Goa is not just a party haven but also a paradise for nature lovers. Birdwatching and crocodile tours in Goa offer an exciting opportunity to explore the unique wildlife of the region. Both of these activities are perfect for tourists looking for an exhilarating adventure and a chance to witness nature at its best. This tour takes visitors on an exciting journey through the mangrove forests and wetlands of Goa, allowing them to observe both crocodiles and a variety of bird species in their own environment.
Crocodile Safari
The Cambarjua canal in Goa is known for its large population of mugger crocodiles, also known as broad-snouted marsh crocodiles. These crocodiles can grow up to 4-5 metres in length, with males typically being larger than females. They are skilled predators, but they generally do not pose a threat to humans. The crocodiles have a third membrane in their eyes that allows them to see while keeping water out of their sight. Female crocodiles dig holes to lay eggs, and the temperature of the nest determines the sex of the crocodile. If the temperature is around 32.5 degrees Celsius, the crocodile will be male, and if it is between 28 and 31 degrees Celsius, it will be female.
Bird Watching
The two-hour boat trip through the backwaters of Goa offers a chance to spot a wide variety of birds, such as the white-breasted kingfisher, drongo, pied kingfisher, pariah kites, sandpiper, black-capped kingfisher, egrets, cormorants, and terns, that make the scenery even more beautiful. Birdwatchers will enjoy and learn a lot from this trip.
Highlights
- The 2-and-a-half-hour Crocodile and Bird Watching Trip begins at 9:00 a.m. at Old Goa Jetty. Boats will take you to the South Cortalim Jetty. South pick-up is at 10:00 a.m. The boat travels down the Zuari River and through the Cumbarjua Canal.
- Goa's largest river is the 92-kilometer Zuari. It flows across various talukas, from the Western Ghats to the Cumbarjua Canal and the Mandovi River. Local fishers are busy along the road.
- The mangroves around the Cumbarjua Canal are famous. Fish, mollusks, and crabs inhabit mangroves. They prevent soil erosion and tidal surges. Mangrove wood is non-rotting and used for fuel and building. Old Goa, with its historical sites and guided religious tours, is also part of the journey.
Overview
Activity Location: South Goa
Duration: 2 hours
Age limit: 5 years
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Sun Caps
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Sunscreen
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Day pack upto 30 liters
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water bottle and snacks
When does the crocodile and birdwatching safari start and end?
The safari starts at 10 in the morning and goes until 12:30 in the afternoon. The journey will take you about two and a half hours.
Is there any guarantee of seeing a crocodile?
You can never be sure, but there is a good chance you will see crocodiles, especially when the tide is low.
What should I carry with me?
If you want to get a better look at all of the attractions, bring along your camera and also a set of binoculars.
