This Water Sport In Goa Is Ideal For Beginners; Transporting You To A Serene Part Of Goa

It's no surprise that Goa has tons of water sports. From jet skiing and banana boats to parasailing and scuba diving, there's so much for adrenaline seekers to do in Goa. In the string of these thrill-seeking sports, there's one that's often overlooked, mainly because it's either too simple or too intense, depending on the waves: Kayaking. This isn't just another activity, but an immersive experience that'll make your Goa trip memorable. While there are many places where you can experience this water sport, we love Kayaking through the mangrove forest the most. Let's find out why here!

Yes, every beach in Goa has a service provider looking to lure in a water sport of your choice, and while that's good for generic ones that involve no views, kayaking is a whole different ballgame altogether. Based on the location you choose to kayak at, you get to view stunning landscapes and navigate through different intensities of the sea. And that's why we love kayaking through the Mangrove forest. For starters, it's beginner-friendly, so almost everybody can do it.

As you glide through narrow winding creeks, you get to witness a quieter, more serene Goa that's far beyond your imagination, and one that's connected to the Arabian Sea. Popular spots for kayaking through Mangrove include Chapora River near Morjim and Siolim, the Nerul backwaters near Candolim and Aguada, and the wetlands around Chorao Island and the Sal backwaters in South Goa.

Most kayaking experiences through the Mangrove follow a simple pattern. You start by meeting your guide at the riverside. Before you're sent into the water, there's a short safety and paddling briefing. Most kayaks are beginner-friendly and ideal for even first-timers. Then you're suited up with life jackets and launched into the sea in small groups headed by an experienced guide. The route is defined based on tides, especially around Siolim and Chorao, since Mangrove tunnels here are accessible at higher water levels too. Operators usually start kayaking an hour before the high tide, so that your kayak can glide over submerged roots and enter canopied sections comfortably. It's unhurried and a therapeutic experience.

There are many service providers in Goa who offer kayaking, but it's essential to book your tour through one that actually runs small groups and focuses on safety and ecology. Below are some service providers that have a high level of experience in this area and have successfully completed many remarkable kayaking tours.

Local Goa Kayaking is renowned for organising personalised kayaking adventures primarily through the Chapora river, mangroves, and backwaters. Their kayaking experiences are as scenic as it gets, with some even lasting between 1 and 2 hours. What we love about them is how they also offer other experiences like exploring little islands, swimming in open water, and witnessing beautiful sunsets and migratory birds. Plus, their tours are guided by PADI-certified professionals.

Price: Starts at INR 1,000

Social Media: @local_goa_kayaking

Make It Happen's Mangrove kayaking tour is a 1.5-hour guided experience that takes you through lush landscapes. Ideal for beginners, it's a light to medium physical intensity. You also get to experience a 15-minute boat ride to and from the kayaking spot. What we like about this curated experience the most is how there are refreshment options also available, so it's like a picnic by the water.

Price: INR 1,000

Social Media: @makeithappen.co.in 

Is kayaking suitable for beginners?

Yes. Most mangrove tours are specifically designed for beginners. The water is generally calm, kayaks are wide and stable, and all guests wear life jackets. 

What is the best time to do Mangrove kayaking in Goa?

The best time to go on a kayaking tour in Mangrove Goa is either early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Your service provider will also advise you of suitable timings based on tides.

How long does a Kayaking session last?

The duration of your kayaking experience varies depending on the route you choose. However, it usually takes 1 to 2 hours.

Can kids do kayaking in the Mangrove in Goa?

Age limits vary by provider, but typically, children between 5 and 8 years old are eligible for kayaking.

Is Mangrove kayaking safe in the monsoon?

Yes. Several operators run tours during the monsoon, but there is a chance of cancellation or delays due to tides.

How much does Mangrove kayaking cost in Goa?

The range varies based on operators and routes. However, you can typically do it between INR 250 and INR 1,500.