Everglades National Park: 3 Hikes + 90 minute Boat Tour + Lunch

If you’re considering a day trip to the Everglades, you’ll want to hear about this particular tour that promises a well-rounded glimpse into one of Florida’s most captivating wilderness areas. While I haven’t done this exact experience myself, I’ve thoroughly researched it and talked to travelers who have, and I can tell you it’s designed for those who genuinely want to see the Everglades beyond just snapping photos.

What I really like about this tour is how it combines three different habitats for hiking—giving you a feel for the diversity of this unique ecosystem—paired with a 90-minute boat ride through mangroves, where you’ll see wildlife in action. Plus, it’s a small-group setting, which usually means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

A potential snag? The full eight-hour schedule makes this a long day, which might be a bit much if you’re not used to extensive outdoor activities or early mornings. Still, if you’re after an immersive experience with expert guides, this tour is likely to suit nature lovers and curious travelers alike.

This trip seems best for those who value expert-guided education, wish to see a variety of natural habitats, and enjoy wildlife spotting. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group of friends, it offers a detailed look at the Everglades without feeling too touristy.

Key Points

• Small-group format (less than 12 guests) for a more intimate experience
• Expert guides are licensed Master Naturalists or biologists, ensuring insightful commentary
• Combines hiking through three habitats and a boat tour for diverse perspectives
• Includes a picnic lunch with vegan and vegetarian options, snacks, and drinks
• Only permitted operator in the Everglades, Big Cypress, and Dry Tortugas National Parks
• Nice balance of education and adventure, suitable for those who love wildlife and nature

What to Expect from the Tour Experience

This tour is a solid choice if you’re after a full day immersed in the natural beauty and wildlife of the Everglades. The process begins early, with pickup from Homestead, FL, around 7:00 am. The journey kicks off with a scenic drive, giving you a chance to hear about Miami’s history from your guide—an added bonus that sets the tone for the day ahead.

The Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: Miami
Your guide will share some stories about Miami’s past during the roughly hour-long drive. This helps you get a sense of the area before heading into the wilderness.

Stop 2: Everglades Visitor’s Center
A quick stop here allows you to pick up maps and souvenirs, plus get an overview of the park’s layout. This is a good chance to ask questions or get more info about what you’ll see.

Stop 3: Anhinga Trail
This is where the day’s wildlife excitement truly begins. Known as the best spot for spotting American Alligators, the trail winds through the “River of Grass,” offering a close-up view of the ecosystem. Expect to see numerous native birds, fish, and turtles—it’s the kind of spot where wildlife often surprises you. One reviewer mentioned, “We love the way the guides spot wildlife and explain their behavior,” highlighting the value of having experienced guides.

Stop 4: 90-Minute Boat Tour
The highlight for many—this boat trip takes you through the second largest mangrove forest in the world. You’ll glide through backwaters where dolphins, crocodiles, manatees, and a variety of birds like white pelicans and flamingos are commonly seen. It offers a different perspective, emphasizing the park’s rich aquatic life. After the boat ride, you’ll enjoy a picnic lunch with vegan and vegetarian options, plus snacks and drinks to keep you energized.

Stop 5: Pineland Trail
Walking this trail introduces you to endangered Pinelands, a rare ecosystem with threatened butterflies, snails, and plants. Since only about 5% of this habitat remains, it’s a rare chance to see Florida’s less common landscape.

Stop 6: Mahogany Hammock
This lush trail showcases a tropical hardwood hammock, a rare Florida environment. Expect to walk among mahogany, fern, and Gumbo Limbo trees, and possibly spot barred owls or snakes. The guide’s knowledge really shines here, as they can identify flora and fauna you might otherwise miss.

Stop 7: Robert Is Here Fruit Stand
A fun, casual stop to sample local fruits—think smoothies or milkshakes—perfect for cooling down after a day in the sun.

The Value of the Tour

For $275 per person, you’re getting an all-day guided experience with expert naturalists—something that’s difficult to match for the price considering the included activities, transportation, and meals. The fact that Wild Lime Adventures holds special permits to operate within the park adds a layer of credibility and access that most other operators lack.

Many travelers comment on how knowledgeable their guides are. One reviewer raved about Elijah, who was “completely ready for the day,” and another called Mike “a fantastic guide.” Having a trained biologist or Master Naturalist leading the way elevates the experience from a simple tour to an educational adventure. Their ability to spot wildlife and share insights makes all the difference.

What’s Good and What’s Not

The small group size ensures you’re not just another face in the crowd, and the personalized attention helps you get more out of every stop. The inclusion of lunch and snacks makes the trip feel well-organized and comfortable, especially since it’s a full day on your feet.

A couple of reviews mention the tour being “educational” and “incredible,” reinforcing how much value the guides add. One traveler mentioned that an unexpected kayak upgrade turned out to be a highlight, illustrating the flexibility and responsiveness of the tour operators.

However, this is a long day—about eight hours—so it’s best suited to those who enjoy outdoor activities, don’t mind early mornings, and can handle a packed schedule. If you’re more of a relaxed traveler, be prepared for a full day of exploration.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour works best for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to learn about the Everglades from knowledgeable guides. It’s also ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive, immersive experience in the park, rather than just a quick visit or a “drive-by” tour. Families with older children who can handle walking and boat rides might also find it engaging, but younger kids might find the full-day commitment challenging.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, an air-conditioned vehicle picks you up and drops you off at the designated meeting point.

Are vegetarian and vegan options available for lunch?
Absolutely. The included picnic lunch offers vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices.

How long is the boat tour?
The boat trip lasts approximately 90 minutes and takes you through the back-country of the Everglades.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour generally hosts up to 28 travelers, but most groups are smaller—less than 12 guests—ensuring a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but the full-day schedule and outdoor activities mean it’s best for those comfortable with walking and boat rides.

Do I need to bring anything?
It’s wise to bring sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses. Snacks and drinks are provided, but you might want extra water.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Where does the tour start?
Meet at South Tip Farm Stand in Homestead, FL, at 7:00 am.

Will we see wildlife?
While wildlife sightings can’t be guaranteed, many travelers report seeing alligators, crocodiles, manatees, and numerous bird species during the tour.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and educational glimpse into the Everglades, this tour offers a fantastic balance of hiking, boat exploration, and expert guidance. The small-group setting ensures you’ll get attention and insights that elevate the experience beyond just sightseeing. The inclusion of a picnic lunch and the flexibility to see a variety of habitats makes it a well-rounded choice for those truly interested in Florida’s unique wilderness.

While it’s a full-day commitment, the chance to see wildlife in their natural environment and learn from knowledgeable guides makes it worth considering. Be prepared for an active day, and you’ll likely come away with great photos, stories, and a deeper appreciation for this extraordinary ecosystem.

Want to Know More?

Feel free to ask questions about timing, what to pack, or specific wildlife you might see. This tour is a real gem for anyone wanting to make the most of their time exploring the Everglades in a meaningful way.