Miami: Everglades Full-Day Tour with 2 Boat Trips and Lunch

If you’re considering a day adventure that offers a true taste of Florida’s iconic wetlands, this Everglades Full-Day Tour with Wild Lime Adventures might catch your eye. It promises a comprehensive experience—combining adrenaline-pumping airboat rides, serene mangrove boat trips, cultural insights, and even some excellent local food. It’s a trip that aims to showcase the diversity of the Everglades’ ecosystem, from alligators to dolphins, while giving you a sense of the area’s natural and cultural history.

What we really like about this tour is how well-rounded it is. You get to see the wildlife up close, learn from knowledgeable guides, and enjoy a scenic, relaxing day. Plus, the small group size (limited to 12 participants) means it’s intimate enough to feel personal, not rushed. However, a potential consideration is that it involves a moderate amount of walking, which might be a factor for those with mobility issues or very young children. Overall, it’s best suited to travelers who want a full, engaging day immersed in nature — especially those who love wildlife, photography, or simply want to learn more about this unique environment.

Key Points

• Highly rated experience with a 4.8/5 from over 210 reviews
• Includes two boat trips—an exhilarating airboat ride and a mangrove cruise
• Visit a Native American village and learn about local culture
• Enjoy a delicious lunch with vegetarian and vegan options
• Small group size ensures personalized attention and a relaxed atmosphere
• Flexible cancellation policy offers peace of mind

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Day in the Everglades

The tour kicks off with a hotel pickup, making logistics one less thing to worry about. Once you’re on your way, you’ll be treated to a narrated drive through Miami en route to the Everglades, where your guides share insights about the landscape, flora, fauna, and local history. This part really helps set the scene for what’s to come.

The Airboat Ride — 75 Minutes of Heart-Pumping Fun

The first highlight is the 75-minute airboat ride. Think of it as a rollercoaster over the “River of Grass.” You’ll glide through the shallow waters of the Everglades, feeling the wind, hearing the hum of the boat, and spotting wildlife along the way. Guides often slow down to point out interesting creatures—especially alligators basking in the sun, which are never in pens or cages, making the encounters all the more genuine.

Reviewers frequently mention how knowledgeable guides like Enoch and Ryan made all the difference, sharing stories and details about the ecosystem and native tribes. One reviewer raved, “Great and really awesome tour, with a fantastic and knowledgeable guide (Mr. Enoch) that explained everything in a very clear and understandable way.” Expect to hear about why these wetlands are so important and how native Americans historically survived here.

Visiting a Native American Tree Island Village

Next, you’ll visit a Native American tree island village accessible only by airboat. This stop offers a glimpse into the ways indigenous peoples have lived in this environment for centuries. It’s a unique chance to understand how they adapted to the landscape and what survival techniques they used. Visitors often find this part both educational and eye-opening, adding depth to the trip.

A Scenic Boat Trip Through the 10,000 Islands

Then it’s off to explore the pristine 10,000 Islands region via an 80-minute boat cruise. This section is quieter and more reflective, giving you the chance to see pods of dolphins, manatees, pelicans, spoonbills, and even sawfish. The boat drifts through mangroves, where wildlife tends to gather, and you might even see sea turtles or egrets nesting.

A common theme in reviews is the wildlife sightings. One guest shared, “We saw dolphins swimming near the boat a few times and a walk on an island to see an osprey nest.” The cruise allows for some exploration on remote islands, providing a break from the busier parts of the tour.

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Guided Walk Through the Cypress Dome

The final part is a relaxing walk to a Cypress Dome—a lush, swampy area full of native plants, orchids, bromeliads, and hopefully, some alligators or turtles. This walk is about appreciating the plants and animals in their natural habitat, with guides pointing out rare flora and fauna. Many appreciated this peaceful ending, noting how the guides kept the experience engaging and educational.

Lunch Break and Cultural Stops

A well-deserved lunch wraps up the day. You’re free to order from a menu with vegetarian and vegan options, and reviews consistently praise the quality and freshness of the food. Along the way, the trip also includes stops at a historic trading post and the smallest post office in the U.S., adding a bit of quirky local flavor. There’s also a visit to an art gallery showcasing local artists, giving you a taste of the local creative scene.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

Expert Guides and Personal Touch

Multiple reviews emphasize the friendly, knowledgeable guides like Ryan, Enoch, Abigail, Stacey, and Mike. They don’t just narrate; they engage, answer questions, and share personal stories that bring the environment to life. This level of attention and expertise is what makes the experience memorable. As one reviewer put it, “Ryans knowledge of the local fauna & flora was vast and it was great to chat with a local indigenous guide during our air boat trip.”

The Wildlife Encounters

The wildlife sightings are a real highlight. With the chance to see alligators, dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and a wide variety of birdlife, you’ll come away with plenty of photos and stories. The boat guides are praised for their patience—they often slow down to give everyone a good look at interesting animals.

Scenic and Educational Value

This isn’t just a fun ride—it’s a learning experience. From the native tribes to the ecosystem, guides use storytelling to deepen your understanding of this fragile environment. The combination of boat rides, walking, and cultural insights offers a well-balanced day.

Food and Comfort

The lunch is a bonus, especially given the variety of dietary options. And the pickup/drop-off service, along with luggage storage, makes this trip convenient, especially if you’re coming from Miami or heading to the cruise port afterward.

Price and Value for Money

At $295 per person, this tour might seem a bit steep at first glance, but considering all included—two boat trips, park entrance fees, lunch, snacks, bottled water, and personalized guides—many find it offers good value. The reviews suggest that the quality of guides and the diversity of activities make it worth the price. Plus, the small group size enhances the experience, making it feel more intimate and tailored.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience is best suited for nature lovers, wildlife photographers, and curious travelers who want a comprehensive look at the Everglades. It’s ideal for those who enjoy learning from guides, and who appreciate seeing animals in their natural habitat rather than cages. Since it involves a fair amount of walking, those with mobility issues may need to consider their comfort level. Its family-friendly appeal is good but might be better for older children who can handle a full day of outdoor activities.

Final Thoughts

If you want a full, engaging day that combines wildlife viewing, cultural insights, scenic boat rides, and a touch of history, this tour ticks all the boxes. The emphasis on expert guides and wildlife encounters makes it stand out. While the price might be on the higher side, many reviews agree it’s a worthwhile investment for a memorable adventure.

For travelers seeking an authentic, educational, and fun-filled day in the Everglades, this trip offers a solid package. It balances adventure and learning, with plenty of opportunities to see iconic Florida wildlife and learn about the environment and local culture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s generally suitable for those who can handle a moderate amount of walking and outdoor activities. The tour involves boat rides and some walking, so older children and teenagers will likely enjoy it most.

What does the tour include?
The tour includes pickup and drop-off, a naturalist guide, park fees, two boat trips, lunch, and snacks and bottled water. You’ll also get a keepsake map of Everglades National Park.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts about 9 hours, providing a full day’s worth of exploring and sightseeing.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options for lunch?
Yes, lunch options are available for vegetarians and vegans, and reviews praise the quality and variety.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it accessible for most guests with mobility needs.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to see alligators, dolphins, manatees, pelicans, roseate spoonbills, sawfish, sea turtles, and a variety of birds, depending on the day’s conditions.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility is great for planning around unpredictable schedules.

If you’re after a comprehensive introduction to the Everglades that balances wildlife, culture, and scenic beauty, this tour might just be your best bet. It’s a full day of adventure with plenty of educational moments and unforgettable wildlife sightings.

You can check availability for your dates here: