everglades safari

Everglades Safari Park

Review Highlights

“ And had we stayed for the alligator show , we could have held the baby alligator and seen more up close. ” in 42 reviews

“ My husband ran the bag of gifts out to the rental car in a rush so we didn't miss the airboat ride! ” in 76 reviews

“ The show after was short and sweet and they gave us the option of taking a picture with a baby gator . ” in 28 reviews

Location & Hours

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26700 SW 8th St

Miami, FL 33194

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Visit the Florida Everglades' premier and most complete airboat attraction. Everglades Safari Park has a modern fleet of airboats of all sizes, capable of accommodating singles, couples, families, and large groups. Explore nature's River of Grass on an Eco-Adventure tour or on a small private airboat. Our experienced tour guides will describe you the wonders of this unique ecosystem and the native and exotic wildlife that inhabit it. All tours will include our world famous airboat rides, alligator wildlife show, and a walking trail filled with crocodilian exhibits. …

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257 reviews

We hired an air boat for a private tour for my husband and I. Manny was our "Captain", and did an amazing job. He told us so much about the Everglades, the ecosystem, the edible plants, non-edible plants, the leaves that keep mosquitoes away, the history...pretty much everything you thought you wanted to know plus more. After our tour, we watched a show with live alligators. We learned that alligators don't specifically hunt humans, but they will attack if they feel threatened or their babies are threatened. There is also a boardwalk area where you can see wild alligators. Overall a super cool place!!!

Great experience. Quick. Easy. We saw alligators and bird. Had a great time. Boat was awesome we saw lots. If you need to check off you to do list riding an airboat it's easy here. Writing this review for the sole purpose of letting everyone know about ride share. You can get an Uber to drop you off here. We were unable to get an Uber to pick us up. We were able to get a Lyft back. Be warned it took us about 20 -25 min to get a ride. Plan accordingly. It's also the Everglades so not a lot of 5G. Gift shop has wifi though.

The boat ride itself was kind of fun, but if you want a private boat, you need to book in advance, and there are definitely more authentic, non-corporate places than this one. The group boat was crowded, we had to wait for quite a while to board, and they make you attend an "alligator show" before you get on the boat, which is just a weird kind of sad display of alligators and snakes held in captivity. The boat ride was mostly just searching for alligators, not learning much more about the Everglades or seeing other interesting things. I liked our boat captain--he made it more fun than it would have been otherwise. Felt like a tourist trap, not recommended.

We stopped by here on our drive back from the keys. My husband had never been on an airboat before, so we took the opportunity. It was so incredibly hot. Luckily we had sunscreen and everything with us. We were able to get on a boat within 10 minutes, which was awesome. We watched their gator show and walked around the park after. They do offer military discounts too.

See all photos from Ashley S. for Everglades Safari Park

Tourist trap with rude staff in EVERY direction-so many better options for an authentic and enjoyable airboat experience.

Never been to the Everglades or on an airboat so I wanted to check it out. The tour was awesome with lots of great information from the guide. The airboat was a lot of fun and we saw some gators. After there's a gator show and nature walk. Also a restaurant and gift shop. This place was great, definitely for kids and families

They took away my chicken tenders when I was like halfway done and that made me very angy

This place was amazing!!! Did a private airboat tour and it was the highlight of our Miami trip. They are located a few miles outside the Everglades national park, shark valley entrance. We weren't going to do an airboat tour, but drove by and decided to stop by. Went on a Wednesday and did the 40 minute private airboat tour. Our guide was Gio and we can't say enough good about him. Knowledgeable, funny, and took us to all the good spots to see gators. We even saw babies in their natural habitat! Their alligator show at the park was fun and informative. We will definitely be back when in the area. Thanks Gio!!!

We stopped here on our way to the Everglades National Park Visitor Center (Shark Valley) we ended up spending the day here instead. My kids loved the experience, we enjoyed the airboat ride and saw a few alligators. The show was okay but again the kids loved it. Overall we had an amazing day and we would come back.

See all photos from michelle h. for Everglades Safari Park

Such an awesome place. It's a great experience to ride on a different kind of boat compared to a traditional boat since your in a swamp. The nice thing is it doesn't small since the water is constantly flowing slow but still flowing. We got to see a couple of alligators on our ride but I herd it's not guaranteed. They have a show and place you can them after the boat ride if you choose to go look. Overall experience is great if you are looking to do something interesting and fun outdoors with your family!

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The Ultimate Guide to Everglades National Park

When thinking of the hottest tourist destinations in the world, there’s no doubt that Miami Florida comes to mind for many people. What’s not to like? We have sunny skies, beautiful beaches, great food, and so much more. But we’re not here to talk about the mainstream. We want to shed light on one of the hidden gems often overlooked by visitors and residents alike; the Florida Everglades.

With so much to do in South Florida, it’s easy to miss the adventure that can be found in our very own backyard. Many of our residents have limited knowledge of the Everglades and all the magical things we might encounter when visiting. Everything from unique and rare animals, plants, and birds to the beautiful pristine waters and stunning sunsets, it’s a wonder that more people don’t visit.

In this article, we’ll uncover some of the best-kept secrets tucked away in the mysteries of the Florida Everglades. Let’s dive in.

What is the Florida Everglades?

The Florida Everglades is the largest subtropical wilderness in the Southeastern United States, covering nearly 1.5 million acres of protected wetlands. Officially sanctioned in 1947, the Everglades National Park is the largest protected area this side of the Mississippi — that would be East of the Mississippi for those of you who are curious. Before the official sanctioning, specifically since 1916, the area was known as the Royal Palm State Park.

Host to a vast yet delicate ecosystem, the Everglades also acts as a natural water filter, most of which flows down from Lake Okeechobee in central Florida or comes by way of rainfall – about 60 inches of rain a year. The Biscayne Aquifer, responsible for roughly two-thirds of the water consumed by South Floridians, sits directly under the Everglades. The water that flows into the aquifer is filtered through nutrient-dense soil and limestone, producing some of the purest water found anywhere in the world. Whether you know it or not, if you’re in South Florida, you’re most likely drinking Everglades water every time you turn on the tap.

Sadly, over the past 100 years, rising sea levels coupled with overdevelopment of the land have caused the natural filtration system to change – and not for the better. Due in part to rising sea levels, saltwater has contaminated the Biscayne Aquifer presenting challenges to the ecosystem. This has also driven up the cost of desalinating our drinking water and strained the natural filtration system. According to the Everglades Foundation, the ultra-pure water we have enjoyed has fallen to about 50% of what it used to be.  However, there is hope; the National Park is working hard to restore the flow of fresh water into the Everglades, which has successfully managed to push back against the intrusion of the saltwater.

Because of the ecosystem’s delicate nature, even small fluctuations in the amount of water can have devastating effects on the flora and fauna that call the Everglades home. Too much or too little water can be disastrous for wildlife, depending on the time of year. Everything from the water the animals drink to the estuaries where young fish and amphibians are spawned relies on the balance of water in the Everglades.

In March 2020, South Florida experienced record dry conditions with only a quarter-inch of rainfall. Combined with one of the driest Septembers on record in 2019, South Florida has experienced a massive rainfall deficit for over 7 months.

