Paddling is a
Blending offbeat places with kayaking adventures
It all started with ‘Kayak In Kerala’
Syzygy Ecosports, initially named “Kayak In Kerala”, was founded in June 2013 as a test marketing initiative. In 2016, we secured an exclusive location near Varkala, strategically positioned to offer access to both the picturesque backwaters and the exhilarating Arabian Sea. Our focus is on delivering exceptional facilities, ensuring beginners can learn paddling in a safe environment, while experienced kayakers can take on the thrilling sea swells. Additionally, our backwater expeditions include incredible journeys through the captivating mangrove forest. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of Kerala’s stunning backwaters and coastlines, guided by our experienced team and equipped with top-quality gear.
Kayak In Kerala
Logo in 2013
Syzygy Ecosports
Logo in 2016
Syzygy Ecosports
Logo in 2021
Syzygy Ecosports
Logo in 2023
Freshwater Kayaking
Mangrove forest
Saltwater Kayaking
Sea, Estuary & Backwaters
Syzygy Ecosports is dedicated to providing low-impact water-based outdoor recreation in total safety, while contributing to the economic development of people and micro-small businesses in our neighbourhood. We also strive towards implementing practices that respect natural and social-cultural environments.
Syzygy Ecosports has been running fully outfitted guided kayak tours in Paravur Backwaters since September 1, 2016. We are based at Mayyanad Beach, which shares a border with Paravur Municipality, in Kollam District. Our location historically known as Lakshmipuram Thoppu and in recent times also got popular with two other names—Thanni Beach and Mukkam Beach. Whatever name you prefer to use for the beach, our paddling center is within 30 minutes driving time (approximately 15 KM distance) from Varkala or Kollam town.
Customer reviews
My best kayak experience and which got me hooked to it. Syzygy is highly recommended, extremely professional and they make sure you have a good time. I took the short and long route, kayak around the mangrove forest was surely the best. Danny explained everything well before starting the route, safety guideline clearly given. I’m coming back sure with my gang.
– Dr. George Koruth
I had the most amazing experience with Syzygy. Being a beginner and non swimmer I never thought I would enjoy kayaking so much. The location is perfect with the beautiful Paravur lake, the mangroves, the sandbar and water canals to explore. Thanks to Dani for being an amazing guide. It was such a blissful experience. Im so glad I did it. Thank you Jennifer and Dani for all the assistance. I totally recommend Syzygy ecosports.
– Lakshmi Babu (Zin Lekshmi)
Excellent experience, caring and attentive instructors. The ride through the mangroves is one of a kind. If you like to paddle yourself and are not afraid or bring wet, opt for kayak. If you prefer to stay rather dry and just enjoy the ride, opt for canoe. Prices are very reasonable. Can’t recommend enough!
– Val Kornev
About us
Why choose Syzygy Ecosports?
Kerala boasts breathtaking backwaters and picturesque coastlines that are truly worth exploring. And what better way to experience their beauty than from the water itself! At Syzygy, we take pride in employing locals who have deep roots in backwaters and sea. By choosing to join one of our trips, you are not only enjoying a wonderful experience but also supporting the local economy. As part of our commitment to the community, we are dedicated to training and nurturing local talent to become skilled paddling guides. Our team of guides is highly skilled, incredibly friendly, and enthusiastic about showcasing the absolute best paddling spots in South Kerala. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure with us!
Carefully crafted custom trips and scheduled trips
Our experience in custom kayaking trips include South Kerala to North Kerala or from 2-day to 14-day expeditions. We customize trip lengths to accommodate your schedule. Join us for a day of paddling and we will be happy to assist with scheduled sunrise kayaking trips, sunset kayaking trips, canoeing trips, full moon kayaking trips, mangrove forest kayaking trips and Black Devil Snail Sandbar kayaking trips. Though we focus on small groups for scheduled activities as it is more effective group size to give more personalised attention, we also conduct large group activities for corporate teams.
Best quality
We use the best kayaking equipment and paddling gear made in Europe, South Africa and the United States. The imported products cost us a lot of money, but the comfort, safety, and control of high-quality gear help our guests to have the best water-time.
Small & nimble team
We pride ourselves on small group sizes, giving personal attention to each guest, and minimizing the impact of our activities on the environment and wildlife. We believe paddling is more important than ever, and we make it easy for you to get out on the water.
Pioneers in India
We’ve been exploring India’s backwaters and coastal areas for years. Our founder is one of the pioneers who have kickstarted multi-day kayaking expeditions in India. We’ll be happy to work with you for private trips and expeditions. This is what we do best.
Live your legend; it’s what we do!
Meet our team members
It’s our guides, lifeguards and support staff who turn a good trip into a fantastic trip. All of our guides are certified with the National Institute of Watersports (Ministry of Tourism, Government of India). You want to be assured that when you go on a river trip, that you are in good, safe hands.
Owner
Jennifer Netto
Jenny, a mother of two beautiful children, is a computer graduate with experience in both a British publishing company and a French interior firm in Dubai. She made the choice to leave her corporate life behind and return to India for one reason – to live a simple life in harmony with nature in Kerala. Dani dared to dream of setting up a world-class paddling center. Despite the hills and mountains standing in his way, Jenny rose up and moved them out of the way so that he could make it happen.
Founder/Trainer
Dani Gorgon
Dani is the only Indian to have kayaked 100 KM in a day. He achieved this feat (in a time of 13:09:16) at the Võhandu Maraton in Estonia in 2016. Dani’s passion for canoeing started at the young age of 12 and since then, he has become one of the top long-distance paddlers in India. He is proficient in various forms of paddling such as surfski, sea kayaking, dragon boat, SUP, and multi-day coastal and backwater expeditions. Dani is also keen on sharing his expertise in navigation, rescue, and survival skills. Currently, he is preparing for an upcoming expedition called Plastic Samudra, with his friends. ‘Plastic Samudra’ is set to be India’s first ultra long-distance, non-stop and unsupported sea kayaking expedition, spanning 2,400 KM from mainland India to the archipelagos in the west coast (Lakshadweep) and east coast (Andamans). The purpose of this expedition is to raise public awareness about the issue of plastic pollution in the oceans.
Kayak Lead Guide
Alen Jude Netto
Alen is a certified professional diver with a certificate in Power Boat Handling. He has successfully completed diving assignments for various multinational companies and government agencies, spanning from Mumbai to Kochi in the west coast of India. Additionally, he is trained and certified by NIWS as a Watersports Operator and Lifeguard. With his extensive knowledge of the region’s water bodies and surroundings, Alen is the most qualified individual to ensure a safe and enjoyable wilderness adventure experience.