Kayaking on Sal Backwaters – Goa

Goa’s Sal Backwaters offer a secluded escape into nature that’s perfect for adventurous souls and those seeking tranquility. Gliding through the enchanting mangrove forests by kayak, visitors enjoy the serene landscape under the guidance of a knowledgeable local instructor. With top-notch gear and refreshments provided, this private tour promises an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with the outdoors or simply unwind, the Sal Backwaters kayaking excursion might just be the perfect getaway you didn’t know you needed.

This experience made our list of the 6 Best Canoe And Kayak Experiences In Goa.

Good To Know

• Explore the serene Sal Backwaters in Goa through a private kayaking tour, featuring mangrove forests and suitable for peaceful escapes or outdoor adventures.
• Experience a high-quality kayaking setup with sturdy and stable kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and safety leashes to ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
• Enjoy the convenience of a pickup service from central locations and a knowledgeable local guide who will share insights about the flora and fauna during the trip.
• The kayaking experience is suitable for ages 10 and above, with a moderate fitness level required, and a minimum group size of 2 people.
• The tour is not available during the monsoon season (May to September) due to safety concerns, with the best season being from October to April.

Overview of the Experience

Nestled along the serene Sal Backwaters in Goa, the kayaking experience offers a delightful opportunity to take in the tranquil waterways and witness the region’s stunning natural beauty.

Rated 5.0 out of 5 based on a single review, this private tour allows adventurers to explore the lush mangrove forests and spot diverse wildlife at their own pace.

With all necessary equipment, including paddles, life vests, and leashes, provided, and a local English-speaking instructor to guide the way, participants can fully focus on the serene journey and create cherished memories.

Whether seeking a peaceful escape or an exciting outdoor activity, the Sal Backwaters kayaking tour promises an unforgettable experience.

Kayaking Gear and Equipment

For this kayaking adventure, participants can expect all the necessary equipment to be provided. This includes high-quality kayaks, paddles, life jackets, and safety leashes.

The kayaks are sturdy, stable, and designed for navigating the tranquil backwaters. The paddles are lightweight yet durable, allowing for efficient and comfortable propulsion.

Life jackets are mandatory and will be properly fitted to each participant to ensure their safety on the water. Plus, safety leashes are attached to the kayaks, preventing them from drifting away.

All the gear is well-maintained and meets safety standards, giving participants peace of mind as they explore the scenic Sal Backwaters.

Pickup and Meeting Details

The kayaking adventure starts with a convenient pickup service. Guests can be collected from their city center hotels or other fixed points within the city limits.

For those needing pickups outside the central area, an extra charge may apply. The meeting point is in Goa, Goa, with the exact location available on Google Maps.

After the kayaking experience, the tour concludes back at the original meeting point.

Advance booking is required, and guests must provide their passenger weights and heights during the booking process to ensure a safe and suitable group size for the activity.

Participant Requirements

Kayaking on the Sal Backwaters is suitable for participants aged 10 and above, who must be accompanied by an adult if they’re minors.

The activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so it’s not recommended for pregnant women, individuals with heart issues, serious medical conditions, or back problems.

Group size for the tour must be a minimum of 2 people. All passenger weights and heights must be provided at the time of booking to ensure proper equipment and safety.

The tour isn’t available during the monsoon season from May to September.

Pricing and Booking

Although the kayaking experience on the Sal Backwaters isn’t available during the monsoon season from May to September, the pricing starts from €193.69 per person, with the exact cost varying depending on the group size.

Some key booking details include:

• The experience offers a "reserve now, pay later" option.
• Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start of the activity.
• Confirmation is received at the time of booking.
• All passenger weights and heights must be provided at the time of booking.
• The experience requires a minimum group size of 2 people.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience starts. This policy ensures flexibility for guests who may need to adjust their plans. The table below outlines the cancellation policy in more detail:

Cancellation Period	Refund Amount
More than 24 hours before	100% refund
24 hours or less before	No refund
No-show	No refund
Partial cancellations	Subject to availability and additional fees
Cancellation due to weather	100% refund

Guests can rest assured that their booking is secure, with the option to cancel or modify their plans if necessary, subject to the outlined policies.

Monsoon Season Availability

The kayaking experience on the Sal Backwaters in Goa isn’t available during the monsoon season, which spans from May through September. This is due to a few key factors:

• Heavy rains and high water levels making the backwaters unsafe for kayaking

• Poor visibility and reduced access to certain areas of the backwaters

• Increased chances of strong winds and choppy water conditions

• Potential disruptions to transportation and logistics during the monsoon

• Maintenance and preparation required for the kayaks and equipment

For these reasons, the kayaking tours are suspended during the monsoon months to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants.

The experience is best enjoyed from October through April when the weather is ideal for exploring the serene Sal Backwaters.

Local Guidance and Refreshments

A local English-speaking instructor accompanies kayakers on the trip, providing valuable guidance and insights into the natural surroundings. Throughout the experience, participants are offered refreshing amenities to enhance their enjoyment.

Refreshments Offered
Fruit Juice
Mineral Water
Snacks
Coffee/Tea

The instructors share their deep knowledge of the Sal Backwaters, pointing out the diverse flora and fauna while ensuring a safe and memorable journey. With these inclusions, kayakers can fully enjoy the tranquil beauty of this Goan waterway.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayaking Gear?

No, you won’t be able to bring your own kayaking gear. The tour includes all necessary equipment like paddles, life vests, and leashes, so there’s no need to bring your own. Just focus on enjoying the experience!

Is Prior Experience in Kayaking Required?

No prior kayaking experience is required. The activity is suitable for beginners, as an instructor will provide guidance and all necessary equipment. However, a moderate fitness level is recommended to participate comfortably.

What Is the Maximum Group Size Allowed?

The tour allows a minimum group size of 2 people, but there’s no specified maximum group size. However, larger groups may need to be split across multiple kayaks for a more enjoyable and safe experience.

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary?

The tour itinerary can’t be modified, as it’s a private tour tailored for your group. However, you can coordinate with the local guide to accommodate any special requests within the existing tour framework.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Activity?

Guests can extend the duration of the activity, though pricing may vary based on the additional time. It’s best to check with the tour provider to inquire about options and any applicable fees for extending the experience.

Sum Up

Kayaking on the Sal Backwaters in Goa offers a unique opportunity to take in the serene mangrove forests. With top-notch equipment and local guidance, participants can explore this enchanting landscape and connect with nature. Whether an adventure seeker or seeking a peaceful experience, this private tour caters to all, making it a truly memorable way to discover the stunning beauty of Goa.