Perth: Guided Kayak Tour around Canning River Wetlands

If you’re looking for a way to see a different side of Perth—without the crowds or the hustle—this guided kayak tour of the Canning River wetlands offers a peaceful escape just minutes from the city. This experience invites you to glide quietly through calm waters, surrounded by nature and abundant birdlife, while learning about the area’s fascinating history from your friendly guide. It’s a perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and education, making it a standout option for travelers craving something authentic and low-key.

What we love about this tour: First, the serenity of paddling through untouched wetlands that feel worlds away from Perth’s urban buzz. Second, the insightful commentary from knowledgeable guides that enrich the experience with stories of local wildlife and First Nations history. Third, the value for money—a three-hour trip packed with scenery, wildlife, and learning for just $65. One consideration: the tour is not suitable for non-swimmers or those with mobility issues, so check your comfort level before booking.

This adventure suits nature lovers, curious travelers, and anyone eager to explore a little-known part of Perth’s natural beauty. It’s particularly ideal if you’re after a gentle, guided experience that balances outdoor activity with cultural insight.

Contents show

Key Points

Peaceful Exploration: Glide through calm, sheltered waters in a less-visited area of Perth.
Wildlife Encounters: Spot various bird species and learn about local fauna.
Educational Focus: Guides share insights about the wetlands’ ecology and indigenous history.
Accessible & Relaxed: No need for high fitness levels; suitable for most, but not for mobility-impaired guests.
Value for Price: A comprehensive 3-hour tour for $65, including equipment and a guide.
Authentic Experience: Discover a hidden gem close to the city that few travelers visit.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Peek into Perth’s Wetlands

Starting from the Old Riverton Bridge, this guided kayaking trip takes you into a tranquil world of twisting channels and lush wetlands. Your guide, easily recognizable in a white GoGo Active shirt, will lead you through this seemingly untouched slice of nature that many Perth residents don’t even know exists. The water here is calm and sheltered, making it ideal for beginners or those simply wanting a relaxing paddle.

As we understand from reviews, the guides are both knowledgeable and personable. One reviewer noted that the guide, whose name isn’t provided but is praised for her friendliness, “made the whole trip feel like paddling with a friend who knows everything about this place.” Expect to learn about the First Australians who once called this area home, along with details about the diverse wildlife that inhabits these wetlands.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Perth

What the Tour Entails

The Starting Point and First Impressions

The tour kicks off at the Old Riverton Bridge Park, a quiet spot at the western end of the Old Riverton Bridge. Here, all necessary equipment—double kayaks, life jackets, and dry bags—is provided. Once suited up, you’ll begin paddling along twisting channels that lead into wetlands teeming with birdlife and aquatic plants. The water is described as very calm, which means even novice paddlers can relax and focus on the scenery.

The Wetlands and Wildlife

As you paddle deeper into these channels, you’ll notice the variety of bird species flourishing in this habitat. From waterfowl to kingfishers, the wetlands are a birdwatcher’s paradise. The guide will point out specific species, sharing interesting facts that enhance your appreciation of the local ecosystem. According to one review, “we saw quite a few birds I didn’t recognize, and the guide was happy to share details about their habits and significance.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Cultural and Natural Insights

A key highlight is the chance to learn about Perth’s indigenous heritage. Your guide shares stories about the First Australians who once thrived in these wetlands, adding an enriching layer to the natural beauty. This educational component helps you understand the landscape beyond just its scenic value.

Enjoying having a local guide? These other guided experiences in Perth might interest you

Break at Kent Street Weir

Midway through, you’ll arrive at Kent Street Weir, a popular spot for a cafe break. Here, you can relax, enjoy some snacks (not included in the tour), and take in panoramic views of the river. It’s a perfect moment to pause, reflect, and soak up the peaceful surroundings before heading back.

The Return Journey

After the break, you’ll turn around and paddle back along a slightly different route, which adds variety and new perspectives on the wetlands. The water remains calm, and the scenery continues to captivate throughout the 3-hour trip. Reviewers mentioned that the guide ensures everyone feels comfortable, making it suitable even for those new to kayaking.

