Introduction to the Everglades
Due to the favorable climate in Florida year-round, there are numerous activities to enjoy during your visit; however, a prominent attraction remains the visit to The Everglades.
The Everglades is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site and constitutes the largest designated sub-tropical wilderness reserve in North America.
Its enormous expanse is truly impressive, accompanied by the diverse range of wildlife that inhabits the area.
Among the notable inhabitants are the American Alligators, and there are numerous guided tours available specifically aimed at providing opportunities to observe them in their natural environment.
Accessing the Everglades
The most straightforward way to reach the Everglades is by driving. Alternatively, tour buses may provide transport as one of their scheduled stops from Miami.
During our visit, we opted for a taxi which cost approximately $60 from Miami, a reasonable fare when shared among four passengers. However, if we had collected our rental car sooner, we would have preferred to drive ourselves.
With a plethora of tour operators available, visitors have ample options. It is generally unnecessary to make advance reservations. A simple phone call a day before to confirm arrangements can be beneficial, but we found it sufficient to arrive on-site and gain immediate access. Current pricing is typically around $20 for adults and $10 for children.
Tips for Visitors
- Leave the umbrella at home – airboats are aptly named for their speed, and umbrellas can easily be blown away in harsh weather.
- Bring a camera strap if planning to document your visit, as dropping a camera can be disastrous.
- Expect noise. Each boat provides earplugs, which are recommended since the engine noise can be quite loud.
- Ask questions! The guided tours are excellent opportunities to learn from local experts about the Everglades.
- Consider staying afterwards to view alligators and crocodiles in the park, especially if you missed encountering them during the tour.
- Avoid falling overboard! Safety first.
It is worth noting that this article includes numerous photographs to provide a more immersive experience of visiting the Everglades.
For additional insights on the Everglades, you can explore the 10 Best Things To Do In The Everglades, Florida.