Airboat tour of the everglades
Whether you are based in Miami or looking to escape the hustle of Orlando, South Florida offers a wealth of outdoor adventures. With its two National Parks and excellent snorkeling opportunities, Everglades National Park should be a priority on your itinerary.
This destination can be seamlessly included in a longer road trip featuring Biscayne National Park and the Florida Keys, or it can serve as an enriching day trip from Miami. For first-time visitors, it is advisable to plan carefully, as there are numerous activities to enjoy—from kayak tours to hiking the scenic Anhinga Trail, a brief round-trip hike of 0.8 miles.
Everglades National Park: Historical Overview
As the largest subtropical wilderness in the United States, Everglades National Park is the third largest park in the contiguous United States, following Death Valley and Yellowstone. Furthermore, it has been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, an International Biosphere Reserve, and recognized as a Wetland of International Importance.
The park faces persistent threats from invasive plant and animal species, particularly the lionfish and the Burmese python. The latter has established a foothold in the park due to both accidental and intentional releases from pet owners, thriving in this environment to the detriment of local wildlife.
These invasive species have been devastating native animal populations with their considerable appetite. Various conservation groups are diligently working to control their spread, although progress has been slow. The Everglades is a remarkable ecosystem worth protecting for its biodiversity and natural beauty.
Optimal Times to Visit Everglades National Park
The ideal time for exploration is during the dry season, despite the park being open year-round. Although visitors can enjoy the park at any time, it is advisable to steer clear of hurricane season and the intense summer months.
Accessing the Park
Located about an hour’s drive from Miami, the park is easily accessible, with the most frequented entry point being the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. An alternative access point is the Shark Valley Area, where the visitor center serves as a prime stopping point prior to entering that section of the park.
Entrance Fees
The typical entrance fee for the park ranges from $20 to $35, depending on the type of vehicle (bike versus car). For those contemplating visits to multiple national parks or forests, the America the Beautiful National Parks Pass offers a viable option.
Wildlife of Everglades National Park
The Everglades is home to numerous endangered species, including manatees, sea turtles, and the Florida panther. Additionally, it is one of the premier destinations for observing other abundant wildlife, such as American crocodiles and great blue herons.
Everglades National Park offers some of the most unique bird watching and wildlife viewing experiences in the U.S. I encountered species such as Snowy Egrets, Anhingas, and American Purple Gallinules during my visit.Wading birds of the Everglades
The Everglades constitutes a critical breeding ground for wading birds in North America, with habitats supporting over 400 species. Additionally, it serves as a key stopover point for the critically endangered Yellow-throated Warbler during migration.
Due to climate change and rising sea levels, many of these bird species are facing extinction, highlighting the urgency of protecting the Everglades’ unique ecological resources.
Exploring Everglades National Park: The Alligator Experience
Everglades National Park is renowned for its large population of alligators. However, let’s clarify the distinction between alligators and crocodiles for safe encounters with these formidable creatures.
Walk or bike with alligators
Alligators have a broad, U-shaped snout, while crocodiles possess a narrower, pointed snout. When their mouths are closed, crocodiles seem to smile due to their visible teeth. Notably, crocodiles prefer saltwater environments, whereas alligators thrive in freshwater marshes and lakes.
Now that this distinction is clear, visitors have opportunities to walk or bike alongside alligators basking in the sun along waterways. Although it may be intimidating, witnessing these majestic reptiles in their natural habitat is certainly exhilarating; however, it is important to maintain a safe distance, as they are wild animals.
Experiencing the Gator Show
Prior to embarking on an airboat tour, attending the gator show is a must. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the fascinating lives of alligators and have the chance to see live demonstrations, including opportunities for photos with baby alligators.
Photo opportunity with alligators
It is crucial to wash your hands after handling baby alligators, as they can carry germs such as salmonella. While show hosts may assert that alligators are among the cleanest animals, they nevertheless inhabit the same waters where they defecate.
Airboat Rides: A Unique Perspective
An airboat tour is undoubtedly one of the best methods to explore the Everglades. This experience allows you to get up close to the mangroves, diverse bird species, and alligators, revealing the enchanting essence of this natural wonder.
Best way to see the everglades
Various options for airboat tours are available from multiple companies, making it convenient to find one that suits your preferences.
A Stop at Robert is Here
Before fully immersing yourself in the park’s stunning natural landscapes, consider stopping at Robert is Here, a nearby farm stand renowned for its exceptional passion fruit smoothies.
Don’t forget to enjoy some boiled peanuts while there, as their delightful saltiness is sure to please.
Final Reflections
The Everglades teems with biodiversity and stands as a premier national park. Additionally, combining visits to Everglades National Park with Biscayne National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park creates an enriching experience for nature enthusiasts.
Snorkeling in Key Largo
Continuing beyond the Everglades, travelers will reach the Florida Keys, starting with Key Largo, an excellent location for snorkeling. Just a short boat ride away lies a vibrant reef brimming with life, surrounded by barracudas, tangs, and a plethora of tropical fish amongst the coral gardens. Thus, it is advisable to plan a lengthier stay in South Florida to fully immerse yourself in this incredible wildlife destination.
