miami and everglades tour

The Original Everglades National Park Airboat Tour

Everglades safari t-shirt, experience the beauty of everglades national park while riding an airboat, discover the next level of family fun while our captains navigate through the pristine waters of everglades national park aboard our world-famous airboat tours. you can bet it is one of the safest social distancing options to explore your nature™..

The Original Eco-Experience Airboat Tour

Take an unforgettable journey on an airboat ride through florida's everglades national park, join our expert captains for 30 to 40 minutes of educational family fun in the florida everglades. learn about the unique plants and animals that live in your very own backyard..

Travel Deeper into Everglades National Park Aboard A Private Tour

Go off the beaten path as we journey deeper into florida's everglades national park, as expert guides, our captains have unparalleled knowledge of the trails, plants, and animals. join us for a truly unique and unforgettable experience today.

So much fun!! We did a private tour with LOU, and had an absolute blast!! Thanks to all the staff for being so friendly and knowledgeable! Make sure you go to the alligator show!

Wonderful place, excellent your guide and really awesome Alligator show. Highly recommend!!! Will definitely be back

Wondering What to Do When Visiting the Everglades?

From airboats to camping, we've listed our top picks in our latest article: Top 7 Things to Do in the Everglades!

On Vacation & Need A Ride? We Can Help!

We recommend Xpedition Tours! They provide reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

So fun!  Beautiful tour flying around the everglades on an airboat!  Wear the ear buds they give you. And you can hold Snappy!

This place is awesome!  We saw a Snail Kite, momma alligator and her nest. The boat ride was sooo much fun. We actually drove by it and turned around just to see the place.

Planning Your Visit? Woo!

Find out everything you can do during your visit to the florida everglades, from airboats to nature walks, wildlife shows to gator bites, we offer family fun in the warm florida sun all year long. we're sure your experience will be unforgettable., ever wonder what that alligator is doing.

Top 7 Things to do in the Everglades

If you ask anyone about the Everglades, they will most probably say that it is the greatest swamp in Florida. They are close but not exactly right! It is a slow-running river that entails around nine contrasting, elegant ecosystems.

History of Airboats

In 1930, airboats started becoming popular in the United States. Many Floridians made them famously known when they began to invent them independently, these Floridians mostly lived in or near the Florida Everglades.

Ultimate Guide: Animals of the Everglades

Did you know the Florida Everglades sustains a unique environment that provides safe refuge to the wildlife that inhabits the wetlands, some of which are not found anywhere else in the world? This guide tells you all about them!

The Ultimate Guide to Everglades National Park

With so much to do in South Florida, it’s easy to miss the adventure that can be found in our very own backyard. In this article, we will shed light on one of the hidden gems often overlooked by visitors and residents alike; the Florida Everglades.

Searching For The Perfect Deal? Look no further!

We offer various discounts to make your Everglades National Park experience more memorable and less stressful on your wallet.

We recommend Xpedition Tours! transportation companies in Miami to provide you reliable service to and from our park, from select locations.

Traveling With A Group? Group Rates & Arrangements Are Available.

Group tours of all sizes are welcome to enjoy the adventure, together! Our custom made, twin rotor airboats are the largest in the industy, holding a whopping 45 visitors each!

Meet Our Partners

Park Information

Tour information, things to do in miami, navigation & more, want safari deals.

Miami's Best Everglades Airboat Rides!

Airboat tours starting at $50.

Explore the wide expanse of the famous River of Grass and catch a glimpse of exotic and rare plants and animals that open your eyes to the beauty of Mother Nature’s work.

Airboat Tours Starting at $200

Our private tours are designed to give you, your family, and friends the airboat ride of a lifetime by having them carried out by the most passionate and well-informed tour guides.

Airboat Tours Starting at $275

Our sunset tour take you through the beautiful scenery to witness the sunset, surrounded by greenery, water, and a sense of tranquility.

Airboat Tours

Private and Group Everglades Airboat Tours in Miami

Discover the magic of the Everglades with our scenic airboat tours, a must-try experience in Miami. We specialize in creating extraordinary airboat adventures, perfect for those looking for an up-close encounter with Florida's unique ecosystem. From private, romantic airboat rides to fun-filled group tours, our offerings are diverse. Each tour is meticulously crafted to showcase the beauty and excitement of the Everglades, ensuring your time with us is unforgettable.

AIRBOAT RIDES EVERGLADES MIAMI

Glide through these legendary wetlands, where each turn reveals the untamed beauty of alligators, exotic plants, and a kaleidoscope of wildlife. Our tours offer more than just a scenic ride; they are an educational voyage into the heart of the Everglades’ ecosystems. Perfect for first-time visitors to South Florida, an airboat experience with us is not just a trip but a journey into the wild, creating memories that will last a lifetime

Miami's Everglades Sunset Tour

Immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty of the Everglades with our Sunset Airboat Tour, a highlight among Everglades airboat tours. Perfect for those seeking airboat rides that offer a unique perspective, this tour combines romance with the breathtaking scenery of the Everglades at dusk. Navigate the peaceful waterways on our state-of-the-art airboats and be captivated by the stunning sunset, creating a magical atmosphere.

Everglades Boat Tours in Miami

Customer reviews.

Such a blast! We saw dozens of alligators on the trip as well as other wildlife! The boat ride was fun and smooth! Our boat captain and guide Taylor was awesome! He was personable and very knowledgeable! He made our experience special! Everyone had a blast! I would highly recommend this company! Thanks for the awesome man Experience!.

I met the tour guide driver today and it feels like i’ve known him for years. His name is Taylor and is probably one of the most friendliest people I have ever met. I was worried it was going to be an awkward and quiet boat ride the whole tour, but it was an amazing experience! 11/10 would do again!!!.

