About

Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary is an estuarine mangrove habitat which is declared as a bird sanctuary and located on western tip of the Island of Chorao along the river Mandovi, This is Goa's only bird sanctuary, 1.8 Sq Km in area. A variety of local and migratory birds can be found on this island. The sanctuary has been named after the famed ornithologist of India Dr. Salim Ali who is also known to have visited the sanctuary before it was declared protected area. This sanctuary is an extreme delight for any nature lover, especially one interested in bird watching. This bird paradise, in turn, is covered by Mangrove swamps and can be visited by the prior permission of the Chief Wild Life Warden, Forest Department, Panjim. Fourteen mangrove species are found here including the rare Kandelia candel spices. Although it is principally a bird sanctuary, it is also inhabited by jackals, foxes, and crocodiles. Also, prawns, planktons, an unusual variety of mudskipper fish, tiny crabs and shrimps can be found around the sanctuary. Some of the birds seen here are eagles, drongos, kingfishers, egrets, herons, woodpeckers, kites, myna, curlews, sandpiper, redshank, and hoopoe. Mangrove vegetations are also prominent here and the island is crossed with a wide network of water channels. All exploring has to be done by boats, as there are no roads. The vegetation here is thick and one can often see low lying bird nests and huge bats that hang from treetops. 

Tips

• The ferries service starts in the morning at 6:00 and is free, and you can carry your car or bike on the ferry too.
• It's best to go before sunrise and take the boat. There are options to take or book boat rides the government one 30-40mins is INR 750 for 1-10 people. or INR 75 per person.
• Do NOT Leave without a mutual price agreement prior to the tour. 
  

Timings