Kayaking Manialtepec Lagoon from Puerto Escondido

Paddle into a lagoon full of nesting birds at first light

Kayak the Manialtepec Lagoon near Puerto Escondido in the early morning when birds are most active, paddling about 6 kilometers through a river channel lined with dense vegetation to reach the Carnero nesting grounds. The outing lasts around 4 hours and includes a guide, kayak, safety jacket, air-conditioned vehicle pickup and civil liability insurance. You choose whether to paddle or ride the boat on the return based on your preference and energy.

The experience

The village of Las Negras sits on the lagoon's banks just 20 minutes from Puerto Escondido. When you arrive, your guide shows you a map of kayak routes tailored to your skill level and fitness, then transports you by boat about 6 kilometers to the Manialtepec River estuary where the paddling begins. From there you navigate a channel thick with vegetation that opens into the Carnero, where migratory birds nest year-round: wood storks, roseate spoonbills, cormorants, white ibises, crested caracaras, frigate birds and several heron species all visible from the water.

The paddle crosses fresh water flowing from the Manialtepec River into the lagoon. Partway through, you stop on the beach at Puerto Soil to rest. On the return, you decide: paddle back in the kayak or ride in the boat, whichever suits how you're feeling. The morning stays cool, and the soundscape (bird calls, water lapping, the distant ocean beyond the sandbar) is the main event.

If you want food after paddling, local dishes are available. The activity requires a minimum group of four people and accepts children over 12 years old.

What’s included

• Kayak and safety jacket.
• air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your hotel in Puerto Escondido.
• live guide in English or Spanish.
• civil liability insurance.
• boat transport to and from the paddling area.
• rest stop on the beach at Puerto Soil.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery dayDeparts at 07:00

AgesAdult (12 to 80 years) · Under 12: can't be included in the booking

GroupUp to 10

Live guideEnglish and Spanish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 4 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical levelNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Paraíso Huatulco

Is this one for you?The guide speaks English or Spanish, so you follow the commentary in whichever language suits you. This works best for paddlers with at least moderate fitness who can handle 6 kilometers on the water. Children must be 12 or older, and the group needs a minimum of four people to depart.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English and Spanish.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What birds can I expect to see on the Manialtepec Lagoon kayak?

The Carnero nesting grounds host wood storks, roseate spoonbills, cormorants, white ibises, crested caracaras, frigate birds and various herons. Early morning is when they're most active and visible from the water.

How far do I paddle on this kayaking trip?

You paddle about 6 kilometers through the river channel to reach the Carnero nesting area. A boat carries you to the starting point at the estuary, and you can choose to paddle or ride back depending on your preference.

What's included in the kayaking price from Puerto Escondido?

The kayak, safety jacket, guide, air-conditioned vehicle pickup from your hotel, and civil liability insurance are all included. The outing runs around 4 hours total.

Can I do this kayaking trip if I'm not very fit?

You'll need at least a moderate level of physical fitness. The guide reviews route options based on your skill and condition before you start, so you can choose a paddle that matches your ability.

What time does the kayaking start and why?

The activity departs early in the morning when the lagoon is most alive with birds and fish. The cool climate and active wildlife make dawn the best time to paddle and watch.