Once connected to Lake Okeechobee, the Everglades ecosystem was well equipped to deal with drought conditions but those conditions are no longer present. Currently, the Everglades ecosystem has shrunk to an astonishing 50 percent of what it once was resulting in a disconnection from Lake Okeechobee. This disconnection has led to very low water levels with all areas of Everglades National Park experiencing very low water levels; areas such as Northeast Shark River Slough are very dry creating a high risk for fires.

As if the dry conditions weren’t bad enough, dry marsh conditions contribute to further loss of habitat for aquatic animals including fish, crayfish, alligators, and wading birds. Additionally, there are much greater consequences for peat soils, the foundation for the Everglades ecosystem. As these areas dry, they decompose and release dangerous levels of the greenhouse gas, carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Decomposing soils also become a source of water pollution, releasing nitrogen and phosphorus into the waters making it unsuitable for wildlife and plant life leading to massive die-off and land loss due to collapsed marsh conditions.

The ensuing consequences of the drought conditions and shrinking ecosystem have also increased salinity levels of the coastal areas where the Everglades meets the ocean. This hyper-salinity is harmful to the estuarine seagrass and wildlife that inhabit the areas further highlighting the need for restoration projects that focus on building environmental resilience instead of dumping excess water when it is wet.

If restoration projects are successful, we can expect to see great improvements to our environment, our water supply, and even our way of life in South Florida.

Wildlife of the Everglades

As unique as it is beautiful, the Everglades is home to some of the rarest species of animals ranging from amphibians, reptiles, and fish to insects, birds, and mammals. You never know what you’ll see when you visit. There’s a good chance you’ll come across alligators, frogs, and snakes, although they are less common to see than birds, fish, and everyone’s favorite insect, mosquitoes *eye roll*. If you’re paying attention and know what to look for, you might come across some rare finds like the elusive Florida panther or a beautiful Miami-blue butterfly.

The deeper you venture into the uncharted waters of the famous River of Grass , the more likely you are to uncover breathtaking views and rare wildlife sightings. 

Endangered Species in the Everglades

Among the varying wildlife you’ll encounter, you’re likely to find a few endangered species. We mentioned the Florida panther and the Miami-blue butterfly, but there are many other endangered species that can be found in the Florida Everglades.

Endangered wildlife isn’t always near extinction; there are many that may have critically low numbers of their species that could potentially disappear if circumstances don’t shift in their favor. It’s good to know that not every endangered species has a critical habitat in the Everglades too. These factors can add to the successful growth of endangered populations and give hope that our future generations will enjoy the splendors we and past generations have had the pleasure of experiencing.

Let’s take a look at some of the endangered species you’re likely to encounter in the Everglades. We’ve compiled a list based on the animals listed by Everglades National Park. 

• Cape Sable seaside sparrow
• Ivory-billed woodpecker
• Kirtland's warbler
• Red cockaded woodpecker
• Everglade snail kite
• Bachman's warbler
• Smalltooth sawfish
• Largetooth sawfish
• Nassau grouper

Invertebrates

• Florida leafwing butterfly
• Miami-blue butterfly
• Bartram's scrub hairstreak
• Florida bonneted bat
• Florida panther
• West Indian manatee
• Green sea turtle
• Leatherback sea turtle
• Hawksbill sea turtle
• Kemp's ridley sea turtle

Wildlife Conservation in the Everglades

Now that we’ve covered some of the endangered wildlife in the Everglades, it is important that we help you understand how delicate the ecosystem is and the role it plays in their sustainability. As we mentioned earlier in this article, even a slight change in the water levels can cause big trouble for the wildlife and their habitat, depending on the time of year. A very pressing threat is the effect humans have on the environment, adding to the challenges the wildlife face. Specifically concerning is the overdevelopment of local land, which destroys the animals’ natural habitats pushing them further into unfamiliar territory and in some unfortunate cases towards extinction. It is our responsibility to make sure these animals remain safe, and their habitats remain untouched.

Another problem created by humans is pollution. It may not seem like a big deal when you toss that plastic wrapper out of your car window, but we can assure you the impact is far more significant than you can imagine. Consider those wild animals who don’t understand the difference between garbage and food. This confusion can lead to the consumption of our non-biodegradable waste. When animals consume the trash, it can cause several digestive issues with more severe problems resulting in their demise. It is unfortunate how what is perceived as a simple sleight can cause population numbers to fall and lead to species becoming threatened or worse, extinct.

Due to these circumstances, our government has protected large areas of the Everglades, restricting human access to support different species in stabilizing their population numbers.

Invasive Wildlife Species in the Everglades

Among the native wildlife and plants you might see when venturing into the Everglades, you’re likely to find invasive or nonnative species. The invasive species can range from fresh and saltwater fish, amphibians, and reptiles to birds, mammals, and even plants. These species are very aggressive in adapting to their new environment, often presenting several challenges for native wildlife and plants. In certain circumstances, thriving populations have been brought close to extinction or pushed out of their invaders’ natural habitat. Nonnative species are generally wildlife; however, invasive plant species have made their way into the ecosystem, too.

You might be wondering how nonnative species find their way into the Everglades. If you think humans are responsible, you’d be partly correct. However, humans are primarily at fault for unintentionally introducing these species by importing them on ships and even airplanes and intentionally by importing them for the pet trade. There are other factors that we will highlight in this article.

South Florida is surrounded by water on three sides coupled with freezing temperatures from the north, forming an ecological boundary resulting in conditions similar to tropical islands and account for much of the susceptibility to exotic animal invasions. The most successful invaders outcompete native species and typically do not have biological controls or predators to keep them in check. There are so many invasive species in the Everglades that it has become challenging to keep track of the growing diversity, let alone control the growth and spread of their population.

An unfortunate problem with the pet trade is the reckless act of abandonment for unwanted pets like reptiles or amphibians. Specifically concerning snakes, one of the most dangerous species that is taking over is the Burmese python. These massive snakes, often growing beyond 20 feet long, with massive girths, have decimated the region’s small- and medium-sized mammal populations and wreak havoc with the delicate ecosystem. In recent years the Everglades National Park has taken action to control the spread of invasive species throughout the ecosystem. We’ve compiled a list of invasive species that are often found in the Everglades.

• Greenhouse Frog
• Cuban Treefrog
• Monk Parakeet
• Blue Tilapia
• Bullseye Snakehead
• Mayan Cichlid
• Sailfin Catfish
• Walking Catfish
• Asiatic Clam
• Bromeliad Beetle
• Giant African Snail
• Island Apple Snail
• Lobate Lac Scale
• Burmese Python
• Green Iguana
• Nile Monitor
• Tegu Lizards

How you can help:

• Be a Responsible Pet Owner! Many exotic species require more special care than average pets. Do your research and avoid impulsive commitments.
• Learn about the laws and regulations regarding your pets. Even previously allowed pets, like the Burmese pythons, have new restrictions to safeguard the local ecosystem.
• If you no longer want or can care for your pet, find someone who can. DON'T RELEASE IT INTO THE WILD!
• Adopt traditional pets like cats and dogs from shelters and save a life.
• Call local authorities to handle nuisance animals or unwanted exotic pets.
• Report sightings of nonnative species to the appropriate authorities.
• Do your homework to learn more about invasive species in the Everglades.