We went out with Taylor on Saturday morning; my brother and nephew visiting me from California • We’ve never been on an airboat and what an incredible experience!!! Taylor couldn’t have been more informative, friendly, professional and just an awesome guide!! I HIGHLY RECOMMEND this tour, just an incredible experience! I would love to do it again!! Thank you Taylor!

Had a fantastic time experiencing all of the wildlife within the habitat...Taylor took the time to share several stories involving his many experiences within the Everglades.....5 plus stars .....A definite must...WE WILL BE BACK.....

Excellent tour. We were a group of 7 and all enjoy it. The reservation and organization was impecable. The tour guide was excellent and fun. I fully recommend Everglades boat tour.

Captain Taylor was the best guide I ever had! He was so personable and fun and did an excellent job of explaining all the beautiful intricacies of what makes the Everglades so great! I would highly recommend him over any of the other tour guides. Plus they have a new boat with cool green gator coverings that made for a smooth safe ride.

First time in Miami and first time to the glades and it was beyond what we expected! Taylor was incredibly knowledgeable about the area due to him growing up and being in the glades since a young child. We got up and close with gators. My son (10) had an unbelievable time. Definitely would recommend taking private tours over anything. We will be back and will definitely take another tour with Taylor!

We had such a great time on this airboat ride! From the get-go Jodi was so kind and responsive on the phone, answering all our questions and just generally being very friendly. We wanted to do a sunrise tour, which she said they didn't normally do, but she checked and accommodated us as she thought it would be an interesting experience as well. It turned out to be really, really nice. We met up with Taylor, who was also very kind and friendly. He didn't rush the experience at all and was very knowledgeable about the area, wildlife and plant life. They are a family owned business and local to the Everglades, so if you want a great experience...go with them!

Had a great 1hr tour with Taylor. This was the only company that managed to sqeeze us in on short notice. It was easy to find the departure point. Taylor is very knowledgable about the history and ecology of the everglades. Learned a lot and saw a few gatoors and birds. Because our tour was pretty late in the day, we saw a wonderful sunset. I would definitly recommend everglades airboat tours to anyone. They are the best.

Book Your Everglades Airboat Tour

If your travels take you to Miami or the Florida Keys, don't miss the chance for an Everglades airboat tour, a thrilling addition to make your trip truly unforgettable.

• Book your Everglades adventure today
• CALL NOW: (888) 428-6770
• Book Online

DISCOVER THE EVERGLADES BY AIRBOAT

Welcome to Miami Everglades Connection Airboat Tours. We are a family-run business of Florida locals offering guided tours of the Miami Everglades.

Whether you seek the thrill of seeing alligators up close, or discovering diverse wildlife, birdwatching, or wanting to have a shared family adventure, Miami Everglades Connection has something to offer.  

Our tours are led by highly-knowledgeable guides and provide a private and intimate experience that is simply unparalleled. Get ready to embark on the Everglades adventure of a lifetime.  

We offer private, semi-private and sunset tours.

BOOK YOUR MIAMI EVERGLADES AIRBOAT TOURS

Looking for a family adventure this summer, semi-private airboat tours.

On this one hour, semi-private tour, you and up to 6 other guests will embark on a guided tour of the Everglades. Our custom-made airboats are designed to get you up-close-and-personal with alligators, turtles, native fish and much more. Your personal guide will point out the local flora and fauna, while they take you through the breathtaking river of grass, on an adventure you won’t soon forget. Bring your camera! You won’t want to miss an opportunity to capture the wild Florida Alligator in its natural habitat! Perfect for families, couples and solo travelers wanting to join a group.

1 Hour Airboat Tours starting at $60.00

*We charge $60.00 for each additional passenger 13 years or older, and $30.00 for each additional passenger between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ride FREE!

*Maximum 7 people per tour – please contact us if you are interested in booking a larger party.

Private Airboat Tours

Our private, guided airboat tours are perfect for friends and families seeking an unforgettable Everglades airboat experience. Enjoy the luxury of total serenity of the Everglades in an intimate and exclusive setting. Let our highly-knowledgeable guides educate you on the local ecosystems, and show you around all of the beauty the river of grass has to offer. Interested in finding Alligators? Great! Prefer to go birdwatching? Awesome! Interested in flora and fauna? We can do that too! On our private tours your group is sure to have a personalized and exclusive experience that is like no other.

1 Hour Airboat Tours starting at $200.00

The perfect amount of time to explore the Everglades on airboat.  

1.5 Hour Airboat Tours starting at $275.00

Great for those who want to explore the Everglades further, spending a little extra time with the wildlife.  

2 Hour Airboat Tours starting at $375.00

For photographers and nature enthusiasts, this extra time lets you go even further into the expansiveness of the Florida Everglades, with plenty of video and photo opportunities to capture its beauty.

*Prices above include first two passengers. We charge $60.00 for each additional passenger 13 years or older, and $30.00 for each additional passenger between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ride FREE!

*Maximum 7 people per tour – please contact us if you are interested in booking a larger party.

Private Sunset Tours

Come join us on a 1.5 or 2-hour guided sunset tour and see the Everglades like never before. This unique tour is the perfect ending to a day exploring the flora and fauna of the Everglades. After touring through the river of grass, we’ll stop to enjoy the epic Everglades sunset before returning to the boat ramp for the evening. Tours may return 20-30 minutes after sundown, and departure times may vary.

1.5 Hour Sunset Airboat Tours from $375.00

Great for those who want to explore the Everglades further, spending a little extra time with the wildlife.

2 Hour Sunset Airboat Tours from $475.00

*Our private sunset tours are seasonal and are only offered November thru March.

*Prices above include first two passengers. We charge $60.00 for each additional passenger 13 years or older, and $30.00 for each additional passenger between the ages of 6 and 12. Children 5 and under ride FREE!

Helpful Tips and Discount Information

To reserve your tour, we require full payment at the time of booking.

Please note: Seeing wild life such as alligators and wild birds are not guaranteed during the tour. All dates and times are subject to change for availability. If your trip is cancelled less than 24 hours prior to tour departure, you will be issued a 50% refund. If your tour is cancelled by MEC due to weather, you will be entitled to a full refund.

Senior, Military and First Responder Discounts are available. Use these coupons when booking your tour! ID must be presented on site or tour will be charged full price.

5-STAR RATED BY OUR CUSTOMERS

Awesome tour. Jack showed us 4-5 different gators throughout the session and explained all about gator culture. Highly recommend!!

We did the Everglades tour with Chris. He was super knowledgeable about the land and wildlife and spotted all the alligators that were hiding in between the trees. It was ... read more a great ride!

Un posto magico, dove la natura prevale su tutto! Guida simpatica e vivace. Il punto di ritrovo (e di rientro) e’ proprio in mezzo al nulla: meglio organizzarsi per tempo ... read more per acqua/cibo e trasporti!

Captain Chris was very knowledgeable and perfect for our family. We appreciated the time he took to educate us about the everglades and the entire ecosystem. Highly recommend ... read more Chris to any and all ages.

The private tour with our professional and knowledgeable tour guide, Chris a local born and raised Floridian, was a big hit for my family and will be something we remember ... read more forever! The airboat ride was fun! We got to get really close to some alligators! We also felt comfortable asking a lot of questions about Florida, the Everglades, local plants and all things alligators! Chris was friendly and we learned so much from him! Although the alligators were the stars of the show, we also enjoyed seeing all the birds, fish, and local plants! As a bonus cruising around on the airboats was quite enjoyable and relaxing!!

Excellent airboat tour with lots of birds and gators! Captain Jack did a great job, even if he lost a fish or three in a tree ? Definitely recommend ... read more the 2 hours to get deeper into the Everglades and enjoy the ride!

Esperienza veramente interessante, dove abbiamo appreso come funziona quel complesso ecosistema che sono le Everglades (non è una "normale palude" come ingenuamente pensavamo!), spiegato molto bene dal nostro pilota/guida. Non ... read more sono mancati gli alligatori, ed è molto bello anche solo guardare l'ambiente mentre sfrecci sull'acqua

What an awesome experience. Capt. Chris knew his stuff and made is so much fun. Of course, we saw gators, birds, etc. But the ride itself, though the ... read more marsh and over the grass is an experience all on its own. Thanks Chris!

Amazing time out on the water. Captain Jack loves the Everglades and shares his knowledge with guests. We learned a ton and saw alligators. It was awesome.

Amazing. My kids loved it. Ask for Jack. He's awesome.

We had such a GREAT TIME, even with the weather. Captain Jack gave us a fun and informative tour and truly enjoys what he does. We saw gators, various birds, ... read more learned about local fauna, and even learned some fun local stories. Highly recommend and plan on bringing my family next time!

Captain jack was the man to do the job for us. It was pouring rain and he still kept our dream alive and showed us a beautiful gator. Not to ... read more mention he is very knowledgeable in his field and can answer anything your curiosity can think of! If you have Jack as your captain then you are in for a treat for sure!!

General Information

Airboat Ramp 5334 FL-90, Miami, FL 33185

Phone: (888) 428-6770

Email: [email protected]  

Don’t miss out! Schedule a Tour Today!

Miami everglades connection airboat tours.

Our airboat ramp is conveniently located only 27 minutes from Miami Beach and 22 minutes from Miami International Airport. We are 1.2 miles west from the Miccosukee Resort & Gaming.

THE 10 BEST Everglades National Park Tours & Excursions

Everglades national park tours.

• Ports of Call Tours
• Walking Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Private Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Helicopter Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide

2. Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Small Group Kayak Tour

3. 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour

4. Everglades Airboat, Wildlife Experience with roundtrip transfer

5. 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park

6. Small Group Motorboat Eco Tour of the Everglades

7. Flamingo Everglades Boat Tours

8. Everglades National Park Biologist Led Hike, 2 boat trips + lunch

9. Everglades National Park Boat Tour

10. Two-Hour Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour

11. Guided Airboat Ride & Tram Tour in Everglades

12. Dolphin and Manatee Boat Tour in 10,000 Islands NWR

13. Everglades National Park Biologist Led Adventure: Cruise, Hike + Airboat

14. Everglades Day Safari from Ft Lauderdale

15. 2Hr Private Boat Rental in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

16. Everglades National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour

17. Miami Combo: City Tour, Biscayne Bay Cruise and Everglades Airboat Ride

18. Boat Ride in 10,000 Islands + Biologist Led Walk in the Everglades Small Group

19. Everglades Tour in Miami

20. Manatee, Dolphin and 10,000 Islands Sunset Cruise!

21. Everglades Express Small Group Tour from Miami with Airboat Ride

22. Four Hour 45 Yacht Tour in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

23. Full-Day Kayak Adventure in the Everglades

24. Everglades National Park Dolphin, Birding and Wildlife Boat Tour (2 hours)

25. Ultimate Florida Self Guided Driving Audio Tour Bundle

26. Everglades Airboat with or without pick-up

27. Full Day Everglades: Biologist Led WET walk + 2 boat trips + lunch small group

28. ULTIMATE Key West Dolphin Watch and other boat options

29. 50' Yacht Rental in Miami Beach with Captain and Champagne

30. Everglades Kayak & Canoe Rentals

What travelers are saying.

