Some call nature “the Earth’s backyard.” Find nature in yourself and yourself in nature with today’s deal, where $15 gets you a half-day canoe trip at Wildlife Services of Florida (a $30 value). Times and locations vary depending on the season. All trips take place around the Tampa area, and you’ll be told the exact starting point when you call to schedule your paddle session.

Round up a pack of your closest friends and hit the waters with guide Mark “Wildman” Burrow. He’s a biologist, naturalist, survivalist, and the fourth cousin thrice removed of Mother Nature. As rugged but gentle as they come, Mark is capable of surviving weeks with nothing but his wits while simultaneously nursing an orphaned fawn back to health. Your four to five hours spent with Mark will be more relaxing than it will be dangerous, but it’s nice to know your guide is ready to handle anything nature throws at him (exciting hint: meteorites count as nature!).

Discover untouched environments and scenery that would make a conquistador green with envy. Along the way, you’re likely to see an ark’s worth of animals such as deer, gators, hogs, birds, reptiles, and coyotes. There’s even a chance you’ll catch a glimpse of an elusive panther or bear, although pantherbears will continue to exist only in your closet. Call ahead to schedule your trip and find out the meeting location for your excursion.

Reviews

Wildlife Services of Florida was recently featured on Daytime Tampa (click here to watch the segment), and an article about lead guide Mark "Wildman" Burrow appeared in the Herald-Tribune:

• Kate and Kenny Adams of Sarasota have been on one of Burrow's night hikes. They've also taken trips focused on edible and medicinal plants. "He's just cool," Kate says. "Very passionate about what he does. I think that's why we keep going back." – Herald-Tribune