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Jungle safari in Goa is a great way to explore the wildlife and greenery of the region. Goa is not just about beaches and nightlife; it also has rich forests, home to various animals and birds. Several Goa wildlife sanctuaries and national parks offer safari experiences where visitors can see animals in their natural habitat. These safaris allow one to see deer, bison, birds, and sometimes even leopards. This blog will list the best jungle safari tours in Goa and provide all the necessary details, including costs, timings, and other attractions.
Location
Photo: Rajiv98761 / Wikimedia Commons
Goa’s wildlife sanctuaries are spread across different state regions, offering diverse jungle safari experiences. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on Chorao Island and is accessible via a ferry from Panaji. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Mollem National Park are in South Goa, near the Goa-Karnataka border, covering a large forested area. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the Ponda region, making it easily accessible from Panaji and Margao. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is in Canacona, close to the Karnataka border, while Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is in North Goa, forming part of the Western Ghats, an important biodiversity zone.
6 Places For Jungle Safari In Goa
Explore the wild side of Goa with these six jungle safari experiences in its lush forests.
1. Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary Safari
Photo: Shyamal / Wikimedia Commons
Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is located on Chorao Island, near Panaji, and is only accessible by a short ferry ride. This sanctuary is the smallest in Goa, covering just 1.8 square kilometres, but it plays an important role in protecting the region’s mangrove ecosystem. It is home to various birds, crabs, and fish, making it a key location for research and conservation. The best time for wildlife spotting is early morning when birds are most active. This is one of the top places for a wildlife safari in Goa, offering a peaceful boat ride through the mangroves.
Cost Of The Safari: ₹100 (boat charges extra)
Timings: 6 AM – 6 AM
Other Attractions: Mangrove forests, boat rides, various bird species
2. Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
Photo: designerpoint / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary is the largest protected forest in Goa, covering around 240 square kilometres. It is located in the Western Ghats, making it a key area for biodiversity. The sanctuary is home to various animals, including leopards, gaurs, and deer, and is also rich in plant species. The best time for wildlife spotting is early morning or late evening when animals come out to drink water. It is one of the most visited Goa wildlife sanctuaries and national parks. Conservation projects focus on protecting the endangered species here, and steps are being taken to improve eco-tourism.
Cost Of The Safari: INR 400 per person (jeep charges extra)
Timings: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Other Attractions: Dudhsagar Waterfalls, Devil’s Canyon, Tambdi Surla Temple
3. Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
Photo: Aruna / Wikimedia Commons
Bondla Wildlife Sanctuary is a small but well-maintained sanctuary in Goa, covering about 8 square kilometres. It is located in the Ponda region, making it easily accessible from major cities like Panaji and Margao. The sanctuary is home to various animals, including wild boars, deer, and bison. The best time for wildlife spotting is during the cooler months from October to March. This is one of the best jungle safari tours in Goa, offering an opportunity to see animals up close in a controlled environment.
Cost Of The Safari: ₹250
Timings: 9 AM – 5 PM
Other Attractions: Mini zoo, botanical garden, nature trails
4. Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
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Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is in the Canacona region of South Goa, near the Karnataka border. It is one of the largest sanctuaries in the state, covering around 86 square kilometres. The sanctuary is known for its tall trees and dense forest, which shelter animals like deer, sloth bears, and langurs. The best time for wildlife spotting is early morning, as many animals come out to find food. This is one of the quieter Goa wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, making it an ideal place for a safari.
Cost Of The Safari: ₹200
Timings: 7 AM – 5:30 PM
Other Attractions: Nature trails, watchtower, small streams
5. Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary Safari
Photo: djsudermann / Pixabay / Image For Representation Only
Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary is a major biodiversity hotspot, covering 208 square kilometres in North Goa. It is located in the Western Ghats, a UNESCO-recognised region for its ecological importance. This sanctuary is home to the Bengal tiger, making it an important location for tiger conservation in Goa. The best time for wildlife spotting is during winter, when animals move around more freely. This is one of the best jungle safari tours in Goa, with trained guides leading visitors through the forest. The sanctuary is part of the Project Tiger proposal, aiming to protect the big cats and other endangered species.
Cost Of The Safari: ₹300
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5 PM
Other Attractions: Waterfalls, birdwatching, nature photography
6. Mollem National Park Safari
Photo: Dinesh Valke / Wikimedia Commons
Mollem National Park is an extension of the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, covering around 107 square kilometres. It is located on the Goa-Karnataka border, making it accessible from both states. The park is home to leopards, Indian bison, and wild boars, among other animals. The best time for wildlife spotting is from November to February when temperatures are lower. It is a key destination for a wildlife safari in Goa, with organised jeep safaris and trekking options. Conservation efforts focus on preventing poaching and maintaining the delicate balance between tourism and wildlife protection.
Cost Of The Safari: ₹350
Timings: 8 AM – 4 PM
Other Attractions: Tambdi Surla Temple, waterfalls, nature trails
Best Time To Visit For Jungle Safari In Goa
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The best time for jungle safari in Goa is from October to March. During this period, the weather is pleasant, and animals are more active. The monsoon season (June to September) makes the forests lush, but safaris may be limited due to heavy rains. Summers (April to May) can be very hot, making it difficult to explore the sanctuaries.
Other Factors To Consider
Photo: Manisitlani / Wikimedia Commons / Image For Representation Only
Average Cost Of The Trip
The cost of a wildlife safari in Goa depends on the sanctuary and the type of safari chosen. On average, the entry fee ranges from INR 100 to INR 400 per person. Jeep safaris usually cost extra, ranging from INR 1000 to INR 3000 per vehicle. Additional expenses include food, transport, and guide charges.
Tips For Travellers
- Carry water, as exploring the forests can be tiring.
- Wear comfortable clothes and walking shoes for better movement.
- Follow the safety instructions given by the safari guide.
- Do not feed or disturb the animals during the safari.
- Carry a camera or binoculars to capture the sights of birds and animals.
- Book the safari in advance, especially during the tourist season.
A jungle safari in Goa is a great way to explore the region’s natural beauty and wildlife. There are many places to visit, from birds at Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary to tigers at Mhadei Wildlife Sanctuary. Each sanctuary offers a unique experience, making it one of the best jungle safari tours. Plan your visit during the best season and book your trip with TripXL for a hassle-free experience.
Cover Photo: UPASANA SAIGAL / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
