoring these regional flavors, which add depth to the day.

Scenic Drive and Wildlife Viewing

Post-lunch, the tour continues across the wild landscapes of the Camargue, famous for white horses and bulls. Stops along the way offer opportunities for photography and observation—a favorite for travelers who like getting up close to animals. Reviewers highlight that the guides are very knowledgeable, sharing insights about the region’s pastoral traditions, including bull races and folklore events.

Aigues Mortes: The Medieval Marvel

The final major stop is the walled town of Aigues Mortes, built in 1240 under King Louis IX as a Crusades port. Today, it’s remarkably well-preserved, with narrow streets, ramparts, and small squares perfect for wandering. Many travelers find it a highlight, especially those interested in history and architecture.

You’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore, shop, and enjoy local desserts. For a small extra adventure, walking the sentry walk atop the ramparts offers sweeping views of salt marshes and the surrounding countryside.

Transportation and Group Dynamics

The tour is operated by ProVans, using air-conditioned vehicles that comfortably seat up to 8 participants, ensuring a more intimate experience. The small group size allows for personal interaction, questions, and flexibility that larger tours often lack.

The entire day is well-paced, with about an hour’s drive between each major stop, giving you time to relax and reflect. The live commentary is in English, but the group may be international, so some parts may be multilingual, which adds a lively, cosmopolitan touch.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Duration and Flexibility

At 9 hours, this tour covers a lot without feeling overly long. The flexible cancellation policy—up to 24 hours in advance—means you can plan with confidence, and the option to reserve now and pay later adds flexibility for last-minute decision-makers.

What Reviewers Say About This Experience

Multiple reviewers praise the guides, especially Veronica and Nico, for their knowledge and friendly demeanor. One describes her as “amazing,” while another mentions Nico’s “great people and language skills.” This personal touch really enhances the experience, turning sightseeing into storytelling and curiosity.

The bird park is universally loved, with comments about how close they got to flamingos and other birds. Travelers also appreciate the authenticity of the Aigues Mortes visit, highlighting the well-preserved medieval walls and atmospheric streets.

Some found Saintes Maries de la Mer a bit too commercialized or seaside resort-like, but most still enjoyed the chance to walk on the beach or see the local church.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking a fair bit across uneven surfaces and cobblestones.
• Bring biodegradable insect repellent—the marshy areas can attract insects.
• Pack your camera or smartphone—photogenic moments abound, especially at the bird park and salt marshes.
• Consider bringing a small snack or water—there’s time between stops for refreshment, but the guide can suggest local eateries.
• If you want a more immersive experience, arrive early or stay a little longer in key spots like Saintes Maries de la Mer or Aigues Mortes.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This trip suits nature lovers eager to see iconic bird species and wild landscapes, history buffs interested in medieval towns, and culture seekers wanting a taste of regional traditions. It’s also perfect for travelers who want a full-day, guided experience without the hassle of planning multiple separate excursions.

If you’re looking for a way to get out of the city, see flamingos and wild horses, explore a medieval fortress, and enjoy authentic local cuisine, this tour offers a well-rounded, memorable day.

Final Thoughts

This Camargue tour from Avignon combines the best of natural beauty, historical charm, and local culture in one engaging package. The inclusion of Pont de Gau Bird Park, guided commentary, and visits to iconic spots makes it a superb value at $129, especially given the small group size and well-organized schedule.

While it’s a busy day, the variety and authenticity make it worthwhile for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of the Camargue’s authentic spirit. Whether you’re snapping flamingo photos, wandering medieval ramparts, or tasting regional specialties, this experience offers plenty of memorable moments.

It’s ideal for curious travelers who enjoy storytelling, wildlife, and scenic landscapes, and who appreciate a guided experience that’s both educational and fun.

FAQ

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

Is food included in the tour?
No, food and drinks are not included, but there’s plenty of time to enjoy local specialties and the guide can recommend good spots for lunch.

How long is the drive between stops?
Each segment of travel between major stops is about an hour, providing a comfortable break and giving you time to enjoy the scenery.

Is the tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility impairments. It involves walking on uneven surfaces, but families with children who can handle that should find it enjoyable.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, biodegradable insect repellent, a camera, and perhaps a hat or sunscreen for exposure during outdoor stops.

Can I join the tour if I don’t speak English fluently?
The live commentary is in English, but the group may be multilingual, adding to a lively, international atmosphere.

Is the tour customizable or flexible?
The schedule is fixed, but you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or opt to reserve now and pay later.

How many people are in the group?
Limited to 8 participants, ensuring a more personal and relaxed experience.

What if I want to stay longer or visit other sites?
The tour ends at approximately 6 PM back in Avignon. For extra visits or extended time, consider booking additional tours or self-guided explorations afterward.

This well-rounded, immersive day trip is a fantastic way to experience the soul of the Camargue. Whether you’re captivated by flamingos, medieval walls, or regional flavors, you’ll find plenty to love on this thoughtfully curated tour.

You can check if your dates are available here: