From Miami: Everglades Tour w/ Wet Walk, Boat Trips, & Lunch

If you’re considering a day trip from Miami to really experience the natural beauty of the Everglades, this tour caught our eye. It’s packed with activities designed to give you a genuine feel for the wild environment—think boat rides, a walk into the marshes led by a biologist, and visits to remote spots most travelers never see. What stands out most are the longer boat trips and the expert guides who make the experience engaging and educational.

One thing we appreciate is the small group size, which tends to make the whole day more personal and less rushed. But, a potential consideration is the cost—at $389 per person, it’s not a cheap outing, but the extensive itinerary and inclusion of multiple parks and activities could justify the price for those craving an in-depth adventure. Whether you love wildlife, are a photography enthusiast, or just want to learn about this unique ecosystem, this tour seems suited for those who want a comprehensive, immersive day in nature.

Key Points

• Expert-guided wet walk offers a rare up-close experience with Florida’s wetlands.
• Two boat trips—including a 75-minute airboat ride and an 80-minute exploration of the 10,000 Islands—allow for wildlife sightings and scenic views.
• All transportation, park entries, snacks, and lunch are included, making it a hassle-free day.
• The small group setting keeps things intimate and personalized.
• The experience is suitable for most ages but not for children under 5.
• The permitted access to South Florida’s key parks makes this tour stand out from many others.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

Starting the Day: Scenic Drive and Introduction

The adventure begins with hotel pickup in a comfortable Sprinter van. This part is straightforward and sets the tone—expect a scenic, narrated drive that starts to introduce you to the environment you’re about to explore. It’s a good way to get familiar with the area and learn some initial facts from your guides before hitting the wetlands.

The 75-Minute Airboat Ride: A Classic Florida Moment

This is often what people picture when they think of the Everglades—an airboat skimming over the “River of Grass” with the wind in your hair. The ride is not only exhilarating but also educational, with guides pointing out wildlife like alligators, various bird species, and maybe even some rare ones like the endangered snail kite. The boat is large enough for comfort but quick enough to give you a real sense of the marshy landscape.

According to reviews, this part is a highlight: one traveler mentioned that they saw “a multitude of animals and alligators up close,” which speaks to how accessible and close-up the wildlife encounters can be here. The longer boat trip also means more chances to see dolphins, manatees, and other marine life in their natural habitat, rather than just a quick snapshot.

Visiting a Tree Island Village: Connecting with Native Culture

Next, you’ll visit a remote tree island village, a spot that few travelers get to see. This part offers a cultural perspective—learning about how native Americans historically lived within this environment. It adds a meaningful layer to your day, providing context about the land and its caretakers.

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The Wet Walk: Walking into the Marshes

Probably the most unique feature of this tour is the wet walk led by a biologist. You’ll gear up with provided water shoes and walking sticks—this is crucial since you’ll be walking through marshy water up to mid-thighs in some spots. The walk is mostly flat but includes some uneven terrain, so a certain level of mobility helps.

The experience is described as a “bucket list” opportunity by one reviewer, who appreciated seeing orchids, bromeliads, alligators, fish, turtles, and snakes beneath a canopy of bald cypress trees. Expect photos to be stunning, especially since the location is so photogenic and less touched than many other parts of the park.

Lunch in Everglades City

After drying off and changing into dry clothes, you’ll head to a local, old-Florida-style restaurant for lunch. The menu is ordered off, so you can choose something to suit your taste. The break here is appreciated for providing real, local flavor and a chance to relax before the boat exploration.

80-Minute Boat Tour of the 10,000 Islands

Post-lunch, it’s time for the second boat adventure—an 80-minute tour through the 10,000 Islands. This area is rich with wildlife: dolphins, manatees, sea turtles, and even sharks and sawfish are possible sightings. The guide’s knowledge enhances this experience, helping you spot and identify various species, making it both fun and educational.

One guest noted that they saw “pods of dolphins and manatees,” underscoring how rewarding this ride can be. The boat stops at a remote beach, giving you a chance to explore a pristine ecosystem, adding a bit of adventure and exploration to the day.

Additional Stops: Culture and History

The tour wraps up with visits to a historic trading post, a local museum, and a gallery of a well-known photographer. These small stops enrich your understanding of the area’s history and culture without taking away from the focus on nature.

The Value of the Tour

At $389, the tour does carry a significant price tag, but the experience includes all transportation, park entries, snacks and drinks, and lunch—which all add up and make this a pretty comprehensive day. The longer boat trips and exclusive permits give you access to areas many other tours can’t reach, making it a worthwhile investment for those wanting an all-encompassing adventure.

The small group size (limited to 14) ensures that guides can give personalized attention, answer questions, and point out wildlife you might otherwise miss. Reviewers consistently praised their guides as knowledgeable, friendly, and enthusiastic, adding real value to the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, and those wanting a deep dive into Florida’s wetlands. It’s best suited for individuals and older children (over 5 years old) who are comfortable with walking in marshy areas and spending a full day outdoors. If you’re after a more relaxed, less active experience, this might be too intense.

It’s also perfect for travelers who value expert guides and longer, immersive boat rides—these features elevate it above more generic excursions. Families with older children can enjoy it too, especially if they’re curious about wildlife and native cultures.

In The Sum Up

This tour offers a well-rounded, authentic look at the Everglades, combining boat rides, cultural insights, and a wet walk into one seamless day. The expert guides and permits for key national parks mean you’re getting a more genuine experience than some larger, less specialized tours. The inclusion of multiple activities ensures you leave with a solid understanding of this fragile yet fascinating ecosystem.

While the price might seem steep, it reflects the quality, length, and exclusivity of the experience. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to see as much as possible in one day, with the comfort of transportation and the guidance of experts.

If you’re eager to spot wildlife, learn about native cultures, and walk through the wetlands, this tour will likely check all your boxes.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is not recommended for children under 5 years old, mainly because of the walking involved in the wet walk and the full-day schedule.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in a comfortable Sprinter van, making the logistics smooth and easy.

Are snacks and drinks provided?
Yes, unlimited snacks and drinks are available throughout the day, helping keep everyone refreshed.

What should I bring?
A change of clothes and long pants are recommended, especially since you’ll be walking through marshy water during the wet walk.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel up to 24 hours in advance, giving you some flexibility.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive.

If you’re ready for a full-sensory experience of the Everglades—complete with wildlife sightings, cultural insights, and a real sense of adventure—this tour from Miami might just be what you’re looking for.

You can check availability for your dates here: