Explore magnificent jungles & fascinating fauna at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa!

While Goa is famous for its beachy vibe and riveting nightlife, there is something more to it that attracts innumerable visitors from all across the globe. There are several places in Goa where one can head out to experience the mysterious jungles and fascinating wildlife.

And one such place is the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary in Goa! Imagine a dense forest, perennial streams along with a breath-taking undulating terrain and that is the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary for you.

Set up in 1968 at the Canacona Taluka of South Goa to protect the exposed stretch of woodland on the Goa-Karnataka border, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary is an unmissable spot for wildlife enthusiasts who wish to explore the rich flora and fauna of the Coastal State.

Spanning over 86 square kilometres, this patch of woodland boasts impressively tall trees along with various species of animals and birds. While the tigers and leopards are said to have left the region long ago, there are a number of other creatures that can be spotted in this camp.

From Flying Squirrel, Slender Loris, Indian Pangolin and Mouse Deer to Golden-Back Gliding Snake, Malabar Tree Toad and more, visitors can have a great time witnessing the wondrous wildlife at the sanctuary.

If lucky, one can also spot Gazelles, Sloth Bears, Porcupines, Panthers and Hyenas at Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary.

While the wildlife found here is pretty attractive, there is more to this sanctuary than just its flora and fauna.

Curious souls who wish to get in-depth knowledge about the plants and animals found here, can head out to the Nature Interpretation Centre at CWS for the same.

For those who are more interested in something adventurous rather than spotting animals and birds, there are multiple hiking options available at the sanctuary. There are eight trails traversing the sanctuary, varying from 500 m to 5 kilometres for the adventure junkies to choose from.

Offering a one-of-its-kind picturesque landscape, the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary also houses six treetop perches. One can walk up to these watchtowers and enjoy a panoramic view of the entire area.

In addition to this, visitors can also get a first-hand experience of the life and culture of the tribal people of Goa (Velip and Kunbil) who reside in this area.

Anytime between October-March is considered good enough to visit the Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary. To reach the sanctuary, one needs to drive south on the National Highway 17 to Karwar via Chaudi. This route is most accessible through private transport.

Location: Canacona Taluka, Khotigao

Timings: 7 AM – 5:30 PM

Entry Fees: Adult- ₹20, Child- ₹10

Still Camera Fee: ₹30

Video Camera Fee: ₹150