Half-Day Emerald Cave Kayak Tour with Optional Hotel Pickup
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Experience the dazzling beauty of the Colorado River with a guided kayak tour through the picturesque Black Canyon and into the breathtaking Emerald Cove. Paddle crystal-clear waters, marvel at towering canyon walls, and relax in the serene glow of this hidden grotto—an unforgettable highlight of your Las Vegas getaway. Perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers, this tour includes snacks, bottled water, and convenient hotel pick-up, with a self-drive option also available. Discover why kayaking Emerald Cove is one of the top outdoor adventures near Las Vegas. Book your Black Canyon kayak tour today and make incredible memories just minutes from the Strip!
Additional Info
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be advised hotel pick-ups commence 60-90 minutes before the posted departure time
Most days, tours fill up but in the event minimum numbers are not met, you will be offered another date or offer a full refund
Emerald Cave is not a paddle through cave but more of a grotto style.
By booking a tour, you assume all risks of your participation in this activity, whether known or unknown to you, including travel to and from the Activity or any events incidental to this Activity. You also agree to the release of images/video for the operator to use at their discretion
National Park entry fee is only included with HOTEL PICKUPS, NOT SELF DRIVE!
Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Weight limit is 260 lbs
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Cold, premium bottled spring water
All Safety Equipment
National Park Entrance Fees (Hotel pickups only)
A variety of tasty snacks including an array of granola and protein bars, a wide variety of chips, and fresh fruit!
Kayak Tour in Single (1 person) or Tandem (2 person) Kayaks
Pick-up and drop off from select hotels (if option selected)
Hotel pick-up and drop off (if self-drive option selected)
Lunch
National Park Entrance Fee (Self-drive only)
Gratuities
Meeting and Pickup
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
What To Expect
Willow Beach Marina
Begin your kayak adventure at Willow Beach Marina, where you’ll paddle the clear waters of the Colorado River surrounded by stunning desert scenery. Guided and suitable for all skill levels, this tour promises an unforgettable outdoor escape just outside Las Vegas. Experience the beauty of the river and its dramatic canyons, an absolute highlight for both new and seasoned paddlers.
Colorado River
Immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery of Black Canyon as you kayak along the emerald-green waters of the Colorado River, framed by soaring cliffs and striking desert landscapes. This guided paddling adventure offers a peaceful escape into nature, perfect for all skill levels. Discover the hidden beauty of Nevada’s wilderness just outside Las Vegas on this unforgettable outdoor experience.
Options
Kayak Tour - Self Drive
Hotel pick-up is NOT included: You must make your own way to the departure point via rental car. There is no cell reception to arrange your return ride
Kayak Type: Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Kayak Tour - Hotel Pickup
Hotel Pick-up Time: Pick-up is approximately 90 minutes prior to listed launch times
Kayak Size: Please advise your kayak preference in the Special Requirements field at the time of booking (single or tandem)
Pickup included
Reviews
4,714 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Not what I had booked
Louise R,
Sep 9, 2025
- Viator
1.00Unfortunately the trip we had booked which was river kayaking to the emerald cove was changed last minute with very little notice. We received a text advising us that the launch area was inaccessible due to a mudslide, the text did not tell us we were going to a totally different area, we did not find this out until we were on the minibus. We were taken to busy Lake Mead, lots of motorised craft making waves with lots of diesel fumes. It was also quite windy on the lake which made the kayaking harder, it was not the pleasant, calm experience I was looking forward to. Our guide Julia did try her best to engage people but no one in the party was in a very good mood due to the situation. I wish the company had just been transparent with us and told us we couldn’t go on the original trip and either offered us a full refund or an alternative day. Very disappointing when we had travelled all the way from the UK.
Buyer beware
Howard M,
Sep 8, 2025
- Viator
1.00I was notified 2 hours prior to my excursion with River Dogz that the experience I had booked and paid for was changed due to an unexpected road closure caused by a mud slide. An alternate experience was offered, but I was not adequately prepared for the alternative. I was advised via the text notification to call to cancel and request a refund which I did. I was notified only half of what I paid could be refunded or that I could take a credit for a future booking that would expire in two years. I explained I was from out of town and did not know if I would be returning to the area so a credit would not work for me. I was told the best that could be done would be a refund of half the original booking. Basically I am stuck with paying for an experience that was not upheld by River Dogz and I would caution any future customers “buyer beware.” With a two hour notice, this company will make money off of you whether you like it or not.
Awesome trip down the...
Jason W,
Sep 8, 2025
- Viator
5.00Awesome trip down the Colorado river to emerald cove!! Preston was very knowledgeable throughout the whole experience!!
Do it!
Agne D,
Sep 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had an amazing time doing this kayak half day excursion. Our guide was Julia, and she was very knowledgeable on many different topics about Vegas, Hoover Dam, geology, Colorado River, plants, animals and so much more. I really appreciated her sharing the knowledge and learning so many new things. The river was beautiful with awe-inspiring views each direction, and the Emerald cove was the icing on a perfect day! We also got some great recomendations for some other outdoor activities from Julia and were not disappointed!
Nice experience on the...
Suraj P,
Sep 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00Nice experience on the Colorado river with beautiful scenery. Our travel guide was helpful and friendly.
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