Plants in the Everglades

From mountain tops to sea floors, our planet is covered in vegetation. Plants, just like animals, vary widely in their shapes, sizes, and colors – some plants can be medicinal, edible, and very nutritious; others should probably be avoided if you value your health. In the Everglades, you’ll find thousands of different species of plants serving their specific purpose to keep the ecosystem in check and thriving.

Wetland plants serve many purposes, including food and shelter for the wildlife as well as environmental filters, trapping impurities such as toxins and excessive nutrients along with silt and larger debris as water flows through the ecosystem. These incredible plants and the sediment they thrive within also balance nutrient sources in the ecosystem. A great example is how the plants produce oxygen that is used by other organisms, while the sediment contributes to environmental health by trapping beneficial elements like atmospheric carbon. Additionally, wetlands are much like environmental sponges, absorbing and temporarily storing excess water caused by runoff from storms; this property helps to prevent flooding.

Invasive Plants in the Everglades

Just like wildlife, plants also face the challenges of nonnative species invading their habitat. It’s equally important to understand that not all invasive plants are created equal; some are far worse than others. Many invasive plant species are collected by home gardeners who may not be aware of their rapid growth rates, just like weeds. Other species recognized as weeds are often very difficult for property owners to control and tend to spread very quickly. Several plant invaders do not become invasive until they have been neglected for long periods of time, with a few that aggressively colonize small areas. Some may spread, eventually dominating large areas in just a few short years.

These invaders find their way into the Everglades by different means; some spread when their habitat is disturbed. A good example of a habitat being disturbed is when water levels fluctuate due to construction when draining and pumping operations take place. Another could be when runoff from agricultural processes flow extra nutrients into the waters. Everglades National Park gives the example of native cattails (Typha species) quickly dominating disturbed or nutrient-enriched areas and replacing the native sawgrass (Cladium Jamaicense). This type of invasion can be devastating to other native plants and animals that depend on a certain balance within the ecosystem to thrive.

We’ve compiled a list to give you a better idea of the plant invaders Everglades National Park is working to control. 

• Australian Pine (Casuarina equisetifolia)
• Latherleaf (Columbrina asiatica)
• Old World Climbing Fern (Lygodium microphyllum)
• Melaleuca (Melaleuca quinquenervia)
• Brazilian Pepper (Schinus terebinthifolius)
• Seaside Mahoe (Thespesia populnea)

Things To Do in the Everglades

Now that you’ve learned about the splendor tucked away in the Everglades, you might be wondering what you can do when visiting. Depending on your interests, there are tons of ways to experience the grandeur of Florida’s backyard. You can hop on airboats, kayaks, and canoes to ride along with expert guides, join Ranger-led tours through trails and sloughs, or even enjoy a few days and nights of front or backcountry camping and fishing. Let’s take a look at the most popular things to do when visiting Everglades National Park.

One of the most fun ways to get up close and personal with the plants and wildlife is an airboat ride like the ones we offer here at Everglades Safari Park. General tours are always available for budget-minded travelers, but if you really want to go off the beaten path, a National Park private airboat tour is the thing for you. Our skilled guides take you deeper into Everglades National Park through trails explicitly designated for Everglades Safari Park private airboat tours. This means that nobody can venture into these parts of the park without our guides, giving you an exclusive view of what the Everglades is all about. Check out our tour options and book your unforgettable journey here.

Hiking Trails & Guided Walking Tours

There are many trails for visitors to explore throughout Everglades National Park. Guided tours are also available depending on where you are planning to visit. The Anhinga Trail offers one of the most popular guided walking tours around. Knowledgeable guides lead visitors through a half-mile long boardwalk along a man-made canal where you can experience breathtaking views and native wildlife of the Everglades. There are plenty of trails of varying lengths, so be sure to do your research before visiting.

Shark Valley is another noteworthy attraction welcoming visitors to explore 15 miles of flat road known as the Tram Road, you can walk, run, or bike the trail, or you can hop on the tram for a guided tour. Bicycle rentals are available from the Shark Valley Tram Tour Company. You’ll also find two dedicated hiking trails at Shark Valley. The Bobcat Boardwalk is a self-guided half-mile walking trail that winds through the sawgrass slough and tropical hardwood forests located off Tram Road just behind the Shark Valley Visitor Center. The Otter Cave Hammock Trail is a quarter-mile of rough limestone pathways through a tropical hardwood forest with small footbridges over a small stream. We recommend checking with the Shark Valley Visitor Center for trail conditions as it can flood during the summer months.

Bird Watching

Take some time to observe the thousands of different birds that call the Everglades home. From Great Blue Herons to very colorful Roseate Spoonbills, you find some pretty incredible sights. Be sure to bring binoculars for a closer look and your camera to capture the memories!

Want to experience the Everglades overnight? Long Pine Key and Flamingo campgrounds offer both front country camping and backcountry camping along with a few welcomed amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, grills, restrooms, and tent and trailer sites with showers and electrical hookups. Want something closer to nature? Primitive campsites and beach sites are available in the Everglades backcountry.

Kayaking & Canoeing 

Glide through 99 miles of pristine waters, wildlife, and vegetation along the Wilderness Waterway. Taking anywhere from 7 to 10 days to traverse, you’ll experience tranquility as you silently cruise along, taking in the majesty of Everglades National Park. If you’re looking for something shorter, there are plenty of well-marked trails available, too.

Slough Slogging

If you’re feeling adventurous and want a hands-on look at native plants and wildlife in Everglades National Park, we recommend slough slogging; a Ranger-led guided tour. Along the way, you’ll get your feet wet and hands dirty while you explore the waterways and encounter various wildlife and plants that are unique to the Everglades ecosystem.

Visit Today!

These are just a few of the wonders you may encounter, as well as some of the activities you can experience while you visit Florida’s Everglades National Park. We encourage you to check out everything the National Park has to offer and hope you enjoy your next adventure while you Explore Your Nature™ in our backyard.

Don’t forget to sign up for our newsletter to get the freshest content delivered straight to your inbox every month. Feel free to bookmark this article, too, we will be updating and expanding this article with fresh content and new downloadable guides!

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Everglades National Park

Here's everything you need to know before planning a trip to Everglades National Park.

Evie Carrick is a writer and editor who’s lived in five countries and visited well over 50. She now splits her time between Colorado and Paris, ensuring she doesn't have to live without skiing or L'As du Fallafel.

• Planning Your Visit

How to Get There

• Best Time to Visit

Best Things to Do in Everglades National Park

Must-see wildlife and natural features, where to stay, where to eat.

Visit Florida

Those who associate wide-open wilderness areas with the Western United States likely haven’t been to Everglades National Park. The Florida park stretches across 1.5 million acres and protects the largest designated wilderness area east of the Rocky Mountains. In the Everglades, alligators and crocodiles coexist (and are seen regularly), and the flora and fauna are so robust that this national park was the first set aside purely for its biodiversity.