• hailey p 2 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles worth it this was a great way to learn about and see a part of the park in 1 day and take an airboat ride in the everglades. our guide Ryan was very knowledgeable and i’m glad we had him to teach us about the flora, fauna, and history! Read more Review of: 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park Written May 2, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• 60 min. Everglades Airboat ride & pick-up ,small group +pro guide
• 10000 Islands Everglades Boat Tour
• 1-Hour Air boat Ride and Nature Walk with Naturalist in Everglades National Park
• Manatees and Mangrove Tunnels Small Group Kayak Tour
• Everglades National Park Self Guided Driving Audio Tour
• Florida Outdoor Adventures - Guided Everglades Kayak Tours
• German Tours Everglades LLC
• Everglades Birding

Everglades Tours & Airboat Rides Near Miami, Florida

Our email system is currently down. please direct all emails to [email protected] we apologize for the inconvenience..

• Most Popular
• We are currently at our secondary location on HWY 27, please review your confirmation email for more details!
• Clock 1 - 2 hours

Private & Semi-Private Airboat Tours

On this custom tour, you see and hear remarkable stories of the history of the Everglades while experiencing Florida wildlife.

• Clock 1.5 - 2 hours

Take a Walk Tour

This vastly preserved ecosystem is sure to surprise even the most educated biologist/naturalist. Prepare to be in awe as you venture into the Everglades.

• Clock 2 - 4 hours
• User All ages

Everglades Swamp Buggy Mud Tour

This is the perfect high-seat adventure through the landmass of what is known by many as the North American Amazon.

We are an educational thriller affiliated with the National Park Service (NPS). We are a true eco-naturalist company exploring in the raw Everglades, sharing its natural beauty and teaching along the way. We take you on many different venues that venture into different sides of the Everglades. We offer airboat, swamp buggy, canoe, kayak, pole boat, flat-bottom boats, fan boats, game trail hikes, swamp walking tours, as well as guided hunting and fishing excursions in the everglades and big cypress. Join us on a nature tour!

Fantastic Experience

Very enjoyable and unique boat tour. Knowledgeable tour guide with a great ability to interact with, and embrace nature. Some of the experiences you get on this tour are things you will not experience with any other. They run on a smaller boat, making you feel more connected to your surroundings, and allows you to interact with the guide all the more. It’s also on a route not used by other companies so you can be sure the nature you see is unspoiled and will give you the best experience of the Everglades!

-BDuggan123 | TripAdvisor

Incredible Tour

If you prefer an authentic and more intimate experience, this is the company for you. We had a fantastic trip! It was both exhilarating and educational. Our guide was very knowledgeable and keen to show off the Everglades for what it truly is – a wondrous ecosystem that we need to treasure and protect. We saw frogs, baby alligators, and birds. The scenery is breathtaking. Even our normally sulky teens were raving about it. An experience we’ll never forget, which was made all that more special by a considerate and professional guide. I recommend wholeheartedly!

-Georgina T. | TripAdvisor

Vacation Highlight

My wife, 8-year old daughter and I booked a 90-minute tour. Our guide was very engaging and knowledgable. Along the way, we stopped many times and saw all sorts of animals and plants up close including turtles and alligators (never felt dangerous). The whole experience from start to finish was stellar. Felt personal, ecologically focused, and loads of fun. It’s as wonderful as you’d expect zooming through the glorious Everglades. Will do again next time we visit and will be sure to book with these folks again. Highly recommended!

-RobinH011 | TripAdvisor

NO WALK-IN RESERVATIONS - ALL RESERVATIONS MUST BE MADE ONLINE!!

• Likely To Sell Out

EVERGLADES ECO-ADVENTURE TOUR

Quick Details

• Clock Duration: 4 hours
• Checkered Flag Daily: Yes
• User Tour guide language: English

Ticket Reservations:  RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED .  You can make reservations online, or over the phone with a debit or credit card.

🚌  Transportation: Round-trip hotel transfer from Miami Beach hotels only.

🐊 EXPERIENCE THE  BEST EVERGLADES TOUR   IN MIAMI (4 hours)  🐊

Experience the best Miami Everglades Tour with us! The excursion starts with a smooth 60-minute drive to the Everglades Park. Our experienced driver will pick you up from your hotel in our brand new 14-passenger Mercedes Sprinter.

Upon arrival at the park, you’ll embark on an exciting journey through the world-famous Florida’s Everglades National Park on a 60-minute guided airboat tour, where you’re likely to see alligators, crocodiles and other exotic wildlife. Everglades National Park is also home to hundreds of bird species and lush native flora.

After the 60-minute airboat tour, you will attend a live alligator wildlife nature show for about 30 minutes. Once the show is done, you’ll also have access to the jungle trail, observation platform and permanent exhibits before traveling back to Miami.

The duration of the tour from pick-up to drop-off is 4-4.5 hours. Round-trip hotel transfer from Miami Beach hotels only. The total time spent at the park is 2-2.5 hours.

• 60-minute Everglades airboat ride
• Enjoy an alligator show and demonstration
• Watch a 20-minute live alligator show
• Round-trip hotel transfer from Miami Beach hotels

SHARED 60-MINUTE AIRBOAT RIDE

This thrilling 1 hour airboat ride takes you to the legendary Florida Everglades National Park, recognized as the most unique ecosystem. Our professional tour guides will guide you through this natural wonder where you will encounter lush vegetation and tranquility. You will see alligators, native flora and fauna & other exotic wildlife in their habitat as you thrust through this River of Grass.

Our expansive fleet of airboats guarantees safety, comfort, and weather protection. Encounter American alligators and capture stunning photos while encountering some of the Everglades’ most fascinating creatures up close. The enclosed airboat ensures a more comfortable journey, enhancing your adventure.

20-MINUTE LIVE ALLIGATOR WILDLIFE SHOW

Witness our exclusive LIVE Gator Shows presented by the renowned Gator Boys Alligator Rescue team. These experts in gator trapping not only hand-capture these creatures but have also starred in Animal Planet’s acclaimed show! In fact, numerous episodes of the series have been filmed right at the park!

Fun & educational experience! Discover alligators, crocodiles & other exotic creatures. Learn about the conservation and preservation of one of the world’s most delicate and vital ecological systems and its inhabitants.

• Chevron down What's Included
• Round-trip hotel transfer from Miami Beach hotels only
• Narrated 60 min everglades airboat tour
• Alligator show performed by the very own Gator Boys
• Chevron down Not Included
• Food and drinks

* At the Everglades Park you’ll find the Everglades Gator Cafe where you can purchase Gator Bites and more! *

• Chevron down Hotel Pick-ups
• We pick up from most of the hotels in the Miami Beach area, if your hotel is not listed please call us or send us a message via chat.
• Pick-up location is selected at the time of booking.
• Exact pick-up time will be assigned the day before the tour date. (Pick-up times are between 7:30 AM – 10:00 AM)
• The drop-off location will be at the same location our driver picked you up from in the morning.

Transportation is in a new Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van. Maximum amount of passengers is 14.

Amenities for your comfort

14-Passenger Mercedes Sprinter

Our driver will pick you up from your hotel in a brand new Mercedes Sprinter, which can take up to 14 passengers. All seats have seat belts.

Everglades Airboat Ride

The enclosed Everglades airboats are equipped with safe, comfortable seating. You have a panoramic view from every seat.

Peer into the eyes of an American alligator and capture incredible snapshots while getting up close and personal with the Everglades’ most unique and thrilling creatures!

• Chevron down Additional Information:
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking.
• Exact pick-up time will be assigned the date before.
• Not wheelchair accessible.
• Infants must sit on laps.
• Miami- Dade County has lifted the mandatory mask mandate, therefore we will be only recommending customers to wear their face-mask as they choose to; along with this, capacities are no longer mandatory.
• Chevron down Cancellation Policy:
• You can cancel up to 48 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
• For a full refund, you must cancel at least 48 hours before the experience’s start time. (no exceptions).
• If you cancel less than 48 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
• Any changes made less than 48 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
• Cut-off times are based on the experience’s local time.
• This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

QUESTIONS ❓

If you still have questions, feel free to give us a call or text us at 305-639-8395 .

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airboat rides miami

  in everglades national park, experience the everglades up close.

Airboat Rides Miami is one of a select few facilities operating inside the heart of Everglades National Park. The Everglades are the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, home to a variety of reptiles, birds, turtles, deer, wild boars and the elusive Florida Panther.

Private & Group Everglades Airboat Tours

Airboat Rides Miami offers daily airboat tours departing every 20 – 30 minutes throughout the day. There are plenty of photo ops to catch wildlife in their natural habitat. Our experienced guides help you spot alligators, soft-shelled turtles and a variety of birds you won’t find anywhere else but the Florida Everglades.

Private airboat tours are also available for a more personal experience and extended trips into the Florida Everglades. Private tours are available by the hour. Booking in advance is recommended but not required.

Tickets purchased online will be available at the gate under your name. No additional reservations required! Airboat rides depart from: 24050 SW 8th street Miami FL 33194 Gator Park Airboat Tours. Tickets purchased online are non-refundable. Please note that National Park Entrance is not included. It is $8 for adults, free for children under 16, NPS Pass holders, military, veterans and seniors over 62.

BUY TICKETS

305.559.2255

Alligator Adventure

Looking for some serious gator action.

Tickets for Airboat Rides Miami include access to Everglades Park, the premier facility to see Florida Alligators up close.

Restaurant & Souvenir Shop

The restaurant at Gator Park offers a full lunch menu, including specialties like alligator tail and alligator sausage. Sit outside on our shaded deck and enjoy the lush scenery, and browse our Souvenir shop for that perfect gift or take-home keepsake.

BUY TICKETS 305.559.2255

Catch Up On Our Blog

Top 3 reasons to hop on an airboat ride through the everglades, alligators in the everglades national park, amazing animals you might see on everglades airboat tours.

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Airboat Tours & Park Hours

9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Airboat Tours depart every 20-30 min, no reservations required! Tickets purchased online are available at the gate under your name. Just show your payment receipt at the will-call counter, and we will print your tickets!

Last airboat ride: 5:00 pm

Adult Airboat Ride Admission $29.99

Included in this package.

• Free admission for children ages 5 and younger
• Guided Airboat Tour of the Everglades National Park  35-40 min
• Amazing Photo Ops to capture native wildlife in their natural habitat Don’t forget your camera!
• Souvenir Shopping: Everglades souvenirs, Native American crafts, hand crafted leather goods
• Opportunity to try some of the best alligator tail, frog legs & catfish the Everglades has to offer at our cafe

Child 6-11 y.o.  Airboat Ride Admission $19.99 Children under 6 ride for free!

Private airboat experience starts at $425.00  gratuity is included.

Want more out of your Everglades experience? Charter your own private airboat, and have one of our top notch guides take you on a personalized adventure. Travel 12-15 miles into the heart of everglades national park. This is a once in a lifetime experience your family will never forget.

• Private Airboat Tour of the Everglades National Park*
• Amazing Photo Ops to capture native wildlife in their natural habitat Don’t forget your camera!

*Tickets purchased online are available at the gate. Tours depart from 24050 SW 8th street Miami FL 33194.

Airboat Rides Miami

Gator Park 24050 SW 8th Street Miami, Florida 33194 305.559.2255 [email protected]

Transportation to the park: Lyft or Uber. For group transportations please contact us at 305-559-2255

Additional services may be purchased at our best available rate. National Park Entrance Fee will be collected at the gate.

Offers are not valid in conjunction with any other offer or contract. Gratuities are not included, unless otherwise noted.

Customers are no longer allowed to hold a live baby alligator for a photo. Thank you for your understanding!

The management reserves the right to postpone or cancel tours due to weather.

Transportation provided by a third party.

Protect Your Trip »

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

Getty Images

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.

You might also be interested in:

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GENERAL ADMISSION + AIRBOAT TOUR (WALK-IN): Adult $35 | Child (4-11): $27 | Ages Under 4: Free

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Airboat rides, shows & encounters.

Open Daily 9 am to 5:30 pm. Come and Escape to the everglades with us! Closed December 25th, open every other day normal operating hours.

DISCOVER THE EVERGLADES ON AN AIRBOAT ADVENTURE

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ALLIGATOR ENCOUNTER

Come meet some adorable baby gators and even get a chance to hold a three-foot alligator! Our tour allows you to feed over 250 of these amazing creatures. It’s a must-do for all the gator enthusiasts in your group!

• Hour Glass 1 hour

FEATURED EVERGLADES ALLIGATOR ADVENTURES

• Hour Glass 3 hours

VIP EXPERIENCE

Love all things gators? Book this incredible three-hour experience in the Florida Everglades that includes our best three tours in one! See alligators, cruise through the Everglades, and more.

• Hour Glass 45-60 minutes
• Users All ages

EXTENDED PRIVATE AIRBOAT TOUR

Take a private airboat tour with room for up to 15 people in one party! Learn all about the natural wildlife in the beautiful Everglades and get general admission to the park.

AT EVERGLADES ALLIGATOR FARM

South Florida’s oldest alligator farm, the Everglades Alligator Farm, is located near the entrance of Everglades National Park and contains more than 2,000 alligators.

A trip to the Everglades Alligator Farm includes an exciting airboat tour, an alligator show, and an alligator feeding demonstration! If you are headed to Key Largo or Key West, this is an attraction you absolutely won’t want to miss.

BEST AIRBOAT RIDE IN SOUTH FLORIDA

I went here today with my husband and paid about $60 for both of us, and that is already including airboat show in the package which I highly recommend. This is a great spot to check out when in South Florida. We spent about three hours in the place. Staffs are friendly and shows were very entertaining.

A quick adventure, not too long but enough to get a feel for the land. We loved the 360 turns, even got soaked (or a little wet) depending on where you sit. You can feed an Emu, see the anaconda and fun gift shop too. We loved the baby alligator pen and holding a baby alligator was unforgettable! The alligator feeding and alligator show was great, the gentleman who hosted was even better. Very friendly, patient with kids and informative/educational.

We had a lot of fun here, the animals look like they are taken good care of and Liz was great, she did all the shows on this day (gator, snakes, feeding) and we thought she did an amazing job! The airboat tour was also great, it’s loud but you get ear protection and we saw gators!

As an animal lover, this was just about the best part of our 5 day trip here. I loved the great info from both shows and got to hold a baby alligator too! Over 250 alligators to see of all sizes. If you cant decide whether to add the boat ride, think no more, add it. Very fun, safe and once in a lifetime experience. All so affordable.

Highly recommend visiting this place. It was one of the best experience on our holiday. We booked an animal experience tour which was great, we all loved it and many thanks to our great guide! He was so nice and knowledgeable and made the tour really enjoyable for the kids too. Thank you!

I hadn't had high expectations because the price was lower than other options I had looked into. Tyler was engaging and informative for the alligator feeding and show. Jose was a great tour guide on the fan boat through the everglades. There is a reptile exhibit among other animals to view included with the general admission. My two young kids had a great time as well. It's couple and kid-friendly!

Not just a roadside attraction - but also very educational. The folks who gave the talks where very informative about the reptiles and conservation starts with education. The airboat ride was very fun and VERY wet - too short though. Spent about 3 hours there.

They keep adding to it and it's grown substantially since my last visit. Well worth the admission fee of $27.00 USD which does not include the swamp bait ride. I think it was $32.00 all inclusive. This place does a great job through it's alligator feeding and taming exhibitions. In addition to alligators, they have crocodiles, bobcats, parakeets, large turtles, a snake exhibit, and much more. On this trip, there was no snake show with used to be part of the schedule. I'm not sure if it was discontinued or just not available on the day we went. You are free to bring in your own food and enjoy a nice picnic at one of their many picnic tables. Your entire experience takes about three hours. It's quite educational and I highly recommend it.

You can do the whole thing (feeding demo, airboat ride, show) in around two hours. They have over 400 alligators and a variety of other animals on exhibit. There are several enclosures with baby alligators. The airboat ride is 20 minutes of fun if you get the right guide. Ours was awesome. You actually learn a lot that you may not know about gators.

PRESENTED BY TRAVELODGE BY WYNDHAM

Everything you need to know about Everglades National Park

Plan your trip to the southern tip of Florida to visit the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States.

Why you should go to Everglades National Park

Sprawling between South Florida’s Lake Okeechobee and the Gulf of Mexico, the Everglades is one of the world’s largest tropical wetlands. About 20 percent of the region is protected within the confines of Everglades National Park , the third largest national park after Death Valley and Yellowstone in the lower 48 states. While the park’s main purpose is preserving wilderness, Everglades also provides plenty of scope for outdoor adventure.

Although technically a wetland , perhaps it’s best to think of the Everglades as the nation’s slowest, widest river—a constant stream of freshwater roughly 60 miles wide, moving at a speed of around 2.5 miles per day as it makes its way south to Florida Bay. The Seminole people called the region Okeechobee (“river of grass”). And while a large part of the Everglades is covered in razor-sharp sawgrass, the region also encompasses mangroves , tropical hardwood hammocks (island forests), pine and cypress forests, freshwater prairie, and various marine and estuarine habitats.

(This ambitious new trail will someday connect South Florida’s two national parks.)

“A visitor with an untrained eye—especially one used to the dramatic vistas of some western national parks—might arrive at Everglades National Park and think ‘What's the big deal?’” says Eve Samples, executive director of Friends of the Everglades. “It's a park that requires you to really train your eye and be mindful and be present. When you do that, you can experience some really incredible and subtle nature.”

Where to find the best views in the park

With elevation ranging between sea level and eight feet, it’s not easy to snatch a lofty view of the park anywhere other than the 70-foot-high Shark Valley Observation Tower . Opened in 1984, the futuristic spiral renders views of up to 20 miles across the Everglades.

Fourteen miles west of Coe Visitor Center along the Main Park Road, the Pa-Hay-Okee boardwalk and elevated shade shelter provides another wide view across the river of grass.

One of the best coastal views is from the second-floor breezeway of the Guy Bradley Visitor Center in Flamingo.

Where to find the park’s best trails

Located near Coe Visitor Center, the Gumbo Limbo Trail (0.4 mile) and Anhinga Trail (0.8 mile) meander through Royal Palm hammock, while the 22-mile Long Pine Key Trails   penetrate the park’s largest stand of native pines.

Dead flat and paved, the 15-mile Shark Valley Trail varies between sawgrass marsh and tropical hardwood hammocks. Despite the name, there aren’t any sharks, just snoozing gators to step around (at a safe distance, of course).

Where to spot wildlife

Flamingo village is surprisingly good for wildlife. Osprey hatch and raise their young on nesting towers beside the marina, while manatees and American crocodile are sometimes spotted in the bay and nearby mangrove channels.

Alligators   routinely emerge from the swamp and sun themselves on or beside the Shark Valley Trail . It’s also a primo bird habitat for creepy-looking wood storks, gorgeous roseate spoonbills, and anhinga “snakebirds.”

Other places to watch gators and birdlife are the Anhinga Trail and Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk   in Fakahatchee Strand Preserve State Park adjacent to the national park.

(Go on a wildlife odyssey through the Everglades and Key West.)

How to visit the park like a Nat Geo Explorer

National Geographic Young Explorer and conservation biologist Gabriela Tejeda has guided visitors along the park’s Florida Bay coast in boats, kayaks, and on paddleboards.

Her favorite way to explore inland areas is "slough slogging." It entails hiking in knee-to-waist-high water through sawgrass to reach secluded hardwood hammocks   or cypress domes —flora and fauna rich arboreal islands in the sawgrass.

When viewed from above, the domes form a rough circle around a pond. “What I didn’t know the first time I explored a dome,” Tejeda recalls, “is that the water in the middle is an ‘alligator hole’—a place where they hang out in the winter when the rest of the Everglades is drying out.”

“[The cypress domes] are unlike anything I had ever seen,” Tejeda continues. “I like to equate them to a fairy tale—a little fairy dome where you just feel like there’s going to be something magical flying around.” No fairy sightings so far. “But I always see owls and alligators and snakes.”

She highly recommends joining a ranger-led slough slog to Double Dome or other cypress domes along the Main Park Road.

Notable activities and excursions

Driving:   The Main Park Road runs through a variety of Everglades ecosystems—freshwater prairie, cypress forest, mangrove, and coastal marsh — on a 38-mile journey between the Coe Visitor Center and Flamingo . Along the way are sideroads to the Royal Palm trails, Historic Nike Missile Site , the   Mahogany Hammock boardwalk trail, and West Lake Boardwalk .

Tours:   Shark Valley offers two-hour narrated tram tours that stop at the Shark Valley Observation Tower. January through April, rangers lead Full Moon/New Moon Bike Rides and other activities.

Narrated boat tours depart from Flamingo and Everglades City . The latter is also homebase for private outfitters offering airboat tours, including Everglades City Airboat Tours. History buffs should visit the town’s small but interesting Museum of the Everglades .

Paddling:   Flamingo and Everglades City bookend the Everglades’ ultimate kayak/canoe experience —the Wilderness Waterway —a 99-mile meander through mangroves and marshes with raised platform “chickee hut” campsites along the way. Everglades City is also the starting point for self-guided paddles along the Turner River Canoe Trails .

Best things to do for families

Bikes & boats:   If keeping kids active is your mission, rent bikes and dodge snoozing alligators along the Shark Valley Tram Trail or explore Florida Bay and the mangroves by boat. Flamingo Adventures   offers canoe and kayak rentals in two-hour increments, as well as full-day pontoon boat rentals.

Tours:   Hop aboard a narrated boat tour of Florida Bay (from Flamingo Marina) or the Ten Thousand Islands (from Port Everglades); or feel the wind in your face during an adrenaline-pumping airboat ride from outfitters around the periphery of the park.

Junior Rangers:   Offered in English, Spanish, and Haitian Creole, the park’s Junior Ranger Booklet features hands-on and self-guided activities including a scavenger hunt to spot wild animals that call the park home.

The park also participates in the Every Kid Outdoors program that provides vouchers for fourth graders and their families in the U.S. to visit the Everglades (and other national parks) free of charge for an entire year.

Where to stay

Hotels: Destroyed by a hurricane in 2005, Flaming Lodge is open again with new waterview rooms. Outside the park, the closest hotels are in Homestead and Doral (on the eastern edge of the park) and Everglades City, Marco Island, and Naples (beyond the western edge).

Houseboats: Modern, six-person, 42-foot houseboats at Flamingo Marina are equipped with a bathroom (and with shower), an indoor galley, outside grill, air conditioning, bedding, and fish-cutting tables.

Camping: Long Pine Key Campground is open November 1 to April 30. Flamingo Campground is open year-round. Both feature bath houses, dump stations, and potable water. Reservations highly recommended. For camping with the comforts of home, Winter Glamping Tents are available November-April in Flamingo.

Wilderness camping is allowed on certain ground or beach sites or “chickees” (elevated camping platforms). Most sites are accessible only by water and all require wilderness permits. Reservations at Recreation.gov .

Here’s what else you need to know

Access: Although the entire coast is open to exploration via watercraft, land-bound visitors have three options for entering the park: Everglades Homestead in the east, Shark Valley in the north, and Gulf Coast in the northwest.

When to visit:   The dry season (December to March) is when most ranger programs and park concessions are available. This is also the best time to see wading birds and other wildlife. The wet season (April to November) is hot, humid, buggy, and has fewer park services.

“Many people prefer the winter for the terrific weather,” says ranger Allyson Gantt. “But each season offers something special. The shoulder seasons of fall and spring are less busy and may offer more solitude. Summer is especially great for boating and other water activities.”

Closures: A multi-year construction project to raise the level of the Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41) often features delays. Shark Valley parking is often full by 10 a.m. Check out the latest road, trail, and parking lot conditions, plus weather and prescribed burning alerts at the park’s   conditions page.  

Fishing: Unless you’re under 16 or a Florida resident 65 or older, a state fishing license is required. Anglers casting south of Nine Mile Pond need a saltwater fishing license; from Nine Mile Pond northwards, a freshwater fishing license is mandatory.

Swimming: Swimming and snorkeling are forbidden anywhere inside the park.

Remote control aircraft: Drones, model airplanes, and similar unmanned aircraft are not allowed in the park.

Read before you go:   Originally published in 1947, the definitive Everglades book remains The Everglades: River of Grass ,   by Florida writer and conservationist Marjory Stoneman Douglas.

Are pets allowed?  

Because of the park’s wildlife-rich environment—and the potential threat that it poses to both pets and wild animals—pets and service animals are only allowed in parking lots, on boats, and in the campgrounds and picnic areas at Flamingo and Long Pine Key.

How accessible is Everglades?

Among the accessible sites and services are seven trails, all four visitors centers, two developed campgrounds and one backcountry campsite, narrated boat tours, and the Shark Valley Tram Tour. Visitor information via TDD is available at (305) 242-7740.

Related Topics

• NATIONAL PARKS
• BACKCOUNTRY CAMPING

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‘There was no time': Driver describes moment tour bus burst into flames on I-595

The fire broke out of the bus in the westbound lanes of the highway between nob hill road and pine island road on friday, by nbc6 • published may 1, 2024 • updated on may 1, 2024 at 6:04 pm.

The driver who was able to evacuate and save dozens of tourists from a bus that went up in flames in the middle of Interstate 595 in Broward last week is speaking out for the first time.

Derek Sanberg, an independent contractor who was driving the 48 tourists to the Florida Everglades, is being called a hero after successfully evacuating multiple people from the burning bus Friday afternoon.

"All of a sudden, as I was getting to that 595 part, Nob Hill area... I noticed the smell," said Sanberg. "And as I turned to the right, another vehicle came by and he's like, pointing down, ‘Smoke, smoke, pull over.'"

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The fire broke out in the westbound lanes of the highway between Nob Hill Road and Pine Island Road.

"At first, I was just like, okay, maybe it's not as serious. It's just a flat tire or some exhaust; it's just an engine or whatever, but it just grew all of a sudden. It happened just like that," said Sanberg. "And I just thank God, really, man, my faith in God."

Sanberg said everything happened very quickly.

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"As I was pulling, I'm seeing more smoke and more smoke. Then I saw some flames immediately," said Sanberg. "As soon as I pulled off, I stop, engine cut, brakes cut, everything. I immediately pressed the buttons, doors open and I said, 'Everybody out, everybody out.'"

Cellphone video from witnesses showed the moments after the fire broke out, with the bus completely engulfed in flames and thick black smoke rising into the air.

“Two minutes guys, two minutes it took," said Sanberg. "I used to work as a public school, yellow bus school driver. They train you for these evacuations and they're always saying two minutes. That's all it takes for that thing to be in flames."

An incident report released by the Florida Highway Patrol said the Davie Fire Department chief determined the fire originated in the engine, located in the rear of the bus, and that a mechanical issue was the cause of the fire.

Aerial footage from Chopper 6 showed all westbound lanes closed as Davie Fire Rescue crews doused the bus with water. The lanes later reopened, but not before the closure caused major delays.

The double-decker bus appeared to have been completely destroyed by the fire. The passengers could be seen standing on the side of the highway nearby.

"They were so awesome, so peaceful, so calm, so helpful," said Sanberg when asked about the tourists. "They were awesome as we gathered; as I tried to gather the others, I was trying to figure out where the others were, and I was reassured that nobody was left in the bus."

"I love what I do, and it's good to, you know, to be able to act upon what you're trained for and what you, you know, kind of like been doing for so many years and just be able to save lives and be able to, you know, bring people back to their families," said Sanberg. "It really just seemed like the stars aligned for everyone to make it out."

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