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Sail into Goa’s Wild Heart

Explore Chorao Island’s rivers, mangroves, and birdlife with local eco-guide Uday Mandrekar,featured in Lonely Planet, Outlook Traveller, and the award-winning film The Birdman of Chorao.

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About Uday

Explore the Sanctuary with the Birdman Himself

Uday has been guiding travelers through Chorao’s lush backwaters for over 30 years. He is known for his ability to spot birds by sound, sight, and season, and his mission is to protect the delicate mangrove habitat of the Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary.

📍 Based on Chorao Island
🏆 Featured in NDTV, TERI, and Lonely Planet
🌏 Speaks English, Hindi, and Russian fluently

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Choose Your 90-Minute Experience

Choose your 90-minute boat ride with Uday Mandrekar on Chorao Island. Guided birding, crocodile watching, and mangrove tours available.

Birdwatching Ride

Sail into the sanctuary’s silent waterways at dawn or dusk. Spot many different species from your boat — including kingfishers, cormorants, herons, and migratory guests.Best time: October to March, 6:30 AM or 4:30 PM

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Crocodile Spotting

“Drift gently through serene creeks and mangrove-lined estuaries, where you can safely witness the elusive Mugger Crocodiles—remarkable freshwater reptiles uniquely adapted to thrive in brackish waters.”

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Mangrove Tour

“Understand the forest beneath the tide. See mudskippers, fiddler crabs, root systems, and learn how these trees protect Goa’s coast—acting as natural barriers against erosion while supporting rich biodiversity.”

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How to Get There

🗺️ Just a 20-min drive from Panjim to the Ribandar ferry jetty, cross the Mandovi River, and Uday will meet you on Chorao Island.

📍Google Map Meeting Point →

Our Testimonials

Memorable boat rides, rare bird sightings, and warm hospitality — hear what our happy visitors have shared about their experience with us.

Thank you for an amazing trip in the bird sanctuary. We have really enjoyed it and have been impressed with your eye sight to find the crocodiles. It was a really relaxing trip with lots of birds and wildlife to see.

Alan & Ellie Newcastle upon Tyne, U.K.

Thank you Uday for an amazing experience in the bird sanctuary. Plenty of wildlife. Loved the peacefulness early morning. Seeing the eagles was a bonus. Thanks again and see you next time.

Dave York, England

"Thank you for such an amazing and memorable trip! Your knowledge of the area and wildlife made the experience truly special. This was without a doubt one of the best trips we've ever had."

Gary & Lin Watford

“Thank you so much for a wonderful morning. We saw so many birds for the first time and even a crocodile too! Your mother’s cake was delicious, the cup of tea most welcome. An amazing way to celebrate a birthday. We will recommend this wonderful experience to others.”

🇬🇧 Janet & Debbie Kirriemuir, Scotland

“This has been the biggest surprise of our holiday and the best day. It was wonderful to see all the beautiful birds and travel through the mangroves in your canoe. Looking forward to seeing your picture in the next edition of Lonely Planet!”

Alison & Douglas Scott Cheshire, England

“Thank you for a wonderful trip and for the beautiful refreshments. We shall definitely come again.”

Malcolm & June Turpin Lincolnshire, England

“Thank you for a lovely peaceful trip. You were very knowledgeable and made it a special day for us.”

Christine & David Potts Dorset, England

“Uday! Thank you, thank you! You have the best eyes I’ve ever seen! This was one of the coolest experiences ever!”

Caroline California, USA

“Splendid flora, lovely birds. A great tour of the sanctuary! Peaceful and sincere atmosphere.”

Catherine & Paul France

“Thank you so much for such an enjoyable and peaceful tour. Uday, your passion and knowledge made it special. We loved your mother’s hospitality too!”

Lesley Kent, UK

“We were really impressed by your knowledge and how easily you spotted all the birds and animals. Thank you for your warm hospitality.”

Michael & Corinna Germany

“Uday, your dedication and love for nature is truly inspiring. Your patience and deep knowledge made the entire experience unforgettable.”

Ritesh Mumbai

“We cannot wait to come back! Uday, you are a gem. Thank you for the unforgettable tour through paradise.”

Gloria & Martin Wisconsin & California, USA

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Awards Winning

“While the lovely valley teems with mist around me, the midday sun glistens on the dense canopy of Chorao’s trees — a quiet world where birds reign and nature whispers through every leaf.”

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Responsible Tourism

We respect nature, support local communities, and ensure every tour leaves a minimal footprint on the environment.