5 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Everglades National Park

The Everglades National Park’s waterways beckon paddlers with intimate wildlife encounters and expert-led explorations. These small-group adventures are remarkably accessible – even first-timers can handle them with ease.

We love the 3-hour kayak excursion through the 10,000 Islands, where naturalist guides point out manatees, dolphins, and countless birds in their natural habitat. The combination tour (boat, kayak, and hike) gives you the fullest experience, while the mangrove tunnel trip offers a mysterious journey through natural canopies.

For the best value and wildlife spotting, our favorite is the boat-assisted kayak tour – you’ll reach prime paddling spots without wearing yourself out.

Let’s look at our favorite Everglades paddling adventures…

Good To Know

• Small-group eco tours led by experienced Florida Master Naturalist Guides offer personalized experiences with boat rides, kayaking, and nature walks.
• Everglades National Park 3-hour kayak eco tours provide opportunities to spot diverse wildlife like manatees and dolphins.
• Comprehensive guided eco tours include a combination of boat rides, kayaking, and nature hiking with certified naturalist guides.
• Boat-assisted kayak eco tours explore the coastal wilderness of Everglades National Park with insights from licensed Master Naturalist guides.
• Mangrove tunnel kayak eco-tours through North America’s largest mangrove forest offer sightings of herons, alligators, and otters.

Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour

Set out on a captivating eco-adventure with the Small-Group Everglades Boating, Kayaking, and Walking Tour. This highly-rated excursion takes you on a journey through the stunning Everglades National Park, led by experienced Florida Master Naturalist Guides.

The tour begins with a boat ride, where you’ll have the chance to spot dolphins, manatees, and herons in their natural habitat.

Next, you’ll hop into a kayak and explore the peaceful waters, accessing areas that are inaccessible by boat.

The experience culminates with a walking tour on an uninhabited barrier island, where your guides will share in-depth knowledge about the local wildlife, ecosystems, and the historical significance of the Calusa Indian tribe.

A golf cart ride to the marina is included, ensuring a seamless and comfortable journey.

With a maximum of 6 travelers per tour and a moderate fitness level required, this Small-Group Everglades Boating, Kayaking, and Walking Tour offers an immersive and eco-friendly way to discover the wonders of the Everglades.

Read our full review: Small-Group Everglades Boating Kayaking and Walking Eco Tour Review
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Everglades National Park 3-Hour Kayak Eco Tour

Nestled in the heart of Everglades National Park, the Everglades National Park 3-Hour Kayak Eco Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the park’s stunning natural beauty.

Priced at $164.95 per person, this 3-hour tour departs daily from Chokoloskee Island, the closest access point to the park.

Led by Florida Master Naturalists, the small-group tour provides a personalized experience as you explore the 10,000 Islands habitat, home to a diverse array of wildlife, including manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and wading birds.

Activities may include visiting a rookery, observing feeding manatees and dolphins, and paddling up rivers to see endangered species.

All necessary safety gear, including paddles, PFDs, and kayaks, is provided. Guests are advised to bring water, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and shoes that can get wet.

With an overall rating of 4.9/5 based on 10 reviews, this tour offers a flexible and knowledgeable experience for nature enthusiasts.

Read our full review: Everglades National Park 3-Hour Kayak Eco Tour Review
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Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park

This comprehensive Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park offers an immersive exploration of the park’s diverse ecosystems.

Rated 4.8 out of 152 reviews and recommended by 96% of travelers, this tour provides an intimate experience for a maximum of 6 participants. The 4-hour adventure includes a boat ride, kayaking, and nature hiking, allowing visitors to encounter a wealth of wildlife, from manatees and dolphins to bald eagles and roseate spoonbills.

Led by professional naturalist guides certified by the park and the US Coast Guard, the tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about the Everglades’ history, wildlife, and vegetation.

Kayakers will paddle to a Barrier Island Beach, where they can explore mangroves and observe shells, tidal zones, and unique plants.

The tour’s flexibility allows for weather-related changes, ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Read our full review: Small Group Boat, Kayak and Walking Guided Eco Tour in Everglades National Park Review
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Everglades National Park: Boat Assisted Kayak Eco Tour

Explore the untamed coastal wilderness of Everglades National Park on this boat-assisted kayak eco-tour. This 3.5-hour adventure takes you deep into the park’s pristine ecosystem, where you’ll encounter diverse wildlife like manatees, dolphins, sea turtles, and a variety of birds.

Led by a licensed Master Naturalist guide, you’ll learn about the area’s rich history and fascinating flora and fauna. The tour can accommodate up to 6 participants and departs from Chokoloskee Island, just 3 miles from Everglades City.

No previous kayaking experience is required, and the guide will tailor the experience to suit the group’s interests and daily conditions. Enjoy ample opportunities to photograph the incredible natural surroundings, from nesting ospreys to vibrant roseate spoonbills.

With an overall rating of 4.7/5 and high praise for the knowledgeable guides, this eco-tour offers an immersive and unforgettable experience in the heart of the Everglades.

Read our full review: Everglades National Park: Boat Assisted Kayak Eco Tour Review
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Everglades National Park: Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco-Tour

Enjoy the serene mangrove tunnels of Everglades National Park on this 3-hour kayak eco-tour. Priced from $119.95 per person, this excursion takes you through the largest mangrove forest in North America, where you’ll observe diverse wildlife like herons, egrets, alligators, and otters.

Guided by knowledgeable naturalists, you’ll learn about the local ecosystem, history, and flora as you paddle through the tranquil lakes and tidal creeks. No previous kayaking experience is required – you’ll use stable sit-on-top kayaks, making this tour accessible for all skill levels.

Bring a water, sun hat, and sunscreen, and get ready for a surreal experience as sunlight filters through the mangrove canopy. With a stellar 4.9/5 rating based on 479 reviews, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting Everglades National Park.

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or reserve your spot now and pay later.

Read our full review: Everglades National Park: Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Eco-Tour Review
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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Kayak or Canoe on the Tours?

Visitors can typically bring their own kayaks or canoes on the tours, but it’s best to check with the tour company beforehand to ensure they allow it and have appropriate launch facilities. Some tours may only accommodate rental boats.

Do I Need to Know How to Swim to Participate in the Tours?

While swimming skills are not strictly required, it’s recommended to have basic swimming abilities for safety during kayak and canoe tours. Participants should feel comfortable in and around water to fully enjoy the experience.

What Is the Maximum Weight Capacity for the Kayaks or Canoes?

The maximum weight capacity for kayaks and canoes typically ranges from 250 to 500 pounds, depending on the specific model and design. It’s important to check with the tour operator for the exact weight limit before booking.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?

Typically, yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on kayak or canoe tours. Most tour operators allow and even encourage participants to pack snacks and refreshments for the journey. It’s a good idea to check with the specific tour company beforehand.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Everglades Kayak and Canoe Tours?

Most Everglades kayak and canoe tours don’t have strict age restrictions, but children under 12 may require adult supervision. It’s best to check with the tour operator for their specific policies on age requirements and recommendations.

The Sum Up

The Everglades National Park offers various kayak and canoe tours that allow visitors to explore the diverse ecosystem. From guided eco-tours to self-guided excursions, there’s something for every skill level. Visitors can paddle through mangrove tunnels, spot wildlife, and enjoy the serene natural beauty of this unique Florida region. These tours provide an excellent way to experience the Everglades’ wonders up close.