“Everglades is not only a national park, but also a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, a Wetland of International Importance, and a specially protected area under the Cartagena Treaty,” explained Allyson Gantt, chief of communications and public affairs for Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park, in an interview with Travel + Leisure . "I love sharing the complexities and beauty of this park with visitors.”

Meet the Expert

Allyson Gantt has been a National Park Service ranger for over 25 years, currently serving as the chief of communications and public affairs for Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park.

Gantt knows first-hand what makes Everglades National Park a special place — along with the ins and outs of what first-timers should know and what not to miss.

Stephanie Pollak/Travel + Leisure

Planning Your Visit 

Everglades National Park is massive, so Gantt says it is vital to show up with a plan for what you will do and see. “Because of the geographic spread of the park, visitors may want to focus on one area if they only have a few hours or one day.”

The park is open year-round but offers two very different experiences based on when you visit. The dry season (December to April) is busier, with better weather, more wildlife, and fewer mosquitos, while the wet season (May to November) is quieter. Visitors can buy a park pass in person at the Homestead or Shark Valley entrances to the park or at the Gulf Coast Visitor Center at the Everglades City entrance. If you’re visiting during the busy dry season, especially on a weekend, buy your park pass online through Recreation.gov to avoid waiting in long lines at the entrance gate. A pass for a single vehicle or vessel is $35 and is valid for seven days. 

Even if you do buy a park pass in advance, the Homestead and Shark Valley entrances are notoriously congested with limited parking during the busy winter season. The park website says , “It is recommended to visit these areas on weekdays, arrive early in the day (before 10 a.m.), and carpool to the park if possible.”

Due to its size, Everglades National Park has three entrances in three different cities. A car is a must because the park has no public transportation and the three entrances are at least an hour from each other.

The southern section of the park is best accessed from the Homestead entrance, which is the park’s primary entrance. The Homestead entrance is outside Homestead, Florida and has the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center and the Guy Bradley Visitor Center (at Flamingo). Homestead also provides access to the neighboring Royal Palm State Park . 

The northern section of the park is best accessed from the Miami or Everglades City entrances. The closest entrance to Miami is Shark Valley, which has the Shark Valley Visitor Center. The entrance closest to Naples is the Everglades City entrance, which has the Gulf Coast Visitor Center.

lucky-photographer/Getty Images

Best Time to Visit 

As we mentioned, there are two very distinct seasons in Everglades National Park: dry season and wet season. If you come between December and April, you’ll experience the dry season, which comes with cooler temperatures and fewer mosquitos. The dry season’s preferable climate aligns with the park’s busy season — and it's also when most of the wading birds (and their predators) can be seen.

The wet season in the Everglades typically runs from May to November, and it's rainy with lots of mosquitoes. The weather and bugs that come along with South Florida summers lead to fewer visitors — which can be a major plus.

“The wetter summer season offers incredible cloud formations and calmer waters for boating and fishing,” Gantt adds. “The shoulder seasons, especially November/early December and late April into May, can be less busy times to visit, but still have plenty of opportunities to enjoy all the park has to offer.”

It’s impossible to feel bored during a visit to Everglades National Park. The expansive park has more than its fair share of interesting ecosystems and wildlife. There are marine and estuary topographies, cypresses and mangroves. There’s a lot to see and do, but for a first-time visitor, Gantt has a few specific recommendations.

Drive the Homestead Entrance Road and hike.

“The Homestead entrance has a 38-mile road with multiple stops with short trails through a variety of the park habitats,” said Gantt, who notes that this is a good way to get acquainted with the southern section of the park.

She specifically recommended the Anhinga Trail , a short route that is wheelchair accessible and starts from the Royal Palm Visitor Center. Alligators, turtles, herons, and egrets are often seen along this trail.

Join a tram tour for wildlife sightings.

Near the Shark Valley entrance is a paved 15-mile loop that goes along the Shark River Slough, where alligators, turtles, and many bird species are often found. The trail is great for walking, but if you want to do the full 15 miles, your best bet is to rent a bike or hop on the tram — both of which are available through Shark Valley Tram Tours . There’s also an observation tower in the Shark Valley area with a viewing deck that overlooks alligators, turtles, fish, and birds. 

Gantt notes that at this part of the park, “Visitation is higher and parking can be challenging on busy weekends and holidays.” 

Take an airboat tour.

There are three airboat companies that operate in the park, and Gantt says cruising through the Everglades on a flat-bottomed boat is a must during your visit. The three operators with permission to operate in the park are Coopertown, Everglades Safari Park, and Gator Park.

Visit the mangroves and Florida Bay.

From the Homestead entrance you can get to the Flamingo area, which is considered the gateway to Florida Bay. The bay and the mangrove-lined waterways that feed into it are home to much of the park’s marine life. 

“At Flamingo, we offer narrated boat tours through the mangroves and also on the open water of Florida Bay. There are several great trails in the area for paddling as well as the open area of Florida Bay. Manatees, crocodiles, and osprey are frequently seen around the marina,” said Gantt. 

Beyond the marina, which has a small store and a gas station, the Flamingo area of the park has a campground and kayak, canoe, and bicycle rentals (through Flamingo Adventures ).

Cruise through the Ten Thousand Islands along the Gulf.

If you want to play along the watery landscape of the Gulf Coast, head to the Everglades City entrance near Naples. This area is the gateway for expeditions to the Ten Thousand Islands, a maze of mangrove islands that are only accessible by boat. The Gulf Coast Visitor Center was destroyed by a hurricane in 2017 and is being rebuilt, but you can still book a boat tour to the Ten Thousand Islands with Everglades National Park Adventures . The two-hour tour takes place on a 49-passenger pontoon boat with a trained guide and occasionally an Everglades park ranger. 

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The Everglades is essentially a giant wetland that consists of sawgrass marshes, pine flatwoods, and coastal mangroves. The boggy wilderness is both beautiful and daunting, especially when you consider that it’s home to a huge number of animals, including the Florida panther, the West Indian manatee, and the endangered leatherback turtle. 

But no creatures are as synonymous with the Everglades as the alligators and crocodiles. Gantt notes that “South Florida is the only place in the world where [alligators and crocodiles] coexist thanks to the combination of freshwater and saltwater areas.”

Beyond frequent sightings of the large reptiles, Gantt says the park has a huge number of birds, and it's “on the migratory path for a number of species, thus offering fantastic birding opportunities, especially in the winter.”

Animals aside, Everglades National Park has a large number of plants, trees, and landscapes, from coastal mangroves to hardwood forests. Remember, the park was originally protected because of its biodiversity, which is its biggest draw.

Flamingo Lodge

There is only one hotel within Everglades National Park, and it just opened in late 2023. The Flamingo Lodge is located at the southernmost tip of the Florida peninsula and can be reached via the Homestead entrance. The lodge has 24 rooms including eight two-bedroom suites that can accommodate up to six people. The highlight of each room is the east-facing balcony that provides sunrise and sunset views over Florida Bay.

Flamingo Glamping Tents and Houseboats

Beyond the new Flamingo Lodge, the Flamingo area of the park has two “glamping” options — one on land and one on water. Visitors can rent one of the safari-style glamping tents , which have a fan and electricity. You will need to bring your own sleeping pad and bag.

For a unique lodging option, book one of the 42-foot houseboats , which have kitchens, bathrooms, linens, and air conditioning. The houseboats can sleep up to six people and can be taken out on the water. 

Related: Best Places to Go Glamping in Florida

Long Pine Key and Flamingo Campgrounds

The only other in-park lodging options are the Long Pine Key and Flamingo campgrounds . Both campgrounds have RV and tent sites and can be driven to. The Long Pine Key Campground is the most accessible and is located near the Homestead entrance, while the Flamingo Campground is set deeper inside the park in the Flamingo area. Both campgrounds offer great stargazing and easy access to the Flamingo Marina, a popular launch site for fishing trips. 

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The new Flamingo Restaurant is adjacent to the Flamingo Lodge and is the only full-service restaurant in the park. 

“The new Flamingo Restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, plus a full-service bar,” said Gantt. “Anglers heading out on the water with a licensed fishing guide can also try the restaurant's Cook Your Catch offering, bringing back their fresh fish to be prepared by the restaurant.”

There are plenty of dining options in cities surrounding the park — Miami, Naples, and Homestead — but most visitors bring their own food and drinks into the park. There are picnic tables at Long Pine Key and Flamingo campgrounds.

For grab-and-go snacks and drinks, Gantt says you can find a limited selection at the park’s visitor centers (Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center, Royal Palm Visitor Center, and Shark Valley Visitor Center) and at the Flamingo marina shop.

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A Florida Everglades Airboat Ride to Remember

Each year, visitors come from all over the globe to Billie Swamp Safari . One of the main reasons is to explore the “River of Grass” on our airboat ride and experience the wonders of the Florida Everglades. As a family-friendly ride, visitors can see fish, snakes, turtles, alligators and so much more. At the same time, our trained guides will show you how nature has persevered in fashioning one of the world’s most intriguing environments. With the wind at your back, you will discover the untamed Florida Everglades.

Exhilarating and Wondrous Wilderness Adventure Tour

Everglades airboat rides  at Billie Swamp Safari are fantastic! – an experience to remember forever and exciting for kids, as well as moms and dads! All you have to do is kick-back and take in the sights and sounds of the unspoiled Everglades. But hold on to your hat! Our Everglades airboats move fast and will twist and turn you through our river of grass trail. The 25-minute thrill ride will be a family fun experience to cherish forever, while giving you and your family a rare experience to enjoy Florida’s most exciting natural attraction – Florida Everglades! A subtropical wonderland full of tremendous wildlife and plant life. Airboat rides at Billie Swamp Safari are just awesome. In fact, you may want to keep airboat riding until the park closes!

Everglades History and Nature are Fun and Exciting

The Florida Everglades are not like ninth-grade algebra. On the contrary, the Everglades  present great history that is fun to learn. For example, where else in the world can visitors find an untamed subtropical ecosystem with over 300 years of storied Seminole Indian history ? There’s so much to know about the Seminole history in the Everglades. Thus,  it’s difficult to grasp everything in just one visit. And that’s just as well, because families who enjoy the Florida Everglades on an airboat ride always seem excited to return to Billie Swamp Safari ! For parents looking to treat the kids to something educational and entertaining, our Everglades airboat tours provide a breathtaking ride and a close look into one of the most unique natural habitats found anywhere around the globe.

Experienced Airboat Guides You Can Count on

Billie Swamp Safari airboat guides are more than boat captains! In fact, many of them are Seminole themselves and have grown up in the Florida Everglades wilderness. What does that mean to you? It means they have intimate knowledge of the waterways, creatures and plant life that you will see on your Everglades tour. As such, they can easily point to unique flora and fauna, while knowing when to slow down for aquatic wildlife.  More specifically, our Everglades airboat guides will make sure you get to see the usually “unseen” during the 25-minute airboat tour.

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Everglades Day Safari from Naples

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Captain Bob’s Everglades Adventure Tour from Naples

Explore the Western Everglades with a wildlife biologist! Guided transportation from the Naples area, interactive reptile presentation and an airboat ride!

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Enjoy an educational, hands-on reptile presentation with snakes and alligators and explore for reptiles (including alligators!) and birds on an airboat ride!

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Over 2500 Excellent 5 STAR Reviews!

Family-owned and operated for 11+ years in the great Florida Everglades. The River Of Grass team has over 2500 excellent 5-star reviews on TripAdvisor, Yelp, Google, and Facebook!

What Makes The River of Grass Adventures Everglades Airboat Tour Different!

How you explore the Everglades matters to our team at Everglades River of Grass Adventures. Especially during this COVID-19 pandemic, we want our guests to be safe and stress-free. Our Captains and employees receive daily wellness checks to ensure they are healthy and symptom-free. All traffic areas, including seats, railings, and headsets, are sanitized before and after every ride. Hand sanitizer is available. Our captains wear buff face masks to protect them from the sun, wind, and bugs. We encourage our guests to wear them too. However, face masks are not required for our outdoor activities.

Airboat Charter Company

We are not an Everglades theme park or one of the Everglades National Park airboat tour "roadside attractions." We are a small, private Everglades airboat charter company that explores the Everglades just across the road from the National Park tours. We have no caged alligators or wildlife, and the only "show" on the boat. Everglades The River Of Grass Adventures has been making wonderful memories with people worldwide for nearly 10 years. Awarded TripAdvisor's Hall of Fame Tours for earning a Certificate of Excellence each year for 5 years consecutively, and now approaching 10 years of excellent reviews.

Magical Areas of the Everglades

Explore our backyard on an airboat ride through some of the most magical areas of the Everglades. No two tours are alike. Each captain has their route and will stop throughout the airboat tour to talk with you about the history of the Everglades, and its current events and, of course, show you a mosaic of flora and fauna. There are no caged animals on Everglades River Of Grass airboat tours, and no alligator wrestling shows, just nature at its best, naturally.

Subtropical Paradise

The Florida Everglades is a subtropical paradise. Some of the world's most unique and endangered species call the Everglades home. Alligators, egrets, great blue herons, turtles, crocodiles, whitetail deer, black bears, and even the elusive Florida panther are just some of the wildlife you might see on this Everglades wetland safari with the river of grass airboat ride adventure!

Coast Guard Certified Captains

Whether your River Of Grass Everglades airboat tour is near Miami or Fort Lauderdale, you will explore with seasoned "Gladesmen" naturalists, and United States Coast Guard certified captains experts at delivering safe, educational, thrilling, and memorable sightseeing adventures.

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Traveling through the freshwater wetlands on a small, custom airboat is a fantastic way to experience South Florida's Everglades. Come check out Miami's other wild side and see what makes us, The River Of Grass Adventures, different. We look forward to welcoming you, your family, co-workers, and friends to the beautiful and amazing Everglades river of grass. Please check frequently asked questions for more details.

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The 9 best everglades airboat and swamp tours.

See much more than alligators during one of these exciting trips.

The Top Everglades Airboat & Swamp Tours

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If you're planning a trip to Miami or Fort Lauderdale, Florida , visiting Everglades National Park should be on your to-do list. The South Florida national park is known for its expansive beauty, as well as its varied population of wildlife that includes everything from bobcats to alligators.

