GoaSafar

WILDLIFE · CUMBARJUA CANAL

Crocodile Trip & Bird Watching

Cruise the mangrove-lined Cumbarjua Canal to spot Indian mugger crocodiles in the wild, then drift past the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary for some of the best birdwatching in Goa — all in one 90-minute boat ride.

From ₹1,499 / person
1.5 Hours
Cumbarjua Canal
Bird sanctuary stop
— OVERVIEW

Goa’s wild side, up close

The Cumbarjua Canal connects the Mandovi and Zuari rivers through a stretch of quiet mangrove forest — and it happens to be one of the best places in India to see wild crocodiles. This trip takes you upstream by boat to spot Indian mugger crocodiles basking on the banks in their natural habitat, a world away from Goa’s beaches.

The same route winds past Chorao and Divar islands and close to the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, so the crocodile spotting flows straight into a scenic stretch of birdwatching — kingfishers, herons, egrets and cormorants are common sightings, along with migratory species depending on the season.

It is an easy, low-effort way to see a completely different side of Goa — no swimming required, light snacks included, and a good option for families, photographers and anyone who wants a break from the beach crowds.

— HOW IT WORKS

Your 90 minutes on the water

01

Board & settle in

Boat on mangrove canal backwaters, Goa crocodile trip

Step aboard and enjoy light snacks and fresh fruit as the boat heads upstream along the canal.

02

Spot the crocodiles

Wild mugger crocodile basking on river bank in India

Cruise the calm waters for a close, all-round view of mugger crocodiles basking in their natural habitat.

03

Bird watching finale

Black headed ibis and little egret at Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, Goa

Pass Chorao and Divar islands and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary for a scenic stretch of birdwatching to finish.

— INCLUSIONS / EXCLUSIONS

What's in the price

Included

90-minute boat ride through the backwaters
Light snacks & fresh fruit onboard
Packaged drinking water
Life jackets and safety gear
All entry fees

Not included

Personal expenses (tips, calls, shopping)
Hotel pickup & drop outside Calangute, Baga, Arpora, Candolim, Sinquerim, Nerul & Panjim (available at extra cost)
— HIGHLIGHTS

What makes this special

Wild backwaters

A quiet, scenic stretch of Goa’s backwaters far removed from the beach crowds.

Real crocodile sightings

Spot wild Indian mugger crocodiles basking in their natural mangrove habitat.

Bird Sanctuary flyover

Round off the trip with birdwatching near the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

— FAQS

Good to know

What is included in the Crocodile Trip & Bird Watching Package?

The package includes a 90-minute boat ride through Goa’s backwaters, light snacks, fresh fruit, packaged drinking water, life jackets and all entry fees.

Where does the trip take place?

The boat safari runs through the scenic backwaters around Chorao Island, and close to the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

Will we actually see crocodiles?

Sightings are very common since the safari passes directly through the crocodiles’ natural habitat, but they do depend on wildlife movement and weather on the day.

Is swimming required?

No. Knowing how to swim is not compulsory — life jackets are provided to every guest for the boat ride.

What birds might we spot?

Kingfishers, herons, egrets and cormorants are common, along with migratory birds near the mangroves and the bird sanctuary depending on the season.

Is pickup and drop included?

Pickup and drop is available for Calangute, Baga, Arpora, Candolim, Sinquerim, Nerul and Panjim. Other areas can be arranged at extra cost.

Can we feed the crocodiles?

No — feeding crocodiles is illegal and strictly prohibited. Please follow the crew’s safety guidance throughout the trip.

What should we wear?

Comfortable clothing and water-friendly footwear such as strap-on sandals. Bring sunglasses, a hat and sunscreen.

Ready to spot Goa’s crocodiles?

Tell us your date and group size — we’ll confirm your slot and answer every question on WhatsApp.