Gujarat Wildlife & Birding Expedition Tour

Itinerary Overview
Day 01: Arrive at Surat to Dangs Forest Retreat

Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Dang Forest Retreat

Arrive at Surat and meet our representative for a scenic drive into the forested hills of the Dang. As the landscape gradually changes from plains to lush sal and teak forests, you’ll begin to feel the calm of this lesser-explored region of Gujarat. On arrival at Dang Forest Retreat, check in and take time to unwind after your journey. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings, forest views, and the soothing sounds of nature.

In the afternoon, head out for a gentle birding walk around the retreat and nearby forest trails, guided by a naturalist. The Dang are known for their rich avifauna, and this is a great introduction to the region’s birdlife. As dusk settles, prepare for a special owling session, when nocturnal birds become active. Listen for haunting calls and watch for owls emerging in the twilight, making your first evening in the Dang both immersive and memorable.

Overnight Stay.
 

Day 02: Dang Forest

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Dang Forest Retreat

Wake up early to the sounds of the forest and set out for a full day of birding in the rich landscapes of the Dang Forest region. Today is dedicated to exploring prime birding habitats within Vansda National Park and Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, both known for their dense moist deciduous forests, riverine patches, and excellent avian diversity.

Accompanied by an expert naturalist, spend the day scanning forest trails, canopy layers, and clearings in search of some of the region’s most sought-after species. The major focus will be on locating the elusive Forest Owlet, one of India’s rarest endemic birds. Other key targets include the vibrant Vigors’ Sunbird, along with an impressive diversity of raptors and forest birds.

The Dang forest is especially famous for its nocturnal and cavity-nesting birds, offering opportunities to record 10+ species of owls and 10+ species of woodpeckers, ranging from tiny pygmy woodpeckers to larger flamebacks and wrynecks. Breaks will be taken during the day to rest, review sightings, and enjoy the forest atmosphere before continuing explorations.

Return to the retreat by evening with a rewarding checklist, making this an immersive and highlight-filled day for serious birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Overnight Stay.

Day 03: Dang Forest

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Dang Forest Retreat

Begin another early morning in the heart of the Dang Forest, making the most of the region’s peak bird activity hours. Today allows for deeper exploration and slower, more focused birding across Vansda National Park and Purna Wildlife Sanctuary, covering areas not visited on the previous day and revisiting productive trails based on recent sightings.

With the flexibility of an extended schedule, spend time observing forest behavior, mixed-species feeding flocks, canopy specialists, and understory birds. This day is ideal for improving views, photography opportunities, and adding missed or elusive species to your checklist. The varied habitats—dense evergreen patches, bamboo brakes, streams, and forest clearings—support a wide range of resident and migratory birds.

Naturalists will help interpret calls, movements, and ecological interactions, making the experience both educational and rewarding. As the day progresses, continue birding at a relaxed pace, soaking in the tranquility of the Dang forest and its remarkable biodiversity.

Return to the retreat in the evening for rest and reflection, sharing sightings and stories from another fulfilling day immersed in one of western India’s finest forest birding landscapes.

Overnight Stay.

Day 04: Dang Forest to Velavadar

Meals: Breakfast in Dang, (Lunch On Own), and Dinner in Velavadar
Accommodation: Blackbuck Safari Lodge

After an early breakfast, depart from the Dang Forest and begin your journey towards Velavadar, home to the famous Blackbuck National Park. The drive takes approximately 6 hours, passing through changing landscapes from dense forests to open plains. En route, make short stops for opportunistic birding in wetlands, farmlands, and roadside habitats, offering chances to spot raptors, larks, storks, and other grassland and agricultural species.

Arrive at Velavadar by afternoon and check into your accommodation. After some rest and refreshments, head out for an afternoon safari into the vast open grasslands of the park. Velavadar is renowned for its large herds of blackbucks, as well as nilgai, foxes, and wolves.

The park is also a paradise for grassland birds, and the evening safari provides excellent opportunities to spot species such as harriers, coursers, larks, pipits, and wheatears, along with migratory birds depending on the season. As the sun sets over the endless grasslands, enjoy a contrasting yet equally rewarding wildlife experience before returning to the lodge for the night.

Overnight Stay.
 

Day 05: Velavadar to Gir National Park

Meals: Breakfast in Velavadar, Lunch and Dinner in Gir
Accommodation: Gir Birding Lodge

After breakfast, check out and drive to Gir National Park (05 hours), the last remaining habitat of the majestic Asiatic Lions. On arrival, check in to your lodge.

In the evening, enjoy a guided nature walk in the surrounding area or engage in an organic farming experience at the property, offering a closer connection to the land and local practices.

Overnight stay at the lodge.
 

Day 06: Gir National Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Gir Birding Lodge

Start your day with an early morning safari in Gir National Park. The best chance to see Asiatic Lions is during these early hours, when they are most active. Your guide will help you track these magnificent creatures, providing insights into their behavior and habitat. Besides lions, you may also spot Leopards, which are relatively common in Gir, along with a variety of herbivores like Chital, Sambar, and Nilgai.

After the morning safari, return to the lodge for breakfast and some relaxation. In the afternoon, take another safari to explore different areas of the park. Gir's diverse ecosystem supports a wide range of bird species, making it a paradise for bird watchers. Look out for the critically endangered White-backed Vulture, the majestic Changeable Hawk-Eagle, and colorful Indian Rollers.

In the evening, there will be a session to review your photographs and discuss the day’s sightings. Your guide will share tips on capturing the best shots and provide information about the park’s flora and fauna. Enjoy a delicious dinner at the lodge, followed by a good night’s sleep.

Overnight stay.

Day 07: Gir National Park to Rajkot

Meals: Breakfast

Start the day early with a morning safari in Gir National Park, taking advantage of the best wildlife activity hours. This final safari offers another opportunity to spot the majestic Asiatic Lion, along with leopards, deer, marsh crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife across Gir’s dry deciduous forests and riverine habitats.

After the safari, return to the lodge for breakfast, check out, and begin your transfer towards Keshod, Rajkot, or Diu Airport, depending on your flight schedule. If time permits, make a cultural stop en route at Junagadh, a historic town at the foothills of the Girnar range, known for its forts, temples, and rich heritage.

Continue to the airport for your onward flight, bringing your wildlife journey through Gujarat to a memorable close, enriched with exceptional safari experiences and cultural insights.

Tour End.