Discover the wetlands of the Everglades on a private guided kayak eco tour with Aquaterra Excursions. Paddle through mangroves, spot alligators, and photograph vibrant wildlife in a peaceful, tailored experience. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this tour offers a true taste of this unique Florida wilderness.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; paddling involves moderate effort
Wildlife
History
The Everglades has been a vital part of Florida’s cultural history, with indigenous tribes native to the region and later established as a national park in 1947 to protect its unique ecosystem.
Conservation
Aquaterra Excursions emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring the preservation of the Everglades’ delicate habitats for future generations.
Aquaterra Excursions
Discover the wetlands of the Everglades on a private guided kayak eco tour with Aquaterra Excursions. Paddle through mangroves, spot alligators, and photograph vibrant wildlife in a peaceful, tailored experience. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike, this tour offers a true taste of this unique Florida wilderness.
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.
Wear sun protection
Bring a hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses to protect yourself during sun-drenched kayaking.
Carry water and snacks
Stay hydrated and energized throughout your paddling adventure with plenty of water and light snacks.
Dress for water and sun
Wear quick-drying clothes and footwear suitable for wet conditions—avoid heavy or synthetic fabrics.
Listen to your guide
Pay attention to safety instructions and ecological tips from your guide for a fun and responsible trip.
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Helps prevent sunburn during long hours on the water.
Waterproof clothing or quick-drying attire
Keeps you comfortable if the weather changes or splashes occur.
spring|summer|fall|winter
Insect repellent
Prevents insect bites, especially during warmer months.
spring|summer
Camera or binoculars
Capture wildlife moments or get a closer look at distant birds.