The Ultimate Guide To Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary

Ever heard of the wild side of Goa that is beyond beaches and parties? We are talking rugged terrain, hiking trails, scenic views, glimpses of rare animals, birdwatching, nature walks and camping in South Goa. So, whether you are a wildlife enthusiast, nature lover, or just an adventure seeker, you will fall in love with Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.

The sanctuary is a natural haven of about 85 square kilometres. which was established in 1968 to protect the rich biodiversity. The species of flora and fauna found here are known to be rare. From how to get there to whether to stay, we got you sorted with this ultimate guide to this wildlife sanctuary.

This sanctuary is around 60 km away from Panaji, the capital city of Goa. The nearest airport is the old Dabolim Airport (GOI), which is around 67 km away. The nearest railway station is Canacona and is about 10 km away. The sanctuary is also well connected by road. You can hire a taxi, ride a bike or take a bus from Panaji or Margao apart from the airport and station. 

October to March, which is the winter season in Goa is the best time to visit. The temperature ranges between 15°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like wildlife safaris, nature walks, and trekking. The sanctuary is also lush green during this time, and the streams and waterfalls inside the sanctuary are in full flow, offering a breath-taking view. 

The entry fee for the sanctuary is INR 5. The sanctuary is open from 7:00 am to 5:30 pm everyday including weekends and public holidays. The best time to visit the sanctuary is early in the morning or late in the afternoon when the animals are the most active.

The six observation decks covered with the foliage of a 25m tall tree are a must visit. They offer jaw dropping views of the animals that come by around dusk and down to quench their thirst by the water below. At the Cotigao wildlife sanctuary you can do activities like wildlife safaris, bird watching, nature walks, and enjoy a picnic. You can also explore the eight different hiking trails that vary in length from 0.5 km to 5 km. Unlike most other sanctuaries, you can experience interacting with local ancient tribes like the Velip and the Kunbil here.

Some of the animals you can spot here include flying squirrel, slender loris, Indian pangolin, mouse deer, four-horned antelope, Malabar pit viper, hump-nosed pit viper, white-bellied woodpecker, Malabar trogon, velvet-fronted nuthatch, heart-spotted woodpecker, speckled piculet, Malayan bittern, draco or flying lizard, golden-back gliding snake, and Malabar tree toad. If luck is by your side, you might also spot some Gazelles, Sloth Bears, Porcupines, Panthers and Hyenas. The sanctuary is a paradise for bird watchers and is home to over 200 species of birds.

If you would like an overnight experience in the wild, make sure to sleep atleast a night withing the sanctuary grounds.

You can stay over at the Forest Rest House at Poinguinim. It needs to be booked by calling the Dy. Conservator of Forest (South Goa) in Margao on 0832 - 2756309.

Apart from that, there is an eco-tourism complex set up at Hathipul. The prices start at INR 300 per person per night. These can be booked by contacting the Dy. Conservator of Forest, Wildlife and Eco-tourism (South), Forest Complex at Margao on 0832-2756980 or dcfwlsouth-forest.goa@nic.in

Wear a comfortable hat, clothes and shoes suitable for trekking and hiking. Apply natural sunscreen and insect repellent. Do not litter, especially plastics and carry your own reusable bottle of water. Do not disturb the animals or pluck flowers or plants at the Cotigao wildlife sanctuary. Follow the instructions of the forest officials and guides.