5-Day Family Friendly Itinerary for Goa in August 2023

1. Day 1: Fort Aguada
   20 minutes (7.7 km) from Dabolim Airport

   Start your day at Fort Aguada, a 17th-century Portuguese fort that offers stunning views of the Arabian Sea and Mandovi River. Visit the lighthouse and the fort's underground water storage system. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Sinquerim Beach for water sports such as parasailing and jet skiing. End the day with a seafood dinner at one of the beach shacks.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours (75.6 km) from Fort Aguada

   Embark on a scenic drive to the majestic Dudhsagar Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India. Take a dip in the natural pool, go on a jungle trek to explore the surrounding area, and enjoy a picnic lunch. On the way back, stop by the spice plantations of Ponda to learn about the region's exotic spices.

3. Day 3: Basilica of Bom Jesus
   35 minutes (19 km) from Fort Aguada

   Start the day with a visit to the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most famous churches in Goa. Marvel at the baroque architecture and the crypt that houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier. In the afternoon, head to the Dona Paula View Point for panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. End the day with a sunset cruise on the Mandovi River.

4. Day 4: Anjuna Flea Market
   25 minutes (8.5 km) from Fort Aguada

   Head to Anjuna Beach for the weekly Anjuna Flea Market, a popular shopping destination for tourists and locals alike. Browse through a variety of stalls selling handicrafts, jewelry, spices, and more. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Vagator Beach for a swim or sunbathing. End the day with a seafood dinner at one of the beach restaurants.

5. Day 5: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 15 minutes (44.6 km) from Fort Aguada

   Explore the lush green Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, home to a variety of migratory and resident birds such as kingfishers, egrets, and herons. Take a guided boat ride through the mangrove forests and spot the birds perched on the branches. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Divar Island for a glimpse of traditional Goan village life and enjoy a traditional Goan lunch. End the day with a visit to the nearby Reis Magos Fort.

Recommendations

Don't miss out on the chance to try some authentic Goan cuisine such as prawn curry and fish fry. Take a day trip to the nearby Portuguese-style town of Panaji or explore the vibrant nightlife of Baga and Calangute beaches. For a more laid-back experience, head to the peaceful Palolem Beach in South Goa and enjoy a yoga retreat.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Fort Aguada (2-3 hours, free)
• Sinquerim Beach (2-3 hours, water sports prices vary)
• Dudhsagar Falls (5-6 hours, INR 400 per person for entry and jeep ride)
• Ponda Spice Plantations (2-3 hours, INR 400 per person)
• Basilica of Bom Jesus (1-2 hours, free)
• Dona Paula View Point (1-2 hours, free)
• Sunset Cruise (2-3 hours, INR 500-1000 per person)
• Anjuna Flea Market (2-3 hours, prices vary)
• Vagator Beach (2-3 hours, free)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (3-4 hours, INR 20 per person for entry and INR 300 per boat ride)
• Divar Island (2-3 hours, free)
• Reis Magos Fort (1-2 hours, free)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 1,520-2,420 per person

Ready to book your Goa vacation? Check out https://booking.tp.st/VhZsadPo for hotel and flight prices!