Come join a professional guide, Fred Mazza, in exploring Florida's ancient past hidden in the beds of our rivers. This is genuine Florida eco-tourism at it's best! While wading in specially selected river beds in shallow waters you will learn to find and identify a variety of fossil material. You are guaranteed to go home with additions to your collection (or to start your new collection!). Appropriate for all levels of experience. Anyone with enthusiasm to explore the really old Florida is cordially invited!
Call us at (772) 539-7005 for info or to reserve a tour.
Fossil-hunting is done by digging and sifting gravel from shallow river bottoms- even kids can do it. Our walk-in trips allow you to park and fossil-hunt within walking distance of your vehicle all day. Or, take advantage of our popular canoe/kayak trips. (Details below)
These tours are also suitable to large groups and schools who would like to introduce their students to Fla. history and paleontology. Ask about discounted group rates for class/field trips. References available on request.
Watch our fossil-hunting segment in high def. on Youtube! CLICK HERE
How much does it cost?
Fees for our walk-in tours are $75 per person. Kids 10 and under $50. Canoe fossil-hunting tours are $10. extra per person to cover cost of canoe rental.
Pay by cash or FL state check on day of tour or in advance through your PayPal account. We also accept MC and Visa.
Where do we go?
Fossil hunting expeditions generally take place on the Peace River and are approximately 2 hours driving distance from Ft. Lauderdale, Vero Beach areas, 1 hour from Sarasota, Tampa and approximately 2 hours from the Orlando area. 1 hour from downtown Ft. Myers. We often visit the towns of Wauchula, Zolfo Springs and Arcadia. In north Florida, Gainesville is another destination for our tours. Transportation is not supplied. Tours last 5-6 hours, not including travel time.
When and where do we meet?
We usually meet at a pre-arranged location near the river at 9:30 am. Directions to the meeting locations will be provided by Paleo Discoveries.
What do I wear?
1. Clothing that can get wet and preferably dries easily such as bathing suits. Regular shorts and t-shirts ok. We suggest you wear things that you don’t mind getting dirty.
2. Footwear that is secure on your feet such as water sandals, water shoes or sneakers w/socks. (More comfortable if sand and fine gravel get in.) Dive boots are great if you've got 'em. Flip flops or wading boots are not recommended.
3. A wide brim hat, sunglasses and sunscreen are also highly recommended.
What else should I bring?
We supply the equipment you will need to collect fossils (e.g., screens, shovels, etc.). We usually have a snorkel or two on hand for you to use if the water is clear; if you want to bring your own, feel free.
We recommend you bring a light lunch or snack and most importantly, water, gatorade or other appropriate drinks.
Do you like to canoe/kayak as well as fossil-hunt? Then join us on the river for a combination expedition!
Canoes allow us to access more remote and often less collected locations, as well as take in more wildlife sightings and scenery. Prices and details are the same as our regular expeditions with the exception of a $10 per person additional rental fee. Canoes seat 4-5 people.
PLEASE NOTE: All minors must be accompanied by an adult. Keep in mind that fossil hunting expeditions are in essence field trips. Canoe trips are not recommended for children under 6 yrs old.
