In the heart of Florida – the natural beauty of Orlando makes it the ideal counterbalance to the signature theme park fun. With eco-tours near Orlando, Florida gaining popularity among those who want to get in touch with nature for a peaceful yet adventurous weekend getaway or vacation, you might want to try them out.

When it comes to eco-tours near Orlando, Florida, you can find a good selection of choices that are worth checking out – birding, natural springs, airboat rides, fishing, nature trails, kayaking, and many more. These are great options to explore the great outdoors in Orlando, both in Orange County and in adjacent regions. Whether you want to enjoy the tranquil paddling through springs or eager to experience the rush of kayaking turbulent waters or hang-gliding high up in the air above orange groves, you will surely have a memorable experience.

Wildlife and birding

The moderate climate in Orlando has been the ideal destination for birds and those who love to watch them.

• Lake Apopka. Bird lovers and photographers should drop by at Lake Apopka. This is a site for nesting and migrating birds that are attracted by acres of underdeveloped shoreline by the lake. There are more than 360 various species of birds including great blue heron, bald eagles, anhingas, and snowy egrets in the lake.
• North Shore Birding Festival. Bird lovers and wildlife fans should not miss out on this event which is held every winter and offers nature tours and free birding.
• Gatorland Bird Rookery. This is a favorite among birders and photographers where more than 20 different species of foraging, nesting, and roosting birds thrive. Starting early February up to June, bird lovers and photographers can access the park at 7:30 AM on selected days to enjoy the best views of the wildlife.
• The Great Florida Birding and Wildlife Trail. For bird lovers out there, this site offers wildlife viewing sites with 17 highlighted in the Orlando area.
• Central Florida Nature Adventures. If you want a guided bird-watching tour with a local expert, you might want to try this one out. You can catch a glimpse of limpkins, scrub-jays, and purple gallinules along with other species.

Kayaking

Among the eco-tours near Orlando, Florida, you do not want to miss out on opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.

If you are staying at The Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grand Lakes, or JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes, you can avail the guided canoe or kayak tours of Shingle Creek which is called the “Headwaters of the Florida Everglades”.

For a unique adventure around an animal exhibit, Brevard Zoo is the only zoo in the United States where you can go on a guided kayak tour from one exhibit to another.

You can also enjoy kayaking on various waterways and natural springs throughout the Orlando area.

• The Paddling Center at Shingle Creek. You can rent single kayaks, 2-person kayaks, canoes, and stand-up paddleboards. Eco-tours are also offered. The natural setting surrounding the facility can provide you with a true feel of nature which includes adjacent biking and hiking trails.
• Kayak Eco Tours. Enjoy a guided tour of scenic old Florida and remote areas of the river.
• Get Up and Go Kayaking. Join a leisurely river tour if you want to enjoy the beauty of nature. With a clear frame kayak, it allows you to see wildlife while passing over the waters.

Springs

The crystal-clear waters of springs near Orlando make them the ideal destination for snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, and fishing as well as manatee encounters.

• Wekiwa Springs State Park. Just 30 minutes from downtown Orlando, it offers trails, canoe rentals as well as family-friendly play areas and untouched wild vistas. Camping is also available.
• Kelly Park. This destination boasts a free-flowing natural spring
• Blue Spring State Park. This destination is only 50 minutes from downtown Orlando and recognized for its yearly influx of manatees.
• De Leon Springs State Park. Enjoy the beauty of natural Florida Springs with a historical and savory addition – the popular Old Spanish Sugar Mill Grill and Griddle House which operates in a 100-year old replica of the original 1830s sugar. You can cook pancakes at the table.

Nature trails and parks

When it comes to bicycling, hiking and other outdoor activities, the nature parks and preserves in Orlando offer a good selection for you to explore.

• West Orange Trail. For those who love to go on bicycling while exploring the outdoors, this is a must-explore trail that features 20.8 paved miles that stretches from Winter Garden to Apopka in the north.
• Little Big Econ State Forest (Kolokee Loop). This is one of the scenic nature trails in Central Florida. The main highlight is the section winding high above the Econlockhatchee River.
• Orlando Wetlands Park. If you want to immerse yourself in Florida wildlife, this is a great destination. It boasts more than 18 miles of berms and nature trails where you might catch a glimpse of birds, alligators, snakes, river otters, turtles, foxes, white-tailed deer, and bobcats.
• Black Bear Wilderness Area. This is a rugged hiking trail winding through rough and uneven terrain. The area is teeming with wildlife and if you are lucky, you might spot the elusive Florida black bear.

Outdoor Thrills

For those who crave a thrilling escapade, Orlando has its share of outdoor thrills.

• Revolution Off-Road. Guests can take the wheel of an all-terrain Hummer, dune buggy, Jeep, or high-speed rally car for a few hours of off-road fun.
• Gatorland’s Screamin’ Gator Zip Line. You will go over gators along 1,200 feet up in the air at heights up to 56 feet and speed of almost 30 mph.
• Orlando Tree Trek Adventure Park

Airboat tours

Among the eco-tours near Orlando, Florida, you do not want to miss out on a traditional Florida experience – airboat rides. During airboat rides, it offers you scenic viewpoints and an up-close glimpse at the native wildlife as you glide across the tranquil wetlands.

• Orlando Air Boat  Rides – Orlando Airboats Rides fleet are state of the art, stadium seating boats that give all passengers an unobstructed, fantastic view of the diversity of wildlife and plant life that call the swamp their home.
• Wild Florida Airboats – Enjoy airboat rides throughout an amazing wildlife park
• Kissimmee Swamp Tours – Embark on an adventure deep into the natural bounty of Florida

Final Thoughts

With the vast selection of eco-tours near Orlando, Florida, you will surely enjoy the best when it comes to the great outdoors during your stay. Whether you want a peaceful paddling experience, catch a glimpse of the wildlife, or a thrilling kayaking ride, you can find the right adventure that best suits your needs.