Florida Keys: Up The Keys Nature Tour

Exploring the Florida Keys: A Closer Look at the Up The Keys Nature Tour

If you’re considering a way to experience the Florida Keys beyond just lounging on the beach, the Up The Keys Nature Tour promises a taste of the area’s unique wildlife, stunning scenery, and iconic landmarks—all in just four hours. This guided excursion is perfect if you’re after a mix of wildlife encounters, scenic drives, and a chance to dip your toes in both the Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico.

What we really like about this tour is how it balances natural beauty with educational moments. You’ll get to see the endangered Key Deer up close—something many visitors find memorable—and enjoy breathtaking views over the famous 7-Mile Bridge. Plus, the visit to Bahia Honda State Park offers a genuine chance to relax by the water and soak in the scenery. On the flip side, it’s a relatively short tour, so if you’re craving a full day of activity or underwater adventures, it might feel a bit light.

All in all, this tour is well-suited for travelers who love nature, want a manageable half-day outing, and appreciate small-group experiences. It might not satisfy those looking for a more adrenaline-filled or extensive exploration, but for a relaxed, informative taste of the Keys, it hits the mark.

Key Points

• Wildlife Encounters: The tour offers a rare chance to see the endangered Key Deer in their natural habitat, often up close enough to photograph.
• Iconic Landmarks: Driving over the 7-Mile Bridge provides sweeping views, making it a highlight for many visitors.
• Natural Beauty: Bahia Honda State Park is a tranquil spot to enjoy the water and scenery, with opportunities to dip your toes in both the Gulf of Mexico and Atlantic Ocean.
• Educational Value: The guide shares insights into the history, ecology, and culture of the area, adding depth to the experience.
• Small-Group Feel: Limited to 10 participants, the tour feels intimate and allows for more personal interaction.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off make it a straightforward outing without the hassle of navigating yourself.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Florida Keys: Up The Keys Nature Tour

This tour offers a balanced mix of driving, wildlife watching, and scenic stops, making it an appealing option for those wanting a broad overview of the Keys in just a few hours. It’s designed to be accessible, informative, and visually stunning, with plenty of opportunities for photos and nature appreciation.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The journey begins with a drive over the 7-Mile Bridge, one of the most iconic structures in the Keys. As you cross, you’ll enjoy expansive views of the water—whether it’s the Gulf or the Atlantic—creating a sense of connection with this barrier island chain. Many reviews highlight how memorable this drive is; one traveler noted, “The views from the bridge are truly breathtaking, and it’s a good way to get a sense of the scale of the Keys.”

Next, the tour visits the National Key Deer Refuge for the Key Deer Safari. These delicate, adorable creatures are indigenous to the area and have become accustomed to human presence, often approaching visitors. We loved the chance to see these tiny deer in the wild, often walking right up, which makes for fantastic photo opportunities. Reviews mention that most of these deer are quite tolerant of humans, but it’s important to be respectful and avoid touching them.

Following the deer encounter, the group heads to the Blue Hole, a wildlife hotspot where you might spot alligators, turtles, and various fish. The location is perfect for wildlife observation and offers a peaceful setting amidst nature. Reviewers describe it as an excellent spot to see local animals in their natural environment.

The final stop is Bahia Honda State Park, renowned for its pristine beaches and clear waters. Here, you can relax, dip your toes in the Gulf and Atlantic, and take in panoramic views of the water. Many visitors find this a calming conclusion to the tour, with some mentioning how soothing it is to just sit and enjoy the scenery after a busy morning.

The Experience of a Guided Small-Group Tour

One of the biggest draws of this experience is the small-group format, which limits participation to just 10 people. This means fewer crowds, more personalized attention, and ample opportunity to ask questions. The guide’s knowledge about the Keys’ ecology and history adds richness to the experience. Multiple reviews praise the guide for being friendly, informative, and engaging.

The hotel pickup simplifies logistics—no need to worry about finding parking or navigating yourself—and the tour’s duration of four hours is tight but enough to cover major highlights comfortably.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee of $128 per person covers state park entry fees, the scenic views, local guide, and hotel or vacation rental pickup. It’s a fair price considering the amount of scenery and wildlife you’ll encounter, especially given the small-group setting. However, meals, drinks, and personal expenses are not included, so plan ahead if you want to grab a snack or drink during breaks.

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Practical Tips for the Tour

• Bring comfortable shoes and a hat for sun protection—many parts of the tour are outdoors and involve walking.
• Don’t forget your camera — wildlife and scenic views are plentiful.
• Apply sunscreen and insect repellent to avoid sunburn and bug bites.
• Carry water to stay hydrated, especially if the weather is warm.
• Remember, the tour isn’t suitable for children under 3, wheelchair users, or those with back problems, due to the physical nature of some stops and access considerations.

The Value of the Florida Keys: Up The Keys Nature Tour

When evaluating whether this tour is worth the cost, consider what’s included: wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and ecological education in a small-group setting. For $128, you’re paying for a well-organized, intimate experience that offers genuine glimpses of the Keys’ natural side—something that’s often hard to find in larger, more commercial tours.

Many guests comment on the stunning views and the chance to see Key Deer up close, which for animal lovers or those seeking authentic nature experiences, makes this tour quite appealing. The drive over the 7-Mile Bridge alone often gets mentioned as a highlight, offering breathtaking vistas that are hard to match elsewhere.

While the tour is concise, it packs a lot of the essence of the Keys into a manageable morning or afternoon. You get a taste of local wildlife, beautiful water views, and the chance to learn from a knowledgeable guide, making it a well-rounded option for travelers with limited time.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits anyone interested in nature and wildlife, especially those who enjoy scenic drives and small-group settings. It’s perfect for travelers looking for a relaxing yet engaging activity that doesn’t require a full day commitment. If you prefer a more active or underwater-focused tour, this might be too tame, but if your priority is seeing key landmarks and local animals, it’s a solid pick.

It’s also a great choice for travelers who want a convenient, hassle-free way to explore the Keys, thanks to hotel pickup and a straightforward itinerary. However, if you’re traveling with very young children or have mobility concerns, it’s worth noting the activity’s limitations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 3 years old, largely because of the outdoor nature and activity level, plus limited access for wheelchairs or those with back problems.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring comfortable shoes, a hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and insect repellent. These essentials will help you enjoy the outdoor stops comfortably.

Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring a snack or purchase food during your day.

How long is the tour?
The activity lasts about 4 hours, including driving, wildlife viewing, and stops at key locations.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to 10 participants, providing a more intimate experience compared to larger group excursions.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, the tour includes hotel or vacation rental pickup, making it easy to join without logistical worries.

Can I cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In summary, the Florida Keys: Up The Keys Nature Tour offers a balanced, no-fuss way to appreciate some of the best natural sights in this iconic chain of islands. It’s best suited for those who love wildlife, scenic drives, and meaningful stories about the region’s ecology and history. While it’s a shorter outing, many find the experience well worth the price for the chance to see Key Deer, cross the famous bridge, and relax at Bahia Honda. Perfect for a quick, memorable encounter with the heart of the Keys’ natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: