Nature Lover's 4-Day Itinerary in Goa

1. Day 1: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   15 minutes (6.7 miles) from Dabolim Airport

   Start your day early at the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, which opens at 6:30 am. This sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers with over 400 species, including kingfishers, egrets, and herons. Take a guided boat tour to explore the mangrove forest and catch a glimpse of crocodiles, otters, and flying fish. Afternoon, head to the nearby Cansaulim Beach to relax and enjoy the serene surroundings. In the evening, visit the Naval Aviation Museum and learn about the Indian Navy's aviation history.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Waterfalls
   2 hours (44 miles) from Cansaulim Beach

   Start your day early at 6 am and drive to the magnificent Dudhsagar Waterfalls. Spend your morning admiring the breathtaking view of the falls cascading down from a height of 1017 feet. Afterward, trek to the base of the falls and take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. In the afternoon, visit the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary & Mollem National Park, which is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Take a guided jeep safari to explore the park. In the evening, return to your hotel for some relaxation.

3. Day 3: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 45 minutes (30 miles) from Dudhsagar Waterfalls

   Start your day at the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, which opens at 9 am. This sanctuary is known for its eco-tourism initiatives and is a great place to spot some of India's unique wildlife like the Indian bison, spotted deer, and sambar. Take a guided nature walk through the park and learn about the local flora and fauna. In the afternoon, visit the Tambdi Surla Temple, which is one of the oldest temples in Goa and is located in the Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary. In the evening, return to your hotel for some relaxation.

4. Day 4: Butterfly Island and Chorao Island
   1 hour 15 minutes (24 miles) from Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary

   Start your day at the Butterfly Island, a small island located near Vasco da Gama. Take a ferry to the island, which is home to a variety of butterflies like the Blue Mormon, Common Jezebel, and Crimson Rose. Spend your morning exploring the island and its exotic flora and fauna. In the afternoon, take another ferry to Chorao Island, which is known for its mangrove forests and bird watching. Take a guided boat tour to explore the island and spot some of the rare and exotic birds like the Pied Avocet and Black-tailed Godwit. In the evening, return to your hotel for some relaxation.

Recommendations

If you have some extra time, you can visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary or the Netravali Wildlife Sanctuary. Both sanctuaries are located away from the city and offer an opportunity to explore the unspoiled nature of Goa. If you are interested in adventure sports, you can try your hand at kayaking or white water rafting at the Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Dudhsagar Waterfalls (6 hours, INR 400 per person)
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Wildlife Sanctuary & Mollem National Park (5 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary (4 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Butterfly Island (3 hours, INR 300 per person)
• Chorao Island (4 hours, INR 1000 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs: INR 2500 per person