Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour

Discover the vibrant wildlife and diverse ecosystems of Everglades National Park on the Small-Group Everglades Boating, Kayaking, and Walking Eco Tour. Priced at $199.95 per person, this 3.5-hour adventure promises an intimate and educational experience with a maximum of 6 travelers. Led by a Florida Master Naturalist Guide, it combines three different activities—boating, kayaking, and a walking tour—to give you a comprehensive look at this unique environment.

What makes this tour stand out is its focus on eco-education and the chance to observe dolphins, manatees, and a variety of shorebirds in their natural habitat. The tour departs from 1180 Chokoloskee Dr in Chokoloskee and takes place directly in the Everglades National Park, where loud airboats are not allowed. This tour is ideal for those who value small-group intimacy, knowledgeable guides, and a balance of water-based exploration and land walks.

Key Points

• Small-group experience with a maximum of 6 travelers offers personalized attention
• Led by a Florida Master Naturalist Guide who shares expert knowledge about wildlife and ecosystems
• Combines boating, kayaking, and a walking tour on an uninhabited barrier island
• See dolphins, manatees, herons, eagles, and more in their natural environment
• Duration of approximately 3 hours 30 minutes provides a manageable but rich adventure
• Free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance

Explore the Everglades by Boat with a Naturalist Guide

The tour starts in Chokoloskee and includes a boat ride through the Everglades. This part of the adventure allows for close-up wildlife viewing, where dolphins and manatees are common sights. The guide’s expertise helps you understand the different ecosystems and their inhabitants, making this a highly educational experience without loud airboats, preserving the tranquility of the environment.

The boat ride is a key highlight, offering a chance to observe marine and birdlife in their natural settings. The guide’s commentary enhances the experience, making it suitable for nature enthusiasts and photography lovers alike.

Kayaking in Peaceful Waters for Shorebird Encounters

Next, the tour transitions to paddling on calm waters in a kayak, providing access to areas inaccessible by boat. Its peaceful setting allows for up-close views of shorebirds and an intimate connection with the surroundings. Watching shorebirds, herons, and egrets as they go about their day is a peaceful, immersive highlight of the trip.

This kayaking segment is suitable for those with a moderate physical fitness level. It offers a rare opportunity to explore the barrier islands’ shoreline in a quiet, personal manner, with the naturalist guide pointing out various flora and fauna along the way.

Walking Tour on an Uninhabited Barrier Island

The final part of the tour involves a walking excursion on a secluded barrier island. Here, visitors explore uninhabited landscapes, gaining insights into oyster creation and archaeological features created by the Seminoles. The guide’s detailed explanations bring the environment to life, deepening your understanding of local history and ecology.

This walking experience provides a change of pace from water-based activities, offering a chance to stretch your legs and observe the plant life, shells, and wildlife on the island. It’s a relaxing conclusion to the tour, with plenty of opportunities for wildlife photography and quiet reflection.

Convenient Meeting Point and Comfortable Group Size

The tour departs from 1180 Chokoloskee Drive and ends back at the same location, making logistics straightforward. The small-group size of up to 6 travelers ensures a personalized and relaxed atmosphere. The mobile ticket format means no hassle with paper tickets, and confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Participants should be prepared for a moderate physical activity level and bring suitable outdoor clothing. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy nature-based activities and are looking for an environmentally friendly experience.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

This eco tour is weather-dependent; if poor weather leads to cancellation, you’ll be offered a rescheduled date or a full refund. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours in advance, which adds flexibility for planning your trip.

Since the tour involves water activities, it’s best suited for those comfortable with moderate physical exertion and outdoor conditions. The small group ensures plenty of space for questions and personalized attention from the guide.

What Sets This Tour Apart from Others

Unlike airboat rides, this tour focuses on quiet, eco-friendly exploration of the Everglades. The Florida Master Naturalist Guide makes all the difference, providing deep insights about wildlife, plants, and the environment. The combination of boating, kayaking, and walking offers a well-rounded perspective on the ecosystem.

The small-group format fosters an intimate experience, perfect for wildlife photography or anyone who appreciates personalized guidance. The tour’s focus on sustainability and education makes it appealing for environmentally conscious travelers.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most

This eco tour suits those who value wildlife observation and want a comprehensive experience in the Everglades. It’s ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those interested in local ecology and history. The moderate physical activity requirement makes it accessible for most healthy adults.

Travelers who dislike large, noisy airboats and prefer quiet, educational excursions will find this tour particularly satisfying. It offers a rare chance to connect with nature at a relaxed pace, guided by experts who bring the environment to life.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The total experience lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Dolphins, manatees, herons, egrets, spoonbills, eagles, ospreys, and pelicans are common sights during the tour.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is designed for those with a moderate physical fitness level; children comfortable with outdoor activities should enjoy it.

What should I bring?
Bring outdoor clothing, possibly sunscreen, and camera gear for wildlife photography.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance due to weather conditions.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on this tour.

This Small-Group Everglades Eco Tour offers a relaxed, educational, and wildlife-rich experience for those eager to explore the Everglades in a sustainable way, guided by passionate and knowledgeable experts.