Wildlife & Water Adventure: Congress Bridge Bat Tour with Longhorn Kayak Tours LLC
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2 hours
Fitness Level
Basic fitness is sufficient; comfortable paddling and standing for short periods.
Overview
Experience a captivating kayaking journey in Austin as you witness over a million bats emerge from the Congress Bridge each evening. This tour blends wildlife spectacle with scenic river views—perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Congress Bridge Bat Tour
All ages • 2 Hours • Unforgettable experience!!
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About This Adventure
Experience an unforgettable 2-hour kayaking adventure to Austin's historic Congress Bridge, home to the largest urban bat colony in the U.S. Witness over 1.5 million bats in their natural habitat while enjoying expert guidance. Perfect for nature lovers, this unique outing combines excitement, education, and stunning views along the river.
Duration
2 Hours
About
Paddle down to Austin’s historic congress bridge and learn about the largest urban bat colony in the whole country! Over 1.5 MILLION bats!
We launch from the slip located on the river at 7 East Ave in Austin. More information will be included in your confirmation email.
What to bring/What's Included
Please wear comfortable clothing, shorts, swimsuit, light layered clothing and flip-flops, water shoes or shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat are a great for sun protection. Bring a small towel to throw over your lap or dry off with if you want to go for a swim (sometimes you get wet from paddling). Bring water or we have bottled water for purchase.
Included is a knowledgeable guide, Kayak, Safety Equipment, Paddles
Adventure Tips
Wear quick-drying clothing
Opt for lightweight, quick-drying clothes to stay comfortable on the water and handle splashes.
Bring binoculars
Enhance your wildlife viewing with binoculars—especially useful for spotting distant bats and birds.
Arrive early to settle in
Getting to the launch point ahead of time ensures a relaxed start and the best paddling experience.
Check weather conditions
Be aware of weather updates as rain or wind can affect the bat emergence and paddling conditions.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Great blue herons
- Osprey
History
The Congress Bridge was completed in 1980 and has since become famous worldwide for its nightly bat emergence, attracting scientists and tourists alike.
Conservation
Longhorn Kayak Tours emphasizes eco-friendly practices, ensuring minimal impact on the bats and river ecosystem during tours.
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Adventure Hotspots in Austin
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof sunglasses
Protect your eyes from glare and splashes while paddling and watching the bats.
summer specific
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
Shield yourself from sun exposure during the outdoor kayak adventure.
spring;summer;fall;winter specific
Light layers
Maintain comfort with layered clothing that can be adjusted for changing temperatures.
spring;fall specific
Dry bag for personal items
Keep your phone, keys, and other essentials dry during the water activity.