We could wax lyrical about Goa all day every day. It’s so welcoming to people of every varying interest under the sun. This time, though, we’d like to shine a spotlight on some wilderness experiences in Goa. These give you a chance to appreciate the sunshine state in a much more holistic way.
From dolphin watching to paddling through mangroves, they’ve got it all. We’ve even made a handy list for you to refer to!
Here’s a tip: when you’re planning wilderness experiences in Goa using the Urbanaut app, add these spots to your map so you don’t miss out!
Hop on a yacht manufactured in NZ exclusively for use in India. You’ll get to navigate calm backwaters and choppy waves well away from the crowds. Depending on how comfy you are with the water, you can choose from a great list of things to do on and off the yacht. Try diving into the river or heading out for a round of paddle-boarding or kayak through the backwaters for a truly magical experience. You could choose to be out for 75 minutes, or take the whole day off. We have it on good authority that this is one of the best ways to spend time in Goa.
Konkan Explorers are Urbanaut Plus partners. Become a Plus member on our app and get 5% off all their fabulous services.
Terra Conscious is all about responsible, once-in-a-lifetime experiences — and dolphin watching definitely makes the cut. Their Ocean Biodiversity Experience programme is Goa’s only ethical way to watch dolphins at play in their natural habitat. You’ll also get two hours dedicated to learning more about the Indian Ocean Humpback Dolphin. Oh, and there’s plenty more to do with Terra Conscious. Get in touch with them if you want to kayak through mangroves or cycle/hike through protected forests.
Follow a perennial stream all the way to Arambol Beach, or traverse the rolling hills near Cabo de Rama Fort — we’re torn for choice already, aren’t you? Adventure Breaks organises invigorating hikes across Goa’s terrains. It’s a great chance to immerse yourself in natural wonders while being led by capable and highly knowledgeable hike leaders. Hit them up if you also want to kayak, cycle, sail, climb or swim in the sea safely and responsibly.
Adventure Breaks are Urbanaut Plus partners. Become a Plus member on our app and get exclusive trips just for members as well as special rates on private group bookings.
It can be hard to leave the beaches, bars and shacks of Goa. But we have to say there’s plenty more to see if you step off the beaten path with The Local Beat. Their curated tours are fascinating and unravel the jumble of Goan traditions that make the state so special. If drinking local toddy, exploring forgotten chapels and going crab fishing sounds like the ideal holiday, you know where to go!
The great outdoors is calling, and there’s no one better to lead the charge than the team over at Khoj-Aao! Going by the name, you can expect to lose yourself to Goa’s wilderness completely — and we daresay you’ll find yourself along the way. Their professionally led and highly personalised experiences include exploring backyard nature trails, spending a day in the forest, and exploring lesser-known regions of India’s party capital. We guarantee that you’re in good hands with the Khoj-Aao! bunch.
Khoj-aao! are Urbanaut Plus partners. They’ve curated an exceptional and EXCLUSIVE experience just for Plus members and also offer a discount on their suite of services. Become a Plus member on our app and get all these benefits.
Put on your helmet and check your brakes. The Bicycle Trip curates exceptional heritage and cultural trips around Goa that you can’t afford to miss. Their signature experiences take you through old Goa, through and through Panaji, or flitting from island to island. If you want to fully immerse yourself in a single aspect, then we’d recommend their immersive experiences — they cater to discerning palates or zen-seekers, depending on what you choose.
Wilderness experiences in Goa are a far cry from the parties and gastronomic delights that usually make it to tourist maps. But believe us when we say that, after one or all of these experiences, you’ll head home feeling much more refreshed, rejuvenated and in tune with the rhythm of Goan susegad than ever before. Don’t forget to tag us on Instagram @urbanaut_, we’d love to know what you think!
Featured Photo by Viraj Rajankar on Unsplash
