There’s much to see, and even more to feel, on a nature trail. But what makes it truly meaningful is when you move from being just an observer to becoming a participant.
That’s exactly what Canopy by the Coast helps you do, not just walk through Goa’s natural ecosystems, but engage with them, too. Canopy by the Coast runs community nature experiences on Sundays, and these are open to all (for a small participation fee).
But, what they do beyond that is important. They curate customised sessions for schools, colleges, eco-conscious travellers, and corporate teams, looking to bond over something meaningful, and all that happens throughout the week.
“Over the past year, we’ve worked with more than 300 students from across India. Each school session is curated to complement what students are already learning, but we try to bring in what textbooks often leave out: real-world connections, context and curiosity,” says Nester Brian Fernandes, a Marine Biologist and Ecologist, and Founder of Canopy by the Coast.
For corporate teams, they add elements of team-building, leadership and sustainability awareness, often in serene natural settings that offer the perfect antidote to boardrooms.
“These sessions aren’t just ice-breakers, they’re invitations to think about our roles as individuals and professionals in shaping a greener, more empathetic world,” he adds.
And, for tourists who often come to see Goa’s beaches, the team lets them witness a side of Goa — the wild, rich and beautiful ecosystems — that are seldom spoken about. “Through storytelling and slow-paced observation, they discover mangrove roots, fiddler crabs, intertidal wonders, and the cultural histories that tie communities to these landscapes,” shares the founder.
Canopy by the Coast curates immersive experiences, from plateau, mangrove and marine ecology walks to forest trails, herping, boat explorations and beach walks.
They offer team building and nature connection programmes for corporates, conservation through food programmes, interactive storytelling sessions for kids, nature journaling and terrarium workshops.
For tourists who often come to see Goa’s beaches, the team lets them witness a side of Goa — the wild, rich and beautiful ecosystems — that are seldom spoken about.
Most sessions are led by Nester, with some being jointly led by Kishore Shrikande, and feature experts and educators who bring their unique lens to every programme.
Their indoor programmes are hands-on, creative activities that help people connect with what they’re learning, while the weekly or fortnightly Sunday walks bring together a diverse mix of locals, artists, students, travellers, and end up with the most fascinating conversations.
“No two walks are ever the same, and often, the questions participants ask lead us to explore themes we hadn’t even planned,” shares Nester.
The organisers suggest bringing along a reusable water bottle (big on zero-waste!), some light snacks and comfy footwear (to have a better experience), an umbrella or rain jacket in the monsoons, a notebook to journal or sketch nature and a camera or phone to document finds along these trails.
“Before every session, we also ask participants about allergies or mobility concerns — we want to make sure everyone feels safe and comfortable. And most importantly, we ask them to bring an open mind and a gentle footprint,” shares Nester.
“One of the key ways we contribute is by turning 'observers' into 'participants'. Through platforms like iNaturalist and eBird, we encourage people to document what they see. This is real citizen science building biodiversity data that can support conservation planning and monitoring of species in Goa,” he explains.
Gently shifting mindsets, their walks also promote a leave-no-trace ethic. Participants, especially children, have been seen spontaneously picking up plastic, reminding others to not litter, or quietly choosing to avoid trampling sensitive tide pools. These aren’t rules drilled in, but habits that are formed naturally when people feel connected on these trails.
So, whether you’re a parent, school coordinator, tourist, or nature lover, if you’re eager for a meaningful trail experience in Goa, Canopy by the Coast will co-create a journey perfectly tailored to your group’s age, interests, and schedule.
DETAILS
WHAT: Canopy by the Coast (nature trails and experiences)
To book a walk or session with Canopy by the Coast, reach out to them at:
INSTAGRAM: @canopy.by.the.coast
WHATSAPP: +91 77448 31607
E-MAIL: admin@canopybythecoast.in
WEBSITE: canopybythecoast.in