An eco tourism vacation involves efforts to travel and explore the ecology of an area without disturbing its integrity and sensitivity. Eco tourism is mainly nature based and enhances an individual’s understanding of the natural resources and ecosystem. These must in turn benefit the local people of the area. All these conditions should be met for an eco tourism holiday to be considered a success.



Goa’s topographical conditions force one to look at it from the angle of eco tourism. Goa is bordered by the Sahayadri Hills, which have interesting jungle life. Move just 50 kilometers from the coast and you will be amazed at the fascinating mix of forests. Forests range from the dense evergreen patches at the foothills of the Western Ghats, to the moist deciduous forest and a mangrove forest area. Besides, millions of foreign tourists visit Goa for its sunny beaches, many are eco-tourists who want to enjoy its jungle beauty. Goa also has bustling bird life and a variety of rare animals. About 20 percent area of Goa is under wildlife conservation.

Sanguem and Sattari are the wildlife hubs of Goa. For a perfect wildlife refuge, there are innumerable national parks as well as wildlife sanctuaries located in this part of India. Some of the most visited wildlife sanctuaries of Goa are - Cotigao Wildlife Sanctuary that is situated in Canacona Taluka in South Eastern Goa and the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary that is a paradise for bird lovers. Forests in Goa are home to a variety of bird life, a wide range of animals right from the evasive Tiger to Gaurs (Indian Bison) and the large and handsome Hornbills (Great Indian Pied Hornbill) found only in the deep and rich jungles of Mollem in the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary.

Another attraction at Mollem is the imposing Dudhsagar falls. To check this perfect natural beauty, one has to take an adventurous path that is not for every one. Set among a thicket of evergreen foliage and rocky cliffs, the Dudhsagar Falls drop more than 200 feet over an exposed scarp.