Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour

Exploring the Everglades is a unique opportunity to take in Florida’s diverse ecosystem. This small-group eco tour combines boating, kayaking, and walking, led by an experienced naturalist. Travelers can expect to spot a variety of wildlife, from dolphins to manatees, while navigating serene waterways and mangrove tunnels. The walking tour on an uninhabited barrier island adds an archaeological twist to the adventure. With convenient golf cart rides and a maximum of six participants, this tour promises an unforgettable journey through the Sunshine State’s natural wonders.

Good To Know

• Small-group tour with a maximum of 6 travelers exploring the Everglades through boating, kayaking, and walking guided by a Florida Master Naturalist.
• Opportunity to observe diverse wildlife like dolphins, manatees, and herons in their natural habitats during the boat ride and kayaking session.
• Walking tour on an uninhabited barrier island providing insights into the area’s archaeology and coastal creatures.
• Serene kayaking experience through mangrove tunnels and natural ecosystems, allowing for closer encounters with the Everglades’ flora and fauna.
• Convenient golf cart ride to the marina and back to the original meeting point in Chokoloskee, Florida.

Tour Overview

The Everglades Eco Tour offers a small-group experience that combines boating, kayaking, and walking through the stunning natural landscapes of the Everglades.

Guided by a Florida Master Naturalist, the tour provides an immersive exploration of the region’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems. Travelers can expect to see dolphins, manatees, and herons during the boat ride, as well as enjoy a peaceful kayaking session and a walking tour on an uninhabited barrier island.

A golf cart ride to the marina is included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience. With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour, this eco-tour offers an intimate and personalized adventure.

Activities Included

Guided by a Florida Master Naturalist, the Everglades Eco Tour offers an immersive exploration of the region’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.

Visitors embark on a boat ride to observe dolphins, manatees, and herons in their natural habitat. The tour then transitions to peaceful kayaking, allowing for closer encounters with the area’s flora and fauna.

On an uninhabited barrier island, guests enjoy a walking tour to uncover archaeological insights and appreciate the area’s unique landscapes.

The experience is capped off with a golf cart ride back to the marina, providing a seamless and engaging encounter with the Everglades.

Guided Exploration

As visitors embark on the Everglades Eco Tour, they’re guided by a Florida Master Naturalist – an expert who brings the region’s rich biodiversity to life.

The guide leads the group on a boat ride, pointing out dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species. In the peaceful waters, guests paddle kayaks, observing the mangroves and wildlife up close.

The tour culminates in a walking exploration of an uninhabited barrier island, where the guide shares insights into the area’s ecology and history.

The knowledgeable guidance ensures an immersive, educational experience in the Everglades.

Wildlife Sightings

One of the highlights of the Everglades Eco Tour is the opportunity to spot an array of fascinating wildlife. Guided by experienced naturalists, visitors can observe dolphins, manatees, and a variety of bird species like herons during the boat ride.

The tranquil waters of the kayaking segment allow for even closer encounters with the area’s abundant marine life.

On the walking tour of the uninhabited barrier island, guests may catch glimpses of unique creatures adapted to the coastal ecosystem.

Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guides provide insights into the behaviors and habitats of the Everglades’ diverse wildlife.

Kayaking Experience

Visitors embark on a serene kayaking journey to explore the peaceful waters surrounding the Everglades. Gliding through mangrove tunnels, they enjoy the tranquil ecosystem, surrounded by the symphony of nature.

Guides share insights about the diverse flora and fauna, pointing out wading birds, leaping fish, and the elusive manatee. The smooth, effortless paddling allows travelers to fully appreciate the beauty and serenity of this untamed landscape.

Kayaking offers a unique perspective, enabling guests to access hard-to-reach areas and witness the Everglades’ hidden treasures up close. This intimate exploration leaves a lasting impression on all who partake in this captivating experience.

Walking Tour

After the serene kayaking experience, the walking tour on the uninhabited barrier island offers a unique perspective of the Everglades.

Led by a Florida Master Naturalist, guests explore the island’s diverse ecosystem on foot. They’ll discover ancient shell mounds, remnants of indigenous settlements, and learn about the island’s rich history.

The walking portion allows for closer examination of the unique flora and fauna found in this protected coastal environment.

Traversing the island’s trails provides an immersive experience, fostering a deeper appreciation for the Everglades’ delicate balance and the importance of environmental conservation.

Logistical Details

The tour begins at the meeting point in Chokoloskee, Florida, located at 238 Mamie Street.

From there, you will board a golf cart for a ride to the marina.

The tour has a maximum of 6 travelers and isn’t wheelchair accessible, though strollers are allowed.

Service animals are welcome, but infants must sit on laps.

A moderate level of physical fitness is required, as the tour includes kayaking and walking on an uninhabited barrier island.

At the end of the tour, you will return to the original meeting point.

Traveler Feedback

According to the reviews, travelers were overwhelmingly positive about their experiences on the Everglades Eco Tour. The tour received a stellar 4.8 out of 5 rating based on 101 reviews, with 96% of travelers recommending the experience.

Highlights included:

• Knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides who provided valuable insights about the local ecosystem
• Incredible wildlife sightings, such as encounters with dolphins, manatees, and herons
• A relaxing and immersive exploration of the Everglades’ peaceful waters through guided kayaking
• Fascinating archaeological discoveries and learning about the area’s rich history during the walking tour

Travelers praised the high-quality service and the opportunity to deeply appreciate the Everglades’ natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Boat?

Unfortunately, you can’t bring your own kayak or boat on this tour. The tour provides all the necessary equipment, including boats and kayaks, for participants to use during the eco-tour experience.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Taxes?

There are no additional fees or taxes beyond the $199.95 per person tour price and the $5/person Everglades National Park Visitors Pass. Customers can choose the reserve now and pay later option if desired.

Do I Need to Bring Any Special Equipment?

The tour provides all necessary equipment, including boats, kayaks, and life jackets. Guests should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes. Bringing sunscreen, a hat, and water is recommended to ensure a pleasant and safe experience.

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?

There’s no minimum age requirement for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome, though infants must sit on laps. The tour operator emphasizes that a moderate fitness level is required for the various activities.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, you can extend the tour to include additional activities. The tour provider offers customizable options to add on activities like airboat rides, wildlife photography workshops, or longer hiking experiences for a more personalized Everglades adventure.

The Sum Up

This small-group Everglades eco tour offers an immersive experience to explore Florida’s natural wonders. Seamlessly blending boating, kayaking, and walking, the tour provides ample opportunities to spot diverse wildlife and discover the region’s ecological and archaeological treasures. Led by a knowledgeable guide, this adventure delivers an unforgettable journey through the Everglades’ serene waters and lush mangrove forests.