To see all the Everglades has to offer, sign up for a guided tour. U.S. News consulted both traveler sentiment and expert opinion to identify the top Everglades tours. Before you go, make sure you read through the National Park Service's Wildlife Viewing Ethics to keep both yourself and the animals safe during your time in the park. When choosing the best Everglades tours, we avoided recommending operators that promote wildlife shows or encourage feeding or holding the animals for photo-ops.

Visitors should plan to pay a fee to enter the park, as it may not be included in the price of the tour ticket. You should also keep in mind that many of these tour operators are located at least 30 miles west of Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Tours that run on airboats – open-air vessels with huge fans at the back that propel the boat – can be very loud. Companies will generally offer ear protection, but if you or your companions are sensitive to loud noises, contact the tour provider to discuss options before you book.

The Best Everglades Airboat and Swamp Tours

Everglades swamp tours – one hour group tour.

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $30 Duration: 1 hour

This sightseeing trip takes you out on an airboat to cruise through the Everglades' main waterways in search of alligators, birds and interesting vegetation. Throughout the ride, knowledgeable guides share facts about the area's history and ecology. Many travelers recommend booking this tour, describing it as fun and informative, with plenty of wildlife sightings. Departures generally take place daily at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., but availability may vary by month.

Children 5 and younger can ride for free, but still require a reserved seats. Also check out Everglades Swamp Tours for private airboat tours that last up to two hours.

Check prices & availability on:

Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures – 30-Minute Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $35; kids from $30 Duration: 30 minutes

Located at the headwaters of the Everglades in Kissimmee, Florida (about 40 miles south of Orlando), Boggy Creek Airboat Adventures earns praise from reviewers for its personable, experienced staff and the family-friendly environment. On the airboat ride, you and up to 16 other passengers will glide through the tall grass in search of eagles, alligators, raccoons and more. In addition to airboat rides, the site houses a replica of a Jororo Tribe village, as well as a gem and fossil mining activity for kids.

Tours depart throughout the day from 9 a.m. to 5 pm. You can buy your tickets online, but there are no reservations for this tour. For a longer adventure, consider the company's hourlong airboat ride. There are also sunset and night tours, if you're hoping to avoid the midday heat and crowds.

Marsh Landing Adventures – 90-Minute Everglades Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $65; kids from $60 Duration: 1.5 hours

For wildlife lovers who want more than half an hour to experience the Everglades, this 1.5-hour airboat ride from Marsh Landing Adventures is an excellent experience. Located in Kissimmee on Lake Tohopekaliga, Marsh Landing Adventures promises travelers an in-depth look at the headwaters of the Everglades and the plants and animals that inhabit its waters. What's more, the company says it can reach areas of the Everglades that are inaccessible to larger boats because of its small crafts. Travelers give kudos to the boat captain for their educational and entertaining delivery. Many call the experience the highlight of their Florida vacation.

Tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 9 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Reservations are required, and there is a 1% fuel surcharge added to each ticket. Marsh Landing Adventures also offers hourlong, two-hour and four-hour airboat rides.

Everglades City Airboat Tours

Price: Adults from $47; kids from $31 Duration: 1 hour

Everglades City Airboat Tours sets itself apart from other companies by offering participants two-way headsets, which allow passengers and guides to better engage with one another throughout the hourlong ride. As you navigate through narrow creeks and shallow bays, you may spot alligators, manatees and birds. Tourists enjoy the ride and appreciate the headsets. Reviewers are also complimentary of the boat captains, who they describe as entertaining and knowledgeable.

Tours depart multiple times Monday through Saturday, although timing may be modified based on the season. It's a good idea to reserve your tour in advance. Everglades City Airboat Tours is located approximately 85 miles west of Miami and 35 miles southeast of Naples, Florida.

Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours – 45-Minute Standard Airboat Tour

Price: Adults from $45; kids from $27.50 Duration: 45 minutes

For an excursion that combines cultural immersion and wildlife viewing, consider this outing from Buffalo Tiger Airboat Tours. The Miccosukee family-owned company's standard tour focuses on introducing visitors to the homelands of the Miccosukee people: an American Indian tribe that migrated to Florida before it became a state. During the tour, you'll not only see local wildlife, but also will get to see a Miccosukee Indian camp and take a nature walk. Visitors recommend the tour, describing it as an amazing experience thanks to the small, intimate group size.

Tours run daily at multiple times between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. The company also offers private outings.

Everglades River of Grass Adventures – Semi-Private River of Grass Airboat Tours Everglades

Price: Adults from $85; kids from $45 Duration: 1.5 hours

One perk of this tour is that it is capped at six to eight travelers per boat. During the excursion, you'll get the chance to see the famous flora and fauna of the Everglades, including herons and alligators. Visitors say this is a family-friendly tour and call the trip "memorable" and "amazing."

These tours run seven days a week; since they're semiprivate, you must call or email to find out the best times to depart. River of Grass Adventures also offers sunset tours of the Everglades.

Other Popular Everglades Tours

Shurr Adventures Everglades – Three Hour Mangrove Tunnel Kayak Tour Small Group Adventure

Price: Adults from $109; kids from $99 Duration: 3 to 4 hours

Enjoy an up-close view of animals and nature, and get some exercise in too, on this kayak tour of the Everglades' mangroves. As you paddle your way through the mangrove tunnels, you may spot orchids, birds and, of course, alligators. Kayakers say this tour is excellent and appreciate the patient, experienced guides who share a wealth of information about the plants and animals that reside in this unique ecosystem. What's more, reviewers appreciate that the tours are limited to just eight participants.

Tours are available Monday through Saturday from August to April; times vary by season. Children must be at least 7 years old to participate. Tourgoers will enjoy three to 3.5 hours out on the water but should plan to spend a total of four hours on-site from start to finish. Shurr Adventures Everglades also offers a full-day tour of the mangrove tunnels, as well as a motorboat tour in the Ten Thousand Islands region of Everglades National Park, among other options.

Shark Valley Tram Tours

Price: Adults from $31; kids from $16 Duration: 2 hours

These naturalist-led excursions not only include a tour around Everglades National Park in an open-air tram, they also give tourgoers the chance to explore on foot. Halfway through the tour, participants can climb a 45-foot-tall observation deck to see sweeping views of the surrounding vegetation. During the two-hour tour, travelers also have the opportunity to observe a variety of wildlife. Tourgoers enjoy learning about the Everglades from the expert guides and say riding the tram is part of the fun. Many also recommended taking a morning tour to avoid the midday heat.

From mid-December through late April, tours depart on the hour daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. From May through mid-December, tours depart at 9:30 and 11 a.m. and 2 and 4 p.m. Shark Valley Tram Tours also offers self-guided bike tours. (Note that you'll have to pay a separate fee to enter Everglades National Park for any tour.)

Everglades Florida Adventures – Ten Thousand Islands Tour

Price: Adults from $59; kids from $29 Duration: 3 hours

If you're hoping to see the Everglades by boat, but want something a little quieter than an airboat ride, consider this cruise. Departing from Port of the Islands Marina in Naples, this 45-foot passenger catamaran glides across the Faka Union Canal while guides share information about the history and ecology of the area. Tourgoers report spotting lots of birds, turtles, dolphins and manatees. They also call out the insightful crew and clean, comfortable boat as highlights.

