Everglades National Park, United States

What to do in Everglades National Park, United States

Airboat Tours

Explore the Everglades on an exhilarating airboat tour. Glide across the “River of Grass,” navigating through sawgrass prairies and mangrove forests. These tours offer an opportunity to spot a variety of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and turtles, while learning about the park’s unique ecosystem from experienced guides.

Anhinga Trail

Embark on the Anhinga Trail, a leisurely walk offering prime wildlife viewing. Wander along the boardwalks and witness an abundance of wildlife, from alligators basking in the sun to anhingas and herons diving for fish. This trail provides an up-close encounter with the park’s diverse and captivating ecosystem.

Shark Valley Tram Tours

Take a tram tour through the heart of the Everglades at Shark Valley. Traverse a 15-mile loop with an experienced naturalist guide, delving into the park’s natural and cultural history. As you journey through the sawgrass prairies, keep an eye out for wildlife such as deer, wading birds, and, of course, the iconic alligators.

Canoeing and Kayaking

Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Everglades by embarking on a canoeing or kayaking adventure. Paddle through the park’s waterways, encountering an array of bird species and possibly even a manatee or dolphin. Whether you opt for a guided tour or venture out on your own, the experience promises unparalleled tranquility.

Gumbo Limbo Trail

Wander through the Gumbo Limbo Trail and delve into a tropical hammock ecosystem. This short, wheelchair-accessible trail winds through a canopy of trees, offering glimpses of various bird species and curious reptiles. The trail provides a serene environment to appreciate the park’s subtropical wilderness.

Example Two-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Morning

Start your day early with a visit to the Ernest F. Coe Visitor Center. Here, you can gather information about the park’s various attractions, exhibits, and a short film providing an overview of the park’s ecosystems and wildlife.

Late Morning

After getting acquainted with the park at the visitor center, head to the Anhinga Trail, a popular spot for wildlife viewing. This easy walking trail offers excellent opportunities to see alligators, a variety of bird species, and other wildlife. Don’t forget to bring your camera!

Afternoon

For the afternoon, take an airboat tour through the River of Grass. There are several authorized operators near the park entrances that offer guided tours through the park’s unique wetlands. This thrilling experience provides an up-close look at the diverse flora and fauna of the Everglades.

Evening

As the day winds down, consider taking a leisurely sunset stroll at Pa-hay-okee Overlook. This vantage point offers breathtaking panoramic views of the slow-moving river of grass and the vast expanse of the Everglades.

Day 2

Morning

On your second day, start with a visit to the Shark Valley Visitor Center. From here, you can join a guided tram tour or rent a bike to explore the Shark Valley Trail. This 15-mile loop trail is perfect for observing wildlife, especially alligators and various bird species.

Late Morning

Following your visit to Shark Valley, make your way to the Gulf Coast Visitor Center. Here, explore the exhibits to learn about the park’s coastal ecosystems and the unique mangrove forests.

Afternoon

Take a guided boat tour through the Ten Thousand Islands. These islands are a labyrinth of mangroves, making it an ideal habitat for numerous species of wildlife, including manatees and dolphins. The boat tour offers an opportunity to explore this mesmerizing coastal ecosystem.

Evening

As your two-day adventure comes to an end, consider ending your trip with a peaceful walk along the boardwalk at the Big Cypress Bend Boardwalk. This short boardwalk trail winds through a beautiful cypress forest, offering a chance to spot wildlife and enjoy the serene natural surroundings.