Paddle at sunset and watch the Congress Avenue Bridge bat colony emerge
2 hours
Paddle at sunset near the Congress Avenue Bridge and watch Mexican free-tailed bats emerge from below. Learn how these nocturnal creatures support the local ecosystem as you observe from your kayak.
Combined weight limit is 450 lbs per kayak; if over, you can be split into 2 kayaks. Children 6+ who can sit safely must have their own paid seat, and an adult must accompany a child.
Full refund or reschedule with 24 hour notice. If the operator allows a rebooking within 24 hours of trip time, cancellation for a refund is no longer available. Full refund if the operator cancels due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances. No-shows are charged the full price.
Product ID: 2V6DV3
Yes. The combined weight limit is 450 lbs per kayak. If you’re over that, you can be split into 2 kayaks.
Ages 5+ can join. If a child is old enough (6+) to sit safely in the kayak on their own (even if they don’t paddle), they must pay for their own seat. An adult must go with a child.
Wear comfortable clothing such as yoga pants, a swimsuit, or light layered clothing, plus flip flops, water shoes, or shoes you don’t mind getting wet. Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat for sun protection.
2101 Jesse E. Segovia St, Austin, TX 78702
The bat tour along Congress Avenue Bridge is a genuine crowd-pleaser, with guides like Tristan, Celeste, Marcos, and Connor consistently earning praise for their knowledge, enthusiasm, and ability to make first-time kayakers feel comfortable on the water. Guests frequently highlight the combination of Austin history, wildlife insight, and stunning skyline views as what makes the experience stand out. The bat emergence itself is the main event, and being on the water for it rather than crammed on the bridge above is a perspective most visitors say they'll never forget. A handful of reviewers have noted inconsistencies with equipment quality and launch site conditions, which is worth keeping in mind. These concerns appear occasionally rather than across the board, and the majority of guests leave genuinely impressed. The team has also shown a thoughtful approach to accessibility, going out of their way to accommodate a wheelchair-using guest, which speaks well to their overall character. If you're visiting Austin and looking for something more memorable than the usual tourist experience, this bat colony kayak tour tends to deliver. The guides are clearly the heart of it, and names like Tristan and Marcos come up repeatedly for good reason.
We had an amazing time on the kayak bat tour! Tristan, Tristan and Julian were amazing guides. Very knowledgeable of the bat colony and the city of Austin. Highly recommend!
jill carroll
August 30, 2026
We had an amazing time on the kayak bat tour! Tristan, Tristan and Julian were amazing guides. Very knowledgeable of the bat colony and the city of Austin. Highly recommend!
jill carroll
August 30, 2026
Rent a 2020 double-decker pontoon on Lake Travis with a captain
Cruise Austin’s waterfront aboard a rare 1958 retro boat
Enjoy a floating picnic with a styled setup, music, and games on Lake Austin
Explore interactive art installations created by local Austin artists
Quiet private electric cruising with a captain, A/C, and Lake Austin’s Little Venice
Float the spring-fed San Marcos River at your own pace
Explore the water by kayak or paddleboard
See Austin landmarks and local neighborhoods with stops along the way
Build your skills in a small-group Lake Austin surf club