Goa is celebrated for its stunning beaches, laid-back atmosphere, and unparalleled nature reserves, and is the perfect stop for visitors who love to dig in, get a little dirty, and explore. This guide will walk you through some of the top wildlife sanctuaries in Goa, and give you some pertinent information about the local flora and fauna of Goa, so you’ll be ready for your next adventure in this exciting state.
Information about visiting wildlife sanctuaries in Goa
Goa is famous for its lush landscape, which is home to many plant and animal species. Some areas, like the Western Ghats, are so famous for their wildlife that they’ve even been internationally recognized for their biodiversity. In Goa, there are lots of animals for you to keep on the lookout for, including foxes, wild boars, sloth bears, monkeys, deer, leopards, and more. This state is also home to plenty of birdlife and is an ideal spot to consider for birdwatching, as Goa birdwatching is unmatched.
Goa is even home to a variety of reptiles and amphibians and has over twenty kinds of snakes, so there are plenty of animals that you could potentially see. This lush area is an ideal landscape for many animal species, and humans, who manage to live in harmony with these animals thanks to the protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries in the region. It’s important to note that some of these sanctuaries will have small entry fees, fees for using cameras or taking videos, and some also have fees for vehicle entry. Be sure to keep this cost in mind and confirm pricing with the sanctuary before visiting.
Goa eco tours are a great option for visitors who are hoping to appreciate the lushness of the local area, but who also are interested in learning about the talented people who live and farm in Goa. There are plenty of Goa eco tours to choose from, and some spots even hold events or can be booked for special occasions, like weddings, birthdays, and anniversaries. Many eco tours also serve a selection of local Goan dishes to serve to guests. So, not only will you learn more about the plants, animals, and people of Goa, but you’ll also sample their famous cuisine.
Certain Goa wildlife sanctuaries are located within protected areas, while others are private parks. If you’re considering a trip to the area, and are looking to visit a sanctuary, then wildlife tours in Goa might be worth your time. These wildlife tours will pair you up with knowledgeable professionals who will impart their vast knowledge of the area to you, and they’ll also help you navigate through the often wild and untamed areas of Goa. Many wildlife sanctuaries in Goa will have tour options available at the parks, and unless you’re familiar with the area, these tours are highly recommended.
Before you leave, don’t forget to pack along some comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, or UV-resistant clothing, as the weather can get quite hot in Goa, and the last thing you need is a sunburn during your vacation. If you’re birdwatching in Goa, then packing along a digital camera might be a good idea. Otherwise, don’t forget your cell phone so you can capture your memories of Goa, as you traverse through the area’s many sanctuaries. To help you pick your destinations, here’s information about some of the top Goa wildlife sanctuaries:
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary
Nestled around the Goan town of Sattari is Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. This sanctuary covers over 80 square miles and protects the parts of the Western Ghats that fall within this area. This sanctuary is a top pick for Goa nature reserves, as an incredibly diverse range of plants and animals are found here. Some parts of this sanctuary are even home to Bengal tigers, which are considered endangered, and this exemplifies why this protected area is so important. This sanctuary is expansive and there’s plenty to see, so it’s recommended that you get a guide for at least some of your visit here so you get a thorough understanding of the area.
When planning your visit, it’s important to consider the time of year that you’d like to explore Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. A unique option is to visit this area during the monsoon season as, during this time, the nearby rivers will be flooded with water, which makes them perfect for white water rafting. Generally, this park is visited most from October to March, so visiting outside of this time will also ensure that you have less competition from other travelers. Hiking and trekking are also popular in this area, and Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is home to waterfalls that are worth a visit to see if you’re in the area.
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is located in North Goa, in Sattari.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
In South Goa lies Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. This 33-square-mile protected area is notable for its semi-evergreen and evergreen forests, along with its vast plant and animal life offerings. In some parts of the forest, the trees are so dense that barely any light can break through the canopy, which makes for a breathtaking experience for visitors. This wildlife sanctuary is home to black leopards, sloth bears, painted bats, Indian pied hornbills, and much more wildlife.
Visitors to the park can look forward to going on nature walks, hiking or trekking in the forest, and even camping. For a special treat, visitors can book a stay in the tree-top watchout tower, and staff at the park can also arrange for tents and cots for those who wish to stay overnight. The best time to see animals is in the early morning, so visitors who opt for an overnight stay will be ready for adventure at first light. Private safaris are also an option for those who wish to rent a car, though you’ll need to arrange for a forest guard to go with you during your time in the sanctuary if you elect to drive.
Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is located in South Goa near Canacona.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
Small but mighty in impact, Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is the perfect spot for Goa bird watching. This sanctuary is named after Dr. Salim Ali, who was one of India’s premier ornithologists. The sanctuary is particularly important because it’s located in a mangrove. Mangroves are notable for their unique trees and plant life that have grown accustomed to living in very wet, and often submerged, soil. Within this sanctuary, visitors can paddle around the narrow canals in dugout canoes, all while keeping their eyes peeled for birds and other wildlife.
Visitors can expect to see plenty of birdlife at this sanctuary, including eagles, kingfishers, cormorants, kites, woodpeckers, and others. Some may even see other wildlife species, like mudskippers, crocodiles, flying foxes, and even jackals. While there is a watchtower on the premises that visitors can use to birdwatch from, local boatmen can be employed if you’re hoping to get closer to the action by using a dugout canoe in the canals. Organized boat tours are also available, so visitors have plenty of activities to choose from.
Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on the island of Chorao and can be reached by ferry from the Ribandar ferry wharf, which is situated near Panaji.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the foothills of the Western Ghats and covers 93 square miles, which makes it the largest wildlife preserve in Goa. Originally, this sanctuary was named Mollem National Park, but in the late 1960s, it was designated a sanctuary and was renamed. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is perfect for nature lovers who want it all as it’s a big sanctuary. Step into this sanctuary and enjoy the stunning array of plant and animal life, while taking in scenic views. Hikers and trekkers are going to love the vastness of this sanctuary and its many trails, and adventure seekers should stop for a visit at one of the several waterfalls located within the sanctuary, including Dudhsagar Waterfall, which is one of the tallest in India.
Nature lovers can also expect to see plenty of bird species, along with other animals, like sloth bears, hyenas, scaly ant eaters, and even flying squirrels. Also situated in the sanctuary are several historic and religious sites, so visitors will get an expansive experience at Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary. If you’re also hoping to experience some history of Goa, then this sanctuary is the spot for you as Tambdi Surla Temple, a 12th-century Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located in this sanctuary.
The sanctuary is most visited from October to March, and makes for a great stop during the monsoon season, as the waterfalls in the area will be more powerful, thanks to the extra rainfall. For exquisite views, plenty of animals, and unique sites, Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary can’t be beaten.
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is located on the eastern border of Goa, near Mollem.
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
Anyone traveling with children will enjoy making a stop at Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary. While this sanctuary is one of the smallest in Goa, it’s popular with kids, and for good reasons. The sanctuary is around three square miles in size and is more manageable for families than some of the larger sanctuaries or parks. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary also offers a wide variety of animals for visitors to experience, including sambar deer, Indian bison, Indian peafowl, and lots of snakes. But Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary isn’t just popular with kids, it’s also popular with eco-tourists who are concerned about animal welfare. At Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the staff takes care of wounded animals, especially leopards, or those animals who have gotten too accustomed to being close to humans and can no longer be safely left to live in the wild.
Also notable about the sanctuary is its library, which is home to lots of books, along with movies and documentaries that are available to watch on request. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect stop for travelers who are short on time, but who are hoping to take in the natural beauty of Goa while experiencing the wildlife firsthand.
The Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Ponda.
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary
Since 1999, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary has been a protected area, and it’s easy to see why, as this sanctuary is home to important water sources in Goa, including many perennial streams, and is a tributary of the Zuari River. Because of its many water sources, Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is also the perfect spot for Goa bird watching, and within this sanctuary, you can expect to see plenty of bird species, including Malabar tree nymphs, southern birdwings, and if you’re really lucky, maybe even a Malayan night heron.
The ideal time to visit this sanctuary is between October to March, though some may opt to visit during the monsoon season, as this is when the park will be the most green and lush. This sanctuary has plenty of walking and driving trails, and there are Goa eco tour groups in the area that can be sought if you’re hoping for a more in-depth experience while visiting this exciting area.
Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Verlem in South-Eastern Goa.
Goa is famous for its natural beauty, and it’s very easy to see why. With its many sanctuaries and protected spaces, Goa is committed to caring for the plants and animals in the area. Thanks to these protected spaces, you’ll get to enjoy a vacation experience like no other. So, get set for adventure as you traverse the many Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries and explore its flora and fauna during your vacation.
