What to Expect
01
Arrival
We will check you in and have you sign a waiver and collect the balance due for the trip.
02
Get Your Equipment
You will be given a life jacket and have it adjusted to fit you. You will get a kayak, a paddle, a dry bag, a cell phone case, water, a snack, and educational materials.
03
Instruction
We will demonstrate how to get in and out of your kayak and basic paddling strokes. We will go over safety rules for the trip.
04
On the Water
You will stay between the lead and sweep guide. We will explore the edges of the ecosystems.
What We Provide
Kayaks and Paddles
We provide 12-foot recreational kayaks from trusted brands like Perception, Wilderness Systems, Old Town, and Necky. These boats were carefully chosen for their excellent stability and reliable tracking—making them perfect for beginners while still enjoyable for experienced paddlers. With their comfortable design and steady handling, you'll feel confident exploring a variety of waterways.
Life Jackets
Quality life jackets from Onyx, specially designed for kayaking, are provided to each guest.
Dry Bags and
Cell Phone Pouches
We provide each guest with a 5L dry bag and a water-resistant cell phone pouch (fits phones up to 6.1"). The pouch features a clear window, allowing you to take photos and videos — and the microphone works through the case, so you can use birding apps like Merlin in the field.
Please note: while these items offer protection, they are not completely waterproof. We recommend using caution when bringing valuables. Wanderlust Ecotours is not responsible for damage to personal belongings.
Site Specific Field Guides
I have done species inventories of each location and created field guides for our tours. Every guest will receive a laminated copy featuring a labeled map of the habitats and the common species we’re most likely to encounter. These guides include names, identification tips, and interesting facts about each species and their role in the ecosystem. You’ll learn how they interact with each other and their environment as we explore.
What You Should and Shouldn't Bring
Protection from the Elements
Please bring a hat and/ or sunglasses, and sunscreen for protection from the sun. Chances are it won't be buggy, but it is a good idea to pack bug spray just in case.
What to Wear
Workout clothes made from synthetic fiber clothing is the best for drying quickly. Early morning and evening paddles will be cooler. Please bring an extra layer to put on. You will have to step into the water, and possibly into mud to get into your kayak. Shoes that can get wet and/ or muddy are advised. Flip flops are not ideal because they can easily float away or get stuck in the mud and break, but are preferable to stepping into a river barefoot.
A Word on Phones and Other Valuables
You will receive a cell phone pouch, which is water-resistant and not waterproof. If you choose to bring your cell phone, you may choose to download a good bird song identification app such as Merlin. Salt water can damage binoculars. We can not be held responsible for damage to valuables on this trip. Please take this into consideration when deciding what to bring.