Practical Details and What You Need to Know

Price and Value

At $65 per person, this tour offers an excellent value considering the duration, equipment, and expert guidance included. Compared to other outdoor experiences in Perth, it’s a cost-effective way to discover a hidden natural marvel close to the city.

Equipment and Inclusions

All necessary gear—double kayaks, life jackets, and dry bags—is provided, so you only need to bring comfortable clothes and sunscreen. The dry bag is useful for keeping your phone and essentials safe during the paddle.

Duration and Timing

The tour lasts about three hours, usually scheduled in the morning, which is ideal for avoiding the heat and making the most of natural light. It’s a relaxed pace, suitable for most fitness levels, but not designed for those with mobility challenges or non-swimmers.

Group Size and Guide

The experience is guided by a knowledgeable tour leader who makes sure everyone feels supported and informed. Though the exact group size isn’t specified, reviews suggest small groups that allow for personalized attention.

Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point is at Old Riverton Bridge Park, a straightforward location accessible by car. The guide is easy to spot, wearing a white GoGo Active shirt. Since the tour does not cater to mobility impairments or wheelchair users, it’s best suited for those without mobility restrictions.

Cancellation and Booking

With the option to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, travelers can plan with confidence. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak times, to secure your spot.

Why This Experience Is Worth Considering

This kayak tour offers a peaceful way to connect with nature just outside Perth’s city limits. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see a lesser-known side of the region—vibrant wetlands bustling with birdlife and rich in cultural stories. The calm waters and expert guides make it accessible and engaging, even for those new to kayaking or outdoor activities.

It’s especially appealing if you’re looking for a combination of gentle adventure and educational content. The inclusion of local history and wildlife insights helps transform a simple paddle into a meaningful experience. Plus, the quiet, scenic environment makes it a memorable retreat from city life.

However, keep in mind that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility issues or those uncomfortable around water if they’re non-swimmers. It’s also a daytime activity, so plan to wear sunscreen and comfortable clothing.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, birdwatchers, and curious travelers who want an authentic, immersive outing. It’s great for those seeking a low-impact activity that combines gentle exercise with educational moments. If you enjoy being on the water but prefer a guided, relaxed pace, this is a perfect fit.

Families with older children could enjoy it too, as long as everyone can paddle and follow safety instructions. And if you’re visiting Perth and want a unique story to tell—about wildlife, indigenous history, or just the simple pleasure of paddling through peaceful wetlands—this tour checks many boxes.

Final Thoughts

In a city filled with urban attractions, finding a quiet corner of nature like the Canning River wetlands is a real treasure. This guided kayak tour offers not just a chance to paddle but to learn and appreciate a unique part of Perth’s environment. The combination of expert guides, wildlife sightings, and cultural stories makes it a memorable way to spend a few hours.

Affordable, accessible, and genuinely enriching, it’s a fantastic outing for anyone wanting a practical yet authentic outdoor experience. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, this tour provides a peaceful, scenic escape that’s worth adding to your Perth itinerary.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Yes, the water is calm and sheltered, making it ideal for beginners or those with limited paddling experience.

What should I bring?
Bring sunscreen and comfortable clothes. The tour provides dry bags, so you can keep your essentials safe while paddling.

How long is the tour?
The guided kayak trip lasts approximately three hours, including the stop at Kent Street Weir.

Is food or drink included?
No, food and drinks are not included. However, you can enjoy a cafe break at Kent Street Weir.

Can children participate?
Participants must be at least 18 years or older, so it’s not suitable for children under 18.

What about accessibility?
The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it requires paddling and walking involved in the meeting point.

Do I need to be fit?
No special fitness level is required; the activity is relatively relaxed and suitable for most.

What is the meeting point?
The tour departs from Old Riverton Bridge Park, at the corner of Fern Road and Riverton Drive East, Shelley.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this guided kayak tour around Perth’s Canning River wetlands is a fantastic way to enjoy nature, learn about local wildlife and indigenous culture, and escape the hustle—all for a reasonable price. It’s best suited for those who appreciate gentle outdoor activities, meaningful stories, and a bit of serenity. For anyone wanting to see a different side of Perth, this trip offers a peaceful, authentic, and highly enjoyable experience.