The Ultimate Everglades Tour Guide
AN IN-DEPTH EVERGLADES VACATION GUIDE TO PLANNING AN EVERGLADES TRIP – UPDATED 2023
How to Plan the Ultimate Everglades Trip
This Everglades travel guide covers everything you need to know to explore and see as much of the staggering Everglades as possible.
There are FAQs, travel tips, attractions, boat recommendations, and so much more!
From packing advice to the best dates to visit, you will find everything you need here.
EVERGLADES TRIP GUIDE OUTLINE
- Things to See and Do
- Typical Costs
- Suggested Budget
- Money-Saving Tips
- Where to Stay
- How to Get There
- How to Get Around
- When to Go
- How to Stay Safe
- What to Pack
- Tips & Things to Know
- Everglades Resources
THE EVERGLADES | COURTESY OF CANVA
OVERVIEW OF THE NATIONAL PARK
THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES
The Everglades are one of the most impressive natural beautifies in the world. It is a vast, subtropical wilderness that spans 1.5 million acres. It is renowned for the shallow waters that move slowly across the lands that are aptly named “The River of Grass.” The Everglades are made up of sawgrass marshes, diverse ecosystems, and habitats for innumerable species, including many endangered ones. The Everglades is more than a national park. It is recognized as a World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and a Wetland of International Importance. This astounding place is worth visiting for all these reasons are more.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE EVERGLADES
WHY ARE THE EVERGLADES SO IMPORTANT?
The Everglades are important because of several things:
- Biodiversity: The Everglades are home to a wide range of wildlife, including endangered species such as the Florida Panther, American Aligator, and West Indian Manatee, to name a few.
- Environmental Impact: The ecological health of the surrounding areas is depended on the Everglades.
- Water Purification: The Everglades are a natural water purification system. All water that flows through the Everglades becomes filtered by the movement.
- Cultural and Historical Significance: The cultural and historical value of the Everglades is woven throughout all of Florida. It is crucial to the true preservation of the land.
- Climate Impact: The Everglades are a significant carbon sink, which means they play a significant part in the local climate regulation.
WHERE ARE THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES?
The Florida Everglades are in the southern tip of Florida that extends from Lake Okeechobee to Florida Bay.
HOW BIG IS THE EVERGLADES?
The Everglades cover around 1.5 million acres of land, marking it as one of the largest wetlands in the world..
WHY IS IT CALLED THE EVERGLADES?
The name is believed to come from the seemingly endless expanse of grassy marshes. When you look at the Everglades, it feels as though it could go on forever.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES
- What is the Problem with the Everglades?
- Who Lived in the Everglades? – Learn About the Natives
- How to Survive in the Everglades: A Safety Guide
THINGS TO SEE AND DO ON AN EVERGLADES VACATION
TOP 5 THINGS TO SEE AND DO WHEN YOU VISIT THE EVERGLADES
EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOURS
1. TAKE AN AIRBOAT RIDE
Airboat rides are absolutely a must for any trip to the Everglades. Arguably the best way to see the Everglades is by skimming across the water at high speeds, feeling the wind on your face, and reaching otherwise unreachable places.
PRO EVERGLADES BOAT TRIP ADVICE:
OPT INTO A PRIVATE EVERGLADES BOAT TRIP IF TRAVELING IN A GROUP OR AS A FAMILY.
Private Airboat Tours are the perfect way to celebrate special events. They are exclusive airboat tours that allow for more time of exploration and, potentially, visits to places that aren’t on the typical tours.
Another private option that will still save you money is a Private Group Airboat Tour. These will offer exclusivity for your group of friends or family while still providing extended exploration.
LEARN MORE ABOUT AIRBOATS
GATOR BOYS ALLIGATOR SHOW
2. WATCH A LIVE ALLIGATOR SHOW
See the Most Famous Everglades Animal Up Close at Our Gator Park
You probably haven’t heard about the Everglades without having heard about the iconic American Alligator. Our show is hosted by wildly popular Gator Boys and features amazing stunts, educational facts, and thrilling adventure.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ALLIGATORS
- About the Gator Boys Alligator Rescue
- Meet Seven – Our Most Loved and Famous Alligator
- How Do You Wrestle an American Alligator?
EVERGLADES FISHING CHARTER
3. GO FISHING IN THE EVERGLADES
Fishing in the Everglades is recognized worldwide as premier among fishing enthusiasts. Rent a boat and head out onto the waters to experience a serene, life-giving experience.
PRO EVERGLADES BOAT TRIP ADVICE:
ALREADY HAVE A BOAT? OR JUST WANT TO USE YOUR FISHING POLL?
Boat owners can launch their own vessels off the docks at the Flamingo Marina located within Everglades National Park. The quickest, lowest maintenance option is to skip out on the boat trip and just enjoy some of the stunning ponds within the park for some freshwater fishing.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FISH IN THE EVERGLADES
THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES | COURTESY OF CANVA
4. HIKE IN THE EVERGLADES
Hiking is among the chief enjoyments of visitors to the Everglades. It allows the visitors to connect with nature in a special way. Trails such as the Anhinga Trail or the Gumbo Limbo Trail bring out the best in the Everglades, showcasing a wide range of habitats and wildlife.
PRO EVERGLADES VACATION TIP:
REMEMBER TO BRING WATER, SUNSCREEN, AND INSECT REPELLENT TO ENHANCE YOUR HIKING EXPERIENCE.
BABY ALLIGATOR ENCOUNTER | COURTESY OF EVERGLADES HOLIDAY PARK
5. SEE AND MEET THE ANIMALS IN THE EVERGLADES
Engaging in an animal encounter ensures a close look at some of the wildlife that inhabits the Everglades. You will meet with birds, and mammals, and you will even get to hold a baby alligator!
LEARN MORE ABOUT EVERGLADES ANIMALS
OTHER THINGS TO SEE AND DO ON AN EVERGLADES TRIP
FLORIDA EVERGLADES OBSERVATORY TOWER VIEW | COURTESY OF CANVA
GO BIKE RIDING IN THE EVERGLADES
Biking in the Everglades is its own, unique experience. The Shark Valley Tram Road alone is a 15-mile look that crosses alligators basking in the sun, a wide array of bird species, and endless, lush vegetation
PRO EVERGLADES VACATION TIP:
START YOUR RIDE EARLY IN THE MORNING TO ENJOY COOLER TEMPERATURES AND MORE ACTIVE WILDLIFE.
CANOE RENTALS IN THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES | COURTESY OF CANVA
RENT A CANOE, KAYAK, OR PADDLEBOARD
Renting a canoe, kayak, or paddleboard is the means of enjoying a tranquil experience more intimate than any other. The relaxing time you spend on the water will give you a full appreciation for what surrounds you.
EVERGLADES BOAT TRIP AERIAL BEACHES VIEW | COURTESY OF CANVA
ENJOY THE BEACH
The beach scene is an escape from the bustle of the tours and wildlife shows. Clubhouse Beach is a stark contrast from the wetlands, with its calming atmosphere of sunbathing, picnicking, and seaside ambiance.
HM-69 NIKE MISSILE SITE | COURTESY OF U.S. NATIONAL PARK SERVICE
SEE HISTORIC LANDMARKS
The history of the Everglades must be protected just as the landscape must. Each of the following sites contributes to the rich culture and history of the Everglades:
- Explore the HM-69 Nike Missile Site, which is a significant Cold War-era landmark.
- The Anhinga Trail, which is part of the Archeological Resources of Everglades National Park MPS, is a close view of the park’s diverse wildlife and ecosystems.
- Bear Lake Mounds Archeological District(located in Flamingo) and Monroe Lake Archeological District (located in Homestead) are both significant because of their historical and archeological value.
- Cane Patch (near Everglades City) is another part of the park’s vast archeological resources, as well as Rookery Mound.
- The Mud Lake Canal, located within Cape Sable, is noted for its historical importance.
- Shark River Slough Archeological District is in Homestead and is a district that adds to the park’s wide collection of historical and archeological sites.
- Ted Smallwood Store is a historic site listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This store is in Chokoloskee.
- Turner River Site is another site listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and it is found in Ochopee.
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES WHEN YOU VISIT THE EVERGLADES
EVERGLADES VISIT FOR FAMILIES:
Day 1: Begin your adventures with a family-friendly airboat tour. You can see wildlife from the safety of a controlled but thrilling environment. You can have lunch at a local restaurant, then visit the Everglades Aligator Farm to learn all kinds of incredible facts and see a variety of exhibits.
Day 2: On your second day, you can head to Shark Valley for a tram tour or rent bicycles to get in your exercise for the day. At the end of the day, enjoy a scenic picnic at one of the park’s beautiful areas.
LEARN MORE ABOUT FAMILY-FRIENDLY ACTIVITIES
- Discover the Everglades with Kids
- Things to Do with Kids in the Everglades
- Celebrate Your Child’s Birthday in the Everglades
EVERGLADES TRIP FOR ADVENTURE SEEKERS:
Day 1: All of the park’s expansive trails are beautiful and will bring you close to the inhabitants. Spend the afternoon on the water, kayaking through the mangroves and relaxing from your taxing morning. You can do this through a kayak tour or simply float along at your own pace.
Day 2: Give a day up to fishing in the diverse waters of the Everglades. In the evening, catch a sunset airboat tour to see the nocturnal wildlife.
NATURE LOVERS EVERGLADES TRIP:
Day 1: Of all the national parks, bird watching in the Everglades is full of astounding diversity. The Anhinga Trail is a hotspot for spotting birds of all kinds. The afternoon can be spent on a photography expedition to capture landscapes and wildlife of immense beauty.
Day 2: The Big Cypress National Preserve is known for its unique flora and fauna. You can partake in a guided nature walk and then end your day with a quiet evening at one of the park’s campgrounds, enjoying the stars and all the accompanying sounds and smells of nature.
LEARN MORE ABOUT ANIMALS IN THE EVERGLADES
- Adopt an Everglades Alligator
- Fun Facts About Alligators
- The Difference Between Alligators and Crocodiles
- How and Where do Alligators Sleep?
KAYAKING IN THE FLORIDA EVERGLADES | COURTESY OF CANVA
TIPS & THINGS TO KNOW WHEN YOU VISIT THE EVERGLADES
NAVIGATING THE PARK RESPONSIBLY:
- Do not leave the designated trails and boardwalks. This is for the protection of both the people and the environment.
- Do not approach wildlife, and never feed or touch the animals under any circumstances.
- Have situational awareness, especially in areas where you know alligators and snakes are common.
FURTHER READING
ENVIRONMENTAL CONSERVATION AWARENESS:
- Respect the fact that you are walking into the wildlife’s homes and habitats. Minimize your noise and disturbance during your stay.
- Leave No Trace. This principle means that you take all trash with you when you leave and avoid leaving any mark on the Everglades.
- Understand that all the park’s rules are to protect what is a very delicate ecosystem.
FURTHER READING