Cruises are offered Monday to Friday at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Everglades Florida Adventures also offers kayak and canoe rentals.

Frequently Asked Questions

Like any other form of transportation, riding an airboat may come with some risks. To stay safe on your Everglades airboat tour, be sure to choose a company run by experienced, professional boaters (most of which undergo special training and are approved by the U.S. Coast Guard) and adhere to all rules set forth by your guide. Parents should keep a close eye on children and be sure they are properly fitted for their life jackets, and all passengers should protect against the heat by wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated. Commercial airboats typically do not exceed speeds of 30 to 40 mph to ensure a safe, smooth ride, and most operators will reschedule your tour in the event of lightning or other inclement weather. Tour companies will also generally provide riders with proper ear protection, as the boats are quite loud.

Typically, passengers will feel the most comfortable in lightweight, sleeveless clothing and shorts while on an Everglades airboat tour. If you are taking a wintertime tour, keep an eye on the weather – pants and long sleeves may be a better option, but you likely won't need a heavy jacket. Be sure to bring sunglasses, sunscreen and water to protect yourself from the effects of the sun; you may also want a hat to provide further shade and keep hair in place. Passengers with long hair are advised to wear it in a ponytail or bun to keep it from becoming knotted in the wind. Tourgoers may also wish to apply some bug spray prior to embarking on their adventure.

Airboat tours last about an hour, though duration will depend on the tour company.

An airboat's top speed is about 30 mph.

Not normally, but you run a small risk of getting misted with water. If you take a tour when it is raining, expect to get wet.

In winter, you'll want to time your visit for midday, when it warms up. In summer, you'll want to visit in the morning or later afternoon when it's coolest. Visiting at these times can increase your chances of seeing wildlife, but you'll likely see all kinds of critters no matter when you visit year-round.

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Everglades Day Safari

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Everglades Day Safari from Fort Myers/Naples Area

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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Everglades Day Safari - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Visiting the Everglades Safari Park

Known as the “River of Grass,” the Everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness area in the United States. Located in Southern Florida, the Everglades are a great place for those looking to enjoy wildlife, experience nature, and stand in awe at some of Mother Earth’s finest creatures. The Everglades Safari Park located just 40 minutes outside of Miami is a great place to get an introduction to the Florida everglades or as a great addition to your trip to the Everglades.

The Everglades water system begins up near Orlando with the Kissimmee River draining into Lake Okeechobee. Water leaving the lake forms the Everglades River, which is 60 miles wide and over 100 miles long. The Everglades extend down into Florida Bay at the Southern end of the state. The river is typically between 4-5 feet deep, and is 9ft. at its deepest.

Visitors to the Everglades can enjoy many activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, tram rides, bike rides, ranger guided tours and ranger programs, and airboat tours. The Everglades Safari Park offers a combination of these, with airboat tours, wildlife viewing, a live alligator show, and jungle trail boardwalk.

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About the Everglades Safari Park

The Everglades Safari Park is located about a 40 minute drive from downtown Miami, making for the perfect day trip for families, couples, or singles visiting Miami. The Everglades Safari Park sits within Everglades National Park and offers visitors the chance to head out on the Everglades River to catch unique views of Florida’s most unique landscape, spot wild life, and make memories!

The Everglades Safari Park is a great introduction to Everglades National Park or a great addition to your visit to the park. The park offers airboat tours of the Everglades, a live gator show, delicious eats, and plenty of nature to explore and enjoy by foot. Before heading out for your visit, discover everything you need to know to make your trip perfect!

The Everglades Safari Park is open daily from 9am to 5pm.

Airboat tours run every 20-30 minutes. The last airboat tour runs at 4pm.

How To Get There

With its close proximity to the big cities of Miami and Fort Lauderdale, the park is a great day trip for families visiting the area.

The Everglades Safari Park can be reached from Miami with a 40 minute drive. You will want to take interstate 95 South down to SR-836 (Dolphin Expressway) west. From there continue until you reach Florida’s Turnpike (SR-821). Continue on the turnpike to exit 25 (SW 8th Street). Continue on SW 8th Street for about 15 miles and you will reach the Everglades Safari Park.

The park can be reached from Fort Lauderdale with approx. an hour long drive. You will take Interstate 595 west to Florida’s Turnpike. Then take the turnpike to exit 25 and continue until you reach the Everglades Safari Park.

What To Bring

When visiting Everglades Safari Park, it is important to keep in mind that the Everglades are a swamp/marsh and you will be exposed to the hot summer sun. So you won’t want to forget the:

Things to Do at the Everglades Safari Park

Soar through the mangroves on an airboat ride.

The airboat rides are the best way to experience the marshes/mangroves of the Everglades Safari Park. It is also a great way to get a chance at spotting some of the famous Everglades alligators. There are three options for the airboat rides at Everglades Safari Park.

The most popular and least expensive option is the 30-40 min. public airboat ride. The public tour includes the airboat ride, alligator show, nature trail, and access to park exhibits. The airboat ride takes you out on the Everglades river, through the marshes, past the mangroves, and gives you the chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including alligators, a variety of bird species, turtles, snakes, and more! Cost for this tour is $27 per person.

There are also two private tour options. The first is a 40 minute Private National Park Eco-Adventure Airboat Tour and includes the airboat ride, Alligator Show, and access to the nature trails and other park exhibits. The second is similar, but is a 60 minute tour instead of a 40 minute tour. The 40 minute tour is $255 per person and the 60 minute tour is $305 per person.

Go for a stroll along the winding Jungle Trail boardwalk

The Jungle Trail is a boardwalk that takes you through part of the Everglades by foot, giving you stunning views of the plant life and the chance to spot more wildlife along the way! Be sure to stay on the path as wildlife, including alligators, are seen throughout the area.

Enjoy a live alligator show

Included with the airboat ride you will be able to enjoy a live alligator show, where you can get up close views of these majestic creatures and learn about their lives, habitat, and life cycle. At the end of the show you will get the chance to take a photo with a baby alligator for a small fee (but visitors are no longer able to hold the baby alligator).

Try some gator bites at the Safari Café

The Safari Café is a small café at the Everglades Safari Park that makes for a quick and convenient lunch stop when visiting the park. For those wanting to try something new (or maybe not so new for you), the café does offer some different alligator meat options, including alligator bites.

They also offer some more traditional foods that might better fit the demands of your picky eater children, such as sandwiches, mac and cheese, and fries. Next door to the café you will also find a small gift shop if you’re looking for something to take home with you.

Spot Some Wildlife

There are plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife at the park. Be on the look-out as you enjoy the airboat ride. This is your best chance to spot the Everglades alligators along with a variety of other wildlife species, including owls, herons, cormorants, roseate spoonbills, pelicans, Florida gars, banded water snakes, white tailed deer, Florida panthers (rare), and otters.

