Direct and informative tours abound in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. The standout experiences include a 2-hour wild horse expedition in open-air 4WD trucks – perfect for wildlife enthusiasts and photographers. History buffs will appreciate the comprehensive Manteo walking tour, which covers four centuries of fascinating coastal heritage. For evening entertainment, the ghost tours skillfully blend local legends of the Lost Colony with tales of Blackbeard’s exploits. The sunset kayak tours through Currituck Sound offer a peaceful way to experience the region’s natural beauty. These small-group excursions provide intimate, memorable experiences without tourist crowds. Let’s explore the best tours worth your vacation time.
Good To Know
- The Outer Banks offers diverse tour options, including wildlife, history, ghost stories, and nature experiences, catering to a range of interests and fitness levels.
- Small group sizes and personalized service are highlights of the tours, with high recommendation rates from over 2,000 reviews across different experiences.
- The Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour provides private access to a wild horse conservation area, while the Manteo Historic Walking Tour covers over 400 years of local history.
- The Manteo Outer Banks Walking Ghost Tour offers a family-friendly paranormal experience, while the Corolla Small-Group Sunset Kayak Tour provides a 2-hour adventure through Currituck Sound.
- The tours emphasize the educational value and entertainment provided by engaging guides, enhancing the overall visitor satisfaction in the Outer Banks region.
2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck
Though the Outer Banks are known for their beautiful beaches and coastal scenery, one of the area’s most unique attractions is the population of wild horses that roam freely in the region.
The 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck in Corolla, North Carolina, offers visitors the chance to explore this wild horse conservation area with private access. Travelers board an open-air 4-wheel drive vehicle and journey along sand dunes and the ocean, stopping for photo opportunities and learning about the island’s history and ecology from knowledgeable guides.
With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour provides a personalized service. While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate physical fitness level required allows for an immersive experience.
Backed by over 2,000 reviews and a 95% recommendation rate, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking to witness the majestic wild horses in their natural habitat during a visit to the Outer Banks.
Read our full review: 2-hour Outer Banks Wild Horse Tour by 4WD Truck Review
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Manteo Historic Walking Tour
The Manteo Historic Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into over 400 years of history in this charming Outer Banks town.
With a 98% traveler recommendation rate and 224 reviews, this 7:00 PM tour led by the engaging storyteller Chief D takes guests on an educational and entertaining journey through Manteo’s past. Highlights include the mysterious “Lost Colony” of Roanoke, notorious pirates like Blackbeard, and the Underground Railroad.
The tour, which accommodates a maximum of 19 travelers, includes access to a knowledgeable local guide who provides insightful tips and recommendations. Priced at $30 per person, the experience is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed.
Guests praise Chief D’s passion for the town’s history, as well as the informative and humorous nature of the tour. Many express a desire to return, having thoroughly enjoyed learning about Manteo’s connections to figures like Andy Griffith.
With its engaging blend of past and present, this tour is a must-do for visitors to the Outer Banks.
Read our full review: Manteo Historic Walking Tour Review
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Manteo Outer Banks Walking Ghost Tour
Departing from the Kitty Hawk Kites Manteo Store, the OBX Ghost Tours‘ Manteo Outer Banks Walking Ghost Tour transports visitors on a captivating journey through the haunting history of this coastal town.
Over the course of an hour, knowledgeable and engaging guides lead small groups on a walking exploration of downtown Manteo, sharing intriguing tales of the area’s paranormal activity. Guests explore the mysteries of the Lost Colony and the notorious pirate Blackbeard, while also investigating landmarks like the Pioneer Theatre and Roanoke Lighthouse using EMF detectors.
Though the tours are family-friendly and emphasize historical insight over pure spookiness, many travelers praise the guides’ storytelling abilities and the overall entertainment value of the experience.
Despite occasional difficulties hearing the guides in larger groups, the OBX Ghost Tours provide a unique opportunity to uncover the eerie legends that have long captivated the Outer Banks.
Read our full review: Manteo Outer Banks Walking Ghost Tour Review
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Corolla Small-Group Sunset Kayak Tour – Outer Banks
Embarking on the Corolla Small-Group Sunset Kayak Tour in the Outer Banks allows visitors to enjoy the serene beauty of the region’s waterways.
This 2-hour adventure takes kayakers through the Currituck Sound, navigating bays, canals, and islands while observing the local wildlife and learning about the surrounding ecosystem. Equipped with a kayak, life jacket, paddle, and safety gear, groups of up to 15 travelers can expect a personalized and intimate experience led by knowledgeable guides.
The tour departs from the Corolla Watersports kiosk at the Tim Buck II Shopping Center, providing easy access to the launch site. While not wheelchair-accessible, the activity is suitable for families, including infants who can sit on laps.
Travelers should have a moderate level of physical fitness, as the tour isn’t recommended for those with back problems. With an overall rating of 4.2 stars from 13 reviews, the Corolla Small-Group Sunset Kayak Tour offers a scenic and educational adventure in the heart of the Outer Banks.
Read our full review: Corolla Small-Group Sunset Kayak Tour – Outer Banks Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tour operators in the Outer Banks don’t have strict age restrictions, but they may have recommendations or requirements for younger children to ensure their safety and enjoyment. It’s best to check with individual companies for their specific policies.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Most tour companies allow guests to bring their own food and drinks on the tours. However, it’s important to check with the specific tour provider beforehand as some may have restrictions or recommendations regarding outside items.
What Should I Wear to Be Prepared for the Weather?
Visitors should dress in layers and wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes to account for the variable weather conditions. Bringing a lightweight jacket or windbreaker is recommended, as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the tour. Sun protection, such as a hat and sunscreen, is also advised.
Are the Tours Accessible for Individuals With Disabilities?
Many Outer Banks tour operators offer accessible options for individuals with disabilities. They provide wheelchair-friendly transportation and ensure tour sites are ADA-compliant. Travelers should inquire about specific accessibility accommodations when booking their tours to ensure their needs are met.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tours?
Most tour operators allow photography during their tours, but it’s best to check with the specific company beforehand. Some may have restrictions or require guests to avoid disrupting the experience. Guests should respect any rules to ensure everyone enjoys the tour.
The Sum Up
The Outer Banks offers a wealth of captivating tours that showcase its natural beauty, rich history, and haunting folklore. From thrilling 4WD excursions to explore wild horses, to walking tours that uncover Manteo’s past and supernatural stories, there’s something to suit every traveler’s interests. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or a serene sunset kayak experience, the Outer Banks’ diverse tour offerings provide an unparalleled way to fully take in this enchanting coastal destination.