Set out on a five-day sea kayak camping adventure through Florida’s Everglades with Aquaterra Excursions. Discover pristine waterways, abundant wildlife, and remote island campsites on this guided expedition that offers both challenge and connection to nature.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Participants should be in good physical condition, able to paddle for several hours and carry gear.
Wildlife
History
The Wilderness Waterway has been a vital part of Everglades navigation since the early 20th century, serving indigenous communities and early explorers alike.
Conservation
Aquaterra Excursions emphasizes Leave No Trace principles and sustainable paddling practices to help preserve these fragile ecosystems.
Aquaterra Excursions
Set out on a five-day sea kayak camping adventure through Florida’s Everglades with Aquaterra Excursions. Discover pristine waterways, abundant wildlife, and remote island campsites on this guided expedition that offers both challenge and connection to nature.
Aquaterra Excursions is a Marco Island, Florida-based outfitter specializing in guided sea kayaking, boat and shelling excursions across the Everglades and the Ten Thousand Islands. The company operates multi-day sea kayak camping trips along the Wilderness Waterway and shorter guided eco-tours, combining wildlife viewing with hands-on interpretation by experienced guides.
Trips include family-friendly boating, shelling and fishing outings, three- and five-day kayak camping itineraries, boat-assisted kayak adventures, mangrove tunnel paddles, swamp walks, and photographic safaris in remote islands.
Aquaterra partners with local experts and runs select tours guided by Florida Master Naturalists, offering interpretive information about manatees, dolphins, birdlife, mangrove ecology, and coastal habitats. The fleet and equipment are organized to support guided paddling and boat-assisted logistics for remote access to beaches, shelling grounds, and tidal creeks. Private and customizable tour options are available for groups seeking tailored itineraries, photography-focused trips, or family experiences.
Safety protocols, route planning on the Wilderness Waterway, and logistics for multi-day camping trips are core operational elements, ensuring guests can focus on wildlife viewing and paddling. Aquaterra’s location on Marco Island positions it for direct access to the Everglades National Park, the Ten Thousand Islands, and nearby mangrove systems. The company emphasizes small-group experiences, expert-led interpretation, and configurable tours that suit a range of abilities and interests.
Reservations, detailed itineraries, and packing lists are available through Aquaterra Excursions’ booking channels; guests are encouraged to book early for peak seasons to secure preferred dates for guided eco tours, shelling trips, and multi-day kayak camping routes regularly.
Location
Marco Island, FL
Gateway to Everglades & 10,000 Islands
Tours Offered
21 tours
Kayak, boat, shelling, camping
Guided Tours
Florida Master Naturalists
Select tours led by experts
Private Options
Private & Custom
Photography and family trips available
Choose guided kayak trips, boat-assisted eco tours, private excursions, or multi-day Wilderness Waterway camping — limited spaces on multi-day and private tours.
Plan for tides
Check tidal schedules beforehand to navigate channels and plan campsites effectively.
Pack light but smart
Bring lightweight camping gear and essentials to stay mobile and comfortable during the trip.
Beware of weather changes
Stay updated on weather forecasts; Florida weather can shift quickly, impacting paddling conditions.
Respect wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from animals and use quiet paddling to avoid disturbance.
Dry bags
Keep your belongings dry during multi-day paddling and camping trips.
Sun protection
Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are crucial to protect against intense sun exposure.
Layered clothing
Weather can vary; pack layers for warmth, rain protection, and ventilation.
Water shoes
Water-resistant footwear provides comfort and safety for wet environments.