Alongside our research, we offer tours and activities aimed at getting you closer to the incredible nature we have here on the island. All our tours are flexible and can be customized for you!
Pumpkin hill and Bat cave tour
Hiking to the highest point of Utila on Pumpkin Hill, you will have a fantastic view of the entire island! You will be immersed in hardwood forest as you sight all of the different creatures in this biodiversity hot spot. You could see the endemic anole lizard (Norops bicaorum), curly haired tarantulas, leaf cutter ants, snakes, a variety of birds, and much more wildlife. We will pass by an important cave site, where many bats roost. We then end the tour with a visit to the islands prime turtle nesting site, and a fresh water cave, home to endemic shrimps. Cost is $15 per person and flexible to your needs (price includes a dedicated biologist guide, additional context and information about island biodiversity) - discounts can be discussed for larger groups.
Kayak Adventure tour
This is the best route to kayak on the island! You will cross the man-made channel from Oyster Bed Lagoon on the South side of the island. This water channel (historically designed for the transportation of lumber and coconuts) passes through the savannah and the mangroves of Turtle Harbour, a precious ecological reserve on Utila. You will have the opportunity to see our endemic spiny-tailed iguanas, mangrove bird species and much more. Once you have arrived at Rock Harbour beach, you can jump in the water and snorkel sea grass beds or simply relax on the white sandy beach. Cost is $30 per person (which includes kayak rental and biologist tour guide) - discounts can be discussed for larger groups. This tour typically lasts from 3- 4 hours (approx 2hrs total kayak time).
Island hiking tour
This is a great tour for adventurous people! You will hike through hardwood forest and mangroves to reach the beautiful north coast of Utila. You might see iguanas, agoutis, birds of prey and even the Spotted Moray Eel (Gymnothorax moringa) as we explore the coastal rock pools of the northern coast line. Look out for pirate glass and pottery from the Paya people along the Iron shore. This trip will explore a variety of remote habitats that few people on Utila ever experience. Accompanied by one of our expert biologists, you will get a real chance to experience Utilas wildlife naturally. Cost is $20 per person (which includes biologist tour guide) - discounts can be discussed for larger groups.
Scientist for a day tour
Come and join one of Kanahau’s experienced biologists in the field on any of our current studies! Ask for details about our endemic iguana (Ctenosaura bakeri) catch-and-release population study, our bat surveys (done in/outside the cave right next to the Kanahau facility!), and our other reptile (snakes and lizards) research or invertebrate studies. Research runs actively from the facility everyday; so drop us a message to know whats going on and how to get involved! All of our biologists provide a friendly and professional service to inquiring minds of all ages, giving you a valuable research experience and scientific taster.
Cost is $20 per person (which includes dedicated biologist guide)
Cost is $20 per person (which includes dedicated biologist guide)