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Published by Melissa

Hello! My name is Melissa (or Missy). I'm a nurse by day, but my true passion is travel. I'm a part time traveler, travel blogger, and photographer. Travel blogging allows me to share my experiences and knowledge with you as well as allows me to share in your experiences and learn from you. View all posts by Melissa

I’m Melissa, but you can call me Missy. I continuously crave a new adventure and love sharing those adventures with you! My sidekick is my 5 year old daughter. Together we are conquering the world, one city at a time! Find family travel tips and guides that will help you plan your next adventure!

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12 things to know before visiting Everglades National Park

Mar 26, 2024 • 6 min read

Here's what you should know before setting out on the waterways of the Everglades © Maridav / Shutterstock

Around an hour's drive from Miami on Florida's  southern tip, Everglades National Park offers 1.5 million acres of natural wonder. Covering an area the size of Rhode Island , this complex and vital ecosystem of wetlands, swamps, mangroves and forests is North America 's  biggest protected sub-tropical wilderness reserve.

Teeming with wildlife such as alligators, crocodiles, manatees and birds, the park is laced with hiking and biking trails, dotted with campsites and has waterways navigable by kayak, canoe and boat. On any given day, you can hear airboats whizzing by, wading birds splashing about and fishing rods whirling in the wind as they're cast. In the park's more silent and serene nooks, you're likely to hear nothing at all.

Amid the awe, however, there are plenty of ways to get the most out of your trip here. Having lived nearby for nearly a decade, guiding friends and families deep into the Everglades, I've gotten to know a few dos and don'ts, tricks and tips. Here's everything you need to know before you visit Everglades National Park.

1. Avoid the "snowbird season" crowds

There's a joke in South Florida from the fall through early spring (October–March): the leaves don't change, but the colors of the car license plates do. That's because while the rest of the Eastern USA is freezing, Florida remains warm, so travelers – known locally as snowbirds – migrate down here for the cooler months. Expect the Everglades National Park to be particularly busy during this time.

The best way to avoid the crowds in the Everglades is to get up early during the summer months (June–August) and visit in the morning. Note that the park is often muggy by noon, and temperatures regularly reach at least 90°F (32°C).

2. There are four entrances to the park, so find the best one for your journey

The Everglades only has four entrances . Two are in Homestead: the Flamingo Visitor Center, which is a gateway to an extensive network of canoeing facilities; and the Royal Palm, which is primed for walking adventures. The latter also has several paved and well-packed dirt trails nearby. 

The other two entry points are found west of Miami. Shark Valley is the busiest and is known for its gator-surrounded, 15-mile bike trail; the Gulf Coast Visitor Center in Everglades City, meanwhile, attracts fewer people. It is primarily a gateway for boating and exploring the nearby series of mangrove islands. Depending on where you are traveling from in Florida and the traffic levels, it can take hours to drive between each park entrance, so plan wisely.

3. To access most of the Everglades, you'll need an airboat

Airboats – flat-bottomed watercraft with giant fan propellers at the back – aren't just kitschy tourist vehicles for gawking at gators. They are actually vital in delicately navigating the wet prairies, both in terms of helping preserve the vegetation and avoiding debris that would otherwise damage a fishing boat. Should you want to plan an excursion, there are three authorized airboat businesses in the park itself that provide services: Coopertown Airboats , Everglades Safari Park and Gator Park .

4. Snag a permit ahead of time if you want to fish solo

The Everglades are a mix of saltwater and freshwater landscapes, equating to a fishing utopia. When fishing independently, you'll need a license for both saltwater and freshwater fishing – two separate permits in Florida that you obtain from the Florida Fishing and Wildlife Conservation Commission . Cell service is extremely limited in the park, so save a potential headache by registering for the right license online ahead of your visit. If you are embarking on a chartered journey, your captain should already have a license, but check beforehand.

5. Support and book excursions with local tribes

The Calusa, Tequesta, Seminole and Miccosukee tribes all have deep roots in the Everglades region. Along the Tamiami Trail (US Hwy 41), you'll see a number of Miccosukee destinations – notably the Miccosukee Casino & Resort , as well as the Miccosukee Village and Airboat Rides . At the village, there is a museum where you can learn more about the tribe and tour exhibits of their earliest clothing, tools and beadwork.  

6. Don't bring pets – they're not allowed on the trails 

What do the popular Otter Cave Hammock Trail , Rowdy Bend Trail and Gumbo Limbo Trail have in common aside from awesome names? You can't bring your pets with you… or on any of the walking trails in Everglades National Park. Besides, they probably wouldn't fare too well with a camouflaged gator anyway. 

7. Opt for an ethical animal sanctuary

The Everglades has a number of wildlife sanctuaries, but not all are animal-friendly, so do your research before visiting. Aside from spotting blue herons in their natural environment along the Anhinga Trail or manatees coasting in the Florida Bay , Everglades Outpost is an ethical option if you want an up-close encounter . The nonprofit rehabilitates injured gators, reptiles and more from the nearby land before releasing them back into the environment.

8. Give wild animals their space

If you do have an encounter with a manatee in the open waters or a gator quietly lurking in the mangroves, leave them alone. Refrain from feeding the animals, and if there is a visibly sick or young creature with parents nearby, tread lightly as their defense mechanisms may kick in. Additionally, bird nests – for the likes of wood storks and herons – are a common sight. Let those be, too.

9. Yes, there is a Cold War missile site in the park that you can visit

Constructed after the Cuban Missile Crisis in the early 1960s, the HM69 Nike Missile Base was once a hub for protecting the US against a possible attack by the Soviet Union. The site has three missile barns, an assembly building, barracks and two missiles today. The Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center   runs tours from December through March.

10. The Everglades is vital to the entire state, so help where you can

As well as being home to endangered or threatened species, such as the Florida Panther and West Indian Manatee, the Everglades provides drinking water for more than eight million Floridians. When you visit, remember that your actions – and what you may leave behind – have a lasting impact.

If you're looking to support the park's vitality, The Alliance for Florida's National Parks accepts donations, with funds supporting youth environmental education programs, ranger-guided tours, habitat protection programs and more. 

11. Please, please, please bring sunscreen and sun gear

Too many tourists and locals that let their guards down do it every year; they forget their sunscreen and sun gear and end up looking like a painful ripe tomato in the ensuing days. Pack more than enough sunscreen and protective gear like hats, sunglasses and sun-protective shirts for your adventure, and set a timer for reapplying sunscreen. Whether canoeing the Flamingo District or birdwatching Paurotis Pond , you'll need it. 

12. Don't swim in the water and keep your limbs inside boats

It's the same mantra in every national park: don't touch the wildlife. Well, that notion comes in various forms in Everglades National Park. During the scorching summer months, it can be incredibly tempting to take a quick dip in seemingly calm waters, but just remember that there may be alligators, crocodiles, snakes, reptiles and more lurking in the waters. In the same vein and as any guide will tell you, keep those limbs inside the airboats. The wildlife will generally leave you alone, so long as it's reciprocal.

Keep planning your trip to Everglades National Park:

Figure out the best time to visit Get up close with nature on  these hikes Add  these experiences  to your itinerary Take a road trip to the park on  these drives through Florida  

This article was first published January 2023 and updated March 2024

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