7-Day Nature Itinerary for Goa in December 2023

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

   In the morning, visit the 17th-century Aguada Fort, marvel at its architecture and enjoy panoramic views of the Arabian Sea. In the afternoon, relax at the nearby Candolim Beach. In the evening, head to the Calangute market for some souvenir shopping.

2. Day 2: Dudhsagar Falls
   2 hours 30 minutes (75.9 km) from Candolim

   Start early to visit the Dudhsagar Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India. Trek through the lush forest and swim in the cool waters of the falls. In the afternoon, explore the ancient rock-cut caves of Arvalem. In the evening, relax at the serene Mayem Lake.

3. Day 3: Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary
   1 hour (34.2 km) from Mayem Lake

   Explore the Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary, a protected wildlife area home to tigers, leopards, elephants, and various bird species. Take a guided trek or jeep safari to spot some of the wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tambdi Surla Temple, a beautifully preserved 12th-century temple. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Goan meal at a local restaurant.

4. Day 4: Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary
   1 hour 20 minutes (38.7 km) from Tambdi Surla Temple

   Visit the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, a mangrove forest and wetland that is home to a diverse range of avian species. Take a boat ride to see the birds up close. In the afternoon, head to the nearby Divar Island for a scenic bike ride through the quaint villages. In the evening, enjoy a sunset view at the Miramar Beach.

5. Day 5: Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 45 minutes (63.3 km) from Miramar Beach

   Explore the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary, a dense forest that is home to a variety of flora and fauna. Take a guided trek to spot some of the wildlife. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Palolem Beach for some sun, sand and sea. In the evening, head to the Charao Island, a bird watcher's paradise.

6. Day 6: Mollem National Park
   1 hour 45 minutes (56.6 km) from Charao Island

   Start early to visit the Mollem National Park, a biodiversity hotspot that is home to a variety of animal and bird species. Take a guided trek to the Dudhsagar waterfall and enjoy a refreshing swim. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Tambdi Waterfall and enjoy a picnic lunch. In the evening, visit the nearby Sahakari Spice Farm to learn about the local spice cultivation.

7. Day 7: Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary
   1 hour 5 minutes (35.7 km) from Sahakari Spice Farm

   Visit the Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary, the smallest wildlife sanctuary in Goa that is home to a variety of animal and bird species. Take a guided trek or explore the sanctuary on foot. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Bhagwan Mahavir Botanical Garden to see a variety of plants and trees. In the evening, enjoy a sunset cruise along the Mandovi River.

Recommendations

Don't miss the Goa Carnival, a three-day festival held in February that celebrates the culture and traditions of Goa. If you have some extra time, visit the nearby Portuguese city of Panaji and explore its rich history and culture.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Aguada Fort (2 hours, free)
• Dudhsagar Falls (8 hours, INR 400 per person)
• Bhagwan Mahaveer Sanctuary (8 hours, INR 200 per person)
• Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary (6 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary (8 hours, INR 100 per person)
• Mollem National Park (10 hours, INR 500 per person)
• Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary (6 hours, INR 20 per person)
• Total Estimated Costs (excluding accommodation and transportation): INR 1420 per person