Goa Shore excursions : All inclusive Small Group tour

Travelers often seek a balanced way to explore Goa’s unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty during a port stop. This all-inclusive small group tour from Amaze Tours promises to cover some of the most iconic sites with the comfort of air-conditioned transport and a knowledgeable guide. While reviews suggest it offers good value and insightful commentary, they also highlight some logistical hiccups worth considering.

What we love about this tour is its opportunity to see a diverse slice of Goa’s heritage—from Portuguese churches to Hindu temples—along with a fragrant visit to a spice plantation. Plus, the small group setting usually means more personalized attention and fewer crowds. However, some guests note that the itinerary can be unpredictable, and not all stops may be as long or detailed as expected.

This tour suits travelers keen to hit the highlights without the hassle of arranging transport or guides themselves. It’s ideal for those who want a structured, educational glimpse of Goa’s history and culture in a single day, especially if their cruise schedule is tight.

Key Points

• Comprehensive itinerary covering major religious sites, a spice plantation, and the Latin Quarter.
• All-inclusive price includes lunch, entrance fees, and bottled water, offering good value for a day trip.
• Small group experience tends to be more personalized, with an English-speaking guide providing insights.
• Comfortable transport in air-conditioned vehicles helps cope with Goa’s heat and traffic.
• Some reviews mention long travel times and limited time at certain stops, so manage expectations.
• Dress conservatively when visiting temples and churches, covering shoulders and knees for respect and adherence to local customs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Goa on a Shore Excursion: A Deep Dive

The Starting Point: Comfort and Convenience

Your day begins with a pick-up from Goa Port, where a luxury air-conditioned vehicle awaits. This is a significant plus—after a long cruise or journey, sitting in climate-controlled comfort while being driven around is a relief. The tour operates with a dedicated English-speaking guide, which is invaluable for understanding the sites and local context, as well as asking questions.

The Drive to Old Goa: A Window into Portugal’s Past

The first major leg involves a rough 60-minute drive out of the port area into Old Goa, a place that echoes the grandeur of Portuguese rule. This initial journey can be a mixed experience, with some reviews mentioning rough roads and old buses, but overall, it’s a small price for what’s ahead.

Notably, the story behind every site is more than just sightseeing—these places are layered with history, from the colonial architecture to the crypt beneath the St. Cajetan Church. The crypt, where Portuguese governors’ bodies were kept until 1992, adds a mysterious touch for history buffs. The church itself resembles St. Peter’s in Rome, with Corinthian columns and niches holding apostles’ statues.

St. Cajetan Church: A Closer Look

This church, modeled on the Vatican, is a highlight for many. Visitors appreciate the intricate façade and the sense of stepping into a piece of European history in India. The crypt beneath, which once housed embalmed bodies, is rarely open but adds a layer of historical intrigue. The structure’s use of laterite blocks and lime plaster showcases local building techniques, making it a visual treat for architecture enthusiasts.

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Basilica of Bom Jesus: The Spiritual Heart of Goa

The next stop is often the most memorable—the Basilica of Bom Jesus. Built by Jesuits in the 16th century, this UNESCO World Heritage site holds the remains of St. Francis Xavier, which are displayed in a marble mausoleum. Visitors can view the embalmed body once every ten years; the last viewing was in 2014.

Guests often describe this site as “a truly moving experience”, thanks to its impressive architecture and spiritual significance. The basilica’s baroque façade and detailed interiors contrast with the simpler exteriors of many other Indian churches, giving it a special aura.

Shanta Durga Temple: Goa’s Unique Hindu Heritage

After exploring Christian sites, the tour moves to the Shanta Durga Temple, built between 1713 and 1738. It’s dedicated to the Goddess of Peace, and its almost pagoda-like structure, with a roof made from large stone slabs, makes it stand out among Indian temples. The temple’s spaciousness, decorated wood doors coated with silver, and lush surroundings appeal to those seeking a peaceful spiritual environment.

Guests are guided through the temple, learning about its architecture and significance, before having some freedom to explore independently. It’s a refreshing change from the Christian sites and offers a glimpse into Goa’s Hindu traditions.

The Fragrant World of a Spice Plantation

One of the tour’s most aromatic stops is the Tropical Spice Plantation. Here, you’ll be greeted with a warm Goan welcome and a refreshing herbal drink. The plantation is more than just a farm; it’s an sensory journey. You’ll inhale the scents of nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper, coriander, and chilies—each spice carefully grown and harvested organically.

The plantation also features fruit trees and vegetables like cashew, custard apple, bananas, and citrus, giving a rounded picture of local agriculture. Watching the Betel Nut climbers skillfully ascend and sway in the trees is a fascinating sight, showcasing traditional farming techniques.

Guests often comment on how the visit rejuvenates the senses, making it a highlight of the day. The plantation is not just about tasting spices but about understanding their importance in local culture and cuisine.

The Colorful Latin Quarter: Panjim’s Fontainhas

The final leg of the tour takes you to Panjim’s Latin Quarter, Fontainhas, famous for its Portuguese architecture. A walking tour here offers charming views of old villas, narrow winding streets, and a beautiful church from the outside. The guide points out architectural details typical of Portuguese influence.

A drive through Panjim showcases the city’s vibrant streets lined with colorful villas and colonial-era buildings. The short time spent here means you’ll get a taste of Goa’s colonial charm but may wish for more time to explore on your own.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The all-inclusive nature of the tour is a selling point—your fee covers transportation, a knowledgeable guide, entrance fees, and a hearty lunch. Plus, you get a bottle of mineral water to stay hydrated during the day.

However, some reviews mention that the itinerary can be subject to change, especially due to traffic or unforeseen circumstances. For instance, if a festival or local event is happening, certain sites like Old Goa churches might be skipped altogether.

Remember: Guests should wear conservative clothing when visiting temples and churches—covering shoulders and knees—and bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and comfortable footwear for walking.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95, and still or video cameras are generally prohibited inside religious sites.

The Authenticity and Practical Value

This tour offers a solid way to see Goa’s main highlights without the hassle of self-planning. The small group size often means more personalized attention and fewer crowds, which can enhance your experience. The English-speaking guide, if knowledgeable, can bring the sites to life with stories and context.

That said, some reviews reveal that the long bus rides and limited time at key stops can be frustrating. For example, one guest noted only 10 minutes at Panjim and a very brief visit to the churches, which might feel rushed for those wanting more immersion.

Others found the bus condition less than ideal, describing it as old and struggling on hilly roads. While this might be a concern for some, the comfort of air conditioning and a professional driver help mitigate discomfort.

Value for Money

At $57 per person, this tour sits in a mid-range price bracket. When considering the inclusion of entrance fees, lunch, bottled water, and a guide, it provides a reasonable all-in-one package. For travelers wanting to tick off major sights without extra planning, this can be quite convenient and cost-effective.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re interested in a structured overview of Goa’s religious and colonial history, this tour is a good choice. It’s perfect for those who prefer guided insights and don’t mind a bit of travel time. It offers a practical way to see key sites, especially if time is limited during a cruise port stop.

Travelers who value comfort, small groups, and an educational vibe will appreciate the experience. For those seeking deeper exploration or more flexibility, some reviews suggest it might feel a little rushed or logistical issues could detract from the overall enjoyment.

The Sum Up

This Goa shore excursion balances history, culture, and sensory experiences in a way that provides good value for money. You’ll visit significant Christian churches, a vibrant Hindu temple, a fragrant spice plantation, and enjoy a scenic drive through the Portuguese-influenced capital.

The small group setting and knowledgeable guide enhance the experience, making it suitable for visitors who want a guided, curated tour without feeling overwhelmed. The included lunch and transportation reduce the hassle, especially for cruise passengers.

However, it’s worth noting that the itinerary can be unpredictable, and some guests may find the limited time at certain sites frustrating. The condition of transportation and the pace of the day should also be considered, especially for those with mobility concerns or limited patience for long bus journeys.

Overall, if you’re after a practical, well-rounded overview of Goa’s highlights and prefer guided tours, this excursion offers a worthwhile experience. Just go with an open mind, and you’ll likely come away with a richer appreciation of Goa’s diverse heritage.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for everyone?
It’s best suited for travelers who don’t have mobility issues, as it involves some walking and sitting in a bus. It’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95.

How long is the drive to the main sites?
Expect about an hour of driving to reach the churches and temples, which can be a bit tiring but allows time to enjoy the scenery along the way.

Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all entrance fees are covered in the ticket price, so there are no surprises once you arrive at each site.

What should I wear when visiting temples and churches?
Conservative clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended to respect local customs and religious sensitivities.

Does the tour include lunch?
Yes, a traditional Goan meal is included. Some guests have found the lunch portioning to be adequate, but others felt it was quick and simple.

Can I customize the itinerary?
The tour follows a set schedule, but the order might change or be affected by traffic or local events. It’s best to go with an open mind.

What should I bring for the tour?
Sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and comfortable walking shoes are essential. A camera (without video or stills inside religious sites) can help capture memories.

Overall, this Goa shore excursion offers a convenient and engaging way to uncover the city’s most iconic sights. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who prefer guided tours that combine culture, history, and sensory delights—just be prepared for some travel time and quick stops.

You can check availability for